30A Waterproof Lithium-Compatible In-Line PWM Solar Regulator. 30 amp solar regulator

A Waterproof Lithium-Compatible In-Line PWM Solar Regulator

This high-quality waterproof 30A in line Smart solar regulator will charge a range of batteries including all common types of Lithium. It contains a host of Smart electronics and a large backlit LCD screen, and is designed to work perfectly with all Hardkorr 12v portable solar panels. You can even hook two 150w or 200w panels up together using this regulator and our 1-into-2 Anderson Plug Splitter Cable.

Hardkorr’s 30A 6-stage PWM Smart solar regulator is tough as nails and designed to work perfectly with our range of 12v solar panels.

This Smart regulator will optimally charge a range of battery types, including AGM, Gel, Calcium, Wet and all common lithium variants including LiFePO4 and Li-ion. It contains a host of Smart electronics including reverse polarity protection, short circuit protection, reverse current protection, overcharge protection and more.

Its large, backlit LCD screen provides useful information relating to power input and battery charge level, and inbuilt LEDs provide a quick-reference indicator of battery charge status.

It also contains Smart re-activation technology, which gives it the ability to wake up a “dead” lithium battery where the BMS over-discharge protection circuit has been tripped. Simply connect the regulator to the battery and it will deliver special small-current pulses until the battery has recovered enough to be charged normally.

Key features

• Compatible with all common batteries: Works with AGM, Gel, Calcium, Wet and all types of lithium batteries (LiFePO4 and Li-ion).
• Advanced algorithm: 6-stage charge program is capable of optimally charging batteries from under 5V.
• Smart reactivation: This regulator can automatically sense where a lithium battery’s BMS over-discharge protection circuit has been tripped and wake it up.
• Electronic protections: Includes reverse polarity protection, short circuit protection, reverse current protection, overcharge protection, transient overvoltage protection and over temperature protection.
• Shock-resistant: 100% solid state unit (no fuses, fans etc)
• Waterproof dustproof IP65 ingress protection rating

VOLTS

See the current voltage level of your battery to assist in understanding its health and charge level.

Best MPPT Charge Controllers

Just so you know, this page contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking on one, at no extra cost to you I may earn a small commission.

I spent weeks testing 5 of the best MPPT solar charge controllers on the market.

I built a custom testing setup and tested their ease of use, build quality, and power output. I also researched their specs and spent time using their mobile apps to monitor my system and create custom charging profiles.

Based on all that, here are my reviews and recommendations.

Quick Recommendations: Best MPPT Solar Charge Controllers

Here’s the TLDR version of my rankings:

• Top Pick:Victron SmartSolar MPPT 100/30
• Budget Pick:Renogy Rover 40A
• Honorable Mention:EPEver Tracer 4215BN
• Renogy Rover Elite 40A
• EPEver Tracer 4210AN

Or keep reading for my full MPPT charge controller reviews.

Note: Most of the charge controllers I tested offer models with different charge current ratings, max PV voltages, and/or compatible battery voltages. So if you see one on this list you like, but it isn’t compatible with your system, just search for the other available models and you’ll probably find one that is.

Top Pick: Victron SmartSolar MPPT 100/30

Rated charge current:	30A	Max. PV open circuit voltage (Voc):	100V
Battery voltage:	12/24V	Battery types:	LiFePO4, sealed (AGM), gel, flooded, custom
Max. PV input power:	440W @ 12V, 880W @ 24V	Max. wire size:	6 AWG (16 mm2)
Bluetooth monitoring:	Yes (built-in)	Temperature sensor:	Yes (built-in)

Pros: Easy to use, built-in Bluetooth, robust mobile app, custom charging profiles

Cons: Expensive, mediocre wire terminals, no screen

Best for: Those looking for the best MPPT charge controller who don’t mind paying top dollar; advanced users who want the most features and customizability

Review

For the sake of everyone’s wallets, I almost hoped the Victron wouldn’t be my favorite. But it was.

Out of the box, I found the Victron to have the most features and be the easiest to use. It’s about as “plug and play” as it gets.

Bluetooth is built in to all the models in the Victron SmartSolar MPPT product line. Once the Victron is installed, you can use the free VictronConnect mobile app to monitor and customize your system.

The Victron was the only MPPT I tested with Bluetooth built in. All the other charge controllers in this review make you buy a 30-40 Bluetooth module for that feature. That helps justify the Victron’s price a bit.

The VictronConnect app has a lot of features. It can be a little overwhelming at first. But, once you learn your way around it, it can be quite powerful. You can use one of the many battery presets or, for advanced users, easily create and save custom charging profiles.

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Victron makes all sorts of accessories — sensors and shunts and the like — that can pair with the app as well and communicate with your controller to customize and optimize your system. It’s a solar nerd’s playground.

I also performed a power output test and the Victron placed first — by a hair. I wouldn’t put too much stock in these results because of the variables I couldn’t control (e.g. panel temperature, fluctuations in solar irradiance), but it was nice to see a first place finish from a top-of-the-line MPPT.

The Victron’s wire terminals are passable, but nothing to write home about. The screws felt high quality, but the terminals themselves were shallow and a little too close together for my taste.

Otherwise, the build quality of the Victron felt solid. The case and heat sink seem durable. It was also the smallest and lightest controller I tested, if that’s an important factor in your system.

I tested the bestselling Victron SmartSolar MPPT model on Amazon at the time of my research, which happened to be the 100/30 model (100V PV voltage limit, 30A charge current rating).

But Victron has a huge product lineup and sells SmartSolar controllers with a wide range of PV voltages (75-250V) and current ratings (10-100A). So if the model I’ve tested is too much or too little for your purposes, you can upgrade or downgrade accordingly.

