SOLAR REGULATORS EXPLAINED! PWM versus MPPT - what's best & why? PLUS upgrade your solar controller!

[@stevemorgan2976]

Wow! My degree is in electrical engineering and I have a pretty good understanding of electrical stuff. I think this is the best video I have ever seen describing the difference between a PWM and MPPT solar charge controller. That is saying something because there are some bright people on KZbin talking about the same stuff. Good job!

[@4wdsupacentreAu]

Thanks Steve ... we agree with you! - Tracey

[@enjay8950]

@Peter Evans at 9:10 it looks like there is a ammeter

[@Farmer2492]

@Peter Evans LOL ok from someone who dosent have a clue

[@Farmer2492]

@Peter Evans you don't have a clue ok

[@prairiehoarder]

@Peter Evans Perhaps you should go buy a brain somewhere ? It must be hard running around without a brain. Does it echo between your ears?

[@Stuart.Mckenzie]

Just getting into boat sailing and your explanation of the chargers was very useful, however I think you could easily do without the background music, your audio doesn’t need jazzing up. Thanks again.

[@lawrencedavidson6195]

I just upgraded my small 200 watt system to a MPPT charge controller, and what a difference!! It turns on way earlier in the mornings and shuts off just after sunset. It charges up by batteries in about half the time as my old PWM did. Real world conditions, real world testing. Greetings from sunny Jamaica.

[@lawrencedavidson6195]

@Memer Dreamer I do like pineapple fruit, but i'm not a smoker..lol

[@lawrencedavidson6195]

@Memer Dreamer Sounds like you have been smoking some serious stuff..lol

[@thedalillama]

I'm glad I watched this. I am buying an RV and didn't realize how much stuff you should know about power, water purification, gadgets, etc. It would be overwhelming without videos like this.

[@therealgaragegirls]

The clear explanation of the differences between MPPT and PWM is just what I needed. Thank you!

[@kieranpalmer9045]

The fucked up thing is that this video from kings has been the most informative and straightforward video I have seen on this topic

[@4wdsupacentreAu]

Thanks… I think? Cheers, Cahn

[@jeoffer]

You are 100% correct in using an MPPT with a portable solar panel or blanket to maximise the output. On my small garage (fixed hobby) solar system, it was easier and slightly cheaper to just add another 100w panel rather than upgrade to MPPT. The extra panel was about $125, about $50 less than a new MMPT.

[@TheTimoroan]

Watched this video around midnight and then straight to eBay and ordered the same MPPT in the video. Best explanation on MPPT and PWM ever.

[@jetfu400]

i have watched so many videos about these... yours is the one that clicked to me... so much easier to understand

[@paulsharkey4185]

This is the BEST explanation of what normally could be a very complex description of how these converters work but also their differences. Again, many compliments.

[@lloydkennedy7433]

Mate, you've explained this regulator mystery very well. Thank you.

[@simonpepper9721]

Your the only dude on utube that said what the initials stand for in both controllers. Bloody good vid for beginners.

[@1989cranston]

You trying to tell me you have watched every PWN/MPPT solar reg video on the internet and not one has said what it stands for lol...

[@simonpepper9721]

@@1989cranston yep,first one,and it's PWM bro.

[@1989cranston]

@@simonpepper9721 sorry, you didn't get what i was saying. I was saying in satire that you definitely have not watched all the videos on youtube about them haha. there are plenty out there and to be honest 4wd supercentre/Kings is the last place you should be taking battery/solar/auto electrical advice from. They are an on-seller of products. There are a plethora of electrical-based youtube channels that are far more qualified to give advice

[@simonpepper9721]

@@1989cranston no worries mate.

[@cjmbullion]

@Simon Pepper This video explains what they stand for, so you are wrong.kzbin.info/www/bejne/f37FlpWAjLSbh9U

[@busdriver1261]

Have been researching setting up a 12v system for camping and another 4WD youtuber was recommending MPPT over PWM, but never went into deatils as to why. Thanks for showing me the "why" in easily understandable terms. The graphs laid it out clearly for me.

[@topdeckdog]

gotta love ronny dahl

[@ericjohndluhos5480]

A very nice, concise and understandable comparison with a quite satisfying technical explanation for a first time solar enthusiast. Well done. Thank you!

