At 8:27 you mention connecting to the Victron Smart Shunt. Im so glad you mentioned this tidbit- I'll use it to maximize efficiency of my two serial arrays/2 MPPT controllers.
very clean and clear. I noticed it because it looked identical to mine - the wiring guard. I am still in the middle of my build and watch everything I can to ensure I have not forgotten anythig.
Great video. I would've been afraid that the charge controllers would work against each other and back-feed power into one another, but then I realized that they can't because if they could the battery would back-feed power into them when the sun is not shining. I just converted my entire system from cheap to Victron, and what a dream!
I just saw the vid and had similar observations.. Thing is, observed the volts on array #1 at about 41V and array #2 at 19V. . Same question about the back feed by the arrray #1 into arry #2 at its lower voltage maybe causing something to short out. Can anyone clarify ?
Love this, I have a 400 watt system with an MPPT and I want to duplicate that on my new build and add them both together in an integrated fashion, and this is clearly a very clean answer to that dilemma.
I thought my eyes were playing tricks on me and blinked a few times. I just rewatched it and saw the magic happen. 4:16 into the video for those curious.
I found this very helpful, and have used your previous Solar Disconnect instruction video for solar at a cabin I have. This particular video will be part of my plan when adding a few 320W panels to my boat. Really clear, and concise. Appreciate you taking the time to do this.
Hi - I never comment on videos, but i discovered your channel this weekend - and its been an absolute revelation... i was self teaching my way through a solar design, and your videos and tools have made a lot of the 'fuzzy' areas super clear. thanks so much ! absolutely awesome job ! I'm going into my particular design with 100% confidence, where i was unsure on certain things before :)
@@EXPLORISTlifeyou only have 2 connections left on that distributor, where would you put the connection for the inverter, AC panel and DC panel? Could you put two connections on one nut?
@@willyum1208 The Lynx distributor is only for 12V devices. The inverters 12v lines would use the first two positions ( + and -), leaving the other two for some other 12V device or feed.
thanks for the nice video and especially a thanks for the shunt nugget, pure gold... didn't know you could network it up, they all just say you can use it to show the usage and voltages but now it really makes sense to get the smartshunt instead of a dumbshunt even though it is quite pricey.
Great info I've seen a number of your videos I'm using 2 controller but just setting each one using the controllers them selves it's a much more frugal set up but your video is very informative thanks
Does one of your Videos already show how to take full advantage of vehicle alternators? We’ve got a 400a Alternator that isn’t being taken full advantage of and would love to see a video by you about such adaptations. Thank you!!!
Pretty easy to understand, thanks, of course to your presentation method. Ran it to a little hiccup in using the tool to size the CC. One panel recommendation using EZ is 100/30, using detailed it’s 100/50. Fine, purchased the latter. The problem arises in that I’ve purchased TWO of the same panels, instead of the One (intended). Using the Sizing Tool, it recommends 150/60 (EZ) or 150/85 (detailed). HUGE Price difference ! If I just bought another 100/50, would that serve my purposes just as well, though I suppose each panel would come in through roof independently. But, it would be A Lot cheaper to buy a second 100/50. Though, I wouldn’t benefit from the Smart Shunt, because I got an Alii. 😫
Your videos are clear and to the point. I have two Renogy 400 watt arrays and two Victron charge controllers. I was wondering the proper way to set them up. Question, do I need to use the Victron shunt to make sure everything is compatible? I do have a Xantrex 3000 watt inverter charger and one liTime 300AH battery. It works with the one controller. Haven't set up the second one yet.
Just wanted to say thank you for all of the efforts in creating this content. Super helpful and the website is gold. Finally getting close to being able to convert my RV and the details you've shared go a long way!
Another great video, fantastic explanation as always, I've a question about 48v battery banks. I'm setting up a 48v off grid system, using all Victron products, you've explained everything perfectly so far, very useful. but, I'm a bit stumped about balancing the batteries, at this stage I'm planning on using on using Victron Super Cell Lead batteries, I'm not not convinced about lithium yet, anyway, I'd love a video showing how to connect the Victron battery balancers, it's clear how to set it up for 12v, 48v banks need 3 balancers, given the cost of all this equipment, I'd like to get it right the first time. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE do a video 🙂
Hi Nate. Is this the best way if you have a solar blanket connected to the system when main panels are parked in the shade? Do the controllers need to be the same size if the solar blanket is smaller? Thanks you
Hey Nate, does this setup also work if the mppts are different? For example, can I connect a 100/20 mppt and a 75/10 mppt to the same distributer? Kind regards, Flint
Thnx a lot for your clear video, I want to combine a victron smart MPPT with a the not so smart smart victron Orion TR using the VE networking. What can I do to prevent the orion from thinking the battery is full and stop charging with 30 amps while the MPPT continues charging with the solar on the roof of the camper van at a low charge rate.
