12v Solar Charge Controller Buyers Guide - Beginner Friendly!

Solar Charge Controllers that I recommend: www.mobile-solarpower.com/sol...
Table of Contents
Names/Prices of Charge Controllers in the Video: 1:30
Features you need to look for: 2:03
2 Charge Controllers Myth Disproven: 11:38
Power Output Test: 12:06
PWM vs. MPPT: 15:18
Conclusions: 17:33
Does off-grid solar confuse you?
Check out my DIY friendly website for solar system packages and product recommendations, and so much more!
www.mobile-solarpower.com
Join our DIY solar community
#1 largest solar forum on the internet for beginners and professionals alike:
www.diysolarforum.com
Check out my Book
Best-selling and beginner-friendly guide to 12V off-grid solar!
amzn.to/2Aj4dX4
If DIY is not for you, but you love solar and need an offgrid system, check out Tesla Energy! They will price out a system and get your house offgrid: ts.la/william57509
My DIY Solar Equipment Recommendations (Constantly updated! Check here first):
12V/48V Lithium Solar Batteries: www.mobile-solarpower.com/sol...
Complete Solar System Component Directory: www.mobile-solarpower.com/sol...
Complete 48V System Blueprint: www.mobile-solarpower.com/48v...
Plug-N-Play System Recommendations: www.mobile-solarpower.com/ful...
Complete "Add to Cart" 48V System Kits: www.mobile-solarpower.com/com...
DIY Friendly Air Conditioner/ Heat Pumps: www.mobile-solarpower.com/sol...
My Favorite Online Stores for DIY Solar Products:
Signature Solar
Offgrid One-Stop-Shop. Best Value 48V LiFePO4, Victron and Offgrid Specific Heat Pumps:
www.signaturesolar.com/?ref=h...
Current Connected
SOK, Victron, Mr.Cool Heatpumps and High Quality Components. Fantastic customer support:
currentconnected.com/?ref=wp
Litime
My favorite 12V budget battery!:
www.litime.com/?ref=XBIA62RFc...
Epoch Batteries
My favorite high-quality 12V battery:
www.epochbatteries.com/produc...
Renogy
A classic 12V solar store that has been around for ages! DC to DC Chargers and more!
renogy.sjv.io/n1VjXx
Rich Solar
Renogy's biggest competitor! Similar products, but at a better price:
richsolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek
Battery Hookup
Cheap cell deals
bit.ly/2mIxSqt
5% off code: diysolar
Contact Information:
I am NOT available for personal solar system consult! If you wish to contact me, this is my direct email: [e-mail]
Join the forum at diysolarforum.com/ if you wish to hang out with myself and others and talk about solar
FTC Disclosure Statement and Disclaimers:
Every video includes some form of paid promotion or sponsorship. Some links on this youtube channel may be affiliate links. We may get paid if you buy something or take an action after clicking one of these. My videos are for educational purposes only. Information is subject to change/update at any time. Electricity is DANGEROUS and can kill. Be smart and use common sense :)
DIY Solar Power with Will Prowse is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program,
An affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

[@WillProwse]

