Excellent! I learned something new: solar panels often output more than their "label" and the solar charge controller doesn't care what the incoming voltage is as long as its below the threshold. Very useful knowledge. Thank you. I'm hooked and binge watching now. LOL
Thank you so much for making this video. You have helped me hugely. I was very confused about panels outputting 37v but then the system being referred to as 12v. You have cleared it all up for me.
Thank you, this answered my question. People keep talking about 12v, 24v and 48v panels but it doesn't matter as long as you spec your array and controller accordingly. :-)
I am people bc the people aren't electrical engineers or solar gurus im a plumber buddy take it easy on us and answer my above question. If you have all the knowledge please
Thank you for finally explaining this topic so clearly. I have solar panels on my (new used) boat and have been a bit puzzled by how the charge controller does its job of converting the voltage from the panels to useable charge voltage for my house bank. Now I understand why the wires coming from the panels are only #10awg/ MC4 all the way down to the controller. In normal 12volt circuits I would be using much larger wire and was planning to upgrade the wiring. I don't have the specs for the panels so I will have to check the open circuit voltage at some point to see what is actually being sent to the controller. But now I suspect that the voltage is much higher than 12 volts, which is why they designed the system using the MC4 cables. Again thanks for helping me understand the "why" in solar design.
When you’re an expert in your field and an ‘internet warrior’ has a 180 degree opinion! It’s so frequent I actually gave up helping folk out by (correctly) answering their online questions.
Yeah, there is definitely a lot of incorrect information out there. I have people trying to 'correct' me all of the time with incorrect information, but the cool thing about RUclips is that I can simply delete incorrect or misguided comments as needed to make the comments section more useful/helpful.
Answering that lady's incorrect response gave a very clear explanation that cleared up some confusion I had (and was entertaining, besides). Great video. Thanks.
That was a very diplomatic “I know what I’m talking about”😎! Been watching this series of tutorials and they’ve been very helpful. I used your 12v distribution bus bar tutorial to create mine with a slight modification due to parts availability. Thanks to you👌
Nate, thanks a ton for the great videos you put out. You do a really good job at starting from the beginning and building a nice foundation, so those who are watching and learning can follow and understand easily. You also do really good at presenting the information in a way that is easy to intake. You will definitely be my top share, for anyone needing info on solar systems.
Alright Nate so here are the main questions I am sure ALOT of people wanna know regarding your comment to Deborah: 1) How can someone find the MAX solar array voltage? Say they have ONE panel. What is the data piece they are looking for? Vmpp? or Voc? 2) How can someone find the MAX voltage of the Solar Charge Controller? What is the data piece they are looking for in the controller's manual in the specification section? MAX PV open circut voltage or Nominal system voltage or something else? I also would like to add that Nate's comment to Deborah is the following in simple english. Max Voltage of Solar Charge Controller > Solar Panel Array Voltage > Battery Voltage
I wonder if solar panels could be permanently attached to the van sides after the roof space is full ? This would maximize power but would need to be designed to work with system elements to be safe and effective. For reference, look at treehugger.com to view a prototype solar RV made by DETHLEFFS company (Hymer). Thanks.
I have gathering stuff to make a Better system, I have a 200 watt Anker folding solar panel, a Victron 100/30 and two new 12 volt lithium 100 ah batteries, and looking at a Giandel pure sine wave 2000/400 24 volt inverter. Then later I hope to get a 400ah 24 volt battery and some more panels Thank you for clearing that up about the size of the panel
Very well done. Motorcycle camping solar builds with both 24v and 12v use’s. Many of us have 34v 90w sleep machines. Without heat and humidity around 20 watts. Another video idea. Thanks
Holly crap! That was great. I understood everything. Although by time I put the period, I will have forgotten everything, but that’s not your fault. Thank you.
AH man..thank you for directing me to this video brother. SOO Helpful. I totally get it now. I had 3 or 4 "Oooh, I see" moments in this one video alone. Reeeally appreciate it! Thanks again ;-)
Are there any efficiency differences between 12v and 24v panels for lower light conditions on a 12v system? I'm interested in both cold cloudy (snowy) winter conditions and hot sunny summer conditions but wanting to park in the shade to keep cool while still getting enough solar power. Any resources you have on these topics would be appreciated. Thanks!
I'm starting our offgrid homestead journey as soon as our florida house sells. I took job transfer to different state when house sell and going to do small farm. Some of the property we been looking at doesn't have power and water or to far to bring power in cost wise. We been doing our home work for the last 2 years homestead and farm wise for water and well along with farming items. I work for propane company and going to do generator along with gas appliances. So just recently the last few week watching video, reading up on solar to decide something for us. Your videos have been great and was questioning what voltage system to go with. Been told for whole homestead needs to do 48v system. I started to price out and find deals on equipment needed. I was delivering one day and found solar wholesaler next to my delivery having a blowout sale. As they were moving to larger place and didn't want to move all inventory. So I made a deal on 32 new 260w panels not knowing what I need, but had few comparison offgrid system I had seen. We haven't sat down and broke down our needs and wants for the homestead other than using our current house which is to big and down sizing. We will doing mini split ac system, energy star fridge, will do low watt led lights. We also will be putting tiny house on property for daughter and granddaughter too. Both places are going wood stove and propane backup heat with cooking and hot water. The more I read, watch, price out and figure the solar system things are getting scrambled lol. I know wiring houses and electronic as I did rigging on boats and sounds systems. But the solar is getting the best of me and how many batteries, controller, inverter. Any info you might be able to give me would be great. Thank you for your time sir. Kyle
Panel spec 32 panels at 260w 60cell Imp 8.34a Vmp 31.2v Isc 8.83a Voc 37.7v Max fuse rating 15a Max system 1000v Oh the area I'm moving to 4.79 sun hours
You could look at your current power statement to determine how many kWh of power you are currently using and use that as a baseline to determine how many batteries and solar panels that would translate into. From there, you'd want to also make a decision on how much inverting power you'd need, which would be a combined total of ALL of your 120v devices you could possibly use at the same time. That should get you pointed in the right direction.
