Choosing a solar charge controller for boats and yachts
Charge controllers for boats - specific considerations
Choosing a solar panel charge controller for boats and yachts can be challenging due to the unique considerations of damp and shade in a marine setting. This article covers the key considerations for solar charge controllers for boats in terms of water protection, shading issues and how to monitor the solar panel system.
Water protection
Conditions on a boat are typically damp, therefore choose an a controller with an IP rating of IPX4 and above unless it is installed in a very dry location. For more exposed locations such as deck lockers IPX7 would be recommended.
Explanation
Waterproof ratings are classified internationally as Ingress Protection (IP) ratings, for example IP54. The first number is in relation to dust and the second water. The higher the number the greater the protection.
Shading on yachts
Conditions on yachts are often shaded with booms, masts, stays, sails etc. If you choose more than one panel, having a seperate charge controller for each solar panel is beneficial. It makes the solar system work more effectively when one panel is shaded. Also if one solar system fails, you still have power from the other solar system(s). Having a backup solar system may be important if you are sailing offshore or in remote locations. Always select an MPPT charge controller since they optimise output in shade conditions.
Monitoring your marine solar system
Charge controllers for boats are often installed in an inconvenient location where it is difficult to read the controller display, therefore chose a solar charger controller without a screen. Then choose a convenient display option – a shunt based display – see option 4 in the diagram.
If you are happy with monitoring the system on your phone, desktop or tablet bluetooth may be better.
Integrated bluetooth
Bluetooth integrated into the solar charge controller for display on your phone.
Bluetooth module
For controllers which don’t include integrated bluetooth, these plug into the main display to send a bluetooth signal to your phone.
Many controllers have a choice of bluetooth module OR remote display.
Remote display
Remote displays plug into your solar charge controller and the remote display is installed in a convenient location.
Some remote displays also transmit a bluetooth signal so can be used with your phone as well.
Remote control