*Table of Contents* Names/Prices of Charge Controllers in the Video: 1:30 Features you need to look for: 2:03 2 Charge Controllers Myth Disproven: 11:38 Power Output Test: 12:06 PWM vs. MPPT: 15:18 Conclusions: 17:33 Part 2 of this video, a quick overview of what you need to know! Check it out: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hnOZq6KgpNFspZI Whenever I post products, they seem to go out of stock, but here are the links: Victron Controller: amzn.to/2Ihvh03 BN series (one I love): rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?icep_id=114&ipn=icep&toolid=20004&campid=5338408166&mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fitm%2FEpever-MPPT-Solar-Charge-Controller-12V-24V-Solar-Regulator-150V-40A-30A-20A-10A%2F351875294014%3F_trkparms%3Daid%253D555018%2526algo%253DPL.SIM%2526ao%253D1%2526asc%253D57159%2526meid%253D10140d7adbd846779494a7270786e9b0%2526pid%253D100005%2526rk%253D1%2526rkt%253D12%2526mehot%253Dpp%2526sd%253D372165427987%2526itm%253D351875294014%26_trksid%3Dp2047675.c100005.m1851 Tracer EPEver: amzn.to/2Dnb3Ov Triron EPEver: amzn.to/2D9uzO6 Rich Solar 20a: amzn.to/2URuRDj Renogy 20a: amzn.to/2Ihvqk7 Renogy PWM: amzn.to/2UQtiFT Super Cheap PWM, 40a version! great price: amzn.to/2UWPWfC Solar Charge Controllers I recommend for most people: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solar-charge-controllers.html Other things I did not mention in the video: -night time, or stand by consumption, was .4-.6 watts for all the charge controllers, so I didn't mention it. The results were non conclusive and consistent for all of them. -the ability to overpanel is a huge feature! I wish I talked about this in the video. What it means is that if you exceed the power input rating, current wise, you will not destroy your controller. It will just produce whatever amperage its rated for. So lets say it has enough power to create 60 amps but its rated for only 40 amps, well it will only output 40 amps, and it will not be destroyed. I really like this feature and its in my BN series "favorite charge controller" listed above. Corrections: 16:14 I switched the two numbers. I said the right numbers, but I didn't list them properly. *Does off-grid solar confuse you?* Check out my DIY friendly website for solar system packages and product recommendations, and so much more! www.mobile-solarpower.com *Join our DIY solar community* #1 largest solar forum on the internet for beginners and professionals alike: www.diysolarforum.com *Check out my Book* Best-selling and beginner-friendly guide to 12V off-grid solar! amzn.to/2Aj4dX4 If DIY is not for you, but you love solar and need an offgrid system, check out Tesla Energy! They will price out a system and get your house offgrid: ts.la/william57509 *My DIY Solar Equipment Recommendations (Constantly updated! Check here first):* 12V/48V Lithium Solar Batteries: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solar-batteries.html Complete Solar System Component Directory: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solarcomponents.html Complete 48V System Blueprint: www.mobile-solarpower.com/48v-complete-system-blueprint.html Plug-N-Play System Recommendations: www.mobile-solarpower.com/full-size-systems.html Complete "Add to Cart" 48V System Kits: www.mobile-solarpower.com/complete-48v-solar-kits.html DIY Friendly Air Conditioner/ Heat Pumps: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solar-friendly-air-conditioners.html *My Favorite Online Stores for DIY Solar Products:* *Signature Solar* Offgrid One-Stop-Shop. Best Value 48V LiFePO4, Victron and Offgrid Specific Heat Pumps: www.signaturesolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek *Current Connected* SOK, Victron, Mr.Cool Heatpumps and High Quality Components. Fantastic customer support: currentconnected.com/?ref=wp *Litime* My favorite 12V budget battery!: www.litime.com/?ref=XBIA62RFcalHns *Epoch Batteries* My favorite high-quality 12V battery: www.epochbatteries.com/products/12v-460ah-lifepo4-battery-ip67-heated-bluetooth-victron-comms?rfsn=7352625.50494d *Renogy* A classic 12V solar store that has been around for ages! DC to DC Chargers and more! renogy.sjv.io/n1VjXx *Rich Solar* Renogy's biggest competitor! Similar products, but at a better price: richsolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek *Battery Hookup* Cheap cell deals bit.ly/2mIxSqt 5% off code: diysolar *Contact Information:* I am NOT available for personal solar system consult! If you wish to contact me, this is my direct email: [e-mail] Join the forum at diysolarforum.com/ if you wish to hang out with myself and others and talk about solar *FTC Disclosure Statement and Disclaimers:* Every video includes some form of paid promotion or sponsorship. Some links on this youtube channel may be affiliate links. We may get paid if you buy something or take an action after clicking one of these. My videos are for educational purposes only. Information is subject to change/update at any time. Electricity is DANGEROUS and can kill. Be smart and use common sense :) DIY Solar Power with Will Prowse is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, An affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

[@angrydragonslayer]

will you consider making one for larger units? mighty tempted to get an outback flexmax (not sure on 60 or 80 yet) and would like to see what you think about them

[@3dilawan269]

Bro i want buy battery bro SECOND HAND NISSAN LEAF BATERY

[@eZiggy100]

Biggest difference for mppt vs pwm is going to be mismatched solar voltage vs battery voltage. With higher solar voltage input, mppt will be more efficient.

[@WillProwse]

@@eZiggy100 agreed. Covered that in more detail in my other videos

[@promiscuouscrab4040]

DIY Solar Power with Will Prowse Noticed you have been using Victron in your more recent videos, do you still prefer the metal Epever over the Victron or has your preference changed?