@@EXPLORISTlife thank you for info I just looked and currently the high month for usage in Florida summer was 2,765kwh for 30days = 92.166 per day. we also looked at what we now run at once minus the electric dryer as we want to do gas appliances and minus central ac unit. So I factored in couple mini split units so that is 10, 301 watts at one time ac power.
i have 3 200 watt 24 volt panels and am now looking to add a fourth but i will need a bigger charge controller , thanks to watching your informative videos.
Hi I just want to say your content is very helpful. As a DIYer. I find most other content providers on solar install products go straight into their how they did the install. Or review the next bitt Alibaba shipment they recieved. I have been holding off on my project for two years now since I didn't find most of other provider on you tube are trying to just market their next big 🔋
Thank you for explaining how a controller works, I was hoping it could boost the 12 to 20 volt panel up to 24 volts but it looks like it's only a buck converter like you were saying.
I’m with ya on the pledge, but every manufacturer, every retail business, every retail employee talks 12, 24, 48v, how can I now communicate with the uneducated 😆… I have a couple times, wish I hadn’t come across your channel, and got a professional to fit me up a solar system for my 4wd and camper trailer, bang, done, I’m on my way! Saying that I couldn’t afford to do that, and working with my hands I’m up for the challenge! So here I am, you’re going to see some stupid questions Nato!!!!
Just answered another question I had, maybe. A solar companies technical support told me they only recommend connecting their panels in parallel for a 12v system and in series for a 24v system! So now i think i can connect in series for a 12v system?
Hey Nate, Picked up a 16 Sprinter 144 from someone who was the second owner and did not have a clue of how anything worked. It has the following electrical components: 300-watts Renogy Solar Panels • Xantrex 1800-watt Inverter charger • Shore Power Plug (underbody) • GoPower PWM Charge Controller • 310 Amp-hours total AGM Batteries It also has the MB aux battery package under the hood. I'm getting a low voltage alarm E05 on the inverter. When I plugged it into shore power for about 5 hours the aux battery was very warm and I could smell the rotten egg smell. The other batteries were not warm and the inverter showed 13.2 voults when unplugged from shore power. I had a load test done on the aux battery and it showed 604 cranking amps but 11.3 volts. By morning with ne draw it was down to 11.5. I'm afraid to plug it back in to shore power and wonder if I can just put a slow charger on the aux battery without disconnecting it from the system?
Hopefully this gets seen, so say if you have 4, 460 watt panels and want to wire them in series parrellel you have 1800+ watts are there any good charge controllers for that kind of load or should I split the system into 2 separate power lines of about 940 watts, going to the batteries?
Brilliant ...that why charge controllers are awesome - they make different voltage components (solar panels are batteries) work together. And as you stated - as long as the solar panel voltage is above the battery voltage AND the solar panel voltage is under the charge controller max Voltage, then its Bob's your Uncle.
Ok so I just purchased a 3500 w 24 volt inverter I acquired some 12 volt 100 w Solar panel’s I got a job as a camp host one of the other camp host gave me his solar panels I would really like to use them if possible Any information would be appreciated thanks I am going to watch the rest of your videos Thanks for taking your time and putting these videos together
Makes sense if you wire too many panels in parallel the amps can cause problems for the controller . . AGM batteries don't like it too hot either , more is not better unless system can handle the load
With the charge controller regulating the voltage down from 24v to a 12v output for the batteries, would that mean the amps would go up slightly? Eg. 100w/24v= 4.16A 100w/12v= 8.33A
Actually thank you just learned that 12v panel can provide more than 12v , so I have to choose charger that can provide more than it’s specs ,like u said 12v panels x5 it’s not necessarily 60v could be close to 100v so charger that’s is rated at60watt max could burn
Sorry, just found this video and haven't really seen them all. Thanks for producing such a GREAT quality video. Just one thing (and I am sure you have touched upon this but a quick search didn't find it) even if with an MPPT controller you can run 48V to 12V without burning down your camper (I LOVE that the rude commenters name was KAREN), should you? I guess the question is is it most efficient to wire your batteries so they match the voltage of your (wired) solar panels. Or is the controller so efficient that it makes no difference.
Hi , As you said any panels array will work if array voltages are higher than battery bank voltages and under the maximum voltage limit of charge controller. In that context what will happen if array voltages are lower than batter bank (voltage can be low the way array has been designed or when voltage start decreasing towards night). My understanding is that as I learnt from your other videos that panel array will work fine if it is compatible with charge controller voltage limitation. If voltages are lower than battery bank, charge controller will regulate it to desired battery back voltage. If this understanding is wrong, then how charge controller charge battery bank when there are less voltages in those days when there is no enough sun light or sun light available for limited time (winter days).
