solar controllers
Hotshot
Joined: Oct 2015
Posts: 19,689
Likes: 12,812
From: Wyoming
Each cell is 3.2v and 280 Ah. I put two cells together in parallel, do that three more times. Now take those pairs and run them in series. That brings the voltage up to 12v and the amp hours up to 560.
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Hotshot
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 10,060
Likes: 491
From: Bristol, TN.
Steve
Hotshot
Joined: Oct 2015
Posts: 19,689
Likes: 12,812
From: Wyoming
It's both. I need more than 100 ah of power (BatteBorn battery). I can't fit three BattleBorn batteries in the space I have available. But I can fit eight of the 280 ah cells in that space. Plus, I simply get far more bang for the buck by building my own battery bank. 560 ah will cost me about $1100 (including shipping and fees). 300 ah of BattleBorn is almost $3,000.
Hotshot
Joined: Oct 2015
Posts: 19,689
Likes: 12,812
From: Wyoming
These are batteries from a manufacturer called "EVE". Try this link: 4PCS Lifepo4 Rechargeable 3.2V 280Ah li-ion Lithium Battery for Solar System for EV
There are a few retail/distributor sources for the same battery. The link is for the one that guys have had a good experience with.
There are a few retail/distributor sources for the same battery. The link is for the one that guys have had a good experience with.
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Mountain Pass
Joined: Mar 2018
Posts: 100
Likes: 7
So I installed the Bogart WiFi module in my system while up fishing last week. Very nice addition. Allows me to adjust many charging parameters specific to my battery bank via a web page on my smart phone. Also, lets me check battery/charge/solar input in real time via same interface. This is a great improvement since many nonadjustable controllers shoot for the lowest common denominator for charge parameters and therefore, many battery systems go under-charged.
Note: It only works with the Bogart controller.
Note: It only works with the Bogart controller.
Junior User
Joined: Dec 2017
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I plan to order LiFePO4 cells direct from China and put together a battery. Probably a 2p4s arrangement for 12v and 560 Ah. Latest price for eight, 3.2v cells in $1076. That's total cost including shipping and duties. That price is only about $100 more than a BattleBorn 105 Ah battery. I'll have to procure my own BMS but the one I intend to get is only about $115. I considered the BattleBorn, but it just doesn't fit where I plan to put it.
Thanks,
Hotshot
Joined: Oct 2015
Posts: 19,689
Likes: 12,812
From: Wyoming
Yes, BattleBorn has a BMS (Battery Management System) built into each battery. The battery pack I'm designing also has a BMS. Every LiFePO4 battery should have a BMS to protect against over charging, over discharging and temperature extremes. The BMS should also handle cell balancing.
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Hotshot
Joined: Jan 2010
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From: Bristol, TN.
I have been doing a lot of reading on the Internet noting comparison tests between controllers and solar panels and what I have concluded so far is except with large solar arrays, the differences in output between PWM and MMPT solar controllers may not mean much to the average user who just wants to keep batteries charged.
When panels are compared there also does not seem to be much difference between rigid panels whether one spends more or less. I do think Li+ batteries are an advantage, but to me it looks like it is so early in that technology if I simply build a basic system with future Li+ capability in the controller that would be a reasonable starting point.
Steve
When panels are compared there also does not seem to be much difference between rigid panels whether one spends more or less. I do think Li+ batteries are an advantage, but to me it looks like it is so early in that technology if I simply build a basic system with future Li+ capability in the controller that would be a reasonable starting point.
Steve
Mountain Pass
Joined: Mar 2018
Posts: 100
Likes: 7
Steve,
I agree 100%. As long as your capacity can handle your need and you can put it back in a timely fashion, all is good.
I run 3, 100W panels with a 4th portable panel to boost the system on cloudy days or shady camping spots when needed (so far have not used it). I do use it to charge my trolling motor battery.
I use 2 Interstate group 24 batteries in parallel for about 160 Ah.
Wife and I run the water pump for 2 showers/day (have a pressure tank which helps), espresso machine and microwave but not at the same time. Big draws but for short times.
Wife uses a 1400W hair dryer as well as lights, radio and the other small draws. We have never used the TV.
So far, we reach 100% charge by 3-4 in the afternoon on a normal day.
When hair dryer is not used, we usually top off by 12-1 PM.
Good luck. It's a pleasure turning things on and knowing you'll get the amps back real soon.
Del
I agree 100%. As long as your capacity can handle your need and you can put it back in a timely fashion, all is good.
I run 3, 100W panels with a 4th portable panel to boost the system on cloudy days or shady camping spots when needed (so far have not used it). I do use it to charge my trolling motor battery.
I use 2 Interstate group 24 batteries in parallel for about 160 Ah.
Wife and I run the water pump for 2 showers/day (have a pressure tank which helps), espresso machine and microwave but not at the same time. Big draws but for short times.
Wife uses a 1400W hair dryer as well as lights, radio and the other small draws. We have never used the TV.
So far, we reach 100% charge by 3-4 in the afternoon on a normal day.
When hair dryer is not used, we usually top off by 12-1 PM.
Good luck. It's a pleasure turning things on and knowing you'll get the amps back real soon.
Del
Logistics Pro
Joined: Apr 2000
Posts: 4,334
Likes: 306
From: Mills River
Steve,
I agree 100%. As long as your capacity can handle your need and you can put it back in a timely fashion, all is good.
I run 3, 100W panels with a 4th portable panel to boost the system on cloudy days or shady camping spots when needed (so far have not used it). I do use it to charge my trolling motor battery.
I use 2 Interstate group 24 batteries in parallel for about 160 Ah.
Wife and I run the water pump for 2 showers/day (have a pressure tank which helps), espresso machine and microwave but not at the same time. Big draws but for short times.
Wife uses a 1400W hair dryer as well as lights, radio and the other small draws. We have never used the TV.
So far, we reach 100% charge by 3-4 in the afternoon on a normal day.
When hair dryer is not used, we usually top off by 12-1 PM.
Good luck. It's a pleasure turning things on and knowing you'll get the amps back real soon.
Del
I agree 100%. As long as your capacity can handle your need and you can put it back in a timely fashion, all is good.
I run 3, 100W panels with a 4th portable panel to boost the system on cloudy days or shady camping spots when needed (so far have not used it). I do use it to charge my trolling motor battery.
I use 2 Interstate group 24 batteries in parallel for about 160 Ah.
Wife and I run the water pump for 2 showers/day (have a pressure tank which helps), espresso machine and microwave but not at the same time. Big draws but for short times.
Wife uses a 1400W hair dryer as well as lights, radio and the other small draws. We have never used the TV.
So far, we reach 100% charge by 3-4 in the afternoon on a normal day.
When hair dryer is not used, we usually top off by 12-1 PM.
Good luck. It's a pleasure turning things on and knowing you'll get the amps back real soon.
Del
Thanks,
Jim / crewzer