[@susansmeeton4321]

great explanation, thank you. Went away for a quick trip with a 200w solar blanket, 85ah battery and a 15ltr Waeco fridge, had three days of heavy cloud where the battery went flat. Now I know why PWM and solar blanket flat on the ground. Will be buying a MPPT regulator and angling the solar blanket.

[@andrewford80]

Blankets are also a bit shit. If you can get a folding panel they are usually better, but bulkier and heavier.

[@shutthegate8232]

Thanks Cahn. Great job taking the "load of info of it all" and filtering out all the stuff that makes it confusing to a level laymen can understand. Cheers

[@tedfisk1211]

I found your video while looking at a different one. You explain PWM and MPPT a lot better than the other one. I still need to gain more understanding of watts, volts and amps, but your video is a great start.

[@rothburger]

I just scored a 1 year old 160w panel and a un used still in the box Mppt controller for $50 Can wait for frosty beers on the beach🍺🏄‍♂️

[@billbimson2408]

Excellent description. I normally hate the soundtrack on technology videos because it is usually some sort of crap keyboard techno music, but I love those blues on slide.

[@pritambissonauth2181]

You know what, its the best video explaining MPPT charge controllers. I watched so many videos on this subject, particularly on channels referring themselves as 'expert' on solar systems, this one beats them all. Thank you

[@zim4x4club]

great video - an extra note for anyone using radio kit, many PWMs will emit interference, MPPTs shout be better by design..

[@joeburns9478]

I am a newbie, don’t know a thing about this stuff and even I understood. Great video, no bs, just the facts

[@Pipingshreik]

Great Video! Firstly, I'm about to change from an AGM to a Kings LIfepo4 battery with BMS, do I need to change the controller to a lithium controller. Secondly. is the battery connection a 2way operation. For me at least a quick vid on how the wiring actually works would be handy. Love the professionalism you guys brink to the tube.

[@danieslk52]

Thanks for a great video. I fully agree with all your statements as it is what I have also found. The plus side for MPPT just gets better the bigger the difference is between panel Volts and battery Volts. If only more people would look at the results during the actual test.

[@debbied7803]

Good grief I've searched all over, asked ? After ? What solar regulator I'd need, finally came across your video, thank you! Woohoo feels like I'm on the right path in deciding on solar power for my van. I have to have a AGM battery bc it will be inside. Been racking my brain trying to know the safest regulator to charge my battery and get the most out of a 100 watt panel.

[@OTJbuildingblog]

Could you please do a video on wiring up solar panels solar regulator to a dual battery setup with your control box :)

[@jgittoes]

Great video. Awesome explanation of how it works to someone who has trouble understanding this sort of stuff - like myself. Cheers

[@OWK000]

Thanks for the indepth explanations of how the two types of solar charge controllers work. Best I've heard. I believe, however, that many pwm charge controllers, even the umbiquitous cheap ones, can do either 12 volt or 24 volt, but they cannot modulate or change the output like an MPPT so your panel voltage has to match your battery set up voltage. MPPT are more flexible and with some of the higher end all-in-one combined MPPT charge controller and inverter, you can line your panels up in series from 120V to something like 440 volts, allowing crazy pv string voltage! So a lot of that depends on the model. They vary widely.

[@thefirstmissinglink]

Yup, answered my question as to charging 12v systems with 24v panels! Thanks!

[@heftymerv]

makes an amazing difference when a solar panel is connect to an MPPT, one large panel can be like 2 or 3 smaller one. Thanks for the vid...

[@synthwave7]

Well explained. Especially that the PWM is only 70% effective. Nobody ever mentioned that. I now made a trickle charger for my SUV standing in the garage with me working from home mostly. The battery goes flat after 2 weeks, so. I used a cheap 200W solar panel and PWM controller. It works perfectly. It keeps my car's battery charged. In this case I did not need a MPPT controller. So I suppose PWM is still useful for low key applications.

[@PatricksDIY]

Thank You Very much for this video, I have been searching all day for something that broke it down the way you did, it makes me glad I went with an MPPT charge controller!

