The Best MPPT Solar Charge Controllers for 2023

Investing in solar power is a wise choice and even better having the best MPPT solar charge controller to boost the efficiency of converting and storing energy. At any angle, your solar panels are positioned, they can still extract the maximum solar power to a precise point with this charge controller’s help.

Regulating the solar energy that your solar panels can absorb shouldn’t be a thing you need to worry about as MPPT solar charge controllers can handle that job for you. Beyond the typical on-and-off controllers, these can protect and extend your battery’s life for more enjoyable years of having clean and cost-effective power sources.

Top 10 MPPT Solar Charge Controller Reviews

1. Victron SmartSolar MPPT

Everything you want in an efficient and compact solar charge controller is in the Victron SmartSolar. If you are looking for the best MPPT solar charge controller, this one operates at 75V and 15A on your photovoltaic panels, making sure energy harvest is optimal for the day.

Victron is literally using smart technology as the slightest amount of sunlight that hits on the panel is used for storage. It efficiently maximizes the energy absorbed on panels to give batteries a full charge at the shortest possible time. Even in cloudy weather, minimal sunlight can still be efficiently used.

A unique feature of this charge controller is the smart load output. It prevents excessively draining your batteries because one of the leading causes of battery damage is running your batteries on ‘flat’. The load is slowly released, and voltage can be configured to keep your batteries from being drained.

As one of the main concerns of most customers, battery life is also prolonged and protected with the Victron SmartSolar. Every day, this MPPT will try to achieve 100% of the battery. But on days when poor weather dominates and the sunlight is minimal to none, it works to raise the disconnect voltage until it succeeds. That would be a brilliant thing to do for a charge controller on a bad day.

What I like about the Victron SmartSolar is that most of its wide-range features are all in your hand. This charge controller automatically connects on your phone via Bluetooth and its very own smartphone application. So, all the changes you need to adjust fit in your pocket like nobody’s business.

This lightweight and versatile addition to your solar power setup will make sure all energy absorbed isn’t going to waste. It is effortless to install and very user-friendly at the same time. Installation can also be done via Victron Remote Management Portal that provides all-access to your MPPT. On the outside, it has LED indicators and easy to use connectors and buttons.

2. EPEVER MPPT Solar Charge Controller

You are in the right place if you are looking for an efficient 30A 12V MPPT solar charge controller that delivers high-standard solar energy from your PV panels to your batteries. This product from EPEVER is the perfect addition to your lead-acid and lithium batteries, compared to the standard charge controllers.

Let this unit maximize your energy storage with its highest conversion efficiency of a whopping 98% and an unbelievable 99.5% tracking efficiency. That alone will make you invest in an MPPT in a hot minute!

Negative grounding has been the conventional way, making this unit compatible one with most systems. It also features advanced MPPT technology to give you top-tier value for your money.

Most MPPT charge controller reviews from this unit will tell you how much of a significant investment this unit has been. Its built-in protective system keeps you at ease, knowing that your battery and the unit itself will be protected from the common dangers and mistakes in energy conversion.

It has an MPPT controller protection system that guards it against reverse polarity, short-circuiting, overload, over-discharge, and even reverse currents. The battery is also protected against too much discharge by the load and too much charge by the solar molecules.

Increasing your battery life is also one of the main goals of having an MPPT. This unit, fortunately, has a 4-stage charging system and a temperature compensation mechanism. That keeps your battery life from degrading and will even boost up your system’s performance.

This unit stands out from the rest because it automatically identifies 12V and 24V DC systems. It is also compatible with different battery options like the gel, sealed, flooded, and lithium.

The unit’s make is also outstanding with its aluminum body that keeps heat well-dissipated while in use. That way, the heat won’t be trapped while still being efficiently operating. The LCD screen is also easy to understand and is even backlit for your convenience.

3. SUNYIMA 60A MPPT Solar Charge Controller

The SUNYIMA 60A MPPT Solar Charge Controller is a small but dependable device that can safeguard solar panels and battery banks of beginner solar systems. Although it might have similar features to other MPPT controllers, this product has a few aces up its sleeve, such as the 99% tracking efficiency to increase power gain.

This MPPT charge controller is almost 3 times more affordable than the RICH SOLAR. Despite the lower price, it can handle a 720W array and a 60A current, compared to the RICH SOLAR’s 300W and 20A. Hence, RVers can connect this system to 12V batteries without worrying about undermining their solar infrastructure’s integrity.