Budget Pick: Renogy Rover 40A

Rated charge current:	40A	Max. PV open circuit voltage (Voc):	100V
Battery voltage:	12/24V	Battery types:	LiFePO4, sealed (AGM), gel, flooded, custom
Max. PV input power:	520W @ 12V, 1040W @ 24V	Max. wire size:	8 AWG (10 mm2)
Bluetooth monitoring:	Yes (requires additional purchase)	Temperature sensor:	Yes (included)

Pros: Great value, easy to use, good mobile app (must buy Renogy BT-1 Bluetooth Module to use), custom charging profiles

Cons: Not compatible with Renogy Battery Voltage Sensor

Best for: Those looking for the best bang for their buck

Review

I’ve had the Renogy Rover 40A for over 6 months, and I’ve become quite familiar with it during that time.

It’s well-priced and easy to use. It’s compatible with all the most common types of solar batteries, plus has the option to create custom charging profiles.

Renogy has a mobile app called Renogy DC Home. To use it with the Rover 40A, you’ll have to buy the Renogy BT-1 Bluetooth Module.

The Renogy app is good, but I found it a little less feature-rich than Victron’s. For many users it will have everything you need. I suspect advanced users may want a little more customization, though.

The Rover’s wire terminals were good but not great. The terminals felt roomier than the listed max wire size, but the screws were a little loose and hard to tighten at times.

The screen on the Rover 40A displays nearly every system spec I could hope for. It’s also easy to use it to select your battery type, edit load settings, and create custom charging profiles.

In my power output test, the Rover tied for last with the EPEver Tracer 4210AN. They both output a max of 142 watts compared to the 146 watts of the Victron which placed first. I think the difference of 4 watts is negligible.

The Rover 40A doesn’t have a port for connecting a battery voltage sensor, which I don’t love. You have to upgrade to the Rover 60A or Rover 100A for that feature. Battery voltage sensors help charge controllers adjust their charging voltage to account for voltage drop, which is helpful in certain systems.

Overall, the Rover 40A is a good MPPT charge controller for the money. It has all the features and battery presets you need to set up your system quickly and easily. And for more advanced users, you can create custom charging profiles and buy the BT-1 Bluetooth Module for remote monitoring.

Honorable Mention: EPEver Tracer 4215BN

Rated charge current:	40A	Max. PV open circuit voltage (Voc):	150V
Battery voltage:	12/24V	Battery types:	Sealed (AGM), gel, flooded, custom
Max. PV input power:	520W @ 12V, 1040W @ 24V	Max. wire size:	4 AWG (25 mm2)
Bluetooth monitoring:	Yes (requires additional purchase)	Temperature sensor:	Yes (included)

Pros: Excellent build quality, my favorite wire terminals, 150V PV voltage limit

Cons: Must make custom charging profile if using with lithium batteries, Bluetooth monitoring is harder to set up

Best for: Those looking for a charge controller with great build quality; users with lead acid batteries; users with lithium batteries who don’t mind creating custom charging profiles

Review

From a hardware perspective, the Tracer 4215BN — sometimes called the Tracer BN or Tracer BN Series — was my favorite charge controller.

It’s big and heavy and virtually one entire heat sink. The wire terminals were easily my favorite. They felt like tanks. And they’re the biggest in this review – capable of handling up to 4 AWG wire. If you like to overgauge your wires, this is one to consider.

However, the hardware in a charge controller isn’t the full story. Charge controllers also have a software component. When that’s lacking, it makes the controller harder to use.

I didn’t test the EPEver app, but from reviews I’ve read it’s a little clunky. The included MT50 screen is great, though. It’s easy to view all your system specs and select your battery type. If you’re using lead acid batteries, the Tracer BN is about as plug and play as any other MPPT.

But it has no preset for LiFePO4 batteries. You’ll have to create your own custom charging profile if using lithium. It isn’t that hard to do, but it’s certainly not as easy as selecting your battery type from a menu.

These usability hurdles are small, but more noticeable than on the other controllers in this review. If you’re comfortable with technical product manuals, they shouldn’t be difficult to overcome. And, once you do, you’ll have a great controller that feels like it could last a lifetime.

As a final heads up, the Tracer BN’s days might be numbered. While doing research for this article, I tried to find this controller on EPEver’s website, but couldn’t.

From years of product testing, I’ve come to see these removals as the first sign of a product’s discontinuation. For now it’s still available on Amazon, but time will tell.

Renogy Rover Elite 40A

Rated charge current:	40A	Max. PV open circuit voltage (Voc):	100V
Battery voltage:	12/24V	Battery types:	LiFePO4, sealed (AGM), gel, flooded
Max. PV input power:	520W @ 12V, 1040W @ 24V	Max. wire size:	6 AWG (16 mm2)
Bluetooth monitoring:	Yes (requires additional purchase)	Temperature sensor:	Yes (included)

Pros: Cheapest MPPT tested, good mobile app (must buy Renogy BT-2 Bluetooth Module to use)

Cons: No custom charging profiles

Best for: Those who want a cheap MPPT and only plan to use preset battery charging profiles

Review

Based on its name, I wouldn’t fault you for assuming the Renogy Rover Elite is a more advanced version of the Renogy Rover. I know I certainly did.

But you’d be wrong. It’s actually a cheaper version. (Whose idea was that?)

The Rover Elite was close to being one of my recommended picks. It has a lot going for it: It’s the cheapest MPPT I tested. It’s compatible with all the main types of solar batteries. And, if you buy the Renogy BT-2 Bluetooth Module, you can connect the Rover Elite to the Renogy app to monitor your system from your phone.

Based on that, I think it’s a good budget option for DIY solar beginners, or users who just plan on using the battery presets.

But if you want to create custom charging profiles, know that the Rover Elite doesn’t have that option. I know from plenty of reader emails and Комментарии и мнения владельцев that advanced users like to customize their charging setpoints.