[@falcundo]

Thanks for not having cheesy openings and closings to your videos. Right to the point. 👍🏻

[@prepperjonpnw6482]

I agree I get so tired of people begging for a like and subscribe and share and comment. I swear sometimes the begging is 1/3 of the video lol

[@mikegyver3193]

Henry C Cheesy openings cheesy smiles I called that the KZbin smile 😬 and I did 👍🏾 your comment. He does good work and is very clean with his presentation I’m sure his acquaintances are proud of him. 🙏🏻🙏🏽🙏🏿

[@smileyhappyradio]

I agree...the whole like subscribe lets get started...who needs that

[@jimmiewad]

couldn't agree more...

[@gingerific39]

Agreed. This dude gets right to it and doesn't edit like an asshole youtuber. Thanks for this stuff.

[@desertcandle1]

I am a 60 plus old woman trying to learn how to do solar. Your videos are giving me the confidence to start assembling and using a small system. I so appreciate your thorough explanations. You don't use a lot of hype and you don't give just a high level overview. I don't totally understand everything yet but I am so very grateful to your channel. I am hoping that soon I will be traveling around the country using my solar panels to power up where ever I end up camping.

[@thomasbarlow4223]

Get it girl. Will is the best.

[@Timbertrail1916]

Me, too!!! Same age group as well! Thank you, Will!

[@jahjoeka]

I read this in a little old lady's voice lol

[@SteveV2023]

57 here, just bought a panel for a pool heating project, controller next...what to choose!!!??? First time doing this!

[@laura3930]

@@jahjoeka 😂

[@jamsessionrecordshop8872]

The companies don't like your videos because you give honest reviews. That's probably why you have nearly 900,000 subscribers.

[@KellerDidThat]

Will, your content is absolutely top notch. Please keep doing this for as long as you can, you have helped so many people!

[@fightswithspirits915]

My Aspergers enjoys how you always get right to the point. No words are wasted. Articulate. Knowledgeable. Such incredible efficienct message delivery. A true gift.

[@rsassine]

The beginning got me hooked instantly. (No intro music. No BS.)

[@ChrisBenard]

Yo yo yo what up guys it's ya boi Mr. Solar Review Man. [shitty music and graphics] Today's video is brought to you by NordVPN. You know, when I'm shopping for shitty Chinese solar panels, I want to make sure the CIA doesn't know what I'm buying and that's why I love NordVPN. Let me tell you more about it for 5 minutes. OK now to the presentation. I was sent this shit for free for a 5-star review on Amazon. Here's how great it is. Don't forget to like and subscribe and SMASH that bell icon. Just smash the absolute shit out of it because I am deathly afraid you will not see my videos because they're crap and won't be promoted by The Algorithm (tm). [shitty outro music and graphics]

[@teelamorissette5615]

Thank you, sir. I love the multiple product review. Don't let them change you. I feel like it shows that they don't have enough confidence in their product to be able to have it compared to others. Regardless, you can tell that you really know your stuff. Conveyed by the fact that you're not having to read off of notes, while still being able to relay the information concisely. So much knowledge in one video. Thanks!

[@nansfavs]

Wow Will, you are a diamond in the YT world! EXACTLY what I needed to fill in the gaps of my base. You're a natural teacher, very enthusiastic, and thanks for no crappy music! 5 stars! Buying from your website for all my solar stuff!

[@ehimwenmataiwolouis1388]

Please, I want to know 40A solar controller and how mean 100w solar panel size it.

[@siehvinton6847]

Nancy could please give me the name of the website...Thank you...highly agreed with you

[@shawnwhite9518]

I don't know what your background is, Will, But you are by far the best reviewer I've seen for these products so far. Great job! I work in the power industry and like what you are doing. Honest reviews like yours will eventually force manufacturers to up their game and produce quality products instead some of the trash I see out there.

[@danielmarcomataya8632]

He's a mechanic like myself. He knows how to think since he has a mechanical mind. People like us think outside the box from the inside of a bag.

[@bobcat2938]

Simple: I see objective reviewing, I subscribe. and when they stay that way I stay subscribed.

[@geraldhenrickson7472]

Bobcat...Everyone should challenge their own assumptions on a daily basis. To do otherwise is to give rise to stagnation and complacency. Do you really believe you can discern who is unbiased based upon the content of a KZbin video? If only deciphering the human condition were that easy. Shake that cloak of denial once in awhile just to be on the safe side.

[@warplanner8852]

You are, young man, one of the most motivated and enthusiastic individuals in the realm. You will go far, pilgrim!

