Caravan Roof Solar basics with a fold out solar panel

[@RichardCostello-wj8gy]

Thanks for a great educational Video

[@andrewford80]

Great video, you nailed it.

[@Col.B1]

thanks, great explanation

[@chelma1974]

Great video fella

[@stanlee6188]

Hi mate, great video. I have a 250 fold out that I want to mount to the roof. I have an Mppt next to my battery. Any reason this wouldn’t work? Cheers

[@extremeacc101]

no reason. Just secure down to spec.

[@4WDing.Oma-Opa]

Hi Matt What happens if the voltage on the fold-out solar panel regulator is let's say .5 v higher than the main regulator dose the opposite happen where the main regulator see the battery as charged and winds back its output?

[@extremeacc101]

Great question, Cannot happen with our setups. This is why we use products that have a uniform lithium charge profile. Also if you note the charge controllers are really close to the charged battery. Also as we network these victron solar controllers together it definitely eliminates this issue.

[@mattmullens3215]

Regarding the fold out solar panel, if it's preferable to have the solar regulator as close to the battery as possible, is there any reason why you wouldn't want the solar regulator installed on the battery side of the Anderson? I guess, apart from not having a portable regulator to keep with your fold out solar panels for other uses?

[@extremeacc101]

That’s exactly the case. Install your regulator close to the battery and run unregulated into that side Anderson plug. You are then now at a higher voltage which minimizes voltage losses over the cable. The good thing here is you can run very thin cable if your voltages are high enough. Also cable length can be extended here

[@mattyP_7428]

Hi Matt - if I install a DCDC charger with inbuilt solar regulator into my pop top van, will the solar regulator still work when I am off grid and the van disconnected from the vehicle / start battery. i.e. the DCDC charger wouldnt have power when off grid will it still regulate my van solar panels / portable panels? thanks

[@extremeacc101]

Yes, the dc charger will use solar if the vehicle input is absent

[@rachaelmortimer4578]

Hi How far apart would you install the solar panels from each other?

[@extremeacc101]

As close as practicable possible Avoiding shade

[@rachaelmortimer4578]

@Extreme Auto Caravan and Camping. S.A. Thank you so much for your reply