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m-beach avatar image
m-beach asked

MPPT update to charger panel wiring

I recently Upgraded to SmartSolar Charger MPPT 100/50 for my RV setup. I presently have 3- 160W (8.38A) Flex panels run in parallel to the charger (based on advice for my previous 30A PWM charge controller).

I am looking to add a 4th panel to the setup and more storage capacity. my question is wether I should add it in Parallel as well or should i rewire for series or series/parallel for this new controller? attached is previous wiring Diagram with old charge controller for reference.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

wiring-diagram-s1b.jpg

MPPT SmartSolaroffgridwiring
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3 Answers
Rob Fijn avatar image
Rob Fijn answered ·

Hello m-beach, my advice would be two in series and two parallel. The reason is to have the MPPT start charging with less lights, as the PV voltage is higher because of the series connection. In Parallel could be good in case of shadow. As well when the PV voltage is higher the current is less, so less loss in your existing cables and connections.

Hope this helps.
Regards, Rob


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m-beach avatar image m-beach commented ·

Rob, I wanted to thank you for the feedback and info on the setup. The install went well and system has been charging and storing perfectly!! I edited my wiring diagram (s) to reflect the new setup


cheers! a6054e04-0a0d-4ede-ace3-80673f6b3715.jpeg

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m-beach avatar image
m-beach answered ·

Rob, Thanks for feedback. I am curious about a couple of things.

1: do you mean to say 2 panels in series and another set of 2 running in parallel then run the 2 pairs all together in parallel? I didn't think that would work because there would be 12V and 24 Volt going into the same inputs. ( i am using one smart controller with only one input)

or did you mean 2 pairs of series panels (24V) run parallel to the controller in a Series-parallel set up like the attached diagram?9c2560f7041e5c7d17df7a0b42715652.png

2. is there are recommendation of how to pair the panels for best efficiency based on position on RV relative to the sun? ie pair closest panels together or ends together/middles together


I appreciate any additional input!


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Rob Fijn avatar image
Rob Fijn answered ·

Hello m-beach, yes, connected like your drawing of the Series - Parallel connection.
No, it does not matter where the pairs are connected in relation to your MPPT. Believe all the panels will be on the roof of your RV, so the location does not matter as you are driving around.

For series connection you can not go over the 100V, as specified for your MPPT.

Regards, Rob

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