[@neilgallier5008]

WELL DONE! Your videos are absolutely fantastic! I have been wanting solar since I was 14. I am 68 now. We bought a system for our home in Sydney ten years. We are now in Tasmania on a small property. The Tas' house already had solar when we moved in. I am building solar systems for sheds around the place and your videos have been a HUGE help! THANK YOU!

[@sbollmeyer]

Amazing! You stated and displayed your test Lab. You test and compared all charge controllers to each other. You stated which charge controllers should be used based on battery chemistry. You mentioned how to achieve optimal value for your dollar. Excellent, Will. Thank you. And you did all that in twenty minutes!

[@ralph9987]

Probably needed to mention that the cheap mppt will last 2 weeks and not 20 years. Will you also didnt mention which unit causes the most RFI.

[@outdoorsman2b918]

One of the best solar energy components video I have ever seen. Clear pricing and objective data

[@andylc100]

I love the way you teach. You know your stuff and confident enough to not have to confuse people with to much technical jargon to show how smart you are well done !!!!!!!!!

[@thetinysideoftiny7625]

AWESOME VIDEO...Came in knowing NOTHING...left with a rock solid decision on the right charge controller for my project. Will, I really appreciate your hard work and dedication to solar testing and education. You make it look so easy and it gives me a lot of confidence. THANK YOU!

[@tassiemclennan3517]

Finding Will Prowse was truly great. Being a complete novice with no prior knowledge of anything electric related, Will's videos are so very understandable. Thank you Will for taking your time, effort to educate we who are interested in living off grid.

[@showmequick2245]

Dude. You have just raised the bar by sticking your honest reviews. Thank you

[@offcourseoverland]

You have been the biggest help! I've been wading through this swamp of solar electric overload and you have cleared up so many things. I'm throwing a 12v battery system in my off road truck for long distance camping.

[@scottmcgillivray4229]

Your channel is great! I’m building an off-grid workshop that I was going to “do something simple”… a fridge + a few lights. You’ve given me the confidence to do something much better and I know I’m buying quality components.

[@kaylor87]

My gawd dude, this video is absolutely amazing! From the moment I clicked and started watching, listening to you talk and explain the setup and everything, I could just tell that we were gearing up for a really great, really honest, and very thorough review. I'm now 6 minutes in, and just couldn't resist pausing for a second and giving you some praise man! I wish all guides on youtube could be this educated and well put together. I've been building some 18650 battery packs lately and I'm starting to dive into the realm of solar charging; I'm definitely going to subscribe and will be looking your way for any future Solar needs :) Thanks so much!!

[@floridablackbear7318]

When you are in your Solar Groove there is no one who does it better. Great video!!!

[@kuzadupa185]

In a world filled with so much fraud that people shy away from the truth and even get angry at those who speak the truth, you are a beacon of authenticity. Thank you for what you have contributed to many DIY'ers projects and lives. Many of us have gone from being afraid of going anywhere near these sorts of projects, to building solar + battery systems with attached inverters that we use to power our homes during peak hours, or an emergency or for the best reason of them all.. BECAUSE WE CAN! (Thx to you!)

[@rdcampos1]

You are providing a wonderful service, at the appropriate technical level. I love how you are up front, and very transparent when it comes to equipment! I also like the fact that you don’t do any goofy things, no cheesy music, lab coat or fast talk. Young man, you will go far in this world!!! I am new to the Airstream world and looking at adding solar to it. Keep up the great work! I am slowly watching your videos, and already have the book! Thanks... Rob C.

[@dangeraghty6715]

Thank you for your "out of pocket" review. Glad you didn't cave to the single unit comparison. Honesty & Integrity are hard to find these days. Kudos to ya :)

[@kevsworld69]

Loved the detailed walkthrough of capabilities. The real gem is your closeout: sharing the appropriate application for each unit was spectacular. Each unit is valuable for its specific application. Thank you so much!! Keep the vids coming, thank you for educating me and the rest of the planet.

[@catdrnan]

Ridiculously brilliant. How many years have I looked for these answers!! Thank you! Just bought your book.

[@darrylpaterick3108]

Thanks for reaffirming my decision to purchase your "favorite". Have been using mine at an off grid cabin for a couple of years now with no complaints.

[@billarroo1]

U really have it together !!! I love the way you explain all the details, you are a great teacher, I'm glad I found your channel. Thanks William Orange county, ca.

[@njjimslack]

This is a great comparison video. It makes things clearer by having the other brands on hand while reviewing them. I'm a noob to solar so this was very helpful, thanks

[@tbone7463]

Great explanation. I knew NOTHING about hooking up a solar system and now I'm doing my first setup on my caravan. Your videos have been very helpful.