At the moment, there is no way to 'officially' make them communicate and synchronize their charging efforts. That said; in our recent installs, and to my surprise, I've often been getting full charging wattage from both my Orion & my MPPT's natively without having them communicate. Unexpected result, but a win is a win.
@@EXPLORISTlife interesting, I also get this for say max one hour and then the orion goes into trickle charge. The only solution I have now is turn off the MPPT charge controller.. The victron bluetooth dongle seems to support VE networking but thats probably not going to work on the Orion
Great video. I noticed you put the positive wire on on first and then the fuse. Can you put the wire on first and then the fuse. Where connect to the victron distribution
Excellent videos, Thank you. I did notice that you are hooking all the charge controller equipment grounds to the negative battery buss. Is that necessary?
Nate, you are a hero! I have designed an off-grid solar system for my sailboat based on this video. However, I am confused with one thing only. The ground wire from the Victron charger/inverter (Quattro 12/5000) is going to the Lynx Distributor (sharing AC to DC?), is that the case? I hope, I get a reply. (Abaid from Nova Scotia, Canada).
@@EXPLORISTlife Hi Nate, I appreciate a very swift response. Kindly let me know, how can I get a review of my design document (a Visio diagram exported to PNG graphic), and get the errors corrected? I am willing to pay a fee for this review.
That is no longer a service I offer. Instead, I recommend using the diagrams I have pre-assembled at www.explorist.life/solarwiringdiagrams and shop.explorist.life/product-category/all-products/plans-and-diagrams/solar-wiring-diagrams/ I will say, though, that the quattro 5k should REALLY be a 24V unit connected to a 24V battery bank. A 5k inverter is truly too big for a 12V battery bank.
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching! I've got a video of a system that has multiple batteries in it's battery bank here: th-cam.com/video/JMqtVBN26NQ/w-d-xo.html and all of the diagrams at www.explorist.life feature battery banks with multiple batteries.
Oh, gotcha. I would never recommend mixing and matching battery chemistries/voltages into the house battery bank or having two seperate house battery banks; so I won't be doing a video over that. The closest I'll get to that kind of video is talking about DC DC chargers when we charge our house lithium bank from the alternator which is connected to a lead acid or AGM battery bank, that'll be coming up later this summer.
Great video. Thanks. What if you just have a few cheap PWMs laying around, and not some fancy bluetooth gear. Say 2-4 pcs of 30amp 12/24v PWMs that costs 5$ each. How would you go about it?
You should check the user manual to see if there is any documentation on how to do it. If it doesn't say anything, you'll want to contact their customer support for help. If there is no customer support, you'll want to upgrade to a higher quality charger controller that includes this functionality. 👍🙂
@@EXPLORISTlife nah, thats some Chinese low end 1 page highly questionable information. Does work seemingly fine thou. I do use a mppt personally. However, as concept, and reading your video title, it made me wonder..and i do have a stack of pwm laying around. is it straight forward easy or is there a few things that make this not so straight forward? Could one, in theory, just hook up 4 solar panels to each pwm and then each pwm to same battery.. without fire? Or is there a 100% need for an extra part or two? As you might have realised, im not an electrician. So if its a terrible idea, then that's why. Im never in short supply of terrible ideas :)
Ultimately, the charge controllers need to be designed to communicate with each other to charge properly. If they aren't designed for that purpose, they wont charge properly. The degree of 'not charging properly' could vary widely and is not something I'm comfortable offering input on. If you have 4 solar panels, I'd rather see them all connected to one properly sized MPPT charge controller.
Great video I use a redarc manager 30 but find I don't have enough solar and I've maxed out the redarc with 600w of solar panels, could I ad a victron charge controller to the system without causing damage to the redarc,batteries or the new victron?
I have victron 100/30 but they don't have bluetooth all I can do is to spin the wheel to set them up, is there anything else that can be done to make them work together?
Thank you for helping us all confidently build our systems! I have a quick question though. I'm building a system with a similar configuration. Upstream of both charge controllers, can the 2 solar arrays share the same neutral? thank you!
Dude, great video. Which will be your suggestion when I have two battery banks (both 12v, but one has 100ah and second 105ah, both lifepo4). At the moment I have epever controller which supports one battery bank only I cannot wire batteries in series because they have different ah. Another solar panel to second battery bank or a Epever duoracer kinda of approach?
