What is a solar charge controller for an RV Power Supply?
A solar charge controller is a very important part of your RV solar power system. It protects your battery bank from overcharge and from getting damaged, plus it helps the battery get charged faster.
A solar charge controller is a must-have RV accessory for anyone who wants to travel off-grid using their solar power system.
Below is a quick buying guide for anyone wanting to know more about solar charge controllers, including some top picks.
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| EPEVER 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller 12V 24V Auto | Best Overall |  |
| Renogy Wanderer 10 Amp 12V/24V PWM Negative Ground Solar Charge Controller Regulator Compatible | Budget Pick |  |
| Outback Flexmax 80 FM80 MPPT 80 AMP Solar Charge Controller | Upgrade Pick |  |
1. EPEVER 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller 12V 24V Auto
Pros:
- Can be used for a variety of uses
- Very easy to use
- Little to no maintenance required
- 40A of charging control power
- Intuitive LCD display will let you know what the settings currently are
- Comes with a 15A power port, 2 USB ports, and a 2000VA inverter
- Providing power to multiple devices has never been simpler with this display unit
- Very high quality solar charge controllers
Cons:
- The price is a little high compared to gas powered generators
- No wheels for easy transport
- Can only fit 6v, 12v, 24v batteries. Other types such as 48v, 54v, 98v, 104v, 110v, 112v, 115v, 120v, 125v, etc… can’t be used with this system.
The EPEVER 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller 12V 24V Auto, 40 amp Negative Grounded Solar Charge Controller MPPT Max Input 100V, 520W/1040W for Lead-Acid, Lithium Batteries and Load Timer Setting is our top pick because it’s so multipurpose, yet gives you a ton of power, especially when it comes to charging several devices all at once.
2. SmartSolar MPPT 100/30 Charge Controller
Pros:
- Best for small sized solar panels
- Easy to install
- Has a fast charge
- Affordable charge controller
Cons:
- Not ideal for larger solar panels
- No option to move output from one bank to another
Charge controllers and inverters are an integral part of solar power setups. You can always make a breaker box but it is best to buy a controller and a good inverter. These products are more efficient and better at handling loads.
I usually recommend going with a more advanced solar charge controller than the original one offered by the manufacturer. Now, the best charger controller of 2019 is the MPPT 100/30 from SmartSolar.
This charge controller is perfect for smaller solar panel setups around 200 watts. The reason for this is because it gives you much more battery charging. It also offers three times the charging rate. And it does all of that without putting more pressure on your batteries.
3. EPEVER MPPT Solar Charge Controller 40A 150V PV Solar Panel Controller Negative Ground
Pros:
- Good Price to Effectiveness Ratio.
- Light Weight and Convenient Compared to Similar Products.
- Integrated with LCD screen Remote Thermometer and Meter, which monitors power generation and battery capacity.
- Excellent Product Delivery.
Cons:
- Use in a narrow range of voltage and current.
- Seldom used functions.
- Instruction is a little bit rough.
- No RTC function
This charge controller belongs to the latest design and application of solar controller. The controller is integrated with LCD screen remote thermometer and meter, which monitors power generation and battery capacity. And it can communicate with computer via RS232 port.
4. Outback Flexmax 80 FM80 MPPT 80 AMP Solar Charge Controller
Pros:
- It's expandable for maximum usage
- Compatible with renewable energy sources like solar panel
- Built with marine grade components
- It comes with an LCD screen
Cons:
- You need a separate battery for it to work
- It's a little pricey
This solar charge controller from Outback comes with all of the important options that a home with solar panels needs. The 80 Amp FM80 comes with a LCD screen, allows for customization, and built-in overload protection.
It’s compatible with all types of solar sources, including:
The Outback FlexMax 80 FM80 can handle a power source up to 80 Amp. A nice useful feature is that it comes with a temperature sensor for over/under charging of the battery.
5. 60A MPPT Solar Charge Controller 48V 36V 24V 12V Auto Battery System,Max 150VDC Input Solar Regulator Negative Grounded
Solar Charge Controllers For Electric Vehicle- 60a Mppt Solar Controller Full-automatic – 60a pwm solar charge controller – review. This Mppt Charge Controller protects the battery(s) from overcharge up to 30a and prevents the battery from deep discharge/reverse current, which extend battery life and prevent from any damage. It is compatible with sealed gel, agm, and flooded lead-acid batteries, as well as lithium-ion batteries. It can operate in a wide range of applications and environments. In addition to the protection functions, this controller provides convenient displays to show solar module and battery voltage, charge and discharge current, battery temperature, the state of charge, charge current and battery bank capacity (accumulated amp-hours). With the information provided by this controller, you can track the performance of the solar system, observe the battery status and diagnose faults with ease.