[@billboyd1211]

I'm 67 years old embarking on my first van conversion. I'm a retired funeral director with no knowledge in solar energy. I'm learning everything I can on KZbin. You provide the most informative videos of all KZbinrs. Thank you for making it easy to understand and having the integrity to provide information that I strongly feel can be trusted.

[@bobbailey7235]

Hey --Why show the junk charge controllers? I use 9 Morning star /Tri-Star 45amp and Tri-Star 60amp charge controllers. These almost never fail-They are top of the line.

[@crpth1]

@@bobbailey7235 - Curiously, or not, I had "junk" controllers working flawlessly for years! From those I can say the failure rate was EXACTLY ZERO! In fact they have been replaced because of upgrades, or should I say new systems! Trust me on this. As I like to call it, "credit card engineering" is not always better! But it's surely more expensive! LOL 😂

[@JohnDoe-pv2iu]

@@bobbailey7235 I think it is because comparing involves comparing. To Not include or test the 'junk', as you call it, is like the school systems that try to 'lose' the scholastic testing of their 'not as smart' students. It would just be trying to play an All-Star game! Ya'll Take Care and be safe, John

[@OdditiesWorld]

YOU HAVE THE BEST VIDEOS ON THESE SUBJECTS. THANK YOU!!

[@gardenerpdx]

You’re amazing. I learn so much in such a short time. Thanks for no BS and no music. Easy to listen.

[@mikewideman5747]

Lll

[@mikewideman5747]

L

[@davidray5791]

I really appreciate you telling the truth and not what the manufacturers tell you to say. I love your videos. Very honest and informative. Thanks bro!

[@globe1987]

I love your honest reviews. It makes it easier to decide what to buy for my future system. I also really like the fact that you give enough information that it's easy to follow.

[@kenhurley4441]

I just saw your intro from Jamie at the 2019 build. Thank you for your videos. You've made the hardest decisions easy for all of us.

[@jerryhayden8720]

Man I'm sure glad I stumbled across your channel because you explain this electrical stuff in a way I can understand better than anyone I've ever seen. Not saying that others aren't good but you would be a great teacher. I'm going to install some panels this summer after my roof has been reroofed as soon as my roofers get to doing my roof. Soon anyway. I'm encouraged. I can start off doing this with the good stuff and still not break the bank. I'm happy.👍 I'll get your book as soon as I'm through posting this. I'll be in touch. Thanks man.

[@CarlStreet]

Outstanding Presentation. Lighting=Excellent. Sound=Excellent. Camera angles=Exclellent. Scripting=Excellent. Pacing=Excellent. Content=Excellent. Also 5 stars for avoiding graphic/video effects that only demonstrate an inflated ego and add nothing to the content. Many video presenters could [should] learn a lot from your work. Well Done, Sir!

[@joakimbergstrom4347]

you are the boss man! I used to sweat out of frustration trying to learn these type of things in school. You make me learn, without the sweat and the frustration. Thanks alot man! Really appreciate it!

[@sean808080]

As a total newbie I have to say, you are amazing!

[@vladcom95]

I think you are the best youtuber that does solar power related videos. Every video of yours is so well spoken any newbie can understand! Thank you!

[@psynurse]

Excellent!! Went through multiple videos and still didn't learn what I needed till came to your channel. Learned so much! Thank you!

[@zedsmeds5158]

GREAT JOB! It's easy to see that you are professional and very knowledgeable with a great style and energy. Also appreciated that you don't have a cheesy intro and are not into self-promotion just for ego sake. Nice job, I subbed right away. Great information that's well laid out and different testing methods are explained. A shame the manufacturers won't support your efforts but you tell of all their cheating and point out their shortcomings - not hard to see why they don't like you. But I sure do!! YOU ROCK!! Please keep them coming - I'm just learning!

[@douglasmeisenbach3718]

You rock young brother, I actually learned a bunch from your videos, you give a very clear and simple instructions...

[@toddschreib309]

Hey Will. Love Love your videos. I am switching my travel trailer from FLA batteries to LifePo4. Your videos are very detailed and your tear downs are very helpful. I am going with the 100ah SOK's, two of them. I will also be upgrading my current solar controller on my trailer. Thank you again!!!

[@xXIronPeachesXx]

You alone sir are the sole reason i understand solar enough to not fear it. Thank you, you give me everything i need to build my offgrid home

[@obadiahscave]

I just found your channel.. I'm an old technician, and I think you do a great job.. keep up the good work, brother..