Nate, I understand the need to use a 2 pole breaker between the panel and the charge controller. However don't understand why the 63 AMP instead of sizing the breaker to protect the wiring. Then go add a separate fuse link which seems to duplicate but potentially add resistance to the system, Thanks, Don
Great videos. How do you connect a SmartSolar 100/30 and a BlueSolar 100/50? is that possible or do I have to junk the BlueSolar, it does show up on my Cerbo.
Hi Nate, I have been following you since 2020, you have helped me with my solar/Lithium install on my Airstream. We now have a new trailer with 400W on the roof and a Victron 100/50 CC. I want to add a 400W suitcase with Victron 100/30 CC mounted beside the existing 100/50 CC like you have in this video. Can I wire the CC ground to the existing CC equipment ground, or do I have to use a junction stud?
Would this be a preferred configuration to run a roof mounted system on a travel trailer that also has the option to connect a portable ground solar array?
Why do you have to earth out the controllers, and you you still need to earth out the single controller if uou are only using ? Another great and helpful video
In the event of an internal catastrophic device failure where the positive wire contacts the case of the unit, this equipment ground wire would allow power to flow back to the busbars and would allow the power to flow freely which would allow the fuse protecting the wire from the busbar to the charge controller to trip. This also needs to be connected with a single charge controller. How to wire a single charge controller: th-cam.com/video/XSfu8V0DR1g/w-d-xo.html
Fuses on lynx distributor In previous videos you said that the fuse needs to go on first and then positive wire last but in this video you did positive wire and then fuse last. I just want to make sure I am wiring it correctly. Can you assist?
I don't think it matters to be honest what goes on first as long as there's a secure connection the only difference would be if the lug goes on first your fuse me Lee flat as opposed to putting the fuse on first it may put the fuse at an angle so I would just determine what lays your fuse in a more parallel state between the top lug and the bottom lug for better connection
Great information thanks … a question tho can you charge 1 battery bank with a solar connected to a mppt and a solar connected to a pwm controller? Thanks
Thanks for sharing is it ok if my solar panel array 1 is connected in series and the 2nd array panels are connected in parallel and I got two different brand of solar charge controller is it possible to use ? By the way those two solar charge controller are both MPPT
You show the example of pairing the solar controllers together to work/communicate with each other. I have a Victron 100/30 attached to a 190 watt panel on the roof. I also have a 200 watt suitcase panel that connects to the battery bank with an Anderson plug, but has it's own GoSolar charge controller attached to the back. Is there a way to make it communicate with my Victron components? Thanks for all the information you provide. I love your channel!!
Excellent video! I plant to install a victron 250V/60 with 5 400w panels in series. Do you have the like for the double pole brakers and the plastic cable enclosure? Thanks
Great video, thanks! Can you do this with two different brand charge controllers? I have a suitcase solar panel that I will only use occasionally and I have a spare charge controller but it is a different make than the one in my trailer. Thanks again.
I have a Victron 24V system (inverter, charge controller, battery) My array is 9 - 400W panels for a potential 3,600 watts. I've noticed a max usage of 2,500 watts from my system and read that the controller nominal PV input is 2,400watts. Could I install a second charge controller with some of the panels as a second array to use more PV power, closer to the 3,600? Thanks
Hi Nate, Mate, your tutorials are awesome. Nate you mention in this tutorial the need for multiple charge controls if your array exceeds a single controller. What if i have a 100/30 and increase my battery size so the i now need more than 30. Let’s say i need 60amp. Can i introduce a second 100/30 (in parallel or series) to get the required 60amp or will i need to upgrade to a 150/75? Would really appreciate your insight. I image two 30amp controllers one would cancel out the other as one would see 30amp in or will VRM allow me to override or set both units to 30amp each?
Nice Video! I’m just absolut to do this installation! I wan’t to expand this installation with 12V waterheater as a dumpload when batteries are fully charged! Do you know how to connect that, is it possible to connect both MPPT to one heater or do need two? Or can I choose!?!? Regards Raz
Super video. Thanks. One question, can you use different sizes of mppt smartcontrollers, or do they need to be the same. For example i have a 100/50 and i want to het a second array but smaller. Can i get a 100/30. Or does that also need to be a 100/50
Is the lynx distributer necessary in a mobile application? Let’s say I’m on a budget, want to start with two victron 100/20 mppt controllers but also plan to scale up slowly from there.
Hi Nate, assuming the battery can only take a max of 50 amps charging current but the two MPPTs here output a total of 60 amps in parallel, how do you configure the max charging current to be under the limit when you have two MPPTs?
Would you mind sharing what software you are using to create your wiring diagrams? I would like to make one specific to my application and components and cant seem to find anything like this. Are you drawing it in PowerPoint with inserted photos or is there actual software to do this kind of drawing? Thanks, love your videos!