Great video Nate. On my last van, I used a single 275 watt panel with about a 39 VOC wired to solar charge controller connected to 3 ea 200ah 12 volt AGM Batteries wired together in parallel. I used this to power a 48 quart Engel refrigerator and lights and to charge cameras, laptops phones. It worked fine 6 months of the year, but poorly in the winter. I wanted to add a DC to DC charger to use the alternator, but the cost sort of held me back. The large cables alone for 12 volt was both expensive and seemed a bit of a challenge to run so I never did it. I'm now about to do a new van. I understand much better how to do it and maybe do it much better. i decided to spend the extra money and use lithium batteries and a single 440 watt panel (52 VOC). I'm wondering if I could or should make my battery bank 24 or 48 volt? I think I could use 10 guage instead 2 or 4 guage that I would need for the 12 volt alternator. Is there a reason I shouldn't?
Based on what you've told me... I see no reason for you to do 24v or 48v. For a small system that it sounds like you're installing; a 12v system will be perfectly sufficient.
I love your channel and the energy you bring. We’ve been trying to inform ourselves on solar power for our travel trailer. After countless hours researching on all subjects on our travel trailer transformation. Solar is one of those subjects that baffles us. We’ve heard that a 24v system tends to be cheaper and better than a 12v system. My question is. Can a 24v system still charge the batteries via shore power at an rv park? and if so please direct me to one of your DIY plans on your site so we can purchase it. Thank You for your time and keep rocking the RUclips channel.
Oh,, by the way you might have mentioned that its the VOC (open circuit voltage) spec on the panel that matters,,,not whether the panel says 12,24,48v. Again, good video.
Wow! You did 11 of these and I'm just finding this now. I'm going back to start at #1 this is great info for someone like myself who is new to solar. Thank you!...and funny Deborah from Dallas is definitely a "Karen" 😂
I am using 11 house hold grid tie 190 watt panels in series at 460 volts at 5 amps with a 500 volt max MMPT controller with 6 mm2 wire from the roof and 50mm2 wire to the 24 volt 600 ah battery bank 1 meter away. Running a split inverter AC, induction cooker, HWS and the fridge on 24 volts. another panel for the 24 volt 200 ah bus batteries, and another panel for 12 volt system for lights and water pump.
I LOVE your videos and gave learned a lot. I hope someone can help me, I have 8 used good shape commercial solar panels 36.77V 220w each. Model CHSM6610P-220 (220W). I want to install them on my 16' cargo trailer vto have complete power off grid to use it as a toy hauler / travel trailer. Being off grid for a week at a time. I also want to use the trailer as an emergency power system for my mobile home when the power goes out so I plan on having a connection to power my mobile home in those cases. I already have a 5,000 watt 12v sine wave inverter with 8 to 10k surge. Will be installing a 14k HVAC system in the trailer to keep cool and heat when needed during hunting season. What would be the best way to connect my solar panels together and a good solar controller should I use. Also how many batteries do you think I would need to accomplish this? The trailer will have water and a on demand propane tankless water heater and small fridge with led lighting as well. Any help would be greatly appreciated! Here are my solar panels spec: Electrical Characteristics STC Power Rating 220W PTC Power Rating 199.5W 1 STC Power per unit of area 12.4W/ft2 (134.0W/m2) Peak Efficiency 13.4% Power Tolerances -3%/+3% Number of Cells 60 Nominal Voltage not applicable Imp 7.38A Vmp 29.7V Isc 8.12A Voc 36.77V NOCT 47°C Temp. Coefficient of Power -0.46%/K Temp. Coefficient of Voltage -0.129V/K Series Fuse Rating 15A Maximum System Voltage 600V Mechanical Characteristics Type Polycrystalline Silicon Output Terminal Type Multicontact Connector Type 4 Frame Color Clear Backsheet Color data not available Length 65in (1,652mm) Width 39.1in (994mm) Depth 1.8in (45mm) Weight 44.1lb (20kg) Installation Method Rack-Mounted Warranty and Certifications 80% Power Output Warranty Period 15yrs 90% Power Output Warranty Period 10yrs UL Fire Classification data not available Compliances UL 1703 CSI Listed
Thank you, Nate, for all these very useful and informative video tuts. The solar panel setup is quite confusing to many like myself. I have ordered for a 24V 36Ah LFP battery pack to make use of my solar Car Inverter - 24V DC to 230V AC Pure Sine Wave Output 1000W. I need to know whether I should go for a 12V or 24V or 48V solar panel. I own a 2009 Toyota Corolla and do not have much space to deploy big sized solar panels on the car.
@Greg White that’s a interesting question.i heart that voltage over 40v and a mppt charge controller must work better in winter .Would like to know what He says about that .
I was just having that problem. Now I know why a DC frig. can run on 9 to 24 volts and 12 volts is middle ground. That's why you can run a frig.on a less balance wave. Maybe the unbalanced wave is the reason for lease heat. Meaning running smaller wire can be used. Changing weather with heat waves. Peace
Need help! I have ordered the new Bluetti AC200Max and would like to have my panels set up by the time the unit arrives. Specs for the unit are: Solar Input 900w (10-145 VOC) Max 15A..I will wire in series to keep the amps down thanks to your video. The tech at Bluetti confirmed the 12v battery can not go over 8 amps. So I will get a golf cart battery and he assured me it would charge the unit. With this unit you can charge 4 ways including lead acid batteries.. I am looking to install around (3) 250W panels for a total of 750W. other info on each panel is VOC 37.6 , Max system voltage 600v (ul), (VMP) 30.3, max power current 8.27. Will this setup work with the Bluetti Solar Input described above...Also what size MPPT would you recommend. Thanks in advance, and thank you for great videos.
