Description
Victron BlueSolar PWM-Light 30A Charge Controller | Boat Supply Store
For maintaining battery health on a cruising sailboat or powering essential systems in a remote fishing camp, this charge controller efficiently manages solar input for 12V or 24V systems. It handles up to 30A of charge current and a 30A load current, ensuring your batteries receive optimal power through its bulk, absorption, and float stages. The integrated low voltage disconnect (LVD) protects sensitive electronics from deep discharge, a critical function for preserving battery longevity in marine environments.
Key Features
- Low Voltage Disconnect protects battery and loads from over-discharge.
- Programmable Lighting Timer offers convenient control for marine or RV lighting.
- Three-Stage Charging (bulk, absorption, float) optimizes battery health and lifespan.
- 30A Maximum Charge Current efficiently utilizes solar panel output.
- 30A Maximum Load Current supports powering onboard devices.
- Reverse Polarity Protection safeguards against incorrect wiring for solar array and battery.
- Overload and Short Circuit Protection on load output ensures safety and component longevity.
- Two Digit Seven Segment Display simplifies setting configuration and status monitoring.
Specifications
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| System Voltage | 12/24V automatic |
| Max Charge Current | 30A |
| Max Load Current | 30A |
| Max Solar Panel Open Circuit Voltage | 100V |
| Quiescent Current | 0.3W |
| Nominal Battery Voltage (12V) | 12V |
| Nominal Battery Voltage (24V) | 24V |
| Battery Charging | 3-stage (bulk, absorption, float) |
| Display | LED |
| Safety Certifications | CE |
Who This Is For
Boaters, RV owners, and off-grid enthusiasts seeking a straightforward and dependable solar charge controller for 12V or 24V battery systems up to 30 amps. Ideal for basic battery maintenance and powering small loads where integrated lighting control is a desirable feature.
How It Compares
| Feature | Victron BlueSolar PWM-Light 30A Charge Controller | Renogy Wanderer 30A PWM Charge Controller |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | PWM | PWM |
| Max Charge Current | 30A | 30A |
| Max Solar Input Voltage (Voc) | 100V | 50V |
| Display | Two digit seven segment display | LCD |
| Lighting Control Timer | Yes (one timer) | No |
Common Concerns Answered
Will this controller provide enough control for my specific battery bank?
The Victron BlueSolar PWM-Light features a standard three-stage charging algorithm (bulk, absorption, float), which is highly effective for lead-acid batteries. While programmability for charging stages is limited compared to advanced units, its reliability and essential features make it an excellent choice for basic solar charging needs.
Is the display informative enough for monitoring my solar system?
This controller utilizes a two-digit seven-segment display for straightforward setting adjustments. While it provides essential status indications, users seeking detailed real-time performance data or historical logging may prefer models with full LCD screens.
Are there more advanced features available, like temperature compensation?
This specific PWM-Light model does not include built-in temperature compensation. For applications requiring precise battery charging in varying ambient temperatures, consider Victron's MPPT controllers that offer optional temperature sensors for enhanced performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum solar panel wattage I can connect to the Victron BlueSolar PWM-Light 30AMP controller?
For a 12V system, you can connect up to 360W of solar panels (30A x 12V). For a 24V system, you can connect up to 720W of solar panels (30A x 24V). Always ensure your solar array's open-circuit voltage (Voc) does not exceed 100V.
Can this charge controller be used with lithium batteries?
This controller is primarily designed for lead-acid batteries. While it may function with some lithium chemistries, it is not specifically optimized for their charging profiles, and we recommend using controllers designed for lithium batteries to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
What is the difference between the PWM-Light and other Victron charge controllers?
The PWM-Light series uses Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) technology and offers essential features like low voltage disconnect and a lighting timer at a lower price point. Victron's MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) controllers are more advanced, capture more energy from solar panels, and offer greater programmability and features.
How do I set the lighting control timer on this controller?
The lighting control timer is set using the two-digit seven-segment display and associated buttons. Refer to the product manual (available at the provided URL) for precise step-by-step instructions on programming the timer function according to your needs.
What does the low battery voltage disconnect function do?
The low battery voltage disconnect (LVD) function automatically disconnects the load output when the battery voltage drops to a predetermined low level. This prevents deep discharge, which can permanently damage lead-acid batteries and ensures that critical systems are not drained.