6. AMPINVT 40amp MPPT Solar Charge Controller 12V 24V 36V 48V Auto,Max Input 150V PV Solar Regulator（MPPT-40A）
Pros:
- This controller is incredibly accurate
- It can handle large amount of batteries easily
- MPPT is the feature that makes it stand out from the rest
- Connecting this device with a motor to power it is not a problem as well
- Easy to install
Being one of the top rated solar charge controllers, this product coming from Ampiner should be on the top of the list if you are looking for a high efficient device for your solar panels. It is a good investment considering how long you will be able to use it.
The company has been in business for 20years now and has been able to serve customers in more than 100 countries. There is nothing to complain about in terms of its efficiency and quality. The MPPT technology is a great feature of its device as it increases the efficiency by 30 percent.
MPPT is a great feature as it maximizes your energy for your solar panels. The way this device works is by identifying your panels types and then fine tuning the output of electricity coming from your panels to your batteries.
7. GHB 20A 12V 24V Solar Charge Controller Auto Switch LCD Intelligent Panel Battery Regulator Charge Controller Overload Protection Temperature Compensation
Pros:
- Has two contacts for positive and negative
- Uses a simple LCD display for easier reading
- Completely waterproof
Cons:
- This product can be a little difficult to use
- To use this product you need an inverter to connect to the battery bank.
- This product does have a little manual to help you understand the product, which can be hard to follow.
8. Renogy Wanderer 10 Amp 12V/24V PWM Negative Ground Solar Charge Controller Regulator Compatible
Pros:
- Small and easy to use
- More resistant to the sun
- Works at low voltages
- Automatically shut off when the battery is full
- Easy to install
- Comes with a DC and USB port
Renogy Wanderer 10 Amp 12V/24V PWM Negative Ground Solar Charge Controller is our top pick this year because of its long working life and easy-to-use interface. It comes with a finger-safe waterproof box. With this solar charge controller, you can power up to two 12V leads or panels. You can also expand your system up to 240V by connecting two panels in series.
It is ideal for charging 12V batteries to power marine, radios, lights, and other appliances on camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. It has an over-current, over-voltage, and reverse polarity protection functionality so you won’t hurt your system or yourselves. Plus, it won’t drain the battery after the battery has been fully charged.
9. Go Power! By Valterra GP-PWM-30-UL Solar Controller
Pros:
- Optimized charging algorithms prevent overcharging and battery gassing while maximizing the performance of your solar panels
- 30 amp solar charge controller has integrated DC plug to convert older style voltage panels to the new-style straight positive tab technology.
- Helps maximize battery life for your existing (older) solar panels.
- Ultra-low voltage. These 30 amp solar charge controllers are an absolute must-have if you own a solar panel installation that uses 4, 6.5, or 10 volts.
- A real game-changer for anyone attempting to DIY a low-cost solar power system.
Cons:
- You will have to build the wiring as this controller does not come with the harnesses.
- This solar charge controller is quite pricy, which is only overshadowed by the ease you’ll save yourself when hooking up your older solar panels.
Technology, Ultra Low Voltage.
This solar charge controller from Go Power! is highly effective at preventing overcharging or gassing of your solar panels…and will help you save money on batteries as well.
10. PowMr MPPT Charge Controller 60 amp 48V 36V 24V 12V Auto
With a brand new panel design for 2020, the PowMr 60 Amp solar charge controller is a complete redesign of the popular PowMr Charge controllers of previous years. Inside, they have improved the voltage management and circuitry that are directly tied to the power conversion efficiency of the system. Being able to produce higher and more stable power at higher voltages is essential.
PowMr has moved away from a long used 0-30V input and now will accept a 0-48 volt DC input. What is important is that power converters now have the ability to produce higher power densities in a smaller lighter weight package.
