So I've recently read a lot on MaineSail's excellent site, and here on forums as well, but am having trouble finding a definitive answer to a relatively simple question. I was hoping someone here might be able to help.
I'm installing a 160 watt Renogy solar panel (only panel in system). I'm wiring that to a Victron 100/20 MPPT controller (with fuse), and then the controller negative to the load side of the shunt (installed previously with the Victron battery monitor).
My question is regarding where the positive lead coming from the controller should be connected in order to charge my two battery house bank from the solar panel (no starter battery).
The house bank is two AGMs wired in parallel to a 1/2/B switch, with each battery capable of being isolated, or combined together. I only run them combined (the battery monitor would be less than useful otherwise), and turn them off when leaving the boat.
I presume the positive lead from the controller should go through a fuse to the positive terminal of a battery. But I want to be sure that BOTH batteries receive a charge from the controller whether the switch is on BOTH, or OFF. So is connecting the controller to one positive battery terminal sufficient? Or do I also need to connect the positive terminal of both batteries to ensure charging to both when the switch is in the OFF position? My shore power charger does charge both with the switch in the OFF position.
Appreciate your thoughts. I'm in the process of getting smarter on boat electrical systems and find these forums incredibly helpful.