Solar Upgrade - 6/2 Wire Fish

[lewster]

Yep,

I would use 6/2 cable for a 400 watt solar system and larger 4/2 cable up to 700 watts. If you plan for more than 700 watts of solar panels, I would go with 2/2 AWG cable.

[Land Sailer]

I just installed 4 100 watt panels. I have a Victron 30 charger controller. Will this set up charge my 4 12 volt batteries fully? ( 14 Vs) do I need to adjust anything, as to float mode, etc. to make this happen.

[C.Martin]

What is the final verdict? How did you run the wires?

I am installing the Victron SmartShunt500 soon…to be followed by a 370w LG panel (24v)..and need to route the wires from the roof to under the roadside twin.

I do see an access up top when the cabinets are opened…a small filler plate provides a view to the top…not sure where to go from there to get down to the underbunk where the inverter and distribution panel are housed.

[C.Martin]

Originally Posted by Dena m

I just installed 4 100 watt panels. I have a Victron 30 charger controller. Will this set up charge my 4 12 volt batteries fully? ( 14 Vs) do I need to adjust anything, as to float mode, etc. to make this happen.

In honesty, I think the battery is hard pressed to know if the Absorb voltage is coming from a 30A controller or a 100A controller. Yes, you can charge 4 batteries...it just takes longer. The best thing you can do is manage your discharge level to make it possible to charge back up in a solar day.



Lifeline has a bit of guidance in their Technical manual for the AGM batteries. If...you routinely discharge more than 50%...use a minimum of 0.2C to charge back up. If your 4 batteries are 100A...your C would be 400...and 0.2 x 400 = 80A. If that isn't possible...they suggest an alternative is to have a constant 0.02C charge for an hour after absorb charge is done. I haven't tried that. I normally do not go more than 50% dod...so, I do t think this is applicable...depends on your usage.