Okay yes I am confused lol. I have a 100/30 Victron Smart MPPT Controller with an SOK 12v 206ah battery and have it attached to a rich solar 190 solar panel with open circuit of 24.3V max power current of 9.31A. I was looking at some panels that are Ying Li Solar that are 255 W 24V (yes I have disregarded the 24V) with an open circuit of 37.7. I think this is okay to install. I do need to go back to your other video to see if using the 190 will provide any more power to the battery. I just wanted to run it by you to check. Hopefully you have time to respond. Thanks and I love the videos. Thanks Kevin and by the way we don't get super cold in the winter we are usually in northern Arizona in the Hualapai Mountains
Do you know anything about A/C's? I want to setup a rear A/C system, im not sure which way to go. I thought about buying one of those under the dash units and connecting it to my existing compressor. I know this is off the topic, maybe you can do a video on this? Keep up the excellent work, Thanks
Question which it may be dumb. But if we have a good mppt charge controller does it matter if our inverter is split phase or is that totally different? Thank you !!
Hello sir great video So i have built a solar system here's the list 2 solar panels 100 watt each total 200watts 20amp charge controller 1500watts inverter And 100amp battery I need i bit more pawer/hours Both my controler and inverter are compatible with 24v Can i add an extra 100 amp battery with my current system Thx and have a wonderful day👌👍
Although it's best if the batteries in the array are the same age...If the battery you are wanting to add is the same as the existing batteries, there is no problem with that.
@@EXPLORISTlife Yes I'll be buying it from the same dealer My current 100a battery is 8 months old The new one will be the same brand and model but i believe there will be a difference between as new Thanks anyway sir Much appreciated Enjoy your day👍
I did not even know that some rate panel voltages like that lol, never seen it before... It must be as a tradition left back from the stone age when you did not have charge controllers and actually connected panels directly to battery?
Work your way through this playlist and by the end of it, you'll have a much better idea on how to design a solar array: ruclips.net/p/PLmvhcyi4n0TV9pi83rFTv3ZuMT_S1xIZt
You just confirmed what I've spent 4 hrs trying to figure out. THANKS!
🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞This is a HUGE relief! The two different electricians I hired were STUMPED when I asked if I could mix 24 v & 12v panels.
Maybe you could hire us instead: shop.explorist.life
thank you, 2 hours on google didnt help, and u nailed it in just a few minutes
Excellent! I learned something new: solar panels often output more than their "label" and the solar charge controller doesn't care what the incoming voltage is as long as its below the threshold. Very useful knowledge. Thank you. I'm hooked and binge watching now. LOL
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
You are a genius, I've been looking for this information for long time. I wasn't sure if it was possible before. Thank you
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
I can't believe i raised my hand.
Lol Lol What a riot!
I almost did haha
Thank you so much for making this video. You have helped me hugely. I was very confused about panels outputting 37v but then the system being referred to as 12v. You have cleared it all up for me.
Glad it helped
Thank you, this answered my question. People keep talking about 12v, 24v and 48v panels but it doesn't matter as long as you spec your array and controller accordingly. :-)
Exactly!
I am people bc the people aren't electrical engineers or solar gurus im a plumber buddy take it easy on us and answer my above question. If you have all the knowledge please
Thank you sooooo much for that information cause i was stressing out on 12v or 24v panels.
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
Me too
Thanks for these videos. You make a complicated subject much easier.
I only watched this because I've never seen a solar panel rated as 12v, 24v, or 48v. Glad to see I was right in my thinking they don't actually exist
Thank you for finally explaining this topic so clearly. I have solar panels on my (new used) boat and have been a bit puzzled by how the charge controller does its job of converting the voltage from the panels to useable charge voltage for my house bank. Now I understand why the wires coming from the panels are only #10awg/ MC4 all the way down to the controller. In normal 12volt circuits I would be using much larger wire and was planning to upgrade the wiring. I don't have the specs for the panels so I will have to check the open circuit voltage at some point to see what is actually being sent to the controller. But now I suspect that the voltage is much higher than 12 volts, which is why they designed the system using the MC4 cables. Again thanks for helping me understand the "why" in solar design.
When you’re an expert in your field and an ‘internet warrior’ has a 180 degree opinion!
It’s so frequent I actually gave up helping folk out by (correctly) answering their online questions.
Yeah, there is definitely a lot of incorrect information out there. I have people trying to 'correct' me all of the time with incorrect information, but the cool thing about RUclips is that I can simply delete incorrect or misguided comments as needed to make the comments section more useful/helpful.
Answering that lady's incorrect response gave a very clear explanation that cleared up some confusion I had (and was entertaining, besides). Great video. Thanks.
Glad it was helpful. Cheers!
Brilliant video- I needed to take that pledge!, I was totally confused before watching the video. Thanks so much 👍
That was a very diplomatic “I know what I’m talking about”😎!
