2021 18RR new 200W solar panel install

[Henmigs]

Hi,
I have a 2021 18RR with the solar package, including the stock WAAREE solar controller (pic attached) and 50-watt solar panel on the roof. I want to replace with a 200-watt Renogy solar panel. Does anyone know if I replace with a 200W panel will it work with existing controller or do i need to replace anything else? Thanks!

 

[hamrover]

Hi,
I have a 2021 18RR with the solar package, including the stock WAAREE solar controller (pic attached) and 50-watt solar panel on the roof. I want to replace with a 200-watt Renogy solar panel. Does anyone know if I replace with a 200W panel will it work with existing controller or do i need to replace anything else? Thanks!View attachment 1068375

I am not familiar with this exact controller. Does it have a model number on a sticker on the side or top? Something which might be searchable on Google for the specs?

 

[Aussieguy]

Look for the amps on the controller
Multiply that by the battery voltage will give you the max panel size

30 x 14.2 =426
20 x 14.2 =284

 

[Henmigs]

Hello, thanks for the reply. Here is the model:

 

[hamrover]

Hello, thanks for the reply. Here is the model: View attachment 1068498

I searched Google for a better spec on that model, but I came up empty. That is a funny way for them to put the spec out.

It could either be:
12V(14.2) @ 20A = 284 W
24V(28.4) @ 10A = 284 W

Or... less likely(?):
12V(14.2) @ 10A = 142 W
24V(28.4) @ 20A = 568 W

I think it would be the first set of specs - which would mean that it should handle the 200 W panel you are asking about. Then just check your wiring to make sure it is up to the 20A rating for the wire size.

 

[Aussieguy]

12v@10amps
100w panel

Lots of better 12v contollers
See if you can get a budget MPPT

Only a few dollars more but read reviews some of the real cheap ones are crap
Look for a 30 amp. And confirm your wires can handle the higher amps

 

[hamrover]

ots of better 12v contollers
See if you can get a budget MPPT

This is true for sure. An MPPT will be more efficient at collecting what your panel delivers, leaving less power unharvested on the table for your panel investment. Also - a larger one would leave room for further expansion down the road.

I have to agree, that charge controller is a little rough - and with hardly any info out there on the internet, probably less reputable brand.

 

[Henmigs]

Thank you, i am assuming that the wire size is good since this is a 20A rated controller? if i have to get a new controller i would get this one:

 

[Aussieguy]

Not hard to run a new solar wire if you need to

Work out maximum panels you could put up there
Size the controller ……and wire if needed to the max and add panels when budget allows
Saves having to buy new controllers whenever you decide you need more power

 

[hamrover]

Thank you, i am assuming that the wire size is good since this is a 20A rated controller? if i have to get a new controller i would get this one: View attachment 1068504

Just be aware that this charge controller is PWM (like your original), and it uses Renogy's older product line to communicate with the larger Renogy system. This is not necessarily a problem as long as you are okay with these 2 things:
1. PWM will be less efficient in producing energy to the wire - meaning for a 200W panel, the best you may ever see is 135-150W. Finding an MPPT controller will result in closer to 180-190 W under the same conditions with the same 200W panel.
2. Second thing - if you never plan to expand into the Renogy line of products (inverters, shunt, converters) then this is not really a big deal at all. (Their larger system becomes a sort of smart home accessible via mobile app for all your power related systems if you replace other things along the way).

 

[miataroadster]

You have a 10amp a PWM charge controller per post of a member back in 2021. Here's the manual of your controller.

Owner's Kit

This easy-to-use Electronic Quick Reference Guide is intended to help you more fully appreciate some of the unique features and functions of your new vehicle.

forestriverinc.help

Ensure existing wires have proper gage for your new 200w solar panel. Otherwise replace with correct awg per your new MPPT charge controller.

 

[Henmigs]

What is a good affordable MPPT charge controller you all would recommend? I will check the wire gage next.

 

[Aussieguy]

How many amps you need to send through it?

Do you think you might add more panels in future
There are lots of pretty good units and they are reasonably comparable in price

Look on eBay for a 30 40 or 50 amp
you can get a bigger one and add more panels later, get big enough for maximum panels you woul put up there

Victron has strong following and there is plenty of good used ones…. cause people keep buying bigger ones

 

[Henmigs]

I don't plan to add any more solar perhaps a 30 or 40 Amp would do. I will look at the Victron, are they MPPT too?

 

[Henmigs]

This looks like a good one, what are your thoughts with my 200 W panel?

 

[Aussieguy]

If you definite no other panel will be bought 75/20 will do

100/30 will allow about 450w

 

[Henmigs]

Thank You very much.