[@andrewthorry8046]

This is a really nicely put together comparison. Great for people that want to get the basics and install their own solar.

[@svglorious]

Great video, Will. I went with the Weize version of the Rich MPPT controller. It has the more rugged power connectors and programmed up fine for my two series connected Newpowa 100 watt panels into my six gel cell house bank on my cruising sailboat. Same price point. Fire and forget, running flawlessly.

[@capyfarm2700]

You care to do an update for 2022 ? Love your videos man ! Straight forward. Right to the point. No bla bla talk just to make long videos.

[@nahuelpupin8896]

You saved me from getting some ultra expensive charge controller that I don't need. Trying to put together my 1st solar system here. Thanks.

[@jppowers5619]

Well done! I appreciate your "assessment neutrality" based on specific uses.

[@anuruddhalogin]

Thank you very much ! 💖 I'm from SriLanka. Your video helped me a lot to understand that the power output difference between a PWM and an MPPT is around 3 % . I'm on a low budget so your channel is the only place in the entire youtube where I could find the solutions with realtime experimets 💖

[@ChrisCogan]

I'm living off grid on a narrow boat and I'm looking to get ready for my first winter on board. Your videos are really helpful. Still need to work out the best system though for my boat, for the fridge, lighting, TV and playstation, phone/laptop charging and a few other bits on a very tight budget lol. Keep up the good work

[@SteveSacramento]

This is the exact review I have been looking for, thank you SO MUCH!!

[@tdirtpor]

Your speaking Greek to me now. But watching your videos I'm sure will learn me. Thank you. You have earned my trust and respect in a short period of time

[@PossumMedic]

Thank you for your integrity and not just going with one brand but buying them all to test for us! :D That alone is reason to sub! Thanks for the vid! :D

[@lynnfoster1820]

I love your comment about how the suppliers didn't want to sponsor you because they wanted to be the only ones in the video. It's really impossible to compare unless you have more than one .... LOL!! You make me laugh, and I learned so much I have seen this video before but now I understand more of it. It's been a year that I have been watching you thank you so much for all your hard work!!!

[@knutblaise9437]

Thanks for including the "2 Charge Controllers Myth Disproven" @ 11:38.

[@crpth1]

NO, NO and no! Nothing was "disproven". For goodness sake people separate your myth's from reality! THESE particular charge controller's results are. To and from, these particular models, under this particular conditions! DO NOT extrapolate information based on air &wind!

[@dougnicoll]

Very fair comparative review. Shame on the manufacturers for not having enough confidence in their equipment to sponsor your analysis. Thank you for the information. This is an excellent channel.

[@tassiemclennan3517]

True. Will explains things in a way that is clear, concise for someone such as I who has had absolutely no idea of how to contemplate a beginning to solar power. I am ready to jump in now, get off grid with my "new" used motorhome, and see this beautiful country....

[@CosmicSeeker69]

the whole point is Will is independent - no bias, no back handers and if YUOU want to help - go fund his patreon page (Like I did)

[@charliewatts6895]

The manufacturers missed a real opportunity for product improvement advice.

[@teddyevans1366]

Will, you are amazing ! Trying to figure this stuff out for our off-grid (we do have propane) home sitting at 10,000 ft. in CO This was a great, unbiased review and even understood by a caveman like me.. Thank you.

[@andygeorgiou2846]

Amazing you just answered my question that I’ve been hunting for. The one about using two control units on one battery bank. And the bit about them fighting each other. Thank you so much!!!

[@michelebailey4973]

Thanks for helping me to wade through solar controllers and amps, watts, volts, etc. I live in Haiti and depend heavily on solar power!

[@0987654321mnbvcxzmor]

Ye we did learn something,well I did,thank you Will.Yes I am an Electrician and I find you videos both entertaining and educational

[@stmcgarret]

You videos are superb and much impressed by you knowledge and ability to make it easy for non electricians to understand. Very much appreciated as trying to quickly get up to speed on solar.

[@joebarczak1448]

Glad u mentioned that multiple chargers won’t “fight” each other. I want to add a few panels to my RV. If I’m not at camp and mama wants to run the generator for the microwave or air conditioner, I wondered what would happen when the A/C powered kicks in but senses the power from the solar panels. Which one would win or take over?