Been watching this series of tutorials and they’ve been very helpful. I used your 12v distribution bus bar tutorial to create mine with a slight modification due to parts availability.
Thanks to you👌
Great explanation well done!
taking a close look at the specifications of your equipment is the most important part.
Nate, thanks a ton for the great videos you put out. You do a really good job at starting from the beginning and building a nice foundation, so those who are watching and learning can follow and understand easily. You also do really good at presenting the information in a way that is easy to intake. You will definitely be my top share, for anyone needing info on solar systems.
I totally agree 100%
Very helpful. As a beginner I was asking myself that question and its not usually explicitly mentioned. Thank you!
Hey Leoninmiami, No problem! Glad it helped! :)
Great video, what you are teaching makes perfect sense but then again everything does once you understand it. Thanks again
i have been looking for this answer all day thank you!!!!!
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
Alright Nate so here are the main questions I am sure ALOT of people wanna know regarding your comment to Deborah:
1) How can someone find the MAX solar array voltage? Say they have ONE panel. What is the data piece they are looking for? Vmpp? or Voc?
2) How can someone find the MAX voltage of the Solar Charge Controller? What is the data piece they are looking for in the controller's manual in the specification section? MAX PV open circut voltage or Nominal system voltage or something else?
I also would like to add that Nate's comment to Deborah is the following in simple english.
Max Voltage of Solar Charge Controller > Solar Panel Array Voltage > Battery Voltage
Beautiful!
Not taking offence...
Focused, calm, and straight to the point...with a sweet smile.
You are a great coach, keep up the good work, please
I wonder if solar panels could be permanently attached to the van sides after the roof space is full ? This would maximize power but would need to be designed to work with system elements to be safe and effective. For reference, look at treehugger.com to view a prototype solar RV made by DETHLEFFS company (Hymer). Thanks.
I have gathering stuff to make a Better system, I have a 200 watt Anker folding solar panel, a Victron 100/30 and two new 12 volt lithium 100 ah batteries, and looking at a Giandel pure sine wave 2000/400 24 volt inverter. Then later I hope to get a 400ah 24 volt battery and some more panels Thank you for clearing that up about the size of the panel
Very well done. Motorcycle camping solar builds with both 24v and 12v use’s. Many of us have 34v 90w sleep machines. Without heat and humidity around 20 watts. Another video idea. Thanks
Hey Ghost Pepper Rides, No problem! Glad it helped! :)
Holly crap! That was great. I understood everything. Although by time I put the period, I will have forgotten everything, but that’s not your fault. Thank you.
You can disregard the question I asked on the last video, you just answered it. Thank you!
AH man..thank you for directing me to this video brother. SOO Helpful. I totally get it now. I had 3 or 4 "Oooh, I see" moments in this one video alone. Reeeally appreciate it!
Thanks again ;-)
Are there any efficiency differences between 12v and 24v panels for lower light conditions on a 12v system? I'm interested in both cold cloudy (snowy) winter conditions and hot sunny summer conditions but wanting to park in the shade to keep cool while still getting enough solar power. Any resources you have on these topics would be appreciated. Thanks!
I'm starting our offgrid homestead journey as soon as our florida house sells. I took job transfer to different state when house sell and going to do small farm. Some of the property we been looking at doesn't have power and water or to far to bring power in cost wise. We been doing our home work for the last 2 years homestead and farm wise for water and well along with farming items. I work for propane company and going to do generator along with gas appliances. So just recently the last few week watching video, reading up on solar to decide something for us. Your videos have been great and was questioning what voltage system to go with. Been told for whole homestead needs to do 48v system. I started to price out and find deals on equipment needed. I was delivering one day and found solar wholesaler next to my delivery having a blowout sale. As they were moving to larger place and didn't want to move all inventory. So I made a deal on 32 new 260w panels not knowing what I need, but had few comparison offgrid system I had seen. We haven't sat down and broke down our needs and wants for the homestead other than using our current house which is to big and down sizing. We will doing mini split ac system, energy star fridge, will do low watt led lights. We also will be putting tiny house on property for daughter and granddaughter too. Both places are going wood stove and propane backup heat with cooking and hot water. The more I read, watch, price out and figure the solar system things are getting scrambled lol. I know wiring houses and electronic as I did rigging on boats and sounds systems. But the solar is getting the best of me and how many batteries, controller, inverter. Any info you might be able to give me would be great. Thank you for your time sir. Kyle
Panel spec
32 panels at 260w
60cell
Imp 8.34a
Vmp 31.2v
Isc 8.83a
Voc 37.7v
Max fuse rating 15a
Max system 1000v
Oh the area I'm moving to 4.79 sun hours
You could look at your current power statement to determine how many kWh of power you are currently using and use that as a baseline to determine how many batteries and solar panels that would translate into. From there, you'd want to also make a decision on how much inverting power you'd need, which would be a combined total of ALL of your 120v devices you could possibly use at the same time. That should get you pointed in the right direction.
@@EXPLORISTlife thank you for info I just looked and currently the high month for usage in Florida summer was 2,765kwh for 30days = 92.166 per day. we also looked at what we now run at once minus the electric dryer as we want to do gas appliances and minus central ac unit. So I factored in couple mini split units so that is 10, 301 watts at one time ac power.
i have 3 200 watt 24 volt panels and am now looking to add a fourth but i will need a bigger charge controller , thanks to watching your informative videos.