Unlike it’s more expensive cousin, the Rover Elite does have a battery voltage sensor port. You can buy a Renogy Battery Voltage Sensor and connect it to the Rover Elite to improve the controller’s battery voltage reading.

I’ve tested a handful of Renogy products over the years, and I always seem to come to the same conclusion: they’re good quality for the price. The Rover Elite is the same. Overall, it’s a good cheap MPPT.

EPEver Tracer 4210AN

Rated charge current:	40A	Max. PV open circuit voltage (Voc):	100V
Battery voltage:	12/24V	Battery types:	LiFePO4, sealed (AGM), gel, flooded, LiNiCoMnO2, custom
Max. PV input power:	520W @ 12V, 1040W @ 24V	Max. wire size:	6 AWG (16 mm2)
Bluetooth monitoring:	Yes (requires additional purchase)	Temperature sensor:	Yes (included)

Pros: Fast power point tracking, custom charging profiles

Cons: Not the easiest to use, mediocre wire terminals

Review

The Tracer 4210AN — sometimes called the Tracer AN or Tracer AN Series — is a solid controller.

But, when pitted side by side against the others, it didn’t stand out to me in any way. I’m not sure what type of user I’d recommend it for.

I think it’s a good value for the money, but not as good as the Renogy Rover. The build quality is solid but not outstanding. I think the wire terminals are subpar.

On startup, it did track the maximum power point the fastest of any controller tested (in about 9 seconds on average, compared to the 57 seconds of its sibling, the Tracer 4215BN, which placed last). That’s something, I suppose.

It has a good screen and, on Amazon at least, the 40 amp model comes with the MT50 display included.

But I do want to underscore that this is a well-made unit. It works well, is solidly built, and even has the lowest power consumption of those tested. EPEver claims ≤12mA (it doesn’t say at what voltage), which is less than the 30mA (at 12V) of the Victron, the next closest.

If this controller is on sale, or you just prefer the EPEver brand, I’d say go for it. If it was the only MPPT I owned, I expect I’d end up being perfectly happy with it.

How to Choose the Best MPPT Charge Controller for Your Needs

Rated Charge Current

Also called: rated battery current, battery charge current or rated output current

The rated charge current is the maximum amount of current (in amps) that the charge controller can charge the battery at. It’s such an important number that it’s often included in the product name (e.g. Renogy Rover 40A — “40A” is the rated charge current).

30A-40A: Many popular MPPTs (including all the ones I tested) fall in this range. They can usually handle between 400-500 watts of solar at 12 volts and 800-1000 watts of solar at 24 volts. They’re best used with lithium batteries of 80Ah or greater and lead acid batteries of 130Ah or greater.

40A: MPPTs with charge current ratings greater than 40 amps are designed for large solar systems. They can usually handle greater than or equal to 600 watts of solar at 12 volts and 1200 watts at 24 volts. Some may also be compatible with 36V and 48V batteries and capable of handling even greater PV power inputs at these voltages.

Note: Charge controllers with load terminals may also list a rated discharge current (aka rated load current). This is how much current the controller can output through its load terminals.

Maximum PV Voltage

Also called: maximum PV open circuit voltage, maximum input voltage

Use our solar panel voltage calculator to calculate the maximum open circuit voltage of your solar array. Then, pick a charge controller with a maximum PV voltage greater than this number.

100V-150V: This is the most popular PV voltage range for MPPT charge controllers. Models in this range can usually handle 3-6 12V solar panels wired in series.

150V: MPPTs in this range are designed for large solar arrays. They can usually handle 7 or more 12V solar panels wired in series.

Note: Estimating the max voltage of your solar array is not as simple as multiplying open circuit voltage by the number of solar panels wired in series. This is because solar panel voltage increases as temperature drops. To get an accurate estimate, you’ll have to correct for temperature.

Battery Voltage

Also called: system voltage, nominal battery voltage

This number refers to the nominal battery voltage the controller is compatible with. You may see the word “auto” next to the battery voltage — e.g. “12/24V Auto.” This means the charge controller automatically detects whether you’re using a 12V or 24V battery bank.

12/24V: Many popular MPPT models are compatible with 12 and 24 volt batteries. Indeed, these are the compatible battery voltages of all the models I tested for this review.

12/24/48V: There are higher-end MPPTs compatible with 12, 24 and 48 volt batteries. These are usually MPPTs with higher charge current ratings.

12/24/36/48V: Some brands sell models that are also compatible with 36 volt batteries.

Note: Some charge controllers also list a max battery voltage in their spec sheet. As you’d expect, you don’t want your battery voltage to exceed this number.

Compatible Battery Types

Make sure the charge controller you’re getting is compatible with your type of battery.

Here are the most common types of solar batteries:

• LiFePO4 (Also referred to as lithium iron phosphate, LFP, or simply “lithium”)
• Gel
• AGM/Sealed lead acid
• Flooded lead acid

If a controller is compatible with a type of battery, it essentially means it has a preset charging profile for that battery chemistry that you can select when you set up the controller.

Custom charging profiles: Many MPPT controllers also offer the ability for you to create custom or “user” charging profiles. These let you select all the voltage setpoints — such as absorption voltage and float voltage — so you can tailor it for your specific battery.

In essence, custom profiles make the controller compatible with all main types of solar batteries. Many advanced users also like to adjust these numbers to try to maximize their battery lifespan.

Maximum PV Input Power

“PV” refers to solar panels, so this number is the max solar array wattage you can connect to the controller.

You’ll notice that the controller has different max PV input power ratings for different voltages. This is because watts is based on both volts and amps (W = V A).

If you’re having trouble figuring out what charge current rating you need, you can also refer to this number for guidance.

