How Does a Charge Controller Works

A solar charge controller is an important system component that regulates the voltage generated by solar panels. Charge controllers help to properly maintain your solar power system batteries by stopping them from being over or under charged, and they help ensure maximum battery life. Considered to be among the best in the industry, Xantrex Charge Controllers manufactures only the highest in quality and reliable components. Blue Sky Energy offers charge controllers for rv and marine solar battery charging applications.

You may not always need a charge controller. It depends on the size of your solar power system. Generally, 1 to 5 watt systems designed for trickle-charging batteries will not require one. A general rule of thumb is if the panel's output is less than 1/60 of the battery's rated charge capacity, you probably will not need a charge controller.

The solar charge controller regulates the 16-20 volt output of a typical 12 volt solar panel, reducing it to only the voltage required by the battery to keep it at maximum operating level. This voltage will typically range from 10.5 to 14.6 volts, depending on the type of battery, the temperature of the battery and the state of battery's charge at any given moment.

There are all kinds of charge controllers and they come in all shapes and sizes. They range from 4.5 amp units all the way up to the 60 amp programmable units with computer interface. Most controllers come with either a simple LED or digital displays. Some charge controllers now have built-in computer interfaces for monitoring and control.