What are suitable solar panels for BCDC Classic and Core models?
This information is applicable to the following BCDC chargers:
- BCDC Classic Under Bonnet 25A DC Battery Charger (BCDC1225D)
- BCDC Classic Under Bonnet 40A DC Battery Charger (BCDC1240D)
- BCDC Classic Under Bonnet 50A DC Battery Charger (BCDC1250D)
- BCDC Core In-Cabin 25A DC Battery Charger (BCDCN1225)
- BCDC Core In-Cabin 25A DC Battery Charger (BCDCN1240)
- BCDC Trailer S – 12A Vehicle to Trailer Charger with Solar (BCDC1212S)
- 24V 20A Under Bonnet DC Battery Charger (BCDC2420)
To determine which solar panel is best suited for your application and to ensure compatibility with BCDC chargers, this guide provides all the answers to your solar-related questions.
WHICH TYPE OF SOLAR PANELS ARE SUITABLE FOR REDARC BCDC CLASSIC AND CORE MODELS?
Solar panels with Open Circuit Voltage (VOC) specification of less than 32 volts are compatible with the BCDC range of in-vehicle chargers.
Solar panels with Open Circuit Voltage specifications higher than 32V are not compatible and can be detrimental to the BCDC as the voltage exceeds the specification of the unit.
WHAT SPECIFICATIONS OF THE SOLAR PANEL DO I NEED TO CHECK BEFORE CONNECTING TO THE BCDC?
Solar Panel specifications are critical because when it comes to compatibility, if the solar input voltage exceeds the rating on the BCDC specifications, you can run the risk of causing product failure.
On the solar panel, there is usually a specifications sticker on the back of the panel, refer to the Open-Circuit Voltage (VOC) specification and ensure that is doesn’t exceed 32V.
The solar voltage range specified for the BCDC Classic and Core range are to be within 9-32V. This type of solar panel is referred to as a ‘12V nominal’ panel; any solar panel that is within these specifications, is compatible.
See example below of a suitably rated Solar Panel:
WHAT SPECIFICATIONS ARE NOT COMPATIBLE WITH THE BCDC CLASSIC AND CORE MODELS?
Solar panels of higher than 36V are known as ‘24V nominal panels’ or ‘House Panels’ and their voltage is too high. Any solar panel that has an Open-Circuit Voltage (VOC) greater than 32V is not compatible to use with BCDC Classic or Core models.
See examples below of an unsuitable solar panel:
WHAT IF I HAVE 24V SOLAR PANELS AND WANT/NEED TO USE THEM?
If 24V nominal solar panels are required to be used for an existing installation or due to system design constraints, it is recommended to connect these through a standalone (external) solar regulator that supports the higher voltage. These are not currently sold by REDARC.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I CONNECT A SOLAR INPUT OF HIGHER THAN 32V TO A BCDC?
Exposing the BCDC to voltages outside the specifications of the unit (>32V) can result in accelerated product life and worst-case scenario, where the input voltage is well outside the voltage range (38-40V+), it could result in irreparable internal damage to the BCDC.