Charge Controllers

Charge controllers or regulators perform the same function as the voltage regulator in your car or truck. They keep your battery voltage from getting high enough to damage your battery. These controllers discontinue the charging process when a certain battery voltage set-point has been reached. After the battery voltage falls to a low voltage set-point, the charging process is resumed. These controllers are much more efficien than automotive types, which should never be used in your system. While all charge controllers perform the same simple function, they vary greatly. Simpler models have set points that are factory set, while the more sophisticated units will allow you to determine your own set points. This can be a significant advantage, as batteries and conditions can vary greatly. Most disconnect the modules from the batteries at night, preventing back flow and eliminating the need for a diode. If your batteries will experience large fluctuations in temperature, you may want to consider a unit with temperature compensation. Meters or charging indicators are incorporated in some but not all models. Some controllers will divert power to another load when your batteries are full, rather than wasting it. Others are available with a potentially battery-saving low-voltage disconnect relay, which may be especially useful for homes or RV's left vacant for periods of time.