Bluetooth Monitoring

Being able to monitor and control your solar system from an app on your phone is great convenience. Don’t underestimate how nice it can be! MPPT controllers fall into three different buckets here:

Built-in: Some controllers have Bluetooth built in, meaning you don’t need to buy anything in order to start monitoring your system from your phone. Of the controllers I tested, only the Victron SmartSolar came with Bluetooth built in.

Additional purchase required: A lot of controllers require an additional purchase before you can use Bluetooth monitoring. You have to buy a Bluetooth module that connects to the controller. These typically cost 30-40. The remaining 4 controllers I tested fall into this bucket.

No Bluetooth: Some MPPT charge controllers come with no Bluetooth capabilities at all. The only way to monitor your system with these is through the screen or LED lights on the controller.

Wire Terminals

Look for good wire terminals with quality screws. Cheap charge controllers skimp on their wire terminals and you’ll notice right away. They’re easier to strip and you can’t tighten the screws down as much. They may be quicker to loosen over time.

Some people also like to over-gauge their wires. Thicker wires help minimize voltage drop and make it easy to expand your system later on. If that’s you, you’ll want to pay attention to max wire size.

Power Consumption

Charge controllers consume a modest amount of power, which will be listed on the specs sheet. In most DIY solar systems, the power consumption isn’t enough to make a material difference.

However, power consumption can come into consideration if your solar panels will go for long stretches without receiving sunlight. For instance, one reader from Scandinavia wrote to me about how charge controller power consumption factored into his buying decision because the solar panels on his off-grid cabin were covered in snow for most of the winter. He didn’t want the charge controller to consume so much power that it fully drained his batteries.

In these situations, look for a controller with low power consumption. Most charge controllers have lower power consumption at lower system voltages, so you may want to keep your battery bank at 12 volts. PWM charge controllers tend to consume less power than MPPTs, so you may want to also consider a PWM model.

Temperature Compensation

If you’re using lead acid batteries and they’ll be experiencing wide temperature swings, you should look for a charge controller that adjusts its voltage setpoints based on temperature — a featured called temperature compensation. Lithium batteries don’t need temperature compensation.

To have this feature, the controller needs to have a temperature sensor. The sensor will either be a built-in internal sensor, or an external sensor included in the box or available as an additional purchase.

If it’s an external sensor, You plug it into the temperature sensor port on the controller and then tape the probe to the battery.

Operating Temperature Range

Pay attention to operating temperature range if your charge controller will be experiencing wide temperature swings — such as if it’s located in a boat, RV, or campervan without AC. The higher-end models are typically able to handle wider temperature ranges.

MPPT vs PWM Charge Controllers

MPPT charge controllers are more expensive, but more efficient. Most are around 95% efficient.

PWM charge controllers are cheaper, but less efficient. They are around 75-80% efficient.

What’s more, MPPT controllers often have higher charge current ratings, such as 30 amps or more. This means you can connect more solar panels to them. (The MPPT models included in this test, for instance, can handle solar arrays of 400-1000 watts depending on system voltage.) They also have higher PV voltage limits, so you can connect more panels in series which can save you money on wiring.

PWM charge controllers usually have lower charge current ratings, such as 10-30 amps, making them best suited for solar arrays of 400 watts or less. They often only have high enough PV voltage limits for 1-2 12V solar panels in series. If you’re using lots of solar panels with a PWM, you’ll probably have to wire them in parallel which can increase wiring costs.

The Bottom Line

I liked all of the MPPT charge controllers I tested for this review. I’d be happy to have any of them in my system. Alas, the job of a reviewer is to rank the options from best for worst.

After testing 5 MPPTs side by side and comparing their spec sheets, I think the Victron SmartSolar MPPT is the best MPPT charge controller on the market. I thought it had the best build quality and was the easiest to set up and use.

The Renogy Rover 40A has the best bang for your buck. It’s a well-made model that can be paired with Renogy’s mobile app if you also buy the BT-1 Bluetooth Module.

Lastly, the EPEver Tracer 4215BN is built like a tank and has the best wire terminals of any charge controller I’ve ever used. It’s not compatible with lithium batteries out of the box, but you can use the included MT50 screen to create a custom charging profile.

As a reminder, all the charge controllers I tested offer models with different charge current and PV voltage limits. If you like the Victron, for instance, but need a higher current rating, consider the Victron SmartSolar MPPT 100/50. It has a 50 amp current rating, compared to the 30 amp rating of the model I tested.

A small ask: If you found my MPPT charge controller reviews helpful and are planning to buy one, please consider buying through one of my affiliate links below. I’ll get a small commission (at no extra cost to you) which will help fund more reviews like this one. Thank you!

Field test: PV Modules

A real world comparison between Mono, Poly, PERC and Dual PV Modules.

This is a field test and the results are specific for this installation on this location please research which is the best solution for your own situation as the results can be different based on environmental influences.

Total solar yield as of 27/03/2023 when the results were reset: Mono: 9158 kWh Split-cell: 9511 kWh Poly: 9113 kWh Perc: 9471 kWh Perc-east: 1970 kWh Perc-west: 1730 kWh

Solar charge controller

Solar charge controller

A solar charger gathers energy from your solar panels, and stores it in your batteries. Using the latest, fastest technology, SmartSolar maximises this energy-harvest, driving it intelligently to achieve full charge in the shortest possible time. SmartSolar maintains battery health, extending its life.

The SmartSolar charge controller will even recharge a severely depleted battery. It can operate with a battery voltage as low as 0 Volts, provided the cells are not permanently sulphated or otherwise damaged.

MPPT: Ultra Fast Maximum Power Point Tracking

By constantly monitoring the voltage and current output of your solar (PV) panels, MPPT technology ensures that every drop of available power is rinsed out of your panels, and harvested for storage. The advantage of this is most noticeable when the sky is partially clouded, and light intensity is constantly changing.