[@rodx5571]

My initial question was, whats the difference? NOTE: As a master automotive tech, intimately familiar with 12v systems, Automotive oscilloscopes, and what PWM means, as solenoids and idle air controllers ect. are operated as such. With my next question being "how do i stop it from cooking my batteries and keep my charge voltage at13.4 to 14.4. and my third question being can i use higher voltage panels without wasting money. All questions answered. You are the MAN.

[@sathyabalakrishnan8729]

Mate you are a absolute legend. Thanks for sharing such a valuable information, I will get MPPT and portable solar tomorrow.

[@4wdsupacentreAu]

Hi Sathya, Thanks for appreciation mate. If you need any assistance with purchasing solar and mppt controller, feel free to contact us on [e-mail] and we can go over best prices and deals with you then. Cheers, Saleha

[@sathyabalakrishnan8729]

@@4wdsupacentreAu sounds great saleha. Today I just went to weatherhill Park, bought 20A MPPT, connecting it with existing Full river battery, redarc dc dc charger, redarc 80W solar panel mounted. Bought few other kings products such as lights, awning, fridge etc.

[@jasonbrown467]

thanks for the video. i wish more people talked about the specifics like this. i would add that another benefit is mppt controllers normally allow for wiring your panels in series, so you can get the same watts, but decrease your amps and have cheaper cables so you can place the panels farther away from your site, maybe even out of the shade, or leave the amps the same but increase volts, therefore increase watts.

[@MikeB-rr5hh]

@Peter Evans At 8:56 into the video you can see volts, amps, power and energy being displayed.

[@yusufbarkari2333]

That's true I have another 48v system, I use 3 mppt charge controllers each connected to 8 solar panels 4x250w + 4x250w . I use a 700ah forklift battery which are 2vx24=48v , I have 2 inverters which I alternate. I use fridge, 42 inch TV , microwave , kettle, water pumps and lights this is the 5fth year with this system and still going on I'm connected to national grid but I do not use it so I'm almost recovering my initial cost I also have a 2000w wind turbine which supplements charging during windy periods. I was experimenting possibility of planting off grid and have now archived my goal so the way forward is mppt charge controllers

[@Chuppe_g]

​@@yusufbarkari2333sir can you make a video for this 🙏

[@yousvellormeus]

The very best video about this topic

[@williamwiese9963]

I'm a total newb to this, great video!! Really helped me understand and make a clear choice of controller for me .

[@flynndouglas219]

would you be able to show us how to put multiple panels on the one system using your chargers? thanks for all the helpful vids!

[@einfelder8262]

For PWM you need to connect panels in parallel, up to the rated input current. For MPPT you can connect in series up the the rated input voltage of the controller, then you could add psets in parallel up to the rated input current.

[@karenduff9724]

Please make a video for this.

[@kazuza9]

Best video so far, packed with detailed information

[@Nicedesk]

Thank you for the clearest explanation I've seen on YT!

[@philc.9280]

Nice explanation. The problem now that most people know about MPPT is being exploited on eBay as many of these PWM controllers are being advertised as MPPT. It will say MPPT in the title but if you read the fine print, it will say PWM. I responded to a couple sellers, and they just use the excuse that the marketing dept needs to fix the problem.

[@stephenburnage7687]

I also have found increasing levels of dishonesty on eBay. For instance, if you search for a 200W solar panel, many are way too small to crediblely be anyting more than 80W. Similarly, steel is listed as "marine grade stainless' when it corrodes after a few weeks. Ebay needs to fix this problem.

[@GabeDonzelli]

Great explanation for someone whose knowledge of these matters is close to nil.

[@schoocg]

Best description and demo out there. Good job.

[@itsimplylogic]

Great, thanks. I'm finally convinced 🤗 and upgrading all my systems to MPPT. I believe the extra cost of the MPPT controller is negligible in comparison to the benefits of the extra available power.

[@The1Creston]

Thank you so much. That was a GREAT real world comparison!

[@4wdsupacentreAu]

Glad you liked it!

[@saiprayastha7141]

I like that panel you put on the windshield of the car foldable and portable

[@Dgboss78]

Amazing video… I've been watching videos about solar stuff for years and never understood like I do now. Thx a lot!

