Joined
·
194 Posts
I have been researching expandable solar power systems and have a few questions for anyone who is familiar with them. If I'm understanding correctly the order the equipment goes is ... Panel to disconnect to charge controller to monitor to batteries to inverter to grid panel box or extension cord. If there are more steps I can't find them on line.
The questions are
1) Does the charge controller keep the batteries from overcharging or is that why there's a disconnect box? Or is it even possible for a battery to overcharge?
2) Each time I add an 80W - 100W panel do I also need to add 3 more 12v Deep Cycle batteries?
3) I'm thinking of having the batteries in a box on my enclosed (unheated) back porch, will freezing temps harm them?
4) How do you tell how charged the batteries are? The monitor?
5) If the system is hooked into the grid panel box would I loose all power when the grid goes down or could I still run on the batteries?
6) Are there any brands that you feel comfortable recommending?
I know these probably seem like stupid questions but just because I can picture how it's put together doesn't mean I have any idea whatsoever on how it works. :dunno: Help please.
The questions are
1) Does the charge controller keep the batteries from overcharging or is that why there's a disconnect box? Or is it even possible for a battery to overcharge?
2) Each time I add an 80W - 100W panel do I also need to add 3 more 12v Deep Cycle batteries?
3) I'm thinking of having the batteries in a box on my enclosed (unheated) back porch, will freezing temps harm them?
4) How do you tell how charged the batteries are? The monitor?
5) If the system is hooked into the grid panel box would I loose all power when the grid goes down or could I still run on the batteries?
6) Are there any brands that you feel comfortable recommending?
I know these probably seem like stupid questions but just because I can picture how it's put together doesn't mean I have any idea whatsoever on how it works. :dunno: Help please.