JUNE 2023 FAQ

Is A Solar Panel Useless Without A Charge Controller?

The importance of a charge controller in solar panel systems cannot be overstated. If you do not have a charge controller, your solar panel is essentially useless, and it can even cause damage to your battery if directly connected to one another.

The charge controller regulates the amount of current that flows into the battery and cuts off the input power when the battery is fully charged.

Another essential function of the charge controller is to protect the solar panel itself.

In conclusion, it’s always recommended that you use a quality charge controller to ensure that your solar system functions optimally and lasts for years to come.

If My Horizontally Mounted Panels Are Facing South At 22-27 Degrees, Will This Affect The Output?

The answer is a resounding yes but in a good way! The orientation and angle of your solar panels play a critical role in the performance of your solar system. This is because solar panels rely on sunlight to produce electricity, and the amount of sunlight they receive depends on their orientation and angle relative to the sun.

In the northern hemisphere, it is generally recommended that solar panels face south to maximize their exposure to the sun. If your panels are vertically or horizontally mounted, that’s ok, because all that matters is that they’re facing the sun.

Additionally, the angle of your panels can also impact their output. The optimal angle of your panels will depend on your geographical location and will vary throughout the year. For example, in the winter when the sun is lower in the sky, a steeper angle may be more optimal to ensure that your panels are receiving the maximum amount of sunlight.

So, if your horizontally mounted panels are southern facing at an angle of 22-27 degrees, this could impact the output of your solar system by means of generating a higher output due to increased solar absorption. However, the exact impact will depend on a variety of factors, such as the ones listed above.