Does off-grid solar confuse you? Check out my DIY friendly website for solar system packages and product recommendations, and so much more! www.mobile-solarpower.com Join our DIY solar community! #1 largest solar forum on the internet for beginners and professionals alike: www.diysolarforum.com Check out my best-selling, beginner-friendly 12V off-grid solar book (affiliate link): amzn.to/2Aj4dX4 If DIY is not for you, but you love solar and need an offgrid system, check out Tesla Solar. Low prices and great warranty, and they can take your entire house offgrid with their new Powerwalls: ts.la/william57509 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ My solar equipment recommendations (Constantly updated! Check here first): 12V/48V Lithium Batteries: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solar-batteries.html Solar System Component Directory: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solarcomponents.html Plug-N-Play Systems: www.mobile-solarpower.com/full-size-systems.html Complete 48V System Kits: www.mobile-solarpower.com/complete-48v-solar-kits.html DIY Friendly Air Conditioner/ Heat Pumps: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solar-friendly-air-conditioners.html Complete 48V System Blueprint: www.mobile-solarpower.com/48v-complete-system-blueprint.html ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ My Favorite Online Stores for DIY Solar and Coupon Codes: -Current Connected: SOK, Victron and High Quality Components. Best prices and warranty around: currentconnected.com/?ref=wp -Signature Solar: Cheap Server Rack Batteries and Large Solar Panels: www.signaturesolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek -Ecoflow Delta Official Site: My favorite plug-n-play solar generator: us.ecoflow.com/?aff=7 -AmpereTime: Cheapest 12V batteries around: amperetime.com/products/ampere-time-12v-100ah-lithium-lifepo4-battery?ref=h-cvbzfahsek -Rich Solar: Mega site and cheaper prices than renogy! Check them out: richsolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek -Shop Solar Kits: Huge site with every solar kit you can imagine! Check it out: shopsolarkits.com/?ref=will-p -Battery Hookup: Cheap cell deals bit.ly/2mIxSqt 10% off code: diysolar -Watts 24/7: Best deals on all-in-one solar power systems, with customer support and distribution here in the USA: watts247.com/?wpam_id=3 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Contact Information: I am NOT available for personal solar system consult! If you wish to contact me, this is my direct email: williamprowsediysolar@gmail.com Join the forum at diysolarforum.com/ if you wish to hang out with myself and others and talk about solar FTC Disclosure Statement and Disclaimers: Every video includes some form of paid promotion or sponsorship. Some links on this youtube channel may be affiliate links. We may get paid if you buy something or take an action after clicking one of these. My videos are for educational purposes only. Information is subject to change/update at any time. Electricity is DANGEROUS and can kill. Be smart and use common sense :) DIY Solar Power with Will Prowse is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, An affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

@noko1783

Жыл бұрын

Hi will this is a long shot but here it goes I've bought the 2000w inverter charger from renogy and I've reversed the polarity from the input output terminals and it sparked and smelt burnt. I had just installed it and now the alarm won't go off I'm so annoyed by my mistake any help would greatly appreciated 🙏 love all you videos 👍

@jasonv2203

Жыл бұрын

I’m surprised you do not have this renogy running with the new RENOGY smart LFP battery? Can you make one please?

@fizzlechat3672

Жыл бұрын

Learned more here than from the Renogy video! Thanks! :)

@robertdion6578

Жыл бұрын

12:55

@ricksteruk

11 ай бұрын

I've just bought one of these for my van. The 50A version. The manual says on Page 18 that the max solar input voltage is 30V for the 30A version and 50V for the 50A version. Then later on Page 33 it says the Solar over-voltage protection will shut off solar at 30.5V and switch back on lower than 29.5V for the 30A model, and switch off at 50.5V and switch back on below 49.5V. Maybe I have a newer version ( The manual is dated Feb 2023 Revision B1 ). I have a couple of 23 volt panels so I will test them in series and see if they will work! That would be better if it works in series and save a little power loss from the cable runs.

This Dude is so legit on all his videos and has just great reviews and has helped me with all my solar questions.