Glad it was helpful. Cheers!
Hi I just want to say your content is very helpful. As a DIYer. I find most other content providers on solar install products go straight into their how they did the install. Or review the next bitt Alibaba shipment they recieved. I have been holding off on my project for two years now since I didn't find most of other provider on you tube are trying to just market their next big 🔋
Good video, you cleared up an issue i was having. Thank you.
Finally may question answered. Thanks
Happy to help!
Wow, thanks for straightening me out on this concept. I was one of those who thought like 12 volt and 24 volt panels. Now i will be subscribing..
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
@EXPLORISTlife Now in one board gives 24 V
I finally got it! THANK YOU 😊😊😊😊😊
thank you so so much, really cleared all my doubt, now i can again work on what i started...
Great video. Not to much fluff, right to the point. Thanks keep up the good work
Glad it was helpful. Cheers!
You just answered my question. Thank you so much 💓.
I like um simple you make your case, very objective! After I find you made my project easy!
Glad it was helpful. Cheers!
Thank to reaply, make me happy!
Definitely learned from this video. Thank you for doing a great job with these explanations on how this all works.
Thank you very much, this is a Very Very Clear explanation about the voltages on the batteries, panels and controllers. Now I understand.
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
Thank you for explaining how a controller works, I was hoping it could boost the 12 to 20 volt panel up to 24 volts but it looks like it's only a buck converter like you were saying.
I’m with ya on the pledge, but every manufacturer, every retail business, every retail employee talks 12, 24, 48v, how can I now communicate with the uneducated 😆… I have a couple times, wish I hadn’t come across your channel, and got a professional to fit me up a solar system for my 4wd and camper trailer, bang, done, I’m on my way! Saying that I couldn’t afford to do that, and working with my hands I’m up for the challenge! So here I am, you’re going to see some stupid questions Nato!!!!
Just answered another question I had, maybe. A solar companies technical support told me they only recommend connecting their panels in parallel for a 12v system and in series for a 24v system! So now i think i can connect in series for a 12v system?
Thanks for putting out these informative videos. Those of us going off grid need help as it can be so confusing what to buy.
Glad to help
Hey Nate,
Picked up a 16 Sprinter 144 from someone who was the second owner and did not have a clue of how anything worked.
It has the following electrical components:
300-watts Renogy Solar Panels
• Xantrex 1800-watt Inverter charger
• Shore Power Plug (underbody)
• GoPower PWM Charge Controller
• 310 Amp-hours total AGM Batteries
It also has the MB aux battery package under the hood.
I'm getting a low voltage alarm E05 on the inverter. When I plugged it into shore power for about 5 hours the aux battery was very warm and I could smell the rotten egg smell. The other batteries were not warm and the inverter showed 13.2 voults when unplugged from shore power. I had a load test done on the aux battery and it showed 604 cranking amps but 11.3 volts. By morning with ne draw it was down to 11.5. I'm afraid to plug it back in to shore power and wonder if I can just put a slow charger on the aux battery without disconnecting it from the system?
Hopefully this gets seen, so say if you have 4, 460 watt panels and want to wire them in series parrellel you have 1800+ watts are there any good charge controllers for that kind of load or should I split the system into 2 separate power lines of about 940 watts, going to the batteries?
Brilliant ...that why charge controllers are awesome - they make different voltage components (solar panels are batteries) work together. And as you stated - as long as the solar panel voltage is above the battery voltage AND the solar panel voltage is under the charge controller max Voltage, then its Bob's your Uncle.
Ok so I just purchased a 3500 w 24 volt inverter
I acquired some 12 volt 100 w Solar panel’s
I got a job as a camp host one of the other camp host gave me his solar panels
I would really like to use them if possible
Any information would be appreciated thanks I am going to watch the rest of your videos
Thanks for taking your time and putting these videos together
Makes sense if you wire too many panels in parallel the amps can cause problems for the controller . . AGM batteries don't like it too hot either , more is not better unless system can handle the load
With the charge controller regulating the voltage down from 24v to a 12v output for the batteries, would that mean the amps would go up slightly? Eg. 100w/24v= 4.16A
100w/12v= 8.33A
Actually thank you just learned that 12v panel can provide more than 12v , so I have to choose charger that can provide more than it’s specs ,like u said 12v panels x5 it’s not necessarily 60v could be close to 100v so charger that’s is rated at60watt max could burn
Hey jombaz sftcoop, No problem! Glad it helped! :)
Thank you so much for the help like always another Great video 👍🇨🇦
Wow - learned something today 😀
Awesome video, thanks. Short, clear simple
Glad it helped!
Sorry, just found this video and haven't really seen them all. Thanks for producing such a GREAT quality video. Just one thing (and I am sure you have touched upon this but a quick search didn't find it) even if with an MPPT controller you can run 48V to 12V without burning down your camper (I LOVE that the rude commenters name was KAREN), should you? I guess the question is is it most efficient to wire your batteries so they match the voltage of your (wired) solar panels. Or is the controller so efficient that it makes no difference.
Been eagerly awaiting this explanation, thanks
Hi , As you said any panels array will work if array voltages are higher than battery bank voltages and under the maximum voltage limit of charge controller.
In that context what will happen if array voltages are lower than batter bank (voltage can be low the way array has been designed or when voltage start decreasing towards night).