In addition, families will live confidently and securely, knowing this charge controller will not damage the battery bank or the solar panel. This is because it has adequate protection against over-discharge, over-voltage, overload, and short circuits.

Surprisingly, this 60 amp MPPT charge controller only weighs 12 ounces. It also does not take up too much space, requiring only a surface area of 6.7 by 3.7 inches. Hence, this compact solar charge controller will surely fit in even small and cramped spaces.

I do not have serious issues with this budget MPPT charge controller. However, the brand might want to remap the device’s control settings to make it less complicated and more effortless for first-time owners of solar systems.

4. PowMr MPPT Charge Controller

Maximize the energy you’re having from your solar panels with the PowMr MPPT charge controller. This unit from PowMr has a PV utilization rate of more than 99% and a maximum efficiency of more than 98.1%. That’s incredibly high if you make an MPPT solar charge controller comparison. Copper coils are also used, making their efficiency more stable.

Fitting most users is one of the most suitable features of this unit. It caters to flooded, vented, gel, NiCd, and sealed battery types. It is even user-programmable! That makes you totally in charge of the voltage flow and absorption of your solar power system.

The backlight LCD is also one of its strongest suits as it is easy to understand, and beginners in the field can quickly get to know how it operates. It also troubleshoots and even lets you know what to do and how to correct it! It takes less time to set up and get you started on having efficient solar power.

Overheating can be avoided with its intelligence fan. It usually works sufficiently at >45℃ and off < 40℃. The bearing uses a state-of-the-art mechanism that increases the lifespan of up to 5,000 hours of regular use. The make is also built for quality heat dissipation, so it won’t exude too much warmth while it is operating.

PowMr also takes electronic protection seriously as they have protective functions against PV short-circuiting and over-currents. It alarms to let you cautiously know for immediate action. It also protects your battery from overcharge and over-discharge, as well as reverse polarity cases.

Exclusive from this unit is its 3-stage charging mechanism that covers constant current, constant voltage, and floating charge. It is also positively grounded, so it matches most solar power system setups.

Though the display is good, unfortunately, it doesn’t show the battery percentage, which draws the unit back. But as to its MPPT functions, the efficiency and the performance are quite an investment.

5. RICH SOLAR 20 Amp MPPT Solar Charge Controller

Many homeowners want to operate a charge controller with a remote device. Thankfully, RICH SOLAR listens. The brand offers a 20-amp MPPT Solar Charge Controller that will revolutionize how families charge their batteries using solar panels.

Twenty amps might not seem enough, but this solar charge controller is more than adequate for off-grid families and small households with modest power requirements. The device’s 98% peak conversion efficiency guarantees better battery performance, allowing homeowners to utilize the harnessed energy for everyone in the family.

Unlike other charge controllers, this brand automatically detects, monitors, and regulates different batteries. Families can easily connect flooded, AGM, gel, or sealed lead-acid batteries to this device. The system is also effective for lithium batteries, automatically detecting and activating the unit without extra user input.

Everything about this charge controller MPPT is plug-and-play, making setups and operation a breeze. My favorite is its Bluetooth module that plugs into an RS232 port, allowing me to link the gadget with a smartphone app for quick access to the system performance metrics.

I also appreciate how this device offers multiple electrical and hardware protections. It has a temperature compensation system working in unison with protection against reverse current, reverse polarity, short-circuiting, overload, over-charging, and over-discharge. Plus, the die-cast aluminum casing promotes amazing heat dissipation.

6. SOLAREPIC EPEVER MPPT Solar Charge Controller

If you are looking for the right charge controller that will match your solar panel’s output and your need for the battery, waste no time and consider having the SolarEpic Epever MPPT Solar Charge Controller. Their smart algorithm ensures that you’ll get the most out of your money with its tracking efficiency reaching more than 99.5%.

This MPPT 40A solar charge controller supports four charging options, namely, gel, flooded, sealed, and user-defined. A 4-stage charging system has also been established in this model to optimize energy flow. That makes it work correctly for residential, industrial, and commercial use.

What interests me the most is their smart battery protection system. It protects your battery from getting overheated, overloaded, and overcharged. Reverse polarity also has no room in this charge controller, as it also prevents it from getting in your battery system.