[@MrButuz]

Incase you guys find this interesting, i had not watched this particular video, but went camping this weekend, sleeping in my jeep, and had no electric hookup so I dialled up amazon picked up a 100w panel and the 15 buck re-branded PWM controller. Ran the lights and a small electric chiller box. I thought the controler was going to be garbage, but it worked really well, was getting 50w out of the panel (flat on the roof, not angled correctly to the sun) and despite the batt draining to 11.6v overnight, charged back up again to 12.6v the first day and 12.3v the second day (more clouds) and when I packed it all up the car started fine. I almost bought the Victron 75/10 but I decided to keep it budget for now and I am so glad I did as Wills video above proves what I experienced that the 15 buck controller really does the job well! The price difference is not worth it if jeep/car camping with short cable lengths, I may get another 100w panel with the money I saved from the Victron controller!

[@69porsches]

Just gotta say I did pretty much the same thing, but about 5-6 trips out that cheapo went blank and won't come back- why I'm watching Will now.

[@RedwoodGeorge]

Damn - I just ordered a Renogy Rover (not delivered yet) and, like you, I believe in using the largest gauge wires possible which means 10 GA to the panels (10A max current) and 8 GA to the battery bank (40A max). I was a bit concerned about the wire terminals and now that I've seen your video I realize the Rich Solar controller is a much better choice. I'm happy Amazon has such a good return policy... Thanks for the review - you've just saved me some grief!

[@nicksimon4536]

As handybob stated, thinner wires are a bad place to save money. Im gonna use #4 wiring for everything. Im considering using #2 wires from controller to battery bank. The shorter the wires are, the less resistance you will have, and you will want to keep your batteries as fully charged as possible at all times. Also, its important to keep positive and negative wires all the exact same length, or one wire will carry a higher load, especially when hooking the batteries together. I'm going to do this for my whole system., shortest wires possible, all the same length. I'm not sure if thats completely necessary but it makes sense to me so...

[@RedwoodGeorge]

@@nicksimon4536 I'm running a pretty simple system - two SLA batteries with probably a max 5A working load though possibly a 40A charging current. The battery interconnects are 4 gauge while the system wiring is #8 to the controller and #10 to the distribution panel. I ended up using the EPEVER Tracer 60A MPPT controller which had no issues with the larger wiring.

[@robertmukundi2004]

Bumped into your videos. Am a mechatronic Engineer Kenya. That is so generous of you. Your videos are educative. Keep it up.

[@mikestone9129]

My head is swirling right now with all the info. But I'll sort it all out. I'm doing a van build and will be putting about 300-400 watts on the roof. And probably 2 100ah agm batteries to start. Your videos are a wealth of info, thanks.

[@rorymax4904]

I'mpleased that I found this video, really helpfull for me. I very much like the 'no-nonsense-stick to the essentials' style of presentation. Thank you.

[@nemisis010]

Hi from Aus Will, great video as always! Those Epever Tracer's are a great little MPPT, Adam Welch got me onto them with his videos about a year ago and they work really well. Recently got myself some second hand cheap 2 year old 200w panels so going to need an upgrade and it looks like the Tracer BN series will fit perfectly, thanks for the recommendation.

[@camiedu5239]

Will! I have loved everything you do for years now, but I was a bit shocked at 19:29 “a lady that does need to program it ever in her life” - of all the vanlife couples I know, the ladies are all the ones who have planned and designed and programmed their electrical system!!

[@kipran]

I like your videos, honest, thrustworthy and qualified know-how. Thank you!

[@alexL2]

As a newbie trying to choose a charge controller this video was on point! Subbed!

[@oceanbrzzz]

As always, I learn something. Thank you. 🤓

[@intheshell35ify]

You, my good lady, have somehow managed to state the theme of my life and my main competitive advantage..."As always, I learn something." You keep learning and widening the gap between yourself and the zombie mouth breathers the world is full of.

[@martinriley106]

I’m from the UK and think your candidness is really great. As for the manufacturers wanting sole promotion tell them to get lost.

[@pattiewoisard5641]

I just started investigating solar for an RV. What I have read is that partial shading of even 1 cell will significantly drop out from the panel. When panels are linked in series, the controller will adjust to the lowest output but in parallel, the MPPT controllers will output the maximum voltage from each panel for a larger total output to the batteries. I would love to see this confirmed on your setup by comparing series vs parallel with PWM or MPPT. Thank you for such informative videos.

[@gregnewberry4813]

Great video! One other very important test is the amount of RFI they put out. RF Hash that ruins emergency communication and Amateur radio reception. As well as Shortwave and standard broadcast AM. A simple test is to bring a portable AM radio into proximity with the equipment and note the amount of static that is generated from the device to the radio. An important factor when choosing a controller for communication setups. Thanks!