@user_abuser_o7

2 жыл бұрын

For real, I mean I still suck at this but I feel a little smarter every time I watch one of these and they're very well done

@scottfreedoms9584

Жыл бұрын

Yeah, this man makes great and USEFUL content.

Im so proud of you Will. I have followed yiu for years and know your story. I wish I could do what you do. I am autistic. And just can't understand it. But I am trying to teach myself. I wish I could afford lithium batteries. But I live on ssi and only 780.00 a month at that. So I don't think I will ever be able to get one. But I just want you to know how proud i am of you. Your a great guy with a big heart for helping everyone the way you do. You were blessed with the ability to understand these things and are very smart man. Maybe one day i will be able to afford a lithium battery but until then I will have to use lead acid although I caught my van on fire cause i did something wrong. My brain just won't let me figure out stuff like this. Thank you for your help for all people. God bless you Will. And i know he had. I might be autistic and not too sharp. But i do know when a person has been blessed by God. And you have been blessed. Stay safe stay true. You're the most honest guy out here helping folks. Ty and ttyl. God bless.

Will, You are the best MANUAL on everything "WE" need to know~~~ I AM SO PROUD OF YOU!!! Keep on Rock 'in My Friend!

@builtmfg

4 жыл бұрын

Absolute wealth of knowledge

@brayalloneisunclebo1202

3 жыл бұрын

Will thank you thank you ..I'm going grind tied bills high asf..🤑I ordered 1 mppt from Renogy and your book on Amazon.. waitn on delivery.. do you think I can add self generator system 12v making 14.4v and 7amp to alt post also can I add a wind turbine pushing 12v 600w to the solar or alt post? Thanks again for your brain n your presentation 👍👍👍👍

I love to see young people excited about their work. Good Job (again).

Thanks Will - you're such a hard worker and generous to share your information and time.

" THANKS WILL " AGIAN , THIS IS SUCH A BLESSING , For learning !

Will, thank you so much for this review. It came as I was just about to have solar installed at the van build, and I bought it. With no signal out there, they haven’t been able to watch the video. I’m glad I watched it again this morning because based on this, there are things we need to change up before we connect it to any power! Blessings 🧚‍♀️

I love your videos. You make something that's so complicated easy (or easier) to understand for those of us who aren't electricians or solar experts.

Will, I recently installed one of these on my sailboat after watching your review. Your review is on the money. Easy to install, and it works! Thank you!!!!!!

We are so blessed to have this channel.

Did my first van solar build watching your videos and web site, came out perfect, per your instructions, sold van, getting ready to buy a second taller van to build out. You the man, be blessed with goodness and wisdom.

I just bought my Promaster and I’m going to pour over your videos to set up my electrical FIRST!! You are AMAZING! I hope you read the comments to see how much you are appreciated.

Another absolute unbiassed brilliant presentation. Everytime I watch these I feel more confident and knowledgeable on 12v dc. Thanks from Australia.

@martinkrahge5568

3 жыл бұрын

Good on yah Wayne. Love this guy. We need him in Australia :) from Adelaide cheers Marty.

Not sure how I missed this video, but this is EXACTLY what I'm looking for right now!!! An all-in-one charger that will make life so much simpler.

I recently installed your schematic with this charger and a used Valence 138ah LiFePO4 to my 2015 Mercedes Sprinter campervan alternator. Everything seems to be running great. It’s a super compact system. Thanks so much for the super clear info and instructions. I like the idea of being able to add PV to the system. I love your channel.

I have been working on putting a dual battery system in my SUV, and have been watching your videos. I had pounced on this unit because it was way cheaper than others for the same amps. That was a couple of days ago, and I was beginning to doubt my purchase. I stumbled over your video, not realizing it was the same unit. Now I am comfortable with my decision, and have all the bonus schematics and info I need to finish the project. Thanks so much ...you're a legend!!

Great review. I have been looking at this for my build as it definitely provides enhanced dual battery charging/maintenance capabilities that you don't get otherwise. As mentioned the major downside is you are limited to 12V batteries systems including solar. For vans, the 660W limit is probably going to cover 90% of the applications,. If you are going really big, you can probably put two DCC50S parallel for 1320 Watt total. The other benefit is that you can just connect a 120V (shore power) to 12V DC battery charger to your Car battery and it will automatically charge the service battery as well. This is still a first generator product. In the future, they will probably make this for 24-48 volt systems with higher solar voltage inputs as well.

