Solar Charge ControllerWith Dump Load Circuit

Built By Matt Smyrski

Description

Specifications

Solar Charging Current: 0 to 20 Amps continuous. Nominal Battery Voltage: 12V. Recommended Battery Capacity: 0.5 to 400 Amp Hours. Photovoltaic Panel Voltage Ratings: 12V - 23V, (ex: 36-40 cells). Maximum PV input voltage: 25VDC PV Panel Power Rating: 1W to 240W (90ma - 20A). Voltage Drop During Charging: 0.5V @ 10A, 1V @ 20A. Float Voltage Adjustment Range: 13V-15V (range can be altered

using pot). Night Time Battery Current Drain: 0.5-1.9ma. Fuse Rating: 20 Amp standard ATO automotive fuse. Fits into a standard 4" X 4" electrical utility box, can be mounted

on the cover plate.

Circuit Schematic

Breadboard Built

LEDs

The green and red LEDs are used for the float voltage.

Find in battery specs Optima – 13.8 Volts, 1 Amp max

Adjust using the potentiometer When the battery is low the LED will be red At the float voltage the LEDs will alternate

Dump Control

+Solar Panel

External Load

Pin 2 of

IC2a

Dump Circuit

Connect: Electric Heater Water Heater Lighting Circuit Water Pump Anything With A Fairly Large Resistance

Batteries

Connect any size 12Volt battery to charge:

18Ah 55Ah

Batteries Cont.

→ Batteries can also be connected in parallel for more amperage and longer life when powering various appliances.

→ Will take longer to charge.

How Does This Circuit Help?

‼ The rising cost of living.

Become independent from the power companies.