Feature Request: Include an additional option to inverse the streetlight’s On/Off capabilities.
At Sunset: Turn OFF load output
At Sunrise: Turn ON load output
The overall function of streetlight doesn’t need to change, it can still operate based on PV voltages, etc. I would be MORE than happy to beta test this feature.
Scenario:
I have a SmartSolar 100/20 MPPT controller, connected to a 100w Panel, and a 12v SLA/AGM 18Ah battery with the desire to operate a 12v Fan during the day for my horse via the DC load terminals. The only option that seems available is the streetlight functionality, but it only works for nighttime control of the load terminals. I was able to inverse the streetlight capability by using a automotive changeover 12v relay and using the Normally Closed capability to enable fan to the power when sunrise happens (e.g. the dc load is turned off via streetlight), and then turn off the fan at the end of the day when the dc load is turned on via streetlight. While this somewhat works, it negates the ability to utilize load output capabilities (e.g. batterysaver, user algorithms, etc.) to manage the battery’s health since the dc load output needs to be always ON in order for the inverse to work. For example, if I leave load output to BatterySaver, it’s goal is to turn off the load output if the battery is unable to be fully charge every once in a while. Turning off the load control actually turns On the fan, thus pulling power from the battery.
Using a separate DC timer/relay would work perfectly, but I have not been able to find one that is both DC input and DC ouput rated. All of the 12v DC timers I have found on Amazon, for instance, have 12v DC inputs controls, but all are rated for AC outputs, and it is my understanding this is not a safe option to use in a pure DC environment.
I also tried to figure out how to control the fan using the various Load Output controls, but since this is battery voltage based, I am not sure how to only have it run during the day and not at night.
The DC fan doesn’t take a lot of power (approx. 1.3amps if we keep it on the low setting), and from what I have tracked, the solar panel is able to charge the battery and keep the fan going, but that has so far been sunny days, and not a lot of cloudy days.