Building for off grid

[Revolvor]

Thanks for replies.have done bit homework and ctek d250 se is upgraded from ctek d250s.
without sounding stupid if I fit this ctek d250se which is 20a B2b what is my best option for buyin solar bearing in mind will be using inverter for some thing’s

If you buy the CTEK D250SE, you do not need an additional B2B, or Solar controller as it already incorporates a B2B and MPPT Solar Controller.

See post #29 above.

If you want to avoid a combined unit, for reasons advised above, then buy a Victron or Votronic MPPT Solar controller and Victron or Votronic B2B.

 

[autorouter]

The D250SE has an B2B input for the alternator/starter battery, and a separate input for the solar panels. If at some later date you get panels that are too much for the D250SE, you can just get a separate solar controller and connect it straight to the leisure batteries.

If the solar controller in the D250SE can output 20A into the leisure battery, then it can handle at least 250W of solar panel, probably 300W.

If you are thinking of large panels you need to be careful of the voltage limit. Check that the Open Circuit Voltage (Voc) of the panel is less than about 27V. The smaller '12V' panels will be OK. The larger '24V' panels often have voltages of 35V or more, and are probably not suitable. You could fit two or more small panels in parallel, the voltage stays the same, the amps add together.

 

[Johnnny]

Thanks very much for clearing it up as I said I not clued up on b2b or solar
So basically if I fit ctek d250se which is solar compatible I don't need mppt controller just get a solar kit and wire through b2b. I'm fine with combined unit as probably hardly use it but would like the option and hopefully will charge battery over summer without having to remove it
Thanks

 

[Revolvor]

From the Road Pro website.

"The D250SE is designed for use with solar panels rated at up to 300W but won't be damaged if a larger panel is connected – as long as the voltage from the panel is no more than 23V.

Connecting a larger panel is actually a good way of compensating for poor perfomance on cloudy days!"

 

[Revolvor]

Thanks very much for clearing it up as I said I not clued up on b2b or solar
So basically if I fit ctek d250se which is solar compatible I don't need mppt controller just get a solar kit and wire through b2b. I'm fine with combined unit as probably hardly use it but would like the option and hopefully will charge battery over summer without having to remove it
Thanks

Yes, that is correct.

This is how my D250s is wired in.

I also fitted a Vanbitz Battery Master, to charge the Cab battery, as it is more efficient than the D250s.

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[autorouter]

Thanks but yes would be using inverter for tv kettle and stuff. Heater is diesel night heater. Biggest problem is my fridge only electric not connected to gas

I think 200W of solar is about the minimum for keeping a compressor fridge powered. That won't leave much for everything else, especially an inverter running a kettle.

 

[Lenny HB]

I think 200W of solar is about the minimum for keeping a compressor fridge powered. That won't leave much for everything else, especially an inverter running a kettle.

It's a 3 way fridge running on 12v is what I understand from an eairler post very inefficient.

 

[Lenny HB]

would be using inverter for tv kettle and stuff.

Forget running the kettle from an inverter unless you are going to fit a couple more batteries and a lot more solar.
A 12v TV will be a lot more efficient.

Dometic fridge works off liesure battery and also connected starter battery for when driving
Not connected to gas
Was fitted like that when bought the van

If it is a 3 way fridge that is the least efficient way to run it and it will soon flatten your batteries. Much better to plumb the gas in.

 

[Johnnny]

Ok taking note of all advice thanks
Can anyone recommend supplier of decent solar panel 150_200w single panel complete with fixing kit and cables and without mppt controller as I now understand
Should maybe have started another thread but info I need already here
Cheers

 

[Lenny HB]

Have a look at Photonic Universe for solar.

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[Pugsy]

Alpha batteries is another company to look at, i have 2x150w panels from them.

 

[mitzimad]

180 w of solar and 180ah of battery and weve never lost power in 5 years but we do have gas for the fridge weve now changed to 110ah of lithium and still have run out

 

[mitzimad]

so many on here are running huge gin palaces and will recomend equipment that could well be worth more than your van

 

[Johnnny]

Thanks for all advice.have ordered ctek d250se and will hopefully fit this weekend then have a look at compatible solar panel.to be honest if only away for 1 or 2 nights could manage without fridge on electric.
also got gas cooker so would just be telly and water pump as can use gas for kettle
solar is more for me to charge battery over summer when van parked as I remove in winter and trickle charge
but would be nice to have option to off grid.even though she won’t like it
so be me and the dog lol