I was so waiting for this review, just finished installing it in our RV, there is little info out there on it. Happy to hear that has your blessing. Thank you !!

@paulmeyer6190

4 жыл бұрын

How is it going after 9 months? What type of battery bank are you charging?

@juanandia4184

4 жыл бұрын

Paul Meyer 2 battle born 100amp batt. So far so good. Recently went on a 10 day camping trip with using the generator at all. When driving charge batt bank easily and for sure combined with the battle borns take all the stress of having to plug the rv to the house. Usually start inverter a day before leaving and batteries will be fully charged within our usual 2 o 3 hour drive. I also installed 2000w GoPower inverter 60amp smart converter 360w portable solar

Nice work mate, I love how you simplify sometimes complex design needs so we can all understand them, and with your usual enthusiasm, top marks from me, many thanks Andy.

I have had this V1 and now the V2 in a 600w system on my motorhome for a year now and I love this unit. The V2 now works with the Renogy bt-2 so you can monitor what’s happening on a smartphone or tablet. It’s really great. Highly recommended! Thank you will.

I've been vandweller for a long time and I don't think I've ever seen a van with more than 400watts of solar on the roofs. This product seems fantastic 👌

@ViralKiller

Жыл бұрын

you could easily fit 4x400 watts of the renogy flexible panels

Will, you just rock teaching! I love your videos because you make things clear. Things that aren’t simple to some of us are put within our grasp by how you explain them. I’m finally building my solar “system” for the campers. I just clicked from your web page and bought the things you suggested, including this charge controller.

I just installed my solar setup on my van and felt fairly confident in the way I wired everything up thanks to you and your videos and website! Thank you very much Will!

@WillProwse

4 жыл бұрын

Awesome!!!

I just looked at this video and it answered all my questions about transforming a camper from single acid battery to a full solar camper. Thank you so much !!!!

Love it, your my go to source for quality and integrity with regards to electrical/solar products, hats off as always. 🎩

@jaminthevanuk296

4 жыл бұрын

No good for me my solar panels are 37.5 v 250 w 8a

Great tech content btw, great data but easy to follow. Good work.

A big thank you. I'm a complete beginner to all this and I'm converting a minibus to a camper and will be fitting solar so this is a Godsend ( I've just ordered your book and can't wait for it to arrive ) . I hope to start the solar fitting in a weeks time so again Thanks Will.

I mentioned you in today's video as my inspiration for including this charger in my current Pleasure-Way upfit. Thank you Will for sharing your knowledge! George

The two main issues are the one you mentioned (the wiring in parallel) and the logic that it uses when you're getting both solar and alternator power (like when driving down the road). If the device sees ANY power at all coming from solar, it will limit both sides to a Max of 25a. So let's say you're driving down the road on a cloudy day, where you're getting under 5a from the sun. You'd probably want to get the full 50a from alternator but you can't unless you disconnect solar. You'd be limited to 25a from alternator + the 5a from solar. Other than that, it was really easy to install and I'm enjoying the convenience. It seemed like Renogy's support wasn't so sure about it so maybe you could test it just to be sure. Put a small 5a charge on the PV side and a high charge on the ALT side and see if it caps the ALT to 25a so you only get 30A Max.

@josied8533

4 жыл бұрын

And this would also mean getting a Solar panel that inputs 40A would be a waste of money, yes? Because I'd only be able to use the max input charge of 25A?

@RENTFREEVANPLAN

4 жыл бұрын

@@josied8533 as I understand it, the limit only applies when both power sources are running, and you can get around it via having a switch on either side. So no, a larger solar panel wouldn't be a waste. You'd want to confirm that with Renogy though.

@AdamShinwell

4 жыл бұрын

@@RENTFREEVANPLAN so if i understand correctly, you could overcome this issue by having an isolator switch on your solar... i.e. when you know you're going to be on the road for a while and want max input from your alternator, you can isolate the solar input and it will give you the max 50A from the alternator? Then once i park up, flip the isolator and the solar then kicks back in and can deliver the max available from its side?

