Best RV Solar Charge Controllers for 2024

Choosing the best RV solar charge controller can help to optimize your solar power, save energy and extend the lifespan of your RV batteries. Let’s explore the different kinds of RV solar controllers available on the market and find the best fit for your off-grid RV lifestyle.

An RV solar charge controller is an essential device that regulates the voltage output of solar panels to ensure efficient and safe charging of batteries. It prevents overcharging of batteries and protects them from damage caused by reverse current flow at night.

This device uses advanced technologies such as Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) or Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) to optimize the charging process and boost the system’s energy efficiency. Installing an RV solar charge controller helps to extend the lifespan of your batteries and save on energy costs.

Best RV Solar Charge Controllers

Here’s the best RV solar controller that will allow you to maximize the efficiency of your RV solar installation:

1. Victron SmartSolar MPPT 100/50 Charge Controller

BEST OVERALL

2. BougeRV MPPT Solar Charge Controller

Best Value

The BougeRV MPPT Solar Charge Controller efficiently transforms solar energy into usable power, showcasing its adaptability. With a 40A capacity, it’s suitable for a variety of battery types, including LiFePO4, SLD, AGM, FLD, and Gel batteries.

One of its standout features is the ability to pair with your phone via the ChargePro 2.0 app, allowing users to monitor output, view historical data, and set parameters for different battery types. This remote app control offers a signal range of up to 15 feet.

Safety is a priority with this controller, boasting six protection measures including over-temperature, open-circuit, short-circuit, overload, polarity reverse prevention, and prevention of current backflow. The device also employs dual MOS circuits to prevent reverse currents and reduce operational heat.

The BougeRV MPPT controller is designed with efficiency in mind, offering up to a 99% conversion rate. It also features a temperature sensor for lead-acid battery temperature compensation.

The negative ground design ensures compatibility with most RV systems, and the internal potting compounds help reduce vibrations, ensuring stability during travel.

This solar charge controller is an excellent option if you are looking to get premium features on a budget.

Pros:

• Plug & Play
• Remote app control
• Multiple protections
• High conversion rate
• Temperature sensor
• Negative ground design

Cons:

• No backlight on display

3. Renogy PWM Solar Charge Controller

Budget Option

The Renogy Adventurer 30A PWM Solar Charge Controller is a versatile device designed to cater to the needs of RV and camper owners. It automatically detects 12V or 24V DC system voltages, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of battery types.

The controller boasts a smart 4-stage PWM charging process, which includes Bulk, Boost, Float, and Equalization stages. This method not only enhances battery life but also optimizes system performance.

The LCD screen and LED indicators provide real-time data, making it easier for users to monitor the system. The flush mount design offers a sleek, integrated look, while the negative ground ensures compatibility with most grounding systems.

Additionally, the controller can adapt to various battery types, including Sealed (AGM), Gel, Flooded, and Lithium.

However, some users have pointed out potential challenges. For instance, the programming can be a bit tricky to understand initially. There’s also a mention of the importance of following specific procedures after installation; failing to do so, like disconnecting the battery without first disconnecting the PV panels, can damage the controller.

This controller is considerably less expensive compared to the previous options, however, it is also 30% less efficient, meaning that about a third of the energy produced by your RV solar panels will be lost.

Pros:

• Automatic voltage detection
• Smart 4-stage charging
• Sleek design
• Multiple battery compatibility
• Real-time monitoring

Cons:

• Tricky programming
• Sensitive to disconnection order
• Less efficient than MPPT controllers

Types of RV Solar Charge Controllers

RV solar charge controllers come in two main types: MPPT and PWM. PWM uses short pulses to charge batteries, while MPPT optimizes the voltage of solar panels to increase energy efficiency.

MPPT may be better for larger systems, and PWM may be a good budget option for smaller RV systems.

Bear in mind that an MPPT solar controller is typically about 30% more efficient than a PWM controller.

This means that a PWM controller will pretty much waste the power generated by about a third of your RV solar panels.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your needs and budget, however, if you can afford it, I would warmly recommend choosing an MPPT charge controller.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an RV Solar Charge Controller

When choosing a solar charge controller for your camper, there are three main factors to consider: panel wattage, battery bank voltage and capacity, and controller efficiency.