Negative grounding is also an aspect that they are proud to have as most solar power circuitry are negatively grounded. That makes this more compatible with most of the solar panels already established.

If you try to look at a typical tracer MPPT charge controller review, most will recommend those with heat-protective mechanisms. The good thing about this charge controller is that its upper-case material is made of metal, so heat is more dissipated and will not be trapped in itself.

Another heat-protective feature from this unit is the battery temperature sensor. Your battery isn’t the only one protected, but your charge controller also monitors any heat changes. PC communication cables are also included upon purchase, so you are always connected with their updated firmware and Solar Station PC Software.

The total look of the charge controller gives you that gut feels that it will last long. With its compact design and rustic metal look, it suits most solar generators. It also has a full LED screen display that lets you know real-time operational data.

7. Outback Flexmax 80 Solar Charge Controller

Who wouldn’t want to have the top-tier MPPT charge controller to pair with their solar power panels and batteries? That brings out the Outback Flexmax 80 in the picture with its high-quality performance on your advanced solar power systems.

Their take on the latest innovation on MPPTs makes the Outback Flexmax 80 increase the PV capabilities up to 30% compared to non-MPPT charge controllers. The software’s algorithm functions both continuously and actively for all-day use.

Besides the fact that it is already efficient on its own, that efficiency doesn’t decline even on ambient temperatures. The Outback Flexmax 80 has an intelligent thermal management system that lets the charge controller operate at its full maximum current rating. This active cooling not only keeps the efficiency thriving, but it protects your battery as well.

They also take pride in a wide array of nominal battery voltages, from 12, 24, 36, and 48. They can even recharge a battery bank with a lower voltage because it can produce a decrement on solar arrays with higher voltage. The programmable battery voltages range from 12 VDC to 60 VDC.

The built-in display shows up to 80 characters and is also backlit. You will always be well-informed of your current solar energy status. Soft and easy-to-use keys are also incorporated. It also has a logged system that stores data for up to 128 days. At a touch of a button, tracking and keeping up with your solar power data has never been more convenient with the Outback Flexmax 80.

Additionally, you will love the brand’s own integrated network communication system. It allows you to have your Flexmax 80 be remotely monitored and programmed through their MATE system display. That is genuinely one unrivalled system integration for your comfort.

8. EPEVER MPPT Charge Controller

Check out this reliable charge controller from Epever that provides solar power consumers with a tracking efficiency of no less than 99.5% and a 98% conversion efficiency.

Their advanced MPPT control mechanism is also outstanding. The latest technology being used in this unit minimizes the power point loss time and rate, making it more efficient than its competitors. They also take pride in having accurate and precise tracking of multiple peaks at the maximum power point.

Meticulous consumers can rest in the fact that the components used in making this unit are of high quality. These components also have low failure rates, so you are guaranteed that this functions well in most solar panels and battery systems.

If you love unique features that fully enhance the capabilities of a charge controller, you will enjoy these perks. This model has a real-time energy statistics feature that provides you with the current status of your unit. It also has an overheating reduction function, which combats the most common cause of damage to charge controllers. These features make one great MPPT charge controller for the money.

Another thing that draws me into having this charge controller is that it can be connected through a phone application. That’s how real-time the status can be accessed! It can also be accessed through PC software.

Electronics protection is also what they take pride in having. Over-discharging and overcharging, and even reverse polarity has no room in your solar power systems. Your unit is guaranteed to be protected from those things that might cause damage.

At only 5mm thick, you can’t imagine how powerful of a charge controller this unit is. But this compact model does the job and keeps all the energy to sufficient use. The design is very small. The LCD is very user-friendly. It is also effortless to install, too! This modular solar controller can be used for home solar power systems, field monitoring, and communication base stations.

9. AMPINVT 80-Amp MPPT Solar Charge Controller

Get the most out of the sun’s daily energy with this high-standard charge controller from Ampinvt. It fits most solar panels well and has a maximum input of 150 V on PVs. This unit also has the most suitable working range for 12, 24, and 48 V.

Maximizing out your battery and panel’s capabilities is necessary so you won’t waste solar energy. That MPPT function is enhanced from this APC series of MPPT charge controllers from Ampinvt. It has automatic identification of voltages and even has an automated control over too much current and too much charging power.

