Improving off grid

by Bill Wed Aug 31, 2022 3:07 pm

I have a 2017 Symbol fitted with the factory leisure battery and 80W solar panel which I would like to improve. I intend to fit an additional solar or upgrade the original one depending what space will permit and fit 2 X 100 Amphr lead acid batteries. Will I have to upgrade the controller ? Will the gauges/meters on the Sargant control panel still work ? Bill.

by Dbvwt Wed Aug 31, 2022 4:05 pm

Bill, to begin with I would spend your money on a second 80w panel and a decent dual controller. You will probably find that a second leisure battery is not required although I don’t know your usage.
I fitted the panel in the link last winter (it fits perfectly in the space at the back of the Symbol roof) and a Votronic controller a couple of years ago wired direct to the leisure and vehicle batteries bypassing the Sargent EC500. You will still get the voltages on the EC480 control panel but not the solar charge.
IMO this would be the best upgrade on the stock install without spending daft money.

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by rgermain Wed Aug 31, 2022 4:42 pm

Dbvwt wrote:Bill, to begin with I would spend your money on a second 80w panel and a decent dual controller. You will probably find that a second leisure battery is not required although I don’t know your usage.
I fitted the panel in the link last winter (it fits perfectly in the space at the back of the Symbol roof) and a Votronic controller a couple of years ago wired direct to the leisure and vehicle batteries bypassing the Sargent EC500. You will still get the voltages on the EC480 control panel but not the solar charge.
IMO this would be the best upgrade on the stock install without spending daft money.

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Hi David, Totally agree, although my van did not come with a solar panel so fitted a 120w and as you say bypass the energy sapping Sargent.

Not needed ehu since fitting 2 years ago and only 1 100a lead acid battery.
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Richard

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Improving off grid

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