Remote Monitoring and Control

Remotely control and monitor the extensive features of your SmartSolar MPPT charger with built-in bluetooth by pairing it with your smartphone or other device via VictronConnect. If your installation is connected to the internet with a GX device, the Victron Remote Management Portal (VRM) provides access to the full power of your MPPT, anytime, anywhere; both VictronConnect and VRM are free to use. For remote installations. even when there is no internet connection nearby. you may be able to monitor your MPPT by connecting the GlobalLink 520.

VictronConnect lets you get live status information and configure any Victron products which either have Bluetooth built-in, or are connected to a VE.Direct Bluetooth Smart Dongle.

KickAss PWM 30A Solar Regulator

Get the maximum charge from your solar setup. The KickAss 30A PWM Solar Controller will ensure the correct charge is supplied efficiently and safely to charge up your auxiliary batteries. Designed to pair perfectly with the KickAss Solar Blanket.

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Automatic 5 Stage Smart Charging

Advanced Algorithms enhance the overall charging performance of the 12V PWM Solar Controller. The charging cycle include a float stage that will automatically restart the charging cycle once the battery drops below the required voltage

Anderson Style Connectors for Plug Play (Optional Extra)

Don’t let a dodgy connection ruin your weekend away. The Anderson style connectors provide a secure, solid connection that gives uncompromising charge.

Lightweight Portable

Weighing only 40 grams! the KickAss 30A PWM is an ultralight Solar controller that is a perfect companion for the portable 160W Solar Blanket. Perfect for anyone looking for a lightweight portable solution to their 12V solar setup.

LCD Display For Solar Input Monitoring

Crystal clear display, easily view the charge status. battery voltage, overall charged capacity, battery type, charge percentage, battery temperature and fault codes.

Lithium Activation Mode

If your lithium battery drops below the safety voltage parameters of the lithium battery BMS, the lithium activation mode will trigger causing the PWM controller to charge the battery until it reaches the cut-in voltage and will automatically start normal charging cycles

multi-chemistry battery Compatibility

Compatible with AGM, Gel, Sealed Lead Acid, Wet, Lead Crystal, Li-LION Series LifePo4 Batteries. Perfect for charging several battery types including starter, deep cycle, marine, powersports more.

Battery Temperature Sensor

In the event there is a fault with your battery, the probe will sense overheating and prevent overcharging by limiting the current out to the connected battery.

IP65 Dust Water Resistant

Protected against dust water. Features dust covers to protect the terminals while not in use. It should be noted that this unit is not waterproof and should not be permanently mounted outdoors.

Description

Automatic 5 Stage Smart Charging

Advanced Algorithms enhance the overall charging performance of the 12V PWM Solar Controller. The charging cycle include a float stage that will automatically restart the charging cycle once the battery drops below the required voltage

Anderson Style Connectors for Plug Play (Optional Extra)

Don’t let a dodgy connection ruin your weekend away. The Anderson style connectors provide a secure, solid connection that gives uncompromising charge.

Lightweight Portable

Weighing only 40 grams! the KickAss 30A PWM is an ultralight Solar controller that is a perfect companion for the portable 160W Solar Blanket. Perfect for anyone looking for a lightweight portable solution to their 12V solar setup.

LCD Display For Solar Input Monitoring

Crystal clear display, easily view the charge status. battery voltage, overall charged capacity, battery type, charge percentage, battery temperature and fault codes.

Lithium Activation Mode

If your lithium battery drops below the safety voltage parameters of the lithium battery BMS, the lithium activation mode will trigger causing the PWM controller to charge the battery until it reaches the cut-in voltage and will automatically start normal charging cycles

multi-chemistry battery Compatibility

Compatible with AGM, Gel, Sealed Lead Acid, Wet, Lead Crystal, Li-LION Series LifePo4 Batteries. Perfect for charging several battery types including starter, deep cycle, marine, powersports more.

Battery Temperature Sensor

In the event there is a fault with your battery, the probe will sense overheating and prevent overcharging by limiting the current out to the connected battery.

IP65 Dust Water Resistant

Protected against dust water. Features dust covers to protect the terminals while not in use. It should be noted that this unit is not waterproof and should not be permanently mounted outdoors.

Perfect to Cook, Bake and Warm Foods while you Travel. Fully Insulated, Removable Shelves Adjustable Timer.

The KickAss Battery Box is your all-in-one portable power solution. This unit is completely pre-wired and includes a DCD

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What Is an RV Solar Charge Controller?

Today’s post is all about the RV solar charge controller. “The what?”, you may ask. This essential component of an RV’s solar power system is seldom the FOCUS when people talk about solar. Solar panels and battery banks seem to get top billing. But the solar charge controller is a critical element of any RV solar system, and today we’ll tell you why.

Harnessing the awesome power of the sun for your electrical needs is an amazing privilege. Because we live and run businesses from our RV full-time… mostly while boondocking off the grid… our power needs are considerable. So we went all out in building our solar array and electrical system. But some RVers only need a portable solar panel and a battery or solar generator to top off their electronics. Others need a little more than that to power their RV and a few small appliances.

Regardless of the size of your solar array and your battery bank, all you’ve gotta do is connect a solar panel to a battery and you’ve got power, right? Not so fast! Today’s post focuses on what’s missing in that scenario – the RV solar charge controller.

Let’s talk about what it is, what it does, how it works, and why you absolutely need it. If you’re thinking of powering your rig (or anything that requires power) with solar, then this information is critical to your plan.