Technology has come far from the old ones as this model already has an integrated RS-485 Communication Wireless Monitoring system. That lets you connect the features of the unit to your phone. Everything you need to adjust and monitor just fits in your hand.

Lead-acid and lithium batteries are well supported with the Ampinvt Charge Controller. Battery charging on AGM, gel, flooded, and sealed are catered. The current and daily power generation curves are also presented.

The display is also superb as it lets you set the language, time, contrast, brightness, and sound. Record queries can also be accessed, and the parameters could also be changed in an instant.

You don’t need to worry about temperature compensation, as this already has a battery temperature sensor that functions automatically. The unit will be readily protected from one of the most common causes of damage to charge controllers.

With a charging efficiency of more than 98.5% and a tracking accuracy of beyond 99.73%, their latest algorithm for MPPT will let you forget the past inefficient use of your solar energy. That always makes it one of the most cost-effective ways of keeping your panel and your battery in their most suitable performance.

10. EPEVER 60-amp MPPT Charge Controller

It would be too gratifying to have a 99.5% tracking efficiency for a charge controller, but the Epever charge controller makes that an easy feat. That tracking efficiency is based on multiphase synchronous rectification technology. You should consider having this regulator for more efficient use of your panel’s solar energy absorbing capacity.

It has a 12, 24, 36, and 48-volt identification system that would top-tier match your battery. It even accurately tracks multiple power points with a whopping 98.6% DC/DC transfer efficiency. Its maximum input current is at 100A, with a maximum input voltage of 200V. The maximum input of solar power will vary depending on the voltage.

What makes me in awe of this powerful regulator is that it has an auto-control system to limit the charging current and power that might go over the rated value. That seriously protects your batteries from any damage. One of its most suitable features is the automatic over-temperature control to reduce power and the battery temperature compensation function.

Working on a low-failure rate with high-quality components is what the Epever MPPT charge controller is all about. Aside from protecting your battery’s life, it also ensures itself of protecting its own. It also shows your real-time energy recording and other statistical tasks.

This charge controller’s circuitry is well-engineered that will utilize protection for both the PV panel and the battery. The unit shelters them from overpowering, overheating and short circuits, battery over-discharge, and more.

For maximum convenience, this charge controller also operates on a negative ground system. That gives you high compatibility as negative grounding is the standard and the most conventional way. It is also SGS certified, giving you more assurance that this charge controller’s parts and testing capabilities are superb.

You will love the hassle-free installation process of this charge controller. It comes with detailed and clear instructions for a quick setup. Aside from that, it is easy to use with its easy-to-understand display. It also has a fault LED indicator for a troubleshooting function.

Renogy 20 Amp MPPT Solar Charge Controller (Outdated)

Place your money in the right hands with the Renogy charge controller. It is a positive ground controller with a tracking efficiency of up to 99% and a conversion efficiency of 98%. Each Renogy MPPT charge controller review guides you to have the maximum yield from your PV panels and your battery.

One of the prime features of this charge controller is that it caters to various optional batteries. It is ready for gel, flooded, lithium, and deep-cycle sealed battery options. It also automatically identifies 12 and 24-DC voltage systems.

It also guarantees you that your batteries’ protection is at its optimum with its enhanced electronic protection system. Overcharging, power overload, over-discharging, and short circuits are things in the past you need not worry about. Battery life will be extended for a long time with this smart built-in scheme.

Protection is better, as it also has a temperature compensation system. So, your charge controller itself will also be protected from unnecessary heat. It also has an intelligent protection feature that protects itself from reverse polarity.

To take full advantage of its charging abilities, the Renogy MPPT charge controller has a 4-stage charging system. It undergoes a bulk, boost, float, and equalization stages for a more efficient conserved energy flow.

What I like about how the system is updated technology. It has a Bluetooth connection that can pair with the Renogy Rover MPPT charge controller app on smartphones. That way, feedback and tracing out your solar power usage and activities are more convenient!

Design is also one of the things you’ll love about this charge controller. Though being compact, it isn’t heavy to carry at all, and it is straightforward to install. The LCD screen gives you the basics of what is going on inside, and it also has multiple LEDs for error codes, system operation information and other customizable parameters,

Onesolar 60A MPPT Solar Charge Controller (Outdated)

Invest in a cost-effective charge controller that will bring out the top-rated in both your PV panels and your battery. This MPPT solar charge controller ensures that your PV panels and the battery won’t waste any of the energy that they will come across as it has a 99% tracking rate and a 98% conversion rate.