Can I plug two separate solar panels (1x250w and 1x200w blankets) into an auxiliary battery box using two Anderson connects with the two MTTP regulators?
Hi Nate, I have two Victron charge controllers installed, 150/60 & 100/30. I will be installing a Victron Smart Battery Sense. Will I be able to program the Battery Sense to both charge controllers? Keith
Hello Nate, Just the info I've been looking for. Just one thing I haven't found an answer to with the Smart Solar VE-CAN, With the VE-CAN and the VE-Direct connection to the CCGX can you use either the VE-CAN or the VE-Direct or must both be connected. Currently I am only able to view todays data on the CCGX. There is no 30 day History. I haven't checked the bit rate yet ,I think that should be set at 250 bit/s
Do I need to use the VE direct cables? What purpose do they serve if the Bluetooth connects them all together. Are they for communication to the cerbo?
They won't communicate if they are different brands and may fight when it comes to coordinating their charging voltages and absorption times. You can use different sizes of Victron controllers in the same system, though.
Hi great content i am form england i have 2 smart controllers connected on my 12v battery bank should i also link the controllers together i do not have a smart shunt barry
I had no idea how slick the Victron gear was until I saw your series of videos on the subject. They have a whole ecosystem.
At 8:27 you mention connecting to the Victron Smart Shunt. Im so glad you mentioned this tidbit- I'll use it to maximize efficiency of my two serial arrays/2 MPPT controllers.
Hey Richard Musante, No problem! Glad it helped! :)
You explanation and attention to detail is amazing. Thank you.
Hey elliot330, No problem! Glad it helped! :)
Best Victron tutorial youtube channel, beter than Victron self, greetings from Holland. After seeing your videos I switched to Victron
very clean and clear. I noticed it because it looked identical to mine - the wiring guard. I am still in the middle of my build and watch everything I can to ensure I have not forgotten anythig.
Great video. I would've been afraid that the charge controllers would work against each other and back-feed power into one another, but then I realized that they can't because if they could the battery would back-feed power into them when the sun is not shining.
I just converted my entire system from cheap to Victron, and what a dream!
I just saw the vid and had similar observations.. Thing is, observed the volts on array #1 at about 41V and array #2 at 19V. . Same question about the back feed by the arrray #1 into arry #2 at its lower voltage maybe causing something to short out. Can anyone clarify ?
@@MegaErs123 I had basically the same thing in the charge controllers were fighting each other
Love this, I have a 400 watt system with an MPPT and I want to duplicate that on my new build and add them both together in an integrated fashion, and this is clearly a very clean answer to that dilemma.
Thanks!
I appreciate it! Glad the video was helpful.
I love the way the fuses turn themselves around so they are in the same orientation. Clever stuff! Great video though!
I thought my eyes were playing tricks on me and blinked a few times. I just rewatched it and saw the magic happen. 4:16 into the video for those curious.
I found this very helpful, and have used your previous Solar Disconnect instruction video for solar at a cabin I have. This particular video will be part of my plan when adding a few 320W panels to my boat. Really clear, and concise. Appreciate you taking the time to do this.
Glad it helped!
@@EXPLORISTlife i need diagram of how to wire 2 charge controller
THANK YOU, THANK YOU ,THANK YOU .THIS IS THE SIMPLE SYSTEM I HAVE BEEN SEARCHING FOR ALL MY LIFE .
No problem. Happy to help!
Briefly and clearly illustrated. Thanks.
Hi - I never comment on videos, but i discovered your channel this weekend - and its been an absolute revelation... i was self teaching my way through a solar design, and your videos and tools have made a lot of the 'fuzzy' areas super clear. thanks so much ! absolutely awesome job ! I'm going into my particular design with 100% confidence, where i was unsure on certain things before :)
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
@@EXPLORISTlifeyou only have 2 connections left on that distributor, where would you put the connection for the inverter, AC panel and DC panel? Could you put two connections on one nut?
@@willyum1208 you can chain Lynx Distributors together.
@@willyum1208 The Lynx distributor is only for 12V devices. The inverters 12v lines would use the first two positions ( + and -), leaving the other two for some other 12V device or feed.
Excellent Tutorial. Got me excited about doing more Victron Installs!
Hey, Carl Sgambelluri! I appreciate that. Thanks for watching! 🙂😀
Thank you, Thank you, I am very impressed with your teaching, I appreciate your time and effort
Hey exp1278, Thanks so much! Cheers!
thanks for the nice video and especially a thanks for the shunt nugget, pure gold... didn't know you could network it up, they all just say you can use it to show the usage and voltages but now it really makes sense to get the smartshunt instead of a dumbshunt even though it is quite pricey.