• 1) What Is an RV Solar Charge Controller?
• 2) What Does an RV Solar Charge Controller Do?
• 3) What Is a PWM Charge Controller?
• 4) What Is an MPPT Charge Controller?
• 5) Which Type of Charge Controller is Better – PWM or MPPT?
• 6) What Are Amp Ratings on a Solar Charge Controller?
• 7) What Amp Rating Do I Need For My RV’s Solar Charge Controller?
• 8) Can I Connect a Solar Panel to My RV Battery Without a Charge Controller?
• 9) Can I Use My Batteries While They’re Being Charged With Solar?
• 10) What to Look For When Choosing an RV Solar Charge Controller

• 10.1) Quality
• 10.2) Remote Monitoring Ability
• 10.3) Adjustable Voltage Setpoints
• 10.4) On/Off Switch
• 10.5) Ability to Easily Switch from Shore Power to Dry Camp Mode

• 11.1) Victron Energy SmartSolar MPPT 100V/50 amp 12/24-Volt Solar Charge Controller (Bluetooth)
• 11.2) Renogy 30A Adventurer 12V/24V PWM Solar Charge Controller with LCD Display Flush Mount Design Negative Ground, Compatible with Sealed, Gel, Flooded, and Lithium Batteries
• 11.3) Xantrex 710-3024-01 Solar Charge Controller, MPPT, 30A
• 11.4) Renogy Wanderer Li 30A 12V PWM Negative Ground Solar Charge Controller Solar Panel Regulator w/ Temp Sensor Function Fit for Lithium, Sealed, Gel, and Flooded Batteries
• 11.5) Victron Energy SmartSolar MPPT 75V 15 amp 12/24-Volt Solar Charge Controller (Bluetooth)

What Is an RV Solar Charge Controller?

With any solar power system, your energy source is the sun, and the component that harnesses that energy is your solar panel (or array of solar panels). Your battery bank is where the energy coming from your solar panels is stored.

Between the two – solar panel(s) and battery bank – you need a voltage regulator. Without it, your batteries could be damaged by excessive voltage and overcharging, and your solar panels won’t output their maximum power.

An RV solar charge controller is that voltage regulator. The rate of charge and the volume of energy going into your battery bank are regulated by your solar charge controller. Typically, it can be configured to provide the proper charging profile for your battery’s chemistry — typically flooded lead-acid, AGM (absorbed glass mat), or lithium. It’s an absolutely essential component of your RV’s solar system.

A solar charge controller sits between your solar panel(s) and your battery bank. It acts as a voltage regulator to prevent overcharging and stops the current from flowing back into the solar panels.

What Does an RV Solar Charge Controller Do?

In addition to protecting your battery bank from excessive voltage and overcharging, a solar charge controller stops the energy that’s stored in your batteries from flowing back out into the solar panel when the sun goes down.

So, it regulates the energy going into the battery bank, and it prevents the stored energy current from flowing in the other direction, (back to the solar panels), when darkness falls.

Your RV solar charge controller is the smallest, lightest component of your solar power system, but no less essential than solar panels and batteries.

What Is a PWM Charge Controller?

There are two types of solar charge controllers – PWM and MPPT. PWM stands for “Pulse Width Modulation.” In order to charge your battery bank, a PWM charge controller uses a series of short pulses (as opposed to a steady stream) of power.

A PWM charge controller is constantly checking the status of your batteries and uses that information to determine the timing and the size of the energy pulses it sends.

So, if your battery bank is significantly discharged, a PWM charge controller would send out long pulses of energy to your batteries continuously. But, if your battery bank was fully charged and there was no load on the system (i.e. you weren’t running anything requiring power), the PWM charge controller would send out only a very tiny pulse every few seconds.

As your battery bank becomes fully charged, a PWM solar charge controller will reduce the volume of power coming into the battery accordingly. Once your battery bank is fully charged, it will send out only a tiny trickle charge to keep your battery bank full. (This is often referred to as float charging.)

There are two types of solar charge controllers – MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) and PWM (Pulse Width Modulation).

What Is an MPPT Charge Controller?

MPPT stands for “Maximum Power Point Tracking”. An MPPT solar charge controller takes the high-voltage power output supplied by a solar panel and converts it to a lower, more acceptable voltage so that your battery bank charges safely and without damage, and your devices and appliances are charged efficiently.

So, an MPPT solar charge controller is an electronic DC-to-DC converter that takes the high-voltage DC output from your solar panel and converts it to the lower voltage required to charge your battery bank.

In addition, “maximum power point tracking” means that an MPPT solar charge controller is constantly analyzing your solar panels and determining the exact voltage required to maximize the panels’ power output to your batteries. This changes constantly depending on the amount of light going into the panels, the ambient temperature, and other variable factors.

This is why MPPT charge controllers allow more efficient solar panel performance (by up to 30%) than PWM charge controllers. They allow the panels to operate at their optimal (higher) voltage for the conditions… and convert that extra voltage into additional charging amps.

Which Type of Charge Controller is Better – PWM or MPPT?

The answer to this question depends largely on your needs.

If you have low power needs and thus a low-power solar system, then a PWM solar charge controller would be a less expensive option and perfectly suitable. This would require that you have solar panels equalling no more than around 150 Watts and your power needs aren’t significant.

A PWM charge controller is also best for trickle-charging a battery for maintenance when it’s not being used.

Perhaps the greatest feature of a PWM charge controller is its very low voltage loss, which means that if your devices and appliances are turned off, your battery power is not being consumed.

But if your solar system is greater than 150 Watts and you have high power needs and multiple solar panels as we do, an MPPT solar charge controller is what you need.

If your RV’s solar system is greater than 150W, then you’ll want an MPPT controller. A PWM controller may be sufficient for smaller systems.

First, MPPT controllers allow for multiple solar panels to be wired together in series (increasing the voltage output), creating a very significant solar array. They also give us greater control with a large solar system and can utilize the maximum output from our solar panels (which a PWM charge controller would not be able to do). For anyone with a larger solar system, MPPT solar charge controllers provide up to 30% more efficient than PWM controllers.