@RENTFREEVANPLAN

4 жыл бұрын

@@AdamShinwell as far as I understand it, yes.

@chachi5975

4 жыл бұрын

@Mojo that depends on how big your battery bank is.

Thanks Will. I hope Renogy does something good for you since you just boosted their sales big time.

This is perfect. I was planning on splitting my van into 2 different battery banks... 1 for small electronics and the bigger bank for pressure cooker, small tools, etc and also have my generator as backup backup.

Good job. I have been using CTEK (D250SA + Smartpass120) which appears to be a predecessor of this renogy unit. CTEK now makes a D250SE and compatible Smartpass for LiFePO4 batteries. CTEK is likewise limited to about 25A so fo rthose with largerneeds sepaarte MPPT and accessories would be needed. I do like the simplicity of this Renogy as it mimics the CTEK. You go a little fast fo me, as I struggle to keep up, but watching multiple times, even pausing the video at times, allows me to finally grasp all that good info you are providing. Thanks again.

I'm so broke and I have been hanging my head into a wall trying to figure out what route to go for power in my van for now. I have been thinking of a hackery, and charging it at work, or a smart isolator and an AGM battery, or renogys cheapest solar kit and an AGM. This video just made up my mind. I'm getting this and an AGM to start, and I will add a panel or two asap!!!! Thanks once again Will!

@Jayjay11111

4 жыл бұрын

2Wheels OutDoors If you're not using a lithium battery, CTEK (reputable brand from Sweden) does a dual unit like this one, for slightly cheaper. The only issue with it compared to the Renogy one is that it doesn't do lithium.

Now there's only 11 left in stock! Lol! Thanks Will, great vid!!

@Nimashet

4 жыл бұрын

1 left now

Those of us who are visual learners really appreciate the extra step (board build) at the end!! Being visual learners is exactly (emphasis) why we're on YT. Pretty sure I was just reading a forum post about this product and its lights. I couldn't follow that post/replies at all. Now I could. Thank you, young man!!!

not only do you rock, but i love how other tubers refer to your knowledge..keep rock n rollin...

Great video Will. I'd love to see similar reviews of the Redarc and Sterling products that compete with this. Thanks for all of your work.

@__WJK__

4 жыл бұрын

Great suggestion!

@benjaminwilley3578

3 жыл бұрын

Redarc and cetec for us 4x4 / trade use. 12v inverted to 240v in the UK. Your book is excellent Will btw.

As always, great info and video, Will!!!

Thanks for you ongoing efforts to bring quality and educational diy videos for us to understand and take on challenges that we would normally wouldn't take.

Thanks Will, I was looking for something like that, space being at a premium on my build aud a product that I can trust 👌👍 Your explanation are priceless, keep educating us 😊

I don't know spit about electricity or solar so I very much appreciate your channel

These will probably sell out by Monday because Will just gave them a good review. 👍

@AaronGeller

4 жыл бұрын

pjbikerful I’m waiting till Black Friday 😎

@pjbikerful

4 жыл бұрын

@@AaronGeller Only 11 left in stock - Good Luck

@AaronGeller

4 жыл бұрын

pjbikerful I’m in no rush 😎

@Nimashet

4 жыл бұрын

1 left....

@cheif10thumbs

4 жыл бұрын

Already unavailable on Amazon

Will, The likely reason the simple unit has a separate ignition feed to turn it on, is the unit is designed to have and input voltage of 8-16 volts and still be able to charge the batteries on the output side. This kind of setup is actually a huge advantage when dealing with long wire runes (think 5th wheel RV w/a crew cab dually tow vehicle) and thus voltage drop, which is more common than most realize. This eliminates the need to run monstrous heavy cable from the tow vehicle all the way back to the RV. So, I really like the concept and functionality of Renology's simple charger. It would be interesting to do a test on this new MPPT combo unit you just tested, simulating voltage sag, and see if it is still able to charge the house batteries. If it doesn't, then it is not as advantageous as it would seem, and people would need know that they need to oversize their charge input wire, especially when dealing with real long runs. I also have a suggestion, if you could possibly test some high end solar charge controllers like Outback Solar, Midnight Solar, specifically against MoringStar TriStar MPPT60. Comparing not only the output efficiencies, but specifically the performance and especially the speed of their MPPT tracking ability. It would be really interesting which one is the quickest and most efficient, as the unit with the quickest tracking speed should outperform the others in partly cloudy and/or partial tree shade conditions. Thank you for your review and please let me know you thoughts on what I just mentioned.