Hey Jesper Andersen, No problem! Glad it helped! :)
Thanks,I was looking for the answer for this subject, you just help me a lot, thanks 👍☮️
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
Great info I've seen a number of your videos I'm using 2 controller but just setting each one using the controllers them selves it's a much more frugal set up but your video is very informative thanks
Extremely helpful and thorough :-)
really great work Chad.
Your channel and knowledge are amazing 🙏
This is awesome. I will be doing this soon to my Rv.
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
I love your videos..thanks very much..best regards . Daniel from Croatia
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
Great video I am bumping the voltage max and looking to add another controller and split my array in stead of replacing current controller
Excellent! just what I was looking for Thanks!
Glad it helped!
Does one of your Videos already show how to take full advantage of vehicle alternators?
We’ve got a 400a Alternator that isn’t being taken full advantage of and would love to see a video by you about such adaptations.
Thank you!!!
Great video , thank you. I'm to connect 2* 100/50 right now
Pretty easy to understand, thanks, of course to your presentation method. Ran it to a little hiccup in using the tool to size the CC. One panel recommendation using EZ is 100/30, using detailed it’s 100/50. Fine, purchased the latter.
The problem arises in that I’ve purchased TWO of the same panels, instead of the One (intended). Using the Sizing Tool, it recommends 150/60 (EZ) or 150/85 (detailed).
HUGE Price difference !
If I just bought another 100/50, would that serve my purposes just as well, though I suppose each panel would come in through roof independently. But, it would be A Lot cheaper to buy a second 100/50.
Though, I wouldn’t benefit from the Smart Shunt, because I got an Alii. 😫
Excellent! Thanks for your video.
Been trying to figure this stuff out for ages and just found you.
Legend 👍👍👍👍🇦🇺
Your videos are clear and to the point. I have two Renogy 400 watt arrays and two Victron charge controllers. I was wondering the proper way to set them up. Question, do I need to use the Victron shunt to make sure everything is compatible? I do have a Xantrex 3000 watt inverter charger and one liTime 300AH battery. It works with the one controller. Haven't set up the second one yet.
Informative, additional knowledge thankz you sir...
Really professional work and tutorials, enjoying ur vids, great job, thanks
Thanks so much for watching! Cheers!
Another great video...he does it again 👏
Hey, thanks so much! Cheers! 👍😀
Great video with clear instructions.
However, is the outgoing equipment earth from the stud double the size of the 2 incoming or is that not required?
Just wanted to say thank you for all of the efforts in creating this content. Super helpful and the website is gold. Finally getting close to being able to convert my RV and the details you've shared go a long way!
I need this in my life
Glad it was helpful. Cheers!
Another great video, fantastic explanation as always, I've a question about 48v battery banks.
I'm setting up a 48v off grid system, using all Victron products, you've explained everything perfectly so far, very useful. but, I'm a bit stumped about balancing the batteries, at this stage I'm planning on using on using Victron Super Cell Lead batteries, I'm not not convinced about lithium yet, anyway, I'd love a video showing how to connect the Victron battery balancers, it's clear how to set it up for 12v, 48v banks need 3 balancers, given the cost of all this equipment, I'd like to get it right the first time. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE do a video 🙂
Great video. Is it OK to connect a wind generator to a solar mppt?
Thank you for the video. What about victrons with Load outputs? Can you parallel those?
We don’t really utilize those in our system designs, so those can be ignored.
Great instructional video.
Super video, thank you 😊
Hi Nate.
Is this the best way if you have a solar blanket connected to the system when main panels are parked in the shade?
Do the controllers need to be the same size if the solar blanket is smaller?
Thanks you
Soooo clear. Thank you 🙏
Glad it was helpful!
Great simple explanation!
Hey Eric F, Thanks so much! Cheers!
Hey Nate, does this setup also work if the mppts are different? For example, can I connect a 100/20 mppt and a 75/10 mppt to the same distributer?
Kind regards,
Flint
Yep!
@@EXPLORISTlife Thanks, and extra thanks for such a fast reply!
Hi,
Thank you for your great videos, Is there a reason to use a fuse instead of a breaker ?
Yes. The fuse fits in the Lynx Distributor. A breaker will not fit in the Lynx Distributor.
Thnx a lot for your clear video, I want to combine a victron smart MPPT with a the not so smart smart victron Orion TR using the VE networking. What can I do to prevent the orion from thinking the battery is full and stop charging with 30 amps while the MPPT continues charging with the solar on the roof of the camper van at a low charge rate.
At the moment, there is no way to 'officially' make them communicate and synchronize their charging efforts. That said; in our recent installs, and to my surprise, I've often been getting full charging wattage from both my Orion & my MPPT's natively without having them communicate.
