MPPT solar charge controller.....EXELLENT!!

[frank]

This is not "new news"....but I'm simply totally impressed!

I just replaced my old style controller with a Blue Sky 2000E

I had actually ordered new batteries, but woke up this morning to 12.46V running refridge all night and no sun since 4:40 yesterday afternoon.

You get over 20% more charge from the same sunlight and they also have a "bettery equalization" mode.... a controlled overcharge to 15.2V for between 1 and 2 hours.  It cleans the plates. I did this yestersay for 1.5 hours and have to say.....looking like new batteries are not needed.

Money well spent!

[Tim Gardner]

Frank,

How much was your controller $?

TG

[HeaveToo]

Blue Sky charge controllers are one of the best ones for larger solar setups.  MPPT is so much more efficient.

http://www.pbase.com/mainecruising/solar_controller_testing

http://www.pbase.com/mainecruising/solar_panel

I have a genasun GV-10 which is a MPPT Charge controller that is designed for smaller solar panels.  Smaller meaning up to 125 watts.  I have 100 watts aboard now.  These things work great and give a lot of juice.

[frank]

Mine was $290 Canadian so a LOT less USA$$

Its a 25amp unit as I've got a 230 watt panel
Good ones for 100 watt set ups start around $65

Too funny...I was going to post that same link from Mainecruising.  Exellent read!!! (Heave to's post below)

DO NOT BUY ON EBAY!!!!       (say's he who wrote the article)

I do know that I figured my batteries were done. Simply wouldn't carry a charge over night with the Engel on.
Yesterday, after installing it and "equalizing" the batteries....on a partially sunny day, with sunset about 4:40 (trees)
AND loading the icebox with warm cans, food etc....this morning it showed 12.46 BEFORE sun rise!!!

Totally impressed at the turnaround!!!