So, while MPPT solar charge controllers are more expensive, they’re also more efficient in an application like ours, and thus the greater cost balances out with the greater efficiency.

Depending on the degree of sunlight and ambient temps, a PWM charge controller may produce anywhere from 65% to 85% efficiency (they’re actually best in sunny, warm climates) while an MPPT controller will provide maximum efficiency coming from a generous solar array, even in climates where ambient temperatures are cool.

To summarize this PWM vs MPPT discussion, if you’ve got a 100-150 Watt solar panel you’re using to keep your RV’s house battery topped off and you generally travel in fairly warm, sunny climates, a PWM solar charge controller may be perfectly sufficient for you, and they’re a simpler (fewer parts) and less costly option.

But, if you’re looking to supply more than around 150 Watts from your solar panels to your battery bank, or if you’re looking to connect multiple solar panels in series, you’ll want an MPPT controller to do the job.

What Are Amp Ratings on a Solar Charge Controller?

An amp is a unit of electrical current, and all solar charge controllers have a maximum amp rating. The current/amp rating is the maximum charging current that the solar charge controller can output to the attached battery bank.

However, the power rating for solar panels is stated in Watts and is determined by both the output current and the output voltage (for most RVs, the battery charging voltage will be either 12V or 24V).

An equation to bear in mind when trying to determine the appropriate amp rating for your RV’s solar charge controller is amps x volts = watts (and its corollary equation of amps = watts ÷ volts).

So, for example, a 30-amp (30A) charge controller with a 12V output will be able to handle up to 360 Watts (30A x 12V).

That same charge controller (30A) charging a battery bank with a 24V output will be capable of charging up to 720 Watts (30A x 24V).

Our Xantrex inverter-charger control panel.

What Amp Rating Do I Need For My RV’s Solar Charge Controller?

The general rule of thumb used in determining the appropriate amp rating for an RV solar charge controller is to select a solar charge controller with an amp rating that is 25% higher than the total peak power amperage of your solar array.

The reason for the additional 25% is that in certain conditions your solar panels may produce more than their rated output. Having room for 25% additional charging capacity will accommodate those conditions.

Remember that the amp rating is the maximum charging current (or maximum amperage output) to the batteries. Remember also that amps x watts = volts. This allows you to calculate the charging current of your solar panels in amps by using the equation watts ÷ volts = amps.

You can obtain the maximum rated power of a solar panel in watts by reading the back of the panel (or the spec sheet or manual that comes with the panel). You’ll also see the maximum power voltage expressed in volts.

You’ll want to calculate the current that will be produced by your solar panel whenever it’s generating its maximum power. You can calculate the current in amps by dividing watts by volts.

Now let’s say, for example, you have two 100 Watt solar panels with a peak power of 6 amps each. Wired in parallel with each other, 6 amps x 2 panels means that your two solar panels will produce 12 total amps. In this case, you’ll want a solar charge controller rated for 25% more, so you’d want a minimum of a 15A controller.

(Note that in this particular scenario, buying a 20A charge controller would allow you to add another solar panel in the future, should you desire to do so.)

To make this easier, many solar panel kits come with the appropriate solar charge controller as determined by the manufacturer.

Can I Connect a Solar Panel to My RV Battery Without a Charge Controller?

If you want to use a solar system to power your RV, you will absolutely need a charge controller. Without it, you’re very likely to damage your battery bank due to the overcharging that’s likely to occur because the panels alone are not capable of limiting or regulating the voltage going into your batteries.

It should be noted that in theory, you can connect a very small solar panel (no more than 5 Watts) directly to a battery for the purpose of trickle charging the battery for maintenance purposes while in storage.

Every RV solar system needs a solar charge controller. The only time you might be able to get away without a charge controller is when using a tiny solar panel to trickle charge a battery.

Can I Use My Batteries While They’re Being Charged With Solar?

You certainly can use your batteries while they’re being charged with your RV solar system.

You can use the power/electricity in your RV (taken from your battery bank) while the sun continues to send more energy to your solar panels, and your panels (through the solar charge controller!) continue to charge your battery bank.

What to Look For When Choosing an RV Solar Charge Controller

There are a number of features to look for when choosing an RV solar charge controller. We’ll take a look at those features, in brief, followed by five excellent choices of solar charge controllers on the market today.

Quality

The first thing you want to consider when shopping for an RV solar charge controller is quality. You want a charge controller made by a manufacturer recognized in the industry as a provider of quality solar components, with a good historical reputation for both product and customer service, and a warranty to back up the product.

Poorly made solar charge controllers can create electrical noise that interferes with the electronic frequencies of devices in your rig.

Be certain to only buy a charge controller that is UL-certified. UL (Underwriters Laboratory) is an independent non-profit organization that tests electrical components equipment for potential hazards. UL-certified solar charge controllers have been tested by UL and have met their requirements for safety.

Remote Monitoring Ability

The ability to monitor your system remotely is a feature that can be very important. Some solar charge controllers come with a Bluetooth feature that will allow you to download an app that gives you the ability to monitor the system from your smartphone, from as much as 30 feet away.

Many RV solar charge controllers offer remote monitoring via Bluetooth through the manufacturer’s smartphone app.

This means that you can be sitting in the comfort of your RV, or even outside your RV, and you’ll be able to actually see the current flowing through your controller to your battery bank, check the voltage regulation, and take a look at how much power your solar panels are generating.

Some charge controllers provide a monitor panel to be installed in your RV so that you can check the activity of the controller from there. Some monitors allow you to log in remotely to check on the functioning of your system.

Adjustable Voltage Setpoints

Adjustable voltage setpoints allow you to adjust the charging voltage to align with the type of battery/batteries you have, whether they’re lead-acid, AGM, gel, or lithium-ion batteries. In some controllers, you simply select the appropriate battery type and it has the correct charging parameters pre-programmed. Other controllers may allow you to manually configure custom charging voltages for each charging stage. Either works.