The maximum input of 150V is enough to give you an uninterrupted electrical power that can last you for the day. It also fits solar panels that are 12V, 24V, and 48V.

The charging options are also one of the things that will keep homeowners interested when it comes to choosing the right charge controller. The good thing about this unit from Onesolar is that it supports four charging options. These are the gel, sealed, flooded, and the user-defined. Another feature you’ll love is how it automatically connects on 12V, 24V, and 48V.

Battery and unit protection is also enhanced with this solar charge controller. It has a built-in fan, and it even protects the unit from overcharging and over-discharging. Short circuit and reverse polarity are also among the things that it protects itself from.

Don’t you love displays that keep you well-informed and updated in your solar power unit’s current status? This charge controller’s LCD has several things to offer when it comes to customization. Language, time, record query information, and even the brightness and contrast are all accessible and adjustable in this unit.

The design and the overall look of the Onesolar charge controller are totally compact and very handy. It even has a hanging bracket for you to place around conveniently. The brand has received honor and has been into a Chinese MPPT charge controller review, making it a reliable one in the industry.

What Is An MPPT Solar Charge Controller And Who Is This For

A charge controller is an integral of most (if not all) power systems that need batteries. It regulates the energy flow from any source (like solar, hydro, fuel, and many others) to its battery bank.

A maximum power point tracking or more commonly known as MPPT is a kind of charge controller. It is set as an electronic DC converter that matches the solar array’s energy to the battery bank. An MPPT is one of the most efficient charge controllers available today.

You may wonder what’s unique about this kind of charge controller. It increases the efficiency of your solar arrays, so no energy is put to waste. There may be some discrepancies in the energy that your solar panels produce and the energy that your battery needs. The MPPT charge controller makes this flow so much easier and keeps all the energy it comes across with.

It is ideal for those who want to make the most of the sun, those who want to save more on energy, and those whose panels aren’t exposed to that much sunlight. That way, your panels can be more efficient as any solar energy that hits them is stored. This is also beneficial for home, industrial, and commercial use.

How Does It Work

The solar power system you must rely mostly on solar energy will need a solar panel. These solar panels work on their own. They absorb solar energy on the photovoltaic (PV) cells that are embedded on the panel. Unfortunately, they aren’t so smart.

So are the batteries. And sometimes, they cannot be in sync. Although they still produce quality solar energy, they might waste some as they can’t communicate properly without a suitable charge controller.

The MPPT works by identifying the top-tier voltage that matches the PV panel to your battery. That way, your battery will not be overcharged and will be charged in the shortest amount of time possible. As its name implies, it tracks out the maximum power point.

The MPPT is also responsible for keeping the panels in high-efficiency as they maximize having solar energy in all conditions. This latest innovation not only produces more power, but also protects your battery from overcharging.

This kind of charge controller gives you 10-30% of extra power than the standard charge controllers. With the latest mechanism of MPPTs, energy, and time in charging the batteries are not wasted, and the panels are in excellent condition for absorbing solar energy.

Are MPPT Controllers Worth It

Shifting your energy consumption to solar power is already worth it. It is eco-friendly, and it saves so much money in the long run. And the top-rated part is that it just utilizes the energy from the sun that shines daily. If this energy sheds some light on your solar panels, you’ll never run out energy for your appliances. And investing in an MPPT is even more worth it.

Having an MPPT is even maximizing out the capabilities of your solar power setup. As the standard charge controllers can’t regulate the asynchronous power of the PV panel and your batteries, this will keep efficiency up and give you the satisfaction of saving more money in the future.

How We Picked And Tested

Cyberspace can be helpful and dreadful at the same time. A single MPPT solar charge controller review can make a difference in how you view things and even give you bias on what to buy. These products have been researched, and their brands have been checked to ensure that these MPPT charge controllers are of high quality. There were a lot of considerations as to how these were chosen. Their unique features and their setbacks were all considered to provide the right charge controller that you will soon have. The maker’s instructions and notes were carefully followed to keep the charge controllers’ performance at its best. Take comfort in the fact that these were carefully picked for your convenience.