My understanding is that as I learnt from your other videos that panel array will work fine if it is compatible with charge controller voltage limitation. If voltages are lower than battery bank, charge controller will regulate it to desired battery back voltage.
If this understanding is wrong, then how charge controller charge battery bank when there are less voltages in those days when there is no enough sun light or sun light available for limited time (winter days).
Thanks for your help you rock
Great video Nate. On my last van, I used a single 275 watt panel with about a 39 VOC wired to solar charge controller connected to 3 ea 200ah 12 volt AGM Batteries wired together in parallel. I used this to power a 48 quart Engel refrigerator and lights and to charge cameras, laptops phones. It worked fine 6 months of the year, but poorly in the winter. I wanted to add a DC to DC charger to use the alternator, but the cost sort of held me back. The large cables alone for 12 volt was both expensive and seemed a bit of a challenge to run so I never did it.
I'm now about to do a new van. I understand much better how to do it and maybe do it much better. i decided to spend the extra money and use lithium batteries and a single 440 watt panel (52 VOC). I'm wondering if I could or should make my battery bank 24 or 48 volt? I think I could use 10 guage instead 2 or 4 guage that I would need for the 12 volt alternator. Is there a reason I shouldn't?
Yep! Here is a video about that: ruclips.net/video/sEW-ZaOOlq0/видео.html
Based on what you've told me... I see no reason for you to do 24v or 48v. For a small system that it sounds like you're installing; a 12v system will be perfectly sufficient.
More very useful information! Thanks for sharing sir! - Shane
I love your channel and the energy you bring. We’ve been trying to inform ourselves on solar power for our travel trailer. After countless hours researching on all subjects on our travel trailer transformation. Solar is one of those subjects that baffles us. We’ve heard that a 24v system tends to be cheaper and better than a 12v system. My question is. Can a 24v system still charge the batteries via shore power at an rv park? and if so please direct me to one of your DIY plans on your site so we can purchase it. Thank You for your time and keep rocking the RUclips channel.
To do that you need an AC charger
What advantage would a 48v system have over a 12v system in a van build? 🤔
Good info 😊 as always 🗽🇺🇸☮️✌️
Oh man you are the best!
Oh,, by the way you might have mentioned that its the VOC (open circuit voltage) spec on the panel that matters,,,not whether the panel says 12,24,48v. Again, good video.
Indeed! That was the whole purpose of this video and I mentioned it pretty specifically at the 1:30 mark.
Have you taken your camper to the desert in the summer? How do the solar panels, insulation, and fan work then?
So i can charge my 12 volt system on my 24volt panel? My charge controller will convert everything?
Wow! You did 11 of these and I'm just finding this now. I'm going back to start at #1 this is great info for someone like myself who is new to solar. Thank you!...and funny Deborah from Dallas is definitely a "Karen" 😂
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
Wow Guys I love your channel. Can you tell me where your solar tests are. I need to test my knowledge. Thanks for what you do.
All good, however what would be the best voltage panel to use?
12v, 24v, 36v, 48v matters and is very important when using PULSE WIDTH MODULATOR (PWM) Charger Controller.
Sure, I guess. That’s old tech though. We don’t even sell pwm controllers in our store. Not really relevant in 2024.
Well done bud!
Love your videos - very helpful and informative- also entertaining!
Nice one
It was helpful enough you just got another subscriber! Thanks
I am using 11 house hold grid tie 190 watt panels in series at 460 volts at 5 amps with a 500 volt max MMPT controller with 6 mm2 wire from the roof and 50mm2 wire to the 24 volt 600 ah battery bank 1 meter away. Running a split inverter AC, induction cooker, HWS and the fridge on 24 volts. another panel for the 24 volt 200 ah bus batteries, and another panel for 12 volt system for lights and water pump.
Thanks , I needed that .
Hey Commontater, No problem! Glad it helped! :)
Love the kick at Karen 😂😂
Thank you thank you and thank you for this good explanation that makes everything in a perfect sense!! 👍
No problem. Happy to help!
I LOVE your videos and gave learned a lot.
I hope someone can help me, I have 8 used good shape commercial solar panels 36.77V 220w each. Model CHSM6610P-220 (220W). I want to install them on my 16' cargo trailer vto have complete power off grid to use it as a toy hauler / travel trailer. Being off grid for a week at a time. I also want to use the trailer as an emergency power system for my mobile home when the power goes out so I plan on having a connection to power my mobile home in those cases. I already have a 5,000 watt 12v sine wave inverter with 8 to 10k surge. Will be installing a 14k HVAC system in the trailer to keep cool and heat when needed during hunting season. What would be the best way to connect my solar panels together and a good solar controller should I use. Also how many batteries do you think I would need to accomplish this?
The trailer will have water and a on demand propane tankless water heater and small fridge with led lighting as well.
Any help would be greatly appreciated!
