Solar Issue

[Rick D]

I have 400 watts solar from four 50's and two 100's. The two 100 s are new. All are ganged into the same controller.

The first trip with them, I noticed little output. Like under three amps. This is the first time I have used them in a year. The two 100's are semi flexible and the four fifties are rigid. I was getting up to 8 amps from the four fifties on a good day.

I checked all the panels and they are all outputting between twenty and twenty one volts. What is puzzling is that there is some output to the batteries, all be it small. This is measured at the Link 2000. I have to believe it's the fifteen year old no brand MPPT controller. I have been into the battery switch to run a new alternator lead and perhaps I fouled up something, but getting some positive amps would seem to suggest that isn't the case.
Next step is to pull the battery switch panel and look over the connections. If that seems proper, the conclusion to me is the controller is failing.
Agree, disagree, or suggestions?

 

[JohnShannon]

Its not working. If it is working they should be outputting about 17V (Vmpp) Voltage of maximum power and way more current. The 21V indicates that there is sun but it also indicates that the converter isn't working.

At a pinch just bypass the controller (you won't get max power) and then unbypass when the batts get to 14.4V

 

[Rick D]

Its not working. If it is working they should be outputting about 17V (Vmpp) Voltage of maximum power and way more current. The 21V indicates that there is sun but it also indicates that the converter isn't working.

At a pinch just bypass the controller (you won't get max power) and then unbypass when the batts get to 14.4V

Yup. Bypassed the controller. Got Amps, altho a bit less than eight amps. So it is the controller. I put a switch in line. Will monitor it carefully over the next few days and then put in a name-brand unit when I return to the mainland. Thanks.

 

[Maine Sail]

Yup. Bypassed the controller. Got Amps, altho a bit less than eight amps. So it is the controller. I put a switch in line. Will monitor it carefully over the next few days and then put in a name-brand unit when I return to the mainland. Thanks.

Many Chinese controllers use antiquated MPPT algorithms compared to quality controller companies such as Morningstar, Victron, Outback, Midnite, Genasun etc.. They often can't handle or track panels with varying power points very well. Newer & much faster tracking controllers can make a big difference on boats where the MPP is constantly changing.

 

[Rick D]

Many Chinese controllers use antiquated MPPT algorithms compared to quality controller companies such as Morningstar, Victron, Outback, Midnite, Genasun etc.. They often can't handle or track panels with varying power points very well. Newer & much faster tracking controllers can make a big difference on boats where the MPP is constantly changing.

Yes, I have selected a Victron as my first choice. You had previously endorsed that. My old one was a no name but no complaints after these many years.

 

[Ken Cross]

Before I spent money, I'd be sure to check for corroded connections between the controller and battery.

Ken

 

[Rick D]

Before I spent money, I'd be sure to check for corroded connections between the controller and battery.
Thanks Ken. I was just into them and they are clean.
Ken

 

[LeeandRick]

Maybe the batteries are fully charged or at least to the set point where the controller cuts back on it's output. On a sunny day put a big load on the batteries and check the amps on the Link.

 

[Charlie Jones s/v Tehani]

I have a Morningstar controller. When I was sailing the boat back from the Chesapeake in late 2011, it stopped working. I called Morningstar, and talked about it. The guy on the phone asked me for numbers on the back and then informed me I still had several WEEKS left on the warranty. Drop shipped a new controller to a spot ahead of where I was- no charge.

Good company

 

[jviss]

Good company

Yes, I have had a good customer service experience with them, too.