How bizzare I was eyeing this off yesterday. I really like this concept. Thanks Will. The other thing I like is it actually available to buy in Australia at a reasonable price.

This is a huge improvement! For my use I would use one panel just for trickle charging and use the alternator to charge when driving. Then a second array of panels going to a second mppt for when actually boondocking.

@WillProwse

4 жыл бұрын

Oh a second mppt for a larger array is smart! Just use DC DC charger as an isolator and trickle charger. Super smart!

@grannieannie1371

4 жыл бұрын

@@WillProwse I feel clever because I thought of that too. And twelve months ago I didn't know anything about solar. I learnt a lot of it from you, thanks Will.

@brucestarr4438

4 жыл бұрын

@@WillProwse IIRC Bob @ CRV replaced a dead MPPT controller with a DC DC w/MPPT for half his system a while back.

@Jayjay11111

4 жыл бұрын

Bruce Starr That was a CTEK unit, that unfortunately does not work with lithium batteries.

@brucestarr4438

4 жыл бұрын

@@Jayjay11111 but the general idea is the same. If you have a mix of different voltage panels, run one MPPT for part of them, then the rest with a DC-DC + MPPT.

Ya , you just keep getting better and better Thx for being so gracious, nicely done ✅

Perfect explanation. You are incredibly intelligent, and the go-to for many people looking for help with their batteries/solar set-up. Thanks man, you are very appreciated.

Will, this is awesome! I'm in the process of planning out a system to boondock with, this may be the best for my needs! Thank you :)

You can get a voltage sensing relay, to power on the DC charger when the voltage hits 13.5v+ to charge the house battey,

@jussikankinen9409

4 жыл бұрын

What about overcharge starter battery

Getting a DC to DC for 12v to 24v with 50-60amp for lithium batteries would be great. If Renogy added an option for output voltage I would get one.

@paulbaker3144

4 жыл бұрын

Tactical Advance Sterling makes a 12 volt to 24 volt charger. It costs a little more.

@tacticaladvance

4 жыл бұрын

@@paulbaker3144 Made my own one using a DC to DC constant voltage convertor. Works well managed 15amps gets worm but works

These came out right after I finished installing their 40A DC/DC charger (which works great BTW). If I had to do my system over again, this would be it...so simple

Thank you Will for the thorough review and great ideas on how to use it. I just purchased mine today ! very excited to install. Love what you do

Bummer about the low solar voltage. I think it'd be good to just use a DC-DC converter from higher voltage panels. Otherwise definitely looks really sweet! Needing a higher voltage to start charging and a lower voltage point to cut off charging is known as a Schmitt trigger :). The area between those 2 points, where it keeps in the on/off state at what it was last changed to, is called hysteresis.

Will you are the MAN. Great videos. Watching one after the other. Glad to have found them. Manufacturers could learn from you to make better products. Plus you simplify info for the regular Joe. Thank you

Great video man! This is exactly the thing i'm looking for for my micro camper! Love your videos man, keep up the great work!

Love it! Assuming you'll fuse it at the starter battery too :)

@WillProwse

4 жыл бұрын

yes, check out my schematic on the website which includes OCPD sizing and wire gauge size.

@xavierpendrag0n

4 жыл бұрын

@@WillProwse Indeed. One of the biggest mistakes people make with wiring is forgetting to properly gauge wire with not only load but taking into account distance or length of cable. A lot of fires get started because of under sized wire, lack of fuses or circuit breakers. If you guys notice, Will says this a lot, and in his mock ups, you will see those added in.

Hey Will, this appears to be a nice option for my van. I am hesitant about using parallel vs. series configuration for my solar considering the potential for charging issues/shade etc. - and using more real estate with 4 panels. Any considerations adding shore power with this combo B2B/MPPT? Thanks for sharing your knowledge in a way that electric newbs such as myself can understand!