Unexpected result, but a win is a win.
@@EXPLORISTlife interesting, I also get this for say max one hour and then the orion goes into trickle charge. The only solution I have now is turn off the MPPT charge controller.. The victron bluetooth dongle seems to support VE networking but thats probably not going to work on the Orion
There's nowhere to plug in a bluetootth dongle into the Orion; so nope, that will not work.
@@EXPLORISTlife Did you do anything special in your settings like putting absorption time longer or different voltage settings? thnx
Great video. I noticed you put the positive wire on on first and then the fuse. Can you put the wire on first and then the fuse. Where connect to the victron distribution
Excellent videos, Thank you. I did notice that you are hooking all the charge controller equipment grounds to the negative battery buss. Is that necessary?
Yes.
Excellent video! Is there any odd penalty for using different size controllers? Thanks!
No issues, no.
@@EXPLORISTlife Thank you!
Nate, you are a hero! I have designed an off-grid solar system for my sailboat based on this video. However, I am confused with one thing only. The ground wire from the Victron charger/inverter (Quattro 12/5000) is going to the Lynx Distributor (sharing AC to DC?), is that the case? I hope, I get a reply. (Abaid from Nova Scotia, Canada).
That's not the case, no. Only the DC negative and equipment ground is going to the Lynx Distributor.
@@EXPLORISTlife Hi Nate, I appreciate a very swift response. Kindly let me know, how can I get a review of my design document (a Visio diagram exported to PNG graphic), and get the errors corrected? I am willing to pay a fee for this review.
That is no longer a service I offer. Instead, I recommend using the diagrams I have pre-assembled at www.explorist.life/solarwiringdiagrams and shop.explorist.life/product-category/all-products/plans-and-diagrams/solar-wiring-diagrams/
I will say, though, that the quattro 5k should REALLY be a 24V unit connected to a 24V battery bank. A 5k inverter is truly too big for a 12V battery bank.
@@EXPLORISTlife awesome, thank you. 👍
Thank you for sharing. I would like to ask can I connect multiple controllers to one PV array?
Nope. You'd want to split the array up into multiple arrays to each be charged by it's own charge controller.
Now we're talking! I love your channel! Victron for life! Can you do a multiple battery bank system video? Do I use btb 12to12/24to24?
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching! I've got a video of a system that has multiple batteries in it's battery bank here: th-cam.com/video/JMqtVBN26NQ/w-d-xo.html and all of the diagrams at www.explorist.life feature battery banks with multiple batteries.
@@EXPLORISTlife I meen lithium battery's of one sort and lead of another sort for example.
Oh, gotcha. I would never recommend mixing and matching battery chemistries/voltages into the house battery bank or having two seperate house battery banks; so I won't be doing a video over that.
The closest I'll get to that kind of video is talking about DC DC chargers when we charge our house lithium bank from the alternator which is connected to a lead acid or AGM battery bank, that'll be coming up later this summer.
Excellent videos!
Hey Kiko Johnson, Thanks so much! Cheers!
Great video. Thanks.
What if you just have a few cheap PWMs laying around, and not some fancy bluetooth gear. Say 2-4 pcs of 30amp 12/24v PWMs that costs 5$ each. How would you go about it?
You should check the user manual to see if there is any documentation on how to do it. If it doesn't say anything, you'll want to contact their customer support for help. If there is no customer support, you'll want to upgrade to a higher quality charger controller that includes this functionality. 👍🙂
@@EXPLORISTlife nah, thats some Chinese low end 1 page highly questionable information. Does work seemingly fine thou. I do use a mppt personally. However, as concept, and reading your video title, it made me wonder..and i do have a stack of pwm laying around. is it straight forward easy or is there a few things that make this not so straight forward? Could one, in theory, just hook up 4 solar panels to each pwm and then each pwm to same battery.. without fire? Or is there a 100% need for an extra part or two? As you might have realised, im not an electrician. So if its a terrible idea, then that's why. Im never in short supply of terrible ideas :)
Ultimately, the charge controllers need to be designed to communicate with each other to charge properly. If they aren't designed for that purpose, they wont charge properly. The degree of 'not charging properly' could vary widely and is not something I'm comfortable offering input on. If you have 4 solar panels, I'd rather see them all connected to one properly sized MPPT charge controller.
@@EXPLORISTlife yea, sounds fair.. was just wondering. :)
Great video I use a redarc manager 30 but find I don't have enough solar and I've maxed out the redarc with 600w of solar panels, could I ad a victron charge controller to the system without causing damage to the redarc,batteries or the new victron?
Even I understood this video, great job.
