Types and models of solar charge controllers
Oct 11, 2024
More and more people are choosing to build solar energy systems as a way to build home energy storage systems. This can appropriately reduce dependence on the power grid and keep essential household electrical equipment running in the event of a power outage or other unforeseen circumstances. At the same time, solar systems are an environmentally sustainable energy supply option, using solar panels to convert solar energy into electricity and storing it in rechargeable batteries is the key to solar home energy storage. (Batteries are LiFePO4 batteries as an example)
The main components that will be used when building a solar home energy storage system: solar panels, MPPT, inverter, LiFePO4 batteries, and so on.
The solar panel converts the sun's light energy into electricity, and then outputs DC power for storage in the battery.
The inverter converts the DC power stored in the LiFePO4 battery into AC power to supply power to the loads using AC power.
LiFePO4 battery to store electricity.
What is MPPT?
MPPT is a type of solar charge controller. Solar charge controllers are mainly used in solar energy systems to manage the current from the solar panel to the battery pack, to prevent overcharging of the battery by regulating the voltage and current of the solar panel, to improve the overall performance of the solar system operation, to maintain the service life and health of the solar panel, and to prevent overcharging of the battery when using the solar energy to charge the battery.
Types of solar charge controllers
There are two main types of solar charge controllers: PWM and MPPT.
PWM, Pulse Width Modulation charge controllers, are suitable for small systems and are less expensive. It is simple to operate and regulates by gradually decreasing the current input to the battery. This method results in power loss between the solar panel and the battery, requires matching the solar panel and battery voltages, and does not regulate the voltage, but can only be shut down intermittently to prevent the battery voltage from being too high.
MPPT, Maximum Power Point Tracking Controller. More expensive, suitable for large systems. Absorbs panel current at maximum power voltage while limiting output to prevent overcharging. Input current can be monitored and adjusted to regulate solar system current, which is more efficient than PWM.
The SANFOU 2430 MPPT Solar Charge Controller for 12V and 24V systems is versatile and suitable for a wide range of battery packs, such as liquid-rich batteries, gel batteries, sealed batteries or lithium iron phosphate batteries. The default setting is Lithium Iron Phosphate, which is adjusted according to the battery type.
MPPT tracks the maximum power point and changes as the power of the solar panel changes, excellent performance and higher efficiency.
Adjust the solar panel voltage to charge the battery
The solar panel generates DC power under sunlight, and the voltage changes with the intensity of the irradiated light, and the charge controller can maintain the voltage stable. Control the current input to the battery, regulate it according to the battery condition and prevent the battery from being overcharged.
Monitor
Advanced technology solar charge controller with monitoring function, you can view the system information on the LCD screen in real time (SANFOU 2430 MPPT with visual LCD screen and LED indicators, real-time monitoring of the system), can view the voltage, current and battery charging status. Meanwhile, there are other protection functions: prevent overcharge, overdischarge, short circuit, reverse polarity protection, etc., to protect the whole system and battery safety. By regulating the voltage, controlling the charging process and providing protection functions, it is an indispensable component in solar energy systems, helping to maximize efficiency and extend the life of the entire system.
Prevents reverse current flow.
When solar panels are not generating electricity, they act as a load throughout the solar system to drain the power stored in the batteries. Using a solar charge controller prevents current from flowing from the battery to the solar panel.
Select a solar charge controller:
1. Make sure the charge controller is matched to the solar panel
2. Determine the voltage and current needed to charge the battery or batteries.
3. Check the maximum solar input that the charge controller can accept.
Choosing the right charge controller requires careful consideration of amperage, compatibility with system voltage, and other specific specifications based on the type of controller you are using. These examples illustrate the importance of the right model to ensure optimal performance and safety of your solar system.
For specific parameter settings, please check with the manual of the MPPT charge controller you purchased to avoid incorrect settings or improper use, which can damage the battery and MPPT.
SANFOU 2430 MPPT Solar Charge Controller is suitable for 12V and 24V system, if you need to build a solar system, please understand and buy according to your needs.
Conclusion
Solar charge controllers are essential for the efficient operation of solar systems, without the use of charge controllers, when charging the battery, the battery may be damaged due to the voltage generated by the solar panels exceeding the acceptable input voltage of the battery, charge controllers can be better regulated to monitor the charging process of the solar system and to safeguard the safety of the system.