Here are my solar panels spec:
Electrical Characteristics
STC Power Rating 220W
PTC Power Rating 199.5W 1
STC Power per unit of area 12.4W/ft2 (134.0W/m2)
Peak Efficiency 13.4%
Power Tolerances -3%/+3%
Number of Cells 60
Nominal Voltage not applicable
Imp 7.38A
Vmp 29.7V
Isc 8.12A
Voc 36.77V
NOCT 47°C
Temp. Coefficient of Power -0.46%/K
Temp. Coefficient of Voltage -0.129V/K
Series Fuse Rating 15A
Maximum System Voltage 600V
Mechanical Characteristics
Type Polycrystalline Silicon
Output Terminal Type Multicontact Connector Type 4
Frame Color Clear
Backsheet Color data not available
Length 65in (1,652mm)
Width 39.1in (994mm)
Depth 1.8in (45mm)
Weight 44.1lb (20kg)
Installation Method Rack-Mounted
Warranty and Certifications
80% Power Output Warranty Period 15yrs
90% Power Output Warranty Period 10yrs
UL Fire Classification data not available
Compliances UL 1703
CSI Listed
Thanks, Nate!! This was very helpful.
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
Clear explanation. Thanks for sharing.
Glad it was helpful. Cheers!
Thank you❤
Hahahaha …OK Karen from Dallas. Priceless.
Thank you, Nate, for all these very useful and informative video tuts. The solar panel setup is quite confusing to many like myself. I have ordered for a 24V 36Ah LFP battery pack to make use of my solar Car Inverter - 24V DC to 230V AC Pure Sine Wave Output 1000W. I need to know whether I should go for a 12V or 24V or 48V solar panel. I own a 2009 Toyota Corolla and do not have much space to deploy big sized solar panels on the car.
Is there an advantage to running your panels in series to maximize the voltage into the charge controller? (assuming you don't exceed its capacity)
@Greg White that’s a interesting question.i heart that voltage over 40v and a mppt charge controller must work better in winter .Would like to know what
He says about that .
The current, in Amps would be the same as one panel. If solar controller can handle the open circuit voltage, which is added for each panel
So you can use smaller cables
Advantage is less voltage drop, so more efficient.
Thank you. Very helpful. Checking out more of your vids.
I was just having that problem. Now I know why a DC frig. can run on 9 to 24 volts and 12 volts is middle ground. That's why you can run a frig.on a less balance wave. Maybe the unbalanced wave is the reason for lease heat. Meaning running smaller wire can be used. Changing weather with heat waves. Peace
Great video, Thank you so much!
What about the other way around? I presume you could put some 12V panels in series in order to charge a 24V battery?
Need help! I have ordered the new Bluetti AC200Max and would like to have my panels set up by the time the unit arrives. Specs for the unit are: Solar Input 900w (10-145 VOC) Max 15A..I will wire in series to keep the amps down thanks to your video. The tech at Bluetti confirmed the 12v battery can not go over 8 amps. So I will get a golf cart battery and he assured me it would charge the unit. With this unit you can charge 4 ways including lead acid batteries.. I am looking to install around (3) 250W panels for a total of 750W. other info on each panel is VOC 37.6 , Max system voltage 600v (ul), (VMP) 30.3, max power current 8.27. Will this setup work with the Bluetti Solar Input described above...Also what size MPPT would you recommend. Thanks in advance, and thank you for great videos.
Thank you for this video. Helped me alot
Glad it was helpful. Cheers!
Was wondering if a 24 volt panel would work for 12 volt batt bank..thanks for the info
Okay yes I am confused lol. I have a 100/30 Victron Smart MPPT Controller with an SOK 12v 206ah battery and have it attached to a rich solar 190 solar panel with open circuit of 24.3V max power current of 9.31A. I was looking at some panels that are Ying Li Solar that are 255 W 24V (yes I have disregarded the 24V) with an open circuit of 37.7. I think this is okay to install. I do need to go back to your other video to see if using the 190 will provide any more power to the battery. I just wanted to run it by you to check. Hopefully you have time to respond. Thanks and I love the videos. Thanks Kevin and by the way we don't get super cold in the winter we are usually in northern Arizona in the Hualapai Mountains
You'll probably just want to divide the two sizes up into their own arrays each to their own charge controllers.
@@EXPLORISTlife Thank You Sir I appreciate that.
Do you know anything about A/C's? I want to setup a rear A/C system, im not sure which way to go. I thought about buying one of those under the dash units and connecting it to my existing compressor. I know this is off the topic, maybe you can do a video on this? Keep up the excellent work, Thanks
Question which it may be dumb. But if we have a good mppt charge controller does it matter if our inverter is split phase or is that totally different? Thank you !!
Hello sir great video
So i have built a solar system here's the list
2 solar panels
100 watt each
total 200watts
20amp charge controller
1500watts inverter
And 100amp battery
I need i bit more
pawer/hours
Both my controler and inverter are compatible with 24v
Can i add an extra 100 amp battery with my current system
Thx and have a wonderful day👌👍
Although it's best if the batteries in the array are the same age...If the battery you are wanting to add is the same as the existing batteries, there is no problem with that.
@@EXPLORISTlife
Yes I'll be buying it from the same dealer
My current 100a battery is 8 months old
The new one will be the same brand and model but i believe there will be a difference between as new
Thanks anyway sir
Much appreciated
Enjoy your day👍
I did not even know that some rate panel voltages like that lol, never seen it before... It must be as a tradition left back from the stone age when you did not have charge controllers and actually connected panels directly to battery?
Yeah, there are even solar panel companies that market them as such. Pretty confusing for the end user.
I have six 48volt 450 watt panels they confuse me as I am a 12volt guy. Please do a video on wiring and components.
Work your way through this playlist and by the end of it, you'll have a much better idea on how to design a solar array: ruclips.net/p/PLmvhcyi4n0TV9pi83rFTv3ZuMT_S1xIZt