Max. Wattage using 12 volt system

[milezone]

Hi Guys,

I have our solar system up and running. Using (2) 120 watt panels with 4 100amp batteries. We get great use out of this for our garage lightning, radio, and 2 outside lights.

I am wondering though before I get too deep into this, how much wattage can we use before we have to think about changing to 24 volts? Really for the most part our system is just a "filler" for lights, radio, small stuff. But "just in case" we need higher wattage use for a bit, I want to make sure I plan ahead, as this solar stuff is a bit pricey. Thanks

Milezone

[Sunking]

Couple of ways to look at it, but for practical purposes the upper limit is regulated by the charge controller. For example the largest MPPT type is 80 amps and at 12 volts is limited to 1000 watt on the panel input. Personally I would not go more than 500 watts in a 12 volt system, just too much loss at 12 volts. Nor would I ever recommend using parallel battery strings.

[milezone]

Thanks for the response.

So should I switch to 24 volts now, or wait till I build more panels and batteries? As well won't I have to purchase new inverter and charge controller that is 24 volts instead of 12?

Milezone

[Sunking]

Thanks for the response.

So should I switch to 24 volts now, or wait till I build more panels and batteries? As well won't I have to purchase new inverter and charge controller that is 24 volts instead of 12?

Milezone

Inverter yes.
Charge controller maybe, maybe not as it depends on the manufacture and brand. For example the 80 Amp MPPT can work at 12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 volts.