brain teaser, to much power [RE-wrenches]

[Christopher Freitas --- OutBack Power]

Hey Darryl,

You have several options - and probably much of the controls already 
there to handle it.

A simple option is to use the auxiliary control ability of the 
inverter/charger to control the loads.  If you have an SW series, there 
are three AUX RELAYs which can be wired up to AC or DC loads.  These 
only handle 5 amps each so be careful to not overload them - or add 
larger relays controlled by the smaller ones - also you need to add a 
fuse or breaker in series.

If you have an OutBack inverter/charger or MX60 controller - then the 
built-in AUX OUTPUT control can be wired to a 12vdc coil relay or 
contactor to control an AC or DC load - much like the SW's AUX RELAY.  
Again - be sure to install overcurrent protection.  

Another option is to use a C35/C40/C60 as a diversion controller to send 
excess power to a resistive load.  This is a great way to use these 
older controllers when a system is upgraded with a newer MPPT 
controller. 

Another option is to use a standalone voltage controlled relay - such as 
the simple switch or one from Atkinson or others.  

Using DC voltage only as the criteria for diversion can be an issue 
since the setpoints for the charge control and the inverter are usually 
temp comp'd and the diversion system is not (except with the OutBack 
inverter and MX60 system).  You might need to change the settings 
seasonally to ensure best operation.  

Be careful selecting the DC load - it needs to have the correct 
resistance to work properly - but I have used AC waterheater elements 
many times with DC power with success.  I have also used freeze 
protection heat tape to warm up battery boxes - works well.   

Christopher Freitas
OutBack Power Systems, Inc.
cfreitas @ outbackpower.com  
www.outbackpower.com
Arlington WA USA
Tel 360 435 6030  

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Darryl Thayer wrote:
> 
> Hi to all
> This is a real question.
> In my collection of standalone customers, I have to
> much power and not enough power.  
> Today it is -10 F and Sun is shining, and wind is 20
> to 35 mph.  My customers batteries are full, they are
> not using anywhere near what they could.  How can I
> configure a dump load so on days like this I put power
> into things like crankcase heater, battery warmer,
> even house hold hot water?  
> Daryl
> 
> 
> __________________________________
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Christopher Freitas
OutBack Power Systems, Inc.
cfreitas @ outbackpower.com  
www.outbackpower.com
Arlington WA USA
Tel 360 