Buying A Solar Charge Controller? Look for These 5 Features

We are living in an era where more and more private and commercial establishments are resorting to solar energy to meet their energy requirements. And if you are also planning to switch to solar power, you know solar charge controllers are an integral part of the solar power system.

The main role of solar charge controllers is to regulate battery power entering the battery banks from the solar panel. It prevents deep cycle batteries from overcharging during the day and prevents the battery from running out at night.

Additionally, solar charge controllers are now a necessary element in the solar setup, as they provide an extra safety net for your appliances by controlling overheating issues. So, if you want to help the environment and fulfill your energy experiments while ensuring maximum safety, a solar charge controller can offer you the best of both worlds.

However, choosing a solar charge controller can be complicated, especially for those who are not aware of the technicalities of solar power setups. Thus, this article is here to help you out!

5 Features to Consider While Buying Solar Charge Controllers

1. Technology Type

Solar charge controllers come in two kinds of technologies: PWM and MPPT solar charge controllers.

Pulse Width Modulation Solar Controller (PMW): This type of solar charge controller works by creating a direct connection between the solar panel and battery bank, thereby modifying the current according to charging requirements.

Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT): This type of solar charge controller works when the voltage from the photovoltaic module diminishes with a corresponding increase in current. The solar charge then adjusts it according to the requirement.

The only difference between the two technologies is efficiency and commonality. While MPPT is a relatively new and highly efficient technology, PMW has been in the market for quite a while. Ergo, it’s tried and tested.

2. Wattage of the Solar Panels

Solar charge controllers can be picked according to your energy requirements. If you are looking to operate appliances such as air conditioners, you can pick a solar panel with a capacity ranging between 330-350 Watts.

3. Suitability

Solar charge controllers can be chosen as per requirement and suitability. If you are installing a solar power system for a commercial establishment that has greater energy requirements, you can go for an MPPT solar charge controller.

At the same time, you can go for PMW technology if you have basic requirements like that of a household.

4. Efficiency

Efficiency is an important factor, regardless of the appliance you are looking for. Efficiency depends on the type of technology and the product quality. MPPT solar charge controllers are relatively more efficient than PMW technology. However, PMW solar charge controllers are efficient as well, given that the energy requirement is light.

5. LCD Display

LCD displays are much more convenient as they make monitoring easy. You can monitor load, voltage, battery capacity, and a lot more depending on the product you choose. Solar charge controllers with LCD are a lot safer as they can warn you about various issues.

A solar charge controller safeguards your appliances and property by regulating the battery charge – regardless of the type. You can buy the right solar charge controller depending on the features listed above and your budget.

However, no matter which solar charge controller you choose, ensure that you buy them from renowned and trustworthy brands, such as Luminous. Luminous has been a leading brand when it comes to inverters, inverter batteries, solar charge controllers, and other solar products.