Despite the higher voltage, the new LCD display shows the same things that every other MPPT displays do, which are:
- Older models had a solar charge controller error that is no longer a problem
- Learning curve for proper use
11. ZEALLIFE Solar Panels Charge Controller
Pros:
- Good value for money
- Easy to use and easy to install
- You can choose from different models to match your application and your budget
- Clean and simple design
Top pick: ZEALLIFE Solar Panels Charge Controller, 8A Battery Regulator for 12V Solar Battery Charger, Solar Battery Maintainer and 12 Volt Batteries Power Kit Safe Protection (LCD Style). This model supports up to 8 amps, which is more than adequate for most applications. The LCD display is simple and easy to use, allowing you to keep an eye on your solar system while it’s in operation.
Our next pick is ranked the best based on price and the quality of the products that it provides. We also considered the customer support that is offered and the feedback from previous customers. Many of the solar charge controllers on this list are affordable and will serve your needs well. You could also go with a simple dashboard solar charge controller and build your own.
12. OOYCYOO MPPT Solar Controller 60A Automatic 12V/24V
Pros:
- Fully equipped
- Max input voltage of 100VDC
The OOYCYOO MPPT Solar Controller 60A is a fantastic controller that is more than enough to handle your solar array and batteries.
This controller is fully equipped to handle an array of 12 to 60V with an output of 60amps. The input voltage ranges from 8V at 8 amps to a bit over 50V at 60A. This controller has a maximum input voltage of 100VDC which is good because you don’t want to exceed that voltage.
The OOYCYOO solar controller works with most types of batteries including flooded, gel, and lithium iron phosphate batteries (P60A).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the best solar charge controllers?
The best solar charge controller will be the most cost effective, safe, and reliable. No matter what the specification sheets say, failure is always a possibility.
Here are a couple of good solar charge controllers to look into:
What is the best solar regulator?
While it's possible to buy a solar regulator separately, you're likely to find one included in a complete, multi-piece solar system. If you're considering a solar system, you should consider purchasing a controller at the same time.
There are two primary types of solar charge controller: MPPT and PWM.
PWM charge controllers are the less advanced option. They are the most cost-effective, and they can be used with most 12-volt battery systems. However, they have some disadvantages.
How small of a solar charge controller do you need?
Sizing a PWM controller is easy. In most installations, this controller will be used for small 12-volt battery banks and will range in size from 30 to 60 amps.
Whatever the amp rating is, it's important to confirm with the specification guide of the manufacturer, since it's a little more complicated than a simple calculation.
How do I choose a solar charge controller?
Because solar power is one of the most popular sources of alternative energy these days, a solar charge controller has become a necessity for all solar users. A solar charge controller regulates the power generated by the solar panels.
A solar charge controller is important because you don't want to risk your solar panels overcharging your batteries.
Furthermore, some solar charge controllers are also capable of plugging into the grid, which allows them to work as an energy controller during power outages.
Given the fact that solar energy is an increasingly popular source of alternative energy for powering homes and businesses, the number of solar charge controllers on the market has increased. Therefore, to help you choose the best solar charge controller, here are some important factors to consider:
Is MPPT better than PWM?
Some of the latest solar charge controllers available are: MPPT (maximum power point tracking) or PWM (pulse width modulation) controllers? Or are they the same thing?
In general most people think the answer to this question is an obvious MPPT. There are some who think otherwise and we’ll tell you why.
As a general statement, MPPT controllers are more efficient than PWM controllers although they’re initially more expensive. It is said that PWM solar charge controllers are cheaper and easier to install. You’ll need to check on this yourself. There are always more factors to consider like wattage and so on.
Which should you choose if you’re planning a large-scale project? Well, in that case, it will be better to get the best one with MPPT. The extra cost and effort is still worthwhile in the long run.
Conclusion
Solar charge controllers are a must-have for anyone who is considering using solar energy for charging batteries for portable and smaller systems. Since it is the central component that regulates the amount of power flowing to your batteries, it’s important to get the best one you can buy. It’ll vary with your intent, but here we provide you with an outline of the best solar charge controller for different projects. Hope you’ll find it useful.
Our Recommendation
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| EPEVER 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller 12V 24V Auto | Best Overall | |
| Renogy Wanderer 10 Amp 12V/24V PWM Negative Ground Solar Charge Controller Regulator Compatible | Budget Pick | |
| Outback Flexmax 80 FM80 MPPT 80 AMP Solar Charge Controller | Upgrade Pick | |