Tracking Efficiency

As the primary purpose of MPPTs is to give you 10 to 30% of power, their tracking efficiency will be an essential tool when you decide what MPPT charge controller to get. The ones in the reviews have very high tracking efficiencies. Most, if not all, currently have an approximate of more than 97% of tracking efficiency. If the actual and the available solar energy is matched at those rates, you will surely get the most out of your PV panels. This will also keep the battery life in good shape for an extended time.

Electronic Protection

State-of-the-art innovations have made it possible to not only keep the batteries protected but the PV panel and the charge controller as well. The reviewed charge controllers commonly have a protection system that prevents batteries from overcharging and over-discharging.

Your PV panels are also protected from short-circuiting, over-currents, and reverse polarity. And overall, the internal mechanisms of these units can protect itself from overheating.

Battery Compatibility

The kind of battery will always be up to the user’s preference. They might have some bad experiences over the other. These reviewed ones cater to most battery types. Both lead-acid and lithium batteries are compatible with the ones we’ve carefully picked.

Grounding

Both positive and negative grounding are included to give the consumers the liberty to choose which one they will have. Those who are still about to shift to solar energy can have the freedom to decide on the grounding first.

For those who already have their systems, both negative and positive ground for charge controllers add to your convenience.

Connectivity

Most of the MPPT charge controllers are already ready to connect to your mobile phones through their applications. Bluetooth connections are also integrated for easier access. Some even come with PC software, so customizations and monitoring are done on the bigger screen.

Price

Shelling out an extra amount just to get more power can be draining. Investing in solar power is already a huge financial consideration, and this is not an exemption. Having the most suitable cheap MPPT charge controller can be a boon or bane for your solar power systems.

The mentioned brands are reputable to provide quality charge controllers that don’t necessarily break your wallets. And the units mentioned are reasonably priced for all the features and customizations that they provide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who makes the most suitable MPPT charge controller?

There are a lot of MPPT charge controllers in the market today. While some brands are still trying to establish themselves in the solar power industry, these have already built their name in the game.

• EPEVER
• Renogy
• Victron Energy
• SolarEpic
• Outback
• Onesolar
• Ampinvt
• PowMr

These brands are known to produce more than one kind of MPPT model and have been continuously improving their charge controllers. Some of them pioneered in the industry, and some have just settled their footing but have already captured most consumers’ trust. These brands have high-satisfaction rates in providing out the most suitable ones in the market.

What size MPPT charge controller do I need?

When you already have a solar panel and a battery, you need to make sure that these are compatible with each other, before you buy one MPPT charge controller. Some solar generators already have a built-in charge controller, so make sure that this issue won’t be in the way when you’ll upgrade your charge controller.

Having the right size is vital for your PV system. The size of the charge controller that you will need will depend on the solar panel’s current (amp). The solar system’s voltage will also matter.

If, for example, if you have 900W solar array, the next thing you need to consider is your battery’s voltage, for instance at 24V. You can divide your solar array wattage over your battery voltage, and you will get 37.5 amp. But you will still need to add about 25% of current increases, so that will give you 46.8 amps. We can then round this up for an easier choice of the right MPPT. So, you will need a charge controller that is at 24V, 50 MPPT.

Calculate the voltage and the amperes that you need, and you will have the right MPPT that will work most pleasing for the solar power setup you already have.

MPPT and PMW charge controllers: what’s the difference?

A charger controller MPPT technology has a higher solar energy conversion efficiency (about 95%) than PWM devices (about 75%). The former also boasts more features and can handle higher voltage and amperage. On the other hand, the latter is more affordable and tends to be used with small-scale solar systems.

Therefore, solar MPPT charger controllers work top-tier with systems containing 60 to 72 photovoltaic panels, allowing users to wire them in series. In contrast, PWM controllers are more suitable for 32-panel systems and can only accommodate a parallel setup.

Another difference is temperature tolerances. PWM controllers are only suitable in hot or warm climates, while MPPT devices work in any environmental temperature. It is worth mentioning that cold temperatures can increase solar panel voltage output, allowing MPPT controllers to capture the energy increase.

Is the MPPT charge controller always better?

Not necessarily. Even the top solar charge controller with MPPT technology will mean nothing to some folks in the same manner as some families might consider a PWM device useless. These solar charge regulators have pros that some homeowners might find appealing and cons they can do without.