[@JaydonRose]

Absolutely the best explanation I've heard about these charge controllers! Well done Brother! & thank you!😁

[@davidworthington9118]

MPPT is just FM, PWM, thanks for the vid it made me think for a minute or so

[@dfrontierit2114]

Thank you. i am going to return the pwm controller that i bought few days ago and get the mppt…thanks again for the great video😊

[@waynehobbs5175]

Great video thanks. Correct me if I am wrong but another advantage of MPPT is that they can often take upto 100v input to reduce losses. Another too is quality MPPT can be programmed for different battery profiles like AGM v Lead acid v Lifepo4 the latter requiring a very different charging regime eg 14.4 v boost, never equalising and a float of only 12.8. I believe all quality MPPT can do this. Have also been told PWM can reduce the life of a lifepo4 battery as it can not deliver the custom profile needed for that spec.

[@javabeanz8549]

you are not wrong that I know of, but some of the latest MPPT controllers are 150V models, so you can do even longer strings or use higher output panels.

[@barsixful]

Glad I watched this.I use cheap pwm. I always wonder why my new battery sits at 12.8…now I know

[@jimh4375]

I am looking to do a setup for a work van. This really helped.

[@einfelder8262]

Most controller instructions I have seen say to connect battery first.

[@danemmerich6775]

Great video. MPPT is by far is best choice!! Why even by a WPM.

[@Zkpe02]

As a work around I use my Bluetti ac200p and a 500w lifepo4 charger to charge my 4 lifepo4 12.8 100ah batteries while feeding my Bluetti 1000watts of solar..This works fine for me, I’m just using my Mppt charge controller in my Bluetti…I get needing a Mppt controller if you’re using just batteries for power…

[@birdandearth6802]

thank you. Well explained, especially for someone who knows very little

[@timkoster694]

Yeah starting in solar. Will go for mppt now.

[@solarenergy729]

Very good comparison, i know MPPT controller can abstract over 90% of the solar power the solar panel receives. and PWM shall be around 70% or even less generally. But i never do such experiment to get real data comparison. good video. thumb up

[@NeoE83]

Excellent work explaining, a great video

[@TracksideNW]

Super well explained and thank you for just getting right down to it and skipping a cheesy intro!!

[@nwlady1844]

thank you. Your explanations were great! made sense to me.... and I know almost nothing abut this stuff!!

[@LucasManfrim]

Great stuff guys! Best video about this comparison in KZbin! Well done boys!

[@noodlefoo]

Thank you for a well explained video.

[@jerryallen34]

Again, thank you for these informative uploads. Brilliant.

[@KhurshidKarimi]

Brilliant. Very well explained and demonstrated. Worthy of subscription.

[@SocksWithSandals]

That's a really clear explanation of what those charge controllers do

[@a787fxr]

For me that all translated into just get an MPPT. He said why in ten minutes. I reduced that into four words: Just get an MPPT. !:- )

[@PeterLawton]

Agreed. And that 100 watt vs 40 watt comparison removes any lingering doubt a viewer might have.

[@christophkaiser]

Nice comparison, very thorough! thank you!

[@kevinwaters-marsh217]

Great video thank you. Love your background music too.

[@jasonbrock2208]

What is that digital monitor your using to show the input charge amps

[@anell3w]

Ward, wanna know too

[@ChoirFan1]

Me too.

[@BOBLAF88]

Me three🤔

[@ucheibe2751]

Thanks for the explanation. My question is can PWM charger rated 12/24/36v take 24 volts panel?

[@bajar.m.6953]

Wow. If I was able to understand the explanation, anybody can do it. Great job 👏

[@QATAROVERLAND]

Keep up best information about solar

[@mymai2792]

Really helpful to know the differences between pulse width modulation pwm & maximum power point tracking mppt regulators. Much appreciated.

[@andrewstopp192]

A terrific simple explanation well done

[@4wdsupacentreAu]

Glad it was helpful!

[@kieranneill6495]

Good information, thanks! Quick question, does the MPPT that comes with the 200W blanket work with / charge lithium batteries?

[@epnuzuluaga766]

I've never met a lithium iron phosphate battery that would work with a PWM. Your best bet us to use a MPPT for your lithium iron phosphate battery.

[@danieslk52]

If you read up on lithium you will see it is stated that pulse chargers should NEVER be used. That is what a PWM charger does.