On/Off Switch

An on-off switch is extremely handy to have because it allows you to turn off the charge controller anytime you want to stop charging your batteries.

Without this feature, you’ll need to remove the fuse of the battery bank anytime you want to turn off your RV solar charge controller, or wire in your own on/off switch.

Ability to Easily Switch from Shore Power to Dry Camp Mode

This is an interesting feature that allows you to change the set point of the battery charge based on how you’re camping. If you’re boondocking, you’ll want to be charging to maximum capacity. But when you’re connected to shore power you can switch to standby mode. You can also use stand-by mode to help maintain your batteries when your rig is in storage.

What Are Some of the Best RV Solar Charge Controllers?

Let’s take a look at five excellent RV solar charge controllers in several budget ranges, and the features they offer.

Victron Energy SmartSolar MPPT 100V/50 amp 12/24-Volt Solar Charge Controller (Bluetooth)

The Victron Energy SmartSolar MPPT charge controllers are among the most popular RV solar charge controllers on the market. This particular model is a 100-volt, 50-amp charge controller for 12V and 24V battery banks, making it acceptable for up to 700 Watts of solar panels at 12V, or 1400 Watts of solar at 24V.

The SmartSolar feature allows your batteries to be charged to full capacity very quickly. (The manufacturer states that it can operate with a battery voltage as low as 0 volts, meaning that it could recharge a deeply discharged battery as long as the cells aren’t permanently sulfated or damaged in some other way.)

This charge controller has an internal sensor that gauges the ambient temperature and compensates accordingly.

It has built-in Bluetooth allowing you to configure and monitor the charge controller through the VictronConnect app on your smartphone or tablet.

Reviews for this Victron SmartSolar MPPT controller are stellar.

• Are you ready to take your solar energy game to the next level? Using a multi-stage, adaptive charging algorithm, the Victron Energy SmartSolar MPPT.
• With the latest and fastest technology, this charge controller maximizes energy-harvest from your solar panels, intelligently driving it to achieve.

Renogy 30A Adventurer 12V/24V PWM Solar Charge Controller with LCD Display Flush Mount Design Negative Ground, Compatible with Sealed, Gel, Flooded, and Lithium Batteries

The Renogy 30A Adventurer automatically detects whether your system is a 12V or 24V DC system, and offers Smart 4-stage PWM charging while protecting against overcharging, reverse current, reverse polarity, and short-circuiting.

This unit flush mounts on your RV’s wall, and the easy-to-read LCD screen displays solar charging and battery operation information and more, offering customizable parameters.

This is a negative ground controller with adaptability for AGM, gel, flooded, and lithium-ion batteries.

• 【12V/24V Automatically Detect】Automatically detects 12V or 24V DC system voltages (for non-lithium batteries). The LCD screen and multiple LED.
• 【Smart 4-Stage PWM Charging】Smart 4-Stage PWM charging (Bulk, Boost, Float, and Equalization) increases battery life and improves system.

Xantrex 710-3024-01 Solar Charge Controller, MPPT, 30A

The Xantrex 710-3024-01 MPPT 30A solar charge controller offers an industry-leading 98% charging efficiency as well as dual-battery bank charging that allows you to simultaneously charge and maintain your house batteries and your rig’s starter battery.

A leader in the solar industry, Xantrex offers best-in-class protection for your batteries. This solar charge controller supports house batteries that are AGM, gel, flooded, or lithium-ion phosphate (LiFePO4).

• Advanced Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technology increasing daily energy harvest by 20-30% compared to PWM technology
• Dual-battery bank charging to simultaneously charge house and starter batteries

Renogy Wanderer Li 30A 12V PWM Negative Ground Solar Charge Controller Solar Panel Regulator w/ Temp Sensor Function Fit for Lithium, Sealed, Gel, and Flooded Batteries

Renogy’s Wanderer automatically detects your 12V or 24V DC system voltage and offers Smart 4-stage PWM charging (Bulk, Boost, Float, and Equalization). Like the Adventurer, it offers intelligent protection against overcharging, reverse current, reverse polarity, and short-circuiting.

Its simple interface is easy to use and offers multiple LED indicators of charge status and battery information.

The Wanderer is adaptable to AGM, gel, flooded, and lithium-ion batteries.

• 【Optimized for 12V Batteries】Compatible with 12V battery banks on the market, including lithium batteries. The LED indicators allow you to set.
• 【Smart 4-Stage PWM Charging】Smart 4-Stage PWM charging (Bulk, Boost, Float, and Equalization) increases battery life and improves system.

Victron Energy SmartSolar MPPT 75V 15 amp 12/24-Volt Solar Charge Controller (Bluetooth)

Victron’s SmartSolar MPPT 75V, 15A solar charge controller is another feature-rich Victron product that’s very similar to the Victron SmartSolar charge controller noted above, though this product is a 75-volt, 15-amp charge controller.

This charge controller also has built-in Bluetooth for remote configuration and monitoring via the VictronConnect app on a smartphone or tablet.

Victron uses a sophisticated 3-stage charging method that includes a float charge. This charge controller comes highly recommended by a full 93% of 4-and 5-star Amazon reviewers.

• SmartSolar MPPT 75-Volt 15 amp: A solar charger gathers energy from your solar panels, and stores it in your batteries, Using the latest, fastest.
• The Victron Energy SmartSolar charge controller will even recharge a severely depleted battery. It can operate with a battery voltage as low as 0.

Do I Need a Solar Charge Controller for My RV?

If you intend to harness the power of the sun using solar panels to store energy in your RV’s battery bank, then yes, you will need an RV solar charge controller that is consistent with your system.

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