PV Gap

Kristina Said:

can a 24v solar panel be changed to 12v?

We Answered:

On the output it can be changed, but not at the panel its self. You can use a convertor. There is an example of one in the link in my sources.

Karen Said:

will a solar panel 130 watts max 24.5 volts. charge one 12 volt battery or do i need 2 batteries 24v wiring?

We Answered:

You need about 13.5 volts DC to fully charge a 12 volt battery. 24.5 volts DC will not fully charge two 12 volt batteries. You could charge the 12 volt battery with a simple charger controller, or or use a DC to DC converter to charge a 12 volt battery up to 13.5 volts. The simple charge controller will waist a lot of power to get the 24.5 volts down to 13.5 volts to fully charge your battery.

Irma Said:

Can I Mix Solar Panels with Different Voltages?

We Answered:

I believe you need to use is a diode on the 18v. Maybe not if you dont get any other replies put a dollar diode in and hook it up.

If your voltage regulator supports 44+volts you could hook them in series.

Bessie Said:

How to choose charge controller for solar system?

We Answered:

Depends on the charge controller. If you are using a PWM or shunt controller, the panel voltage needs to match the battery voltage. So you need a 12V panel and charge controller. Some charge controllers automatically check the voltage and adjust, so they may be listed as 12/24/48V. But the panel needs to be 12V. http://www.altestore.com/store/Charge-Co…

If you are using an MPPT charge controller, most of them will allow a higher voltage PV panel, and will automatically adjust the output for the battery. These tend to be more expensive, but can increase the output of the panel by up to 30%. http://www.altestore.com/store/Charge-Co…

And as you mentioned, amps matter. Mutliply the short circuit current (Isc) of the panel by 1.25, that's the lowest current charge controller you should buy.

Or call the AltE Store and tell us what your panel is, and we'll point you in the right direction.

Sean Said:

How do I convert a 24v solar charger to 12v?

We Answered:

Converters are shown in the link below.

However, most solar panels are 12 volts. I am thinking your have two panels connected in series to get 24 volts. It that is the case perhaps there is a way to wire them parallel instead of series, this would provide 12 volts and double the current.