Solar Charger for Parallel Batteries (Need Advice)

Status
Not open for further replies.
Jul 14, 2010
7
Catalina 22 Dighton Mass
First I need to let you know that I am Electrically challenged. I don't know the difference between a watt and an amp, that said I need some layman's advice.
My C22, Second Wind has two batteries connected together in parallel, and when I am on the mooring I set out the solar panel, clip the clips to the pos and neg terminals and think that I am getting a charge. I bought a battery reader and learned that I was never getting more than 8, when I was told I needed more than 12 on the meter. The solar panel I bought I thought was big enough to charge batteries, but apparently solar surface size does not equal charging power. I only have a depth finder, radio, bilge pump, and running lights connected to the battery and most of my sailing is daylight sailing so I really shouldn't be drawing alot with the depth finder and radio. Can someone recommend a solar charger that will charge these two marine batteries? Thanks in advance for your patience and help.
 
Feb 26, 2004
23,047
Catalina 34 224 Maple Bay, BC, Canada
Hi,

If you want one of the best electrical books around, for FREE and complete, read this, right on the C22 Forum: http://forums.catalina.sailboatowners.com/showthread.php?t=139325

It should answer all of your questions.

With two batteries in parallel, you have one BANK, one big battery.

The MISSING parts of your OP is critical in order for us to be able to help you:

how big is your bank?

how big is your solar panel?

Help us to help you, please.
 
Status
Not open for further replies.