For example, an MPPT charge controller is better than a PWM system if you have a large solar system capable of producing more than 400 watts. It is about twenty percent more efficient in converting solar energy than PWMs (95% vs. 75%), making it a better system for households that want efficiency.

However, households with modest solar energy output (<400 watts) will find MPPT overkill. Small-scale solar systems will do just fine with PWM devices instead of spending an unnecessary amount of money for a much more expensive MPPT model.

How long does an MPPT charge controller last?

The longevity of an MPPT solar panel charge controller is brand-dependent, although other factors can also limit its operating lifespan. Some manufacturers offer a five-year warranty, giving homeowners peace of mind that their charge controllers will last at least that long. Real-world experiences suggest these devices can last at least a decade.

How to use & install?

Having the basic knowledge of how a charge controller works will give you a glimpse of how to use it. The installation process can also be done alone or with an expert. But most of these charge controllers come with instructions on how they can be assembled at your comfort. Make sure that you have all the parts and the unit with you right before installation.

• Check out the diagram

Upon purchase, a diagram on how to make the connections comes with it. Check the description if you have the right materials and connectors before installation.

• Check the wiring terminals

Before connecting the charge controller, open and check out their wiring terminals, loosen the connection lock for both the solar panel and the battery, and their terminals as well.

• Connect the batteries to the MPPT charge controller

With the diagram at hand, connect the battery to the MPPT charge controller. Make sure that the positive and negative poles are correctly connected.

• Connect the DC load

Connect the DC load terminal of the MPPT charge controller and the DC load terminal of the battery. Note that the DC load should have the same voltage for both.

• Connect the solar panel to the MPPT charge controller

Connect the solar panel based on the diagram. Note that the PV module should not be lower than the system voltage.

• Temperature sensor

You can connect the temperature sensor (if it has). It can also be connected to your PC.

Other tips while using and installing your MPPT charge controller will be to do it in a safe and clean environment and to keep all the tools at hand with you on the installation process. Some MPPT charge controllers have phone applications that you can use. It can also be used to track and monitor your solar power system.

How to care & clean?

As MPPT charge controllers can come out on the expensive side, care and maintenance of these units are of vital importance. They need to be regularly checked to prevent damage and to keep their efficiency at its best. Here are some care tips and on how to stay in clean:

• Regularly dust off your MPPT charge controller. Dust can accumulate, especially on the small wiring terminals. If they are stored and unused for quite some time, dust them off or get a clean cloth and wipe it off gently.
• Avoid getting water in your MPPT charge controllers. While installing or while storing it out, make sure that the environment is conducive and away from water. Having water inside these charge controllers can cause malfunctions in the future.
• Avoid bumping the MPPT charge controllers. Falls can also be avoided by carrying them carefully. The installation environment and the place where it mostly works are factors that can cause falls and occasional bumps. Ensure that these can be avoided.
• Store properly when not in use. Make sure that the optimal temperature is achieved in their storage place. You may also put them in a pouch or a bag.

It is still best to follow the care and maintenance instructions of the manufacturer. Their guidelines work top-tier for their unit.

Where to buy?

MPPT charge controllers are not that hard to find. Most shops that sell solar power system also sell some charge controllers. These MPPT charge controllers are in home improvement centers like Home Depot and Lowe’s Home Improvement. Their electrical and appliance sections may provide you with the right MPPT charge controller that will suit your PV panel and battery most useful.

If the charge controller can’t be found on these stores, the internet can assist you in finding the right one. Most charge controllers are available on Amazon or on the site of the specific brand you are eyeing on.

Conclusion

Getting the most out of your solar power system can be achieved if you have the best MPPT solar charge controller at hand. These are leading charge controllers that give you an excess of 30% efficiency compared to the regular ones. Having this will change the way you use solar energy and will significantly develop your usage. This investment will further save you money and solar energy. No amount of sunlight is put to waste, and every inch of the solar panel will work at the most suitable. The tracking efficiency of these MPPT charge controllers will improve your way of life.

Justin Tucker

As a professional in the industry, I want to help users understand renewable energy and how to use solar-powered appliances. We are living in a world where many are taking resources from nature and destroying it in the process. What we can do to help protect our home planet is use renewable energy. 

So, if you have any questions about appliance installation, purcahse, or anything related to solar system accessories, feel free to contact me!