1. Panel Wattage

The wattage of your solar panels plays a key role in determining the type of charge controller you need.

If you have high-wattage solar panels, you may need a more robust charge controller to regulate the voltage output. In this case, an MPPT solar controller would be the preferred choice.

For low-wattage solar panel systems instead, you can consider a PWM controller.

If you need help in determining how many solar panels do you need, I wrote a dedicated guide to that, check it out!

2. Battery Bank Voltage and Capacity

Your battery bank voltage and capacity are also important factors in choosing an RV solar charge controller. If you have a larger battery bank, you’ll need a charge controller that can handle the higher charging requirements (more Amps).

Also, depending on your RV solar batteries, make sure to check if the solar charge controller can handle them, especially if you use lithium. Generally, the best MPPT solar controllers will be fully compatible with lithium batteries and some of them will also allow you to set an optimized charging profile to get the maximum efficiency out of your RV solar installation.

3. Controller Efficiency

Controller efficiency refers to how well your RV solar charge controller can optimize the voltage of your solar panels. The more efficient your charge controller is, the more energy you can generate from your solar power system.

If you plan on installing a solar power system in your RV, it’s important to understand how RV solar charge controllers work. The efficiency of your system depends on several factors, including panel wattage, battery bank voltage and capacity, and controller efficiency.

MPPT charge controllers are typically 30% more efficient than PWM charge controllers, but they can be more expensive. By considering these factors, you can choose the best charge controller for your RV, ensuring that your batteries stay charged, your energy costs stay low, and your RV stays powered.

How to Size an RV Solar Charge Controller

Before you choose an RV solar charge controller, you need to know how to size it properly for your solar power system. The first step is to determine the total power output of your solar panel array in watts.

To determine the maximum amperage output of your solar panel system, divide its wattage by the voltage of your battery system. For instance, if your solar array is 300 watts and your battery system is 12 volts, your maximum amperage output is 25 amps.

Once you have this information, you can calculate the maximum amperage output of your solar panels. To do this, take the total wattage output and divide it by the voltage of your battery bank.

Top RV Solar Charge Controller Brands

When it comes to buying an RV solar charge controller, you want a reliable and reputable brand that you can trust. Here are some of the top RV solar charge controller brands on the market:

Victron Energy

Victron Energy is known for its high-quality and advanced solar charge controllers. Their products are built to last and provide excellent performance even in extreme conditions.

BougeRV

BougeRV is a brand specializing in RV equipment, including solar panels, charge controllers (both MPPT and PWM), off-grid solar generators, and portable refrigerators.

Renogy

Renogy is a leading manufacturer of solar products, including RV solar charge controllers. They offer a wide range of charge controllers that cater to different panel wattage and battery bank sizes.

EPEVER

EPEVER produces affordable and reliable charge controllers that can handle different panel and battery configurations. They offer PWM and MPPT charge controllers that are suitable for most RV solar setups.

Morningstar

Morningstar is trusted by many RVers for their efficient and durable charge controllers. Their products are designed to provide reliable power management and battery protection.

Zamp Solar

Zamp Solar specializes in portable and easy-to-use solar charge controllers that are perfect for RVers. They offer MPPT charge controllers that are compatible with different panel sizes and types.

FAQ

Is RV’s solar controller necessary?

It is highly recommended to use a solar charge controller for your RV’s solar power system. This is an essential component that prevents overcharging and undercharging of your RV’s battery, which can damage it and reduce its lifespan.

With a solar charge controller, the power generated by the solar panels is regulated, ensuring that the battery is charged safely and efficiently.

Conclusion

Now that you know the importance of an RV solar controller, it’s time to choose the best one for your needs. There are different types and models available in the market, and you should consider factors such as the power output of your solar panels, the capacity and type of your batteries, and your energy consumption habits.

A good RV solar controller should be easy to install, user-friendly, and durable. It should also have advanced features such as data monitoring and customizable settings.

Investing in the best RV solar controller may seem like an added expense, but it can save you money in the long run and provide you with a reliable source of power no matter where you go. Plus, you’ll be contributing to a greener future by harnessing the power of the sun. So, don’t hesitate to get your hands on the best RV solar controller out there and maximize your solar power today!