Solar help please
Submitted: Friday, May 02, 2014 at 11:08
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Jos
Yes, I know, this topic is constantly covered, but I'm so easily confused and just need a simple answer so I know I'm buying the correct parts and everything will work.
Here's what I have:
Camper with 2 x 105Ah batteries and the Redarc BMS1215S2 (includes a MPPT solar regulator). I have an Anderson plug at the rear of the camper to input solar and I own a 12v 120w flexible style fold up solar panel with an Anderson plug on it to connect to the camper. All ok.
What I want to do:
Buy a 12v portable folding panel (plan on getting one from ebay) for those times I need more solar. According to the Redarc manual, panels need to be connected in parallel. I like using the Anderson plug system. What do I need to buy to connect these panels in parallel and connect to the Anderson plug on my camper?
Thanks.
Reply By: evaredy - Friday, May 02, 2014 at 13:51
Friday, May 02, 2014 at 13:51
I also have a Redarc BMS system in the camper and I also wanted to be able to plug in a portable panel.
The camper already has 2 x Redarc 65w panels mounted on the roof, but I wanted to add more if needed.
I had a sparkie put and Anderson on the draw bar and wire it into the BMS unit, this works fine.
I have now installed a 150W panel on the canopy of the Dmax and wanted to be able to connect this into the camper along with the other panels, I just had the sparkie install an Anderson plug at the panel, so I can disconnect it from the BCDC 1240 in
the tub and plug it into the camper. I just use one of the above double adapters and it works ok.
AnswerID:
531660
Follow Up By: Jos - Friday, May 02, 2014 at 13:59
Friday, May 02, 2014 at 13:59
Thanks Evaredy. I also have an Anderson plug on the draw bar wired into the BMS unit. However, I have no fixed panels installed - just going to use portable ones.
FollowupID:
814696
Follow Up By: evaredy - Saturday, May 03, 2014 at 09:48
Saturday, May 03, 2014 at 09:48
Is the Anderson on the draw bar, a stand alone one or is it used to plug into the vehicle when driving?
If it's for driving, it will be wired into the BMS differently.
FollowupID:
814794
Follow Up By: Jos - Saturday, May 03, 2014 at 11:05
Saturday, May 03, 2014 at 11:05
I have one to plug into the car when driving plus a separate one wired into the BMS for solar input.
FollowupID:
814803