MPPT Solar Charge Controller Recommendations

Question

Question:

I bought a RELiON RB100 lithium battery, a Go Power 200 watt portable solar panel and a victron BMV-712 Smart Battery monitor. The Go Power system comes with a cheap controller and I want to remove it and add a mppt controller. I understand that I will need to mount controller near the battery. This is all to be mounted in my Lance 1475 camper trailer. The Victron site does not show a simple wiring diagram for any of their controllers, so I am having trouble understanding if I need more that just the controller to add to my system. The BV-712 comes with a shunt. I like the built in bluetooth feature on the Victron Smart Solar controllers. I dont know if am better off with a Smart Solar 150/35 as compared to the 100/30, because I may get a 3rd 100 watt panel. If you would validate that, I would appreciate it. I am also trying to understand if I need anything else, and find a simpler wiring diagram. Also, does the Smart Solar controller generate heat? Should I mount it on a metal plate that is spaced x distance from the trailer wall inside of exterior accessed storage area? I also have the ability to plug the solar power directly into the trailer 7 pin plug, allowing me to potentially mount the mppt controller in a nema/IP rated enclosure maybe 12x12 and have solar panel coming in and then connect to trailer. See attached Wiring diagrams and pictures of Go Power accessories. I would like to buy the components needed and install it next week if possible, or week after. I know I am asking a lot, so any help you can provide will be greatly appreciated. If this system will work, I will buy the mppt controller, a temp sensor, and 4 of those connectors on the extension cord if you have those. Thanks much,

asked by: Jim J

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

Let's see if we can break this down some, several questions here that I am not certain I can answer completely, part of this is opinion on how to set-up and not necessarily best practice choices or hard technical/qualitative information you are asking.

I have linked the page that has the MPPT controllers we carry, but to make a recommendation to you is challenging as I do not know what the charge rating is you are looking for and what expansion options you are looking at for the future. While most every brand will have lower price point components available, you state the Go Power controller you have is cheap, Go Power has a history of quality components and value pricing. I have talked with their technical support and these folks are very knowledgeable and able to support/advise on projects using their product. The Go Power MPPT Solar Charge Controller - 60 Amp # GP54FR. Please watch the attached video for product review video. You ask about where to mount, mounting plate distance etc. you will need air flow. This is where I state it is challenging to advise, air flow to dissipate the heat is needed, heat is the challenger to electronics functioning properly and lasting. So if mounting on plate is needed as you ask is influenced by location nd air flow.

This does have the optional Bluetooth dongle (sold separately, # GP94FR) that you asked about. This will let you monitor the solar controller from your smartphone or tablet using the Go Power Connect app. And there is the optional remote, also sold separately, # GP34FR.

As for wiring diagrams, we have available the same that the venders publish for their products.

expert reply by: Michael R

1