You are amazing!! Keep doing thee videos. They are so helpful for a beginner like me. Your honest opinion is also extremely refreshing and the way you can break everything down. Awesome!

Watching this video, I decided to change my build goals. Thanks for the excellent explanation. I'll be posting a sanity check post to the DIY forum once I pick up my 100ah Renogy battery.

3:13 Have you done the same tests with the Sterling or Redarc?

I want a 3rd charging option for my work trailer. I love this thing where I can use my truck alternator as well as solar panels. Is it possible to also attach a 120v charger to the batteries? Will the 2 chargers fight with each other overlooking my batteries or will the wall charger turn off the MPPT charger? I'm using AGM batteries.

@metropulosjerrod

2 жыл бұрын

If you're adding in a 110v charger, connect it to the alternator post on the controller. Most scenarios you won't be running the engine while plugged in as well, so the controller will charge as if the alternator is running while plugged in. I've installed probably 20 systems with this setup, it works really well.

Anyone doing this in a camper will need to add in a converter/charger to this system. Will didn't mention it but its standard for charging when you have shore power or run an on board generator. So when your not driving, or there's not enough sun, a couple hours of generator will get you back in business. I guess it could be added to the output terminals of this unit but I would call Renogy to be sure. Thanks for another great review WP. You are always ahead of the pack.

Impressive. I'm still in a daze from all the videos but I have the book now and I will watch the vids again. Maybe some of it will start sinking in. Thanks again for all your efforts.

Thanks for the review! I was looking at getting the Redarc BCDC1250D but this is half the price, plus it can charge both the starting battery and the house battery from the solar. I don’t think the Redarc can do that.

@roberts3889

4 жыл бұрын

Same here. Glad I saw this video.

@Espiritiv

4 жыл бұрын

So did you go with this or the Redarc? Im trying to decide myself

If this had an input for "shore-power" this would cover all (?) charging situations.

@ccanty

4 жыл бұрын

You can get an inverter charger to cover shore power and still have only 2 units.

Thank you Will. I have ruined several batteries on my motor home in storage because of not being home for long periods of time. This looks like this would be perfect to use to maintain the charge of the batteries while I'm traveling. Before anyone comments. I use my motor home as a weekend'r when at home and travel with my 5th wheel for the comfort in its size. Thanks again

Just got mine installed today. Had a Renogy 20 amp dc-dc charger and a 20 amp Renogy solar charger. The old units had been running continuously for the past 2 years and still work fine.

Hey Will, thanks for your videos. I’ve learned a ton watching them. Any MPPT Charger combo like this Renogy but with a higher voltage capacity. I’d like to connect two 200 Watt solar panels in series to charge a 12v 200ah LiFePO4. Also would like to charge from the alternator. My starter battery is a 100ah AGM. I like everything about this Renogy unit but the 25 volt limit. Thank you!

@mertz3hack68

2 жыл бұрын

Did you ever find anything

@dorsch250

2 жыл бұрын

@@mertz3hack68 ectives dc-dc/PV solution takes a higher voltage

I have two Renogy MPPT controllers in my RV and I'm shocked they put such a low solar voltage limit on this. Kind of makes it useless for those of us running panels in series.

@WillProwse

4 жыл бұрын

Yes agreed, but the terminals are exposed, so with a high voltage input, a dedicated connector will need to be used. Or else person can be shocked and killed. So this unit is only for small arrays. Would need total redesign for larger array. But if you are using a larger array, 24/48v system required. This unit is for vans and rvs, and thats it. not stationary/house systems.

@noway57

4 жыл бұрын

Hobotech, Greetings

I built this system for my pickup truck. I only changed two things. 200 watts of panels and only one 100 ah battery. It works great! Thank you for this very clear tutorial, the "blueprint" and the equipment list.

@dathiou

4 жыл бұрын

Still performing great? I am planning to build the same set up as you wit ha single battery but I wonder if the 50A charging current is too much. What current does it charge your battery approximately?

Just bought the Renogy 30A for a 200w single 100ah battery truck camper system. Love seeing your video before wiring it up - thanks!