[@philliprushanrushansuperfu5920]

Did you ever find out if MPPT works with Lithium batteries?

[@kieranneill6495]

@@philliprushanrushansuperfu5920 It didn’t work with my battery, so bought a new mppt controller and programmed it to my battery’s specs

[@coryanderson2371]

Hey I love your channel I'm gonna go with the one you mentioned the last 1 I have 200 W solar powered panels on my truck they both put a 100 W out I haven't learned how to hook everything up yet but I was looking at that PTFI can't say a word anyways I'm still watching you and I still like it I'm learning a lot from you now I know which 1 to buy I don't always get to watch you but tonight I'm glad I clicked on you

[@mailboxexpresspalmyra7575]

i want to add a panel and mppt chare controller as a portable panel 100w what items do you suggest? lithium battel bone batteries 200 amh, my intent is to use this when I am in the shade and hunt for the sun. GREAT job.

[@rwilko9525]

Those digital readout things shown at 8:47... where to buy please?

[@kennethcoutinho4439]

Very Good Explanation

[@artofnoly9754]

Good vid, man. Every little helps.

[@renaulttraficconversion]

Thanks for the video. Very good explanation of the two setups. You have a new subscriber.

[@garymcdonald08]

Well done this is well presented and understandable to us common Joe’s. Thanks

[@DanielHofer]

Thank you for the great lesson about the difference of the two technologies!

[@learnshareevolve1842]

Thanks! Key information for selecting my 1st regulator!

[@4wdsupacentreAu]

No problem! Happy to help.

[@geoffburns3582]

Beautifully explained , simple comparison

[@4wdsupacentreAu]

Glad it was helpful! Cheers, Ashleigh

[@richardpatterson1656]

Schneider Charge/Load Controller C40, 40 amp, is a PWM type and does 12/24/48 VDC

[@darrylmunro96]

Another well explained video, great work, very much appreciated as I learnt a lot.

[@aramsweeney4041]

thanks for clearing that up. greater confidence with my purchases! also what was the unit used to test the amps and volts and how was it wired in?? thanks heaps.

[@daisybelle3]

He just used a watt metre, you just connect it with Anderson plugs. Different watt metres give you depending kinds of readings.

[@davebenson1504]

Thank you ... very clear explanation

[@alanjm1234]

Been using MPPT for the past 11 years. Definitely better output than PWM, but I don't think it's double. Another big gain for constant users of solar (probably not worth the $$$ for campers) is to replace lead acid batteries with LiFePO4. They're about 10% more efficient than lead acid- you get out almost the same power as you put in. That's like increasing your solar by 10%. (Of course if you have the space, it's cheaper to just add solar. On a boat we simply don't have unlimited space. )

[@rdefender2685]

FYI found Renogy Rover 20 Amp 12V/24V MPPT Common Positive Solar Charge Controller Regulator Compatible with Lithium Sealed, Gel, Flooded Batteries and Bluetooth Module. $81 US

[@stephenbillington7715]

great video. However I have installed my mppt....mp3743 and I am having difficulty understanding how to adjust the controls on the panel. Do I have to insert time on and time off to allow for the battery not to drain right down. A warning light E2. each morning the only way to get the unit to function and start charging is to plug in my 240v power to house lead then remove or use my generator if away from home.

[@pinoypotatopcgamer6071]

Thank you very much for the comparison now i know what to buy 😁

[@Flexin010]

Wow! Simple and to the point with a demo! Cool!!

[@alexkalsatos5555]

Thanks for the video great explanation, my question I have 1-100W

[@isayekini161]

If I want to build a 3kva solar power myself in my apartment, 1. how many watt of solar panels do I need 2. How many arms of charge controller do I need 3. How many arms of battery do I need 4. How many watt or arms of solar inverter do I need Will really love if you help. Thanks

[@petercoker6302]

I am interested in the device you had plugged in which displayed the volts, watts and current details. Can you let me know about it. Cheers, Pete.

[@dpher1]

Can I put the dc to dc charger under the bonnet? My other battery is under the bonnet connected to the solar panel via a pwm controller and I want to change it to a dc charger.

[@rade1763]

Great video and great explain! Thank you 👍

[@4wdsupacentreAu]

glad you liked it