Wiring up Solar Panel - what’s best way

[DAVWOD]

Hi all Funsters

I’m replacing my old Solar Mat ( defunct) with a Panel type with an intelligent regulator.
My question is the existing wiring means it charges the engine battery first then Hab battery.

The Auto Electrcian here in Spain suggested The Habitation takes presidence and disconnect the connection to the engine battery that way it will stay fully charged.

My old Solar Mat was a 110 he suggested a 160 w

Any thoughts ?

 

[Lenny HB]

Hab battery should always take presidence, as that is the one you are taking the bulk of your power from. The only reason to charge the engine battery is to keep it topped up when the vehicle is standing.

As for size of solar panel, you can never have too much. I have 300 watts of panels. Also buy a solar regulator larger than you need then it will be easy to add extra panels if required. Some of the best MPPT regulators are the Votronic & the Victron, I have a Votronic.

 

[SomeoneElse]

I thought long and hard about this, if there is plenty of sun then it doesn’t matter as they will both be charged. You need to consider the situation of minimal sun which battery would you like charged. I considered it was more important to be able to start the engine.
I went to be safe in the worst case, but you need to make your own decision.

 

[Figaro]

The thing is, whilst the van is in use your cab battery doesn't have much drain whereas your hab battery does.
Depends how long your van is unused I suppose.

 

[DBK]

Fit a BatteryMaster or a similar device and you get the best of both worlds. The hab battery will be charged but the vehicle battery topped up if it needs it.

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[DAVWOD]

Thanks for the reply’s .. I ‘m sort of in between what to do . I have a battery booster should the Cab battery goes flat.
The regulator is as important reading your reply’s as mentioned adding a panel.
I have thought of a generator but then think about your fellow neighbours.

Thanks again guys

 

[Stealaway]

Twin battery charge controller might be the best solution.

 

[DAVWOD]

Quick update. I’ve had a160 watt Panel fitted with a dual regulator whereas l can add an extra battery / Panel if needed , also l can adjust the percentage of charge to cab / Hab battery.
See how things go...