Another great video, thx. Can you review any Redarc products? I'm interested in the manager 30 specifically.

@rickvan2243

4 жыл бұрын

did u ever find anything about it? all the videos seem sponsored about it,,,

@overlandventures5924

4 жыл бұрын

Rick Van nope, not so far. I did see some vids on another Aussie electric brand called King's I believe. Pretty good series on system build/design but I think they're affiliated with the hardware company... Still to give them their due, it's useful info and good production. Redarc has a solid reputation, that's about as far as I've gotten on detailed critical info.

Curious how you would also add the ability to charge using 110 shorepwr?

I have the 30 amp version of this Renogy DC-DC charger installed in my 4WD. A couple of things I have learnt that may be of help to others. For a start I ran 4 metres of 50 amp cable from my starter battery to the DC- DC charger, but I found this wire was no where near heavy enough as I was only getting about 15 amps out of the charger. Next I upgraded the wire to 140 amp, probably could have got away with 100 amp but decided to go for heavier gauge to be on safe side and also give me option to upgrade to the 50 amp charger in future. This helped a lot as the output from charger was now 30 amps, but it wouldn’t hold that charge for long and it would then fluctuate between about 9 and 25 amps. I hadn’t connected the ING SIGNAL WIRE at this point as I wasn’t sure I needed it but after some research I decided my vehicle probably had a smart alternator so connected the wire. What a difference that made, my charger now puts out 30 amps continuously and I couldn’t be happier with the unit.

Well done. I was gonna purchase one regardless but your explanation completely solidified my decision to go with that particular product. Thanks for a great video.

Hey Will, Sometimes it is hard to find an honest broker of information, You are that my friend! Question, does this also work as an isolator? Thanks again I really appreciate your channel! Freedom overspill!

@WillProwse

4 жыл бұрын

Oh yes, absolutely. Use this to safely charge and isolate. No need for solar input if you wish.

@alaska-bornfloridaman

4 жыл бұрын

@@WillProwse Are you saying I can hook up shore power, solar and converter charging and it will Automatically pick one and turn the others off? Like a transfer switch? Or is it just DC to dc?

@edwardshomestead9074

4 жыл бұрын

@@WillProwse Hi will, I'm building a 5k 48v system as you did with your shed. I'm considering using the identical inverter that you used, how is it performing so far

@mitchellpaterson7062

4 жыл бұрын

@@WillProwse Love your videos have you ever looked at testing the Australian made redarc BCDC 1250d they have a very good name here in Australia and they are very compact and can handle a 32 v Solar input and maximum power output of 750w regards Mitch from down under

@__WJK__

4 жыл бұрын

@@alaska-bornfloridaman - Great question...

I would like to see you test the Redarc version of these bcdc charger/solor input for a source for charging lithium battery.

Ive been using this on my sailboat for several months and have been very impressed and would highly recommend it. A fewvthins you didn't mention is it delays charge from the starter battery for about 5seconds after the alternator begins charging, if you have solar cells attached it will only use a max of 25 amps from each source, and in the mobile app you can change the max charging rate in case your alternator can't supply a full 50 amps for charging.

So glad I found your videos...I just bought a fridge/freezer for my Jeep and now I’m looking at how to run it at night...this until might be the way to charge a second battery just for the fridge...thanks for the great lesson :)

Greetings Will. Something you don’t discuss is the draw on the alternator. If used without solar, should I be concerned about damaging the alternator of my van? I have a Sprinter... Sincere thanks for any input!

Hi Will, the unit's manual mentions that when dual input is connected (solar & the alternator) then it will only provide 50% of the total output from each. So, you will only receive 25 Ah from the alternator at night even though the solar input is 0. Is there an easy work around (not disconnecting wires) for this to attain 100% output from one source when desired? Maybe a circuit breaker between the alternator/solar input to the unit? Thanks for the information you have already provided!

@mehmetdtx

Жыл бұрын

if the solar output is zero at night, would it still sense it is connected and provide half power from each?

This video is amazing, we've been trying to figure out if we should go with this over the Rover and a dc-dc charger. Thanks for the great reviews!!!!

