Drewgold
New Member
- Joined
- Oct 11, 2021
- Messages
- 4
Long time lurker first time poster. I know this sort of question gets asked a lot but I have been unable to find an answer to my main question which is this:
Is there some benefit to the dual input DC/DC and MPPT charge controllers (such as the offerings from Renogy) other than the saved space and somewhat simplified wiring?
I'm reluctant to go with a dual input controller for the sake of redundancy. If the dual controller were to fail, it could take the entire charging capability with it. In my mind, having a separate MPPT and DC/DC controllers adds a certain redundancy to the system should one component fail. It's also unclear whether the alternator charging can be manually switched off with the dual controller? I'd like the option to turn off alternator charging if desired. On top of this, there seems to be little or no cost savings for the dual unit vs two separate chargers. Am I missing other benefits to a dual controller other than a potentially cleaner install?
My planned power system for a small camper will use a single 100ah Lifepo4 house battery, 80w solar panel, then either a 20A Renogy MPPT solar controller with a separate 20A DC/DC charger powered by the vehicle (with 70A alternator) OR the Dual 30A DC/DC charger with MPPT.
Open to any feedback anyone may have!
And big thanks to everyone who contributes to this forum, it is an amazing resource.
Is there some benefit to the dual input DC/DC and MPPT charge controllers (such as the offerings from Renogy) other than the saved space and somewhat simplified wiring?
I'm reluctant to go with a dual input controller for the sake of redundancy. If the dual controller were to fail, it could take the entire charging capability with it. In my mind, having a separate MPPT and DC/DC controllers adds a certain redundancy to the system should one component fail. It's also unclear whether the alternator charging can be manually switched off with the dual controller? I'd like the option to turn off alternator charging if desired. On top of this, there seems to be little or no cost savings for the dual unit vs two separate chargers. Am I missing other benefits to a dual controller other than a potentially cleaner install?
My planned power system for a small camper will use a single 100ah Lifepo4 house battery, 80w solar panel, then either a 20A Renogy MPPT solar controller with a separate 20A DC/DC charger powered by the vehicle (with 70A alternator) OR the Dual 30A DC/DC charger with MPPT.
Open to any feedback anyone may have!
And big thanks to everyone who contributes to this forum, it is an amazing resource.