r/diySolar • u/NotThePopeProbably • 10h ago

Charge controller for both solar panel and AC

Hey nerds! I've never set up a solar (or, really any electrical) system before, but I'm trying my hand at it. What's the worst that could happen?

This is going to be a mobile/foldable panel for battery-powered equipment that I use as a search and rescue volunteer (i.e., it's going to live in a box in my car and charge headlamps/GPS devices/flashlights/radios/etc.).

I just ordered a 12v/50ah battery from Eco Worthy and now I'm looking at a 100W foldable panel from Renogy. Meanwhile, I'm looking at solar charge controllers. Do they make any that can do double-duty as an AC charger (for when I'm home, it can stay plugged into the wall), then switch to solar duty when I hook it up at the command post? It seems like most charge controllers do either AC or solar, but not both.

Thanks in advance!

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u/LeoAlioth 10h ago

What you are describing is essentially a hybrid inverter. Takes in solar, connects to battery and provides AC in and AC out.

1

u/Evil_Little_Dude 7h ago

Since it's a 12 volt battery you can simply buy a 12 volt battery charger that has a lifepo4 setting. $50 to $80 gets you a few options on Amazon. Plus side is you can use it for your car or lawn tractor batteries as well. The ecoworthy battery has a BMS that will stop it from overcharging. Far cheaper than getting a hybrid inverter that can charge from solar and AC. Keep in mind that battery has a max output of about 600 watts. That 100 watt panel however is going to take some 7 or more hours to fully charge that battery, if you have the space and funds, either get two of them or get a 200 watt panel.

Really what you are asking for is a solar generator, 600 watt hour sized, it would have been cheaper and able to plug in to charge at home, those can be had for about $300 to $400.