Simple explanations and great enthusiasm in your presentation makes for maximum understanding. Well done Will😊

Will, what battery charger would you recommend for this system to add shore charging? What do you think about the Progressive Dynamics 60amp LiFePO4 charger?

I called Renogy a week ago and they won't have any until mid December (2019), out of stock.

@4philipp

4 жыл бұрын

travelingman21000 the power of a good review

This one thing eliminates so many different components to make one amazing product and makes an camper/RV build so simple.

In a Way, This remain me about the old school Battery Isolator, back in time. When I put 500 incandescent bulbs on my van for Christmas Deco. Back in the early 80's

Great review as usual Will, I'm looking for a combined MPPT and B2B charger like this Renogy, but I'm concerning about overheating my 60A alternator. How do you work out what would be a safe load for the alternator? this unit max's at 25A if solar is charging aswell, but if not it's capable of accepting 50A which is near the alternator's max. Any suggestions welcome.

@bramso18

4 жыл бұрын

Hee Thomas, I have the same question. My old Vito have a 115A alternator without temperature sensor and I am also concerned about overheating. Have you already found an answer to your question? Bram

@leightonthomas8233

4 жыл бұрын

@@bramso18 Hi Bram. I'm now considering using the CETEK 250SE it will only take 20ah max from the alternator, but I've not actually ordered anything yet so if anyone knows of a better alternative I'd like to know.. thanks

@bramso18

4 жыл бұрын

@@leightonthomas8233 It looks great! Did you find other alternatives?

@leightonthomas8233

4 жыл бұрын

@@bramso18 it's the best option so far..

How do I know if I have a smart alternator on my camper van

@carperdiem8754

4 жыл бұрын

I have this same question.

@StephenShreds

4 жыл бұрын

Just ask the alternator

@landonashby2029

4 жыл бұрын

I did some google diving on this question. I came up with 2 answers. 1 check your battery terminals. If they are plain terminals your alternator is most likely a standard alternator and NOT Smart or Voltage Regulating. 2 use a multimeter star your vehicle and measure the voltage at your battery at start and after 5 minutes idling a Voltage Regulating or "Smart" Alternator the voltage will stay around 12 to 13 volts a standard alternator will be putting out higher voltage of 14 volts or higher. Keep in mind these are answers off the internet I found reading from various forums and you are now getting g that information 3rd hand from someone who was looking for the answer to the same question you had. I am not an expert just sharing what I found best to check that information with someone who actually knows.

@StephenShreds

4 жыл бұрын

@@landonashby2029 thanks amigo. Guarantee you are the only one who actually looked it up.

@MrDanielresendez

4 жыл бұрын

@@StephenShreds hhahahahaha

thank you so much for being simple and honestly the best person to learn off.

Marvelous thankyou so much for your outstanding efforts on electrical engineering services.

Does my 2019 MB Sprinter have a smart alternator? (I should know this already I guess)

@fvrrljr

4 жыл бұрын

smart alternators have been around since 1980

@VANquishedAdventures

4 жыл бұрын

You could try asking it;)

@tgriebe

4 жыл бұрын

Put a plug in voltmeter in the cigarette lighter socket. If the voltage drops down below 13 volts occasionally when the engine is running, it is probably a smart alternator.

@fvrrljr

4 жыл бұрын

@@VANquishedAdventures HAHAHAHAHAHAHA LMAO i Like, OLE!

@lylestavast7652

3 жыл бұрын

if the negative battery terminal has a block looking device at it, it's probably got an ecu controlled "smart alternator" - it keeps the voltages well below the 14+ you'd see consistently on a "dumb" setup traditionally (at least part of the time you're running and monitoring the voltages...) You might call MB and ask.

*”William Prowse Approved”*

This unit is now available on Amazon in the UK. I think I’m going to get one of these. Which means I won’t need the Sterling B2B charger I’ve bought.. Very informative review Prowse!👍🏻

Great DIY video and the blueprint and parts list, linked above, is excellent. Thanks.

Wow man ! Thanks you just confirmed my next purchasse. Good job and I like the way you make it simple to understand.

Thank you Mr. Prowse for another informative class, you are awesome young man

Your review and web page have saved the day with my overland build, thank you.

Yes this is what I was talking about.thank you for showing it.