[@gaozhiwu9437]

you are an expert!

[@surfreadjumpsleep]

It would be interesting to see these tests over time. To see how the MPPT vs PWM does with changing conditions / early & late day.

[@robostrikeyou4365]

MPPT VS PWM make a very similar amount in peak sunlight, the difference is low light and early mornings.

[@michaelgarcia3952]

I really appreciate your videos. They are very educational. You're the only channel I've ever subscribed to because I hate when other channels tell you to subscribe some of them just sounds like they're begging and spend like 5 min telling you to sub or like the video.

[@shaunpennor5425]

Very helpful video! Covered all the points I was wondering about including the size and quality of the terminals! Thanks very much for your help!

[@philo5096]

Great vid Will, thanx for spending some of your own money to help explain this stuff.

[@tonyru303]

Informative video and congratulations on passing 60k subs.

[@RockCrushing777]

Outstanding video...just what i needed to advance my charging system.. I had no idea that there was so much of a difference and variety of charge controls out there and what they can do. cool man

[@kennyrodg]

I bought the Tracer bn40 a few years ago....Still going strong and pleased I made a good decision and purchase.

[@Afro__Joe]

Quick summary, then "...and yeah, I'll talk to you guys later, bye." Perfect outro, thanks for that. Any updates within the past year to any of these? I'd be curious to know. Also, I know it's only 1 compared to your current amount, but you've earned a sub with this and a couple past videos, thank you for the content and for satisfying my curious mind. I'm an electrician currently planning a setup for random things, not quite to live off-grid or anything but for other experiments/hobbies, but your content's much appreciated.

[@mitchellbarnow1709]

You’re so knowledgeable, Will Prowse!

[@piotrsadowski800]

Thank you and great respect for going on your own budget Vs sponsored, there are things more important than money, which is clearly shown in the video! I've for some trouble with my 320 W 40V pannel, no cheap PWM charge controller works with it unfortunately. I tried the blue one you're also using, and a 30A energy lab one I got for a very good price. They both work well with a 50 W one. Thank you for clarifying on the rich one, I'm going to have a look at that one.

[@johnpetersen5860]

Thanks, great video. I purchased the EPever 40A Charge controller by clicking throught the link on your website. The price was $30 cheaper than I had previously found.

[@donut3110]

I love how you're just 100% honest and direct to the point. It sounds like these manufacturers are just scummy people who only want to sell a product, and not provide a good experience for the end user.

[@CheeseOnEverything]

That's almost every manufacturer now sadly. Their goal is to sell you a product that lasts only a year or two and make you buy it again.

[@chingon_grandpa]

Wow, just answered every damn question i could possibly ask..thanks for sharing

[@HandsOnRealEstate]

Have you been learning this your whole life ? Your very knowledgeable. Thank you for your content !

[@joecraft4409]

This is the type of comparison videos i need to see. With you explaining the differences in the PWM and MPPT controllers and their advantages and disadvantages help the less informed person such as myself make good choices. Im learning tho! Thank you Will for these type videos 👍

[@marysstilllearning5803]

Ok I'm that old lady that never needs to program anything. Lol thank you so much for the info, I'm completely lost on all this and you have cleared up a few things for me. New sub.again ty

[@michaelrhodes7885]

Great info. Very good review. Just got my EPEVER 40a controller w/ MT 50 remote from Amazon. Going to hook it up this weekend at my cabin. Replacing a Renogy 20A PWM

[@william38022]

Hey can I ask you something??? How’s that new epever working out for you???I’ve been looking at them,,,,I bought a 60 amp Renorgy commander a couple years ago and it only last about a year and then it went out on me and Renorgy wouldn’t make it right,,,they really didn’t care,,,I paid over $500 for it,,,,big rip off,,, I’m thinking about buying a new charge controller but I don’t want to buy a piece a junk,,,would you say your new 40 amp here is worth it?????

[@michaelrhodes7885]

william foreman it’s been going great for the past year but plan to update soon to an Outback Flexmax 80 soon just because my system is growing

[@Buttercup624]

👍 Good stuff!! I'm researching for my own van build. I really look forward to understanding all of this in the hopefully near future. 🙄 My AZ cart is a little intimidating right now but I have a year and a half to downsize and check it all off my list. Yay!! 💗 Thank you!!

[@darrylpokea2862]

Most comprehensive breadth of systems knowledge that you pass on to us in easily understood explanations. Thank you