akvet
New Member
Posts: 1 
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Post by akvet on May 25, 2017 22:39:31 GMT -8
I am installing 200 watt solar kit on my RV. Should the charge controller be installed closer to the batteries or closer to the panels?
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Post by rabird on May 26, 2017 4:01:34 GMT -8
closer to the batteries. '12v' panels have excess voltage (pwm controller) so voltage drop between the panel and controller is not as critical as the voltage drop between the controller and battery (remote voltage sensor is an option). One way to reduce voltage drop is shorten the wires another is to use larger wire. therefore; the controller should be closer to the batts. If use a voltage drop calculator www.genuinedealz.com/voltage-drop-calculatorpick 10g, 10A, 15' the voltage drop is ~.3v which happens to be ~2% of 15v. I could see that as acceptable for 200 watts for an RV. |
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Post by spiderbob on May 31, 2017 18:24:59 GMT -8
Yes, closer the better. But, don't put it directly over the batteries, I used a shield between the charger and the batteries. You say RV, my batteries are under the step, and the charger is 18" away in the nearest basement compartment.
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