I have a new caravan and it has a chinese PWM controller and AGM
I want to upgrade to MPPT and LiPo
The current controller has 3 inputs BATTERY LOAD SOLAR like smaller victron units
I am considering a 100/30 which only has BATTERY and SOLAR
I assume the LOAD connections go to the Fuse Box to power accessories like lights pump and fridge etc and the BATTERY goes direct to the battery for charging
I do need to do some testing and confirm
Would it be safe to assume that both of these circuits could be connected to the BATTERY input of the 100/30 ?
The result should be the same - IE the accessories are still powered by solar if producing PV (as in a 3 terminal controller) and then otherwise via the battery connection wiring.
Hi k10.
All of what you say is good. But take care with using multiple wires into the mppt terminals. These terminals (not just Victron’s), are where all the current is concentrated, and the last thing you want is to destroy your mppt with a terminal melting.
I’d use a single wire of the correct type and size, and branch it externally with a busbar or terminal post. But people will still do it the easy way. If you do too, be aware of the risks. This type of failure is more common than it should be.
The 100/20 is a solid unit. The 100/30 is not that popular most go for the 100/50. The 100/20 has load terminals.
according to the VE-MPPT-Calc xl sheet 100/20 is a no go - with 2 panels the 30a is at the limit - I really should be getting a 50a
You can overpanel the controllers. You will unlikely see full output from the panels when they get hot. If you stay under the voltage and current on the input they regulate the max current on the output. If you really want a load output you could install 2x 100/20, one on each panel or just try one first and then upgrade to 2.