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
I have victron 100/30 but they don't have bluetooth all I can do is to spin the wheel to set them up, is there anything else that can be done to make them work together?
Thank you for helping us all confidently build our systems! I have a quick question though. I'm building a system with a similar configuration. Upstream of both charge controllers, can the 2 solar arrays share the same neutral? thank you!
Nope.
@@EXPLORISTlife Pin Q&A! =)
Dude, great video.
Which will be your suggestion when I have two battery banks (both 12v, but one has 100ah and second 105ah, both lifepo4).
At the moment I have epever controller which supports one battery bank only I cannot wire batteries in series because they have different ah.
Another solar panel to second battery bank or a Epever duoracer kinda of approach?
Nate, I understand the need to use a 2 pole breaker between the panel and the charge controller. However don't understand why the 63 AMP instead of sizing the breaker to protect the wiring. Then go add a separate fuse link which seems to duplicate but potentially add resistance to the system, Thanks, Don
Great videos. How do you connect a SmartSolar 100/30 and a BlueSolar 100/50? is that possible or do I have to junk the BlueSolar, it does show up on my Cerbo.
Hi Nate, I have been following you since 2020, you have helped me with my solar/Lithium install on my Airstream. We now have a new trailer with 400W on the roof and a Victron 100/50 CC. I want to add a 400W suitcase with Victron 100/30 CC mounted beside the existing 100/50 CC like you have in this video. Can I wire the CC ground to the existing CC equipment ground, or do I have to use a junction stud?
Would this be a preferred configuration to run a roof mounted system on a travel trailer that also has the option to connect a portable ground solar array?
Yep! Very much so.
Why do you have to earth out the controllers, and you you still need to earth out the single controller if uou are only using ?
Another great and helpful video
In the event of an internal catastrophic device failure where the positive wire contacts the case of the unit, this equipment ground wire would allow power to flow back to the busbars and would allow the power to flow freely which would allow the fuse protecting the wire from the busbar to the charge controller to trip.
This also needs to be connected with a single charge controller. How to wire a single charge controller: th-cam.com/video/XSfu8V0DR1g/w-d-xo.html
Thanks for help, keep up the great videos it helps alot
Where exactly can I purchase the wiring channel your using in this video to keep you area clean and neat ?
Fuses on lynx distributor
In previous videos you said that the fuse needs to go on first and then positive wire last but in this video you did positive wire and then fuse last. I just want to make sure I am wiring it correctly. Can you assist?
Yes I was thinking the same thing...Very confusing.
I don't think it matters to be honest what goes on first as long as there's a secure connection the only difference would be if the lug goes on first your fuse me Lee flat as opposed to putting the fuse on first it may put the fuse at an angle so I would just determine what lays your fuse in a more parallel state between the top lug and the bottom lug for better connection
Would you mind sharing a link to your DC breaker box you used here from the arrays? thanks
Go to explorist.life and look under how to wire a solar disconnect. It's listed further down.
@@KentFleshman the one used in this video is not the same one he shows in the article. This one is bigger
The exact box I showed is no longer available. The box linked in the video description is a very similar replacement.
Great information thanks … a question tho can you charge 1 battery bank with a solar connected to a mppt and a solar connected to a pwm controller? Thanks
A victron PWM and Victron MPPT will not communicate like shown in this video.
@@EXPLORISTlife but can you use them both on the same battery on separate solar panels
@@EXPLORISTlife but can you use them both on the same battery on separate solar panels
Thanks for sharing is it ok if my solar panel array 1 is connected in series and the 2nd array panels are connected in parallel and I got two different brand of solar charge controller is it possible to use ? By the way those two solar charge controller are both MPPT
You show the example of pairing the solar controllers together to work/communicate with each other. I have a Victron 100/30 attached to a 190 watt panel on the roof. I also have a 200 watt suitcase panel that connects to the battery bank with an Anderson plug, but has it's own GoSolar charge controller attached to the back. Is there a way to make it communicate with my Victron components? Thanks for all the information you provide. I love your channel!!
There's not, no.
Excellent video! I plant to install a victron 250V/60 with 5 400w panels in series. Do you have the like for the double pole brakers and the plastic cable enclosure? Thanks
Where do you talk about mega fuze sizing feeding battery to the charge controller? Thanks.
Great video, thanks! Can you do this with two different brand charge controllers? I have a suitcase solar panel that I will only use occasionally and I have a spare charge controller but it is a different make than the one in my trailer. Thanks again.
I have a Victron 24V system (inverter, charge controller, battery) My array is 9 - 400W panels for a potential 3,600 watts. I've noticed a max usage of 2,500 watts from my system and read that the controller nominal PV input is 2,400watts. Could I install a second charge controller with some of the panels as a second array to use more PV power, closer to the 3,600? Thanks
Hi Nate, Mate, your tutorials are awesome. Nate you mention in this tutorial the need for multiple charge controls if your array exceeds a single controller. What if i have a 100/30 and increase my battery size so the i now need more than 30. Let’s say i need 60amp. Can i introduce a second 100/30 (in parallel or series) to get the required 60amp or will i need to upgrade to a 150/75? Would really appreciate your insight. I image two 30amp controllers one would cancel out the other as one would see 30amp in or will VRM allow me to override or set both units to 30amp each?
Nice Video!
I’m just absolut to do this installation!
I wan’t to expand this installation with 12V waterheater as a dumpload when batteries are fully charged!
Do you know how to connect that, is it possible to connect both MPPT to one heater or do need two? Or can I choose!?!?
Regards
Raz
One more Q: do you use ANT protection against deep discharge of the batteries or is that in included in this Equipment!?!?
is it possible to connect one array to two chargers
Super video. Thanks. One question, can you use different sizes of mppt smartcontrollers, or do they need to be the same. For example i have a 100/50 and i want to het a second array but smaller. Can i get a 100/30. Or does that also need to be a 100/50
They can be different. :)
Fantastic ....just what i needed to know
Is the lynx distributer necessary in a mobile application? Let’s say I’m on a budget, want to start with two victron 100/20 mppt controllers but also plan to scale up slowly from there.
Thanks Nate, do MPPT controllers get hot can they be put inside a waterproof box
They can get hot, yes. It's recommended that the charge controllers have adequate ventilation; which a 100% waterproof box would likely not have.
Do you have a video on two or more invertors install?
Nice vid! Question - can load terminals be used (with MPPTs that have them ofc) if there's 2 MPPTs connected in parallel?
I don't see why not.
Hi Nate, assuming the battery can only take a max of 50 amps charging current but the two MPPTs here output a total of 60 amps in parallel, how do you configure the max charging current to be under the limit when you have two MPPTs?
Would you mind sharing what software you are using to create your wiring diagrams? I would like to make one specific to my application and components and cant seem to find anything like this. Are you drawing it in PowerPoint with inserted photos or is there actual software to do this kind of drawing? Thanks, love your videos!
Sure! I use Microsoft Visio for all of my diagrams / illustrations.
Will the Victron dongle pick up both controllers though only plugged into one controller?
Can I plug two separate solar panels (1x250w and 1x200w blankets) into an auxiliary battery box using two Anderson connects with the two MTTP regulators?
Great video as usual. Why would I use the lynx distributer vs. the lynx power in. Big price difference.
Will have a video out next month comparing the two. :)
Very good information nice video one question how can I know the voltage input of a charge control
Hi Nate, I have two Victron charge controllers installed, 150/60 & 100/30. I will be installing a Victron Smart Battery Sense. Will I be able to program the Battery Sense to both charge controllers? Keith
Good info.
Thanks! 🙂🙌
Hello Nate, Just the info I've been looking for. Just one thing I haven't found an answer to with the Smart Solar VE-CAN, With the VE-CAN and the VE-Direct connection to the CCGX can you use either the VE-CAN or the VE-Direct or must both be connected. Currently I am only able to view todays data on the CCGX. There is no 30 day History. I haven't checked the bit rate yet ,I think that should be set at 250 bit/s
Do I need to use the VE direct cables? What purpose do they serve if the Bluetooth connects them all together. Are they for communication to the cerbo?
Cerbo communications, yes.
Have used 2 solar charge controllers to charge my battery bank dose all the setting have to be the same on both charge controllers
Very nice.. So can I mix controllers..? I have a couple of 40a Blue Sky controllers (both not in use) and one Victron 150\85 controller.
They won't communicate if they are different brands and may fight when it comes to coordinating their charging voltages and absorption times. You can use different sizes of Victron controllers in the same system, though.
@@EXPLORISTlife Thanx.. I didn't think so. I have several Victron products.. Cerbo, touch 50, BMS 712 smart, 150\85.. I'll stick with all Victron.
Hey mate, just wondering what you've used to connect the negative between the two charge controllers and the Lynx? Thanks heaps.
Hi, how do you size the fuses to put in the Lynx Distributor?
do the solar charge controllers have to be the same, can I have a 100/15 with a 100/30??? Thanks for the informative videos!!!!
They don't have to be the same size, no.
@@EXPLORISTlife Many Thanks for the Victron info!!!
Hi great content i am form england i have 2 smart controllers connected on my 12v battery bank should i also link the controllers together i do not have a smart shunt barry
I'm interested in building an uninterruptable supply (for computers and such). Can I mix a solar charger and a line-powered charger?