Sorry, done to death but: 80w panel, PWM or MPPT controller.

[fredrussell]

I have an 80watt solar panel for my 31ft boat. I am highly unlikely to add another as I don’t like clutter on boat and there’s a lack of space. Is an MPPT controller worth the extra here? There is a vast amount online re this, but they usually recommend MPPT if there are to be a few panels plugged into it. So, one (only) 80w panel. 200ish A/H house bank, Marina based boat, away from marina for 3 or 4 days max, other than fridge I’m good at limiting energy usage. PWM or MPPT?

 

[AngusMcDoon]

MPPT, but don't buy a cheap one on ebay that says it's MPPT but in reality is PWM. If it's less than £50, it's fake. Epever Tracer 10A gets good feedback as genuine MPPT at lower price than the likes of Victron. Expect to pay about £60.

 

[robmcg]

As above - Epever MPPT unit is the way to go. Substantial difference to a PWM controller and in the long run worth the extra cash.

 

[fredrussell]

Great, cheers.

 

[LadyInBed]

This one looks truly doggy!
MPPT Solar Charge Controller Regulator 20A / MT50 Meter 12V/24V EPever Tracer | eBay

Writing on the image of the face of the box spells Controller with an M rather than N

 

[AngusMcDoon]

This one looks truly doggy!
MPPT Solar Charge Controller Regulator 20A / MT50 Meter 12V/24V EPever Tracer | eBay

Writing on the image of the face of the box spells Controller with an M rather than N

Looks like Epever ones are being ripped off now. The first image in the listing has the mis-spelling and the wrong shade blue, then subsequent images are ok.

Photonics Universe relabel Epever ones. As they are a well established company I expect theirs are ok.

12V solar panels charging kits for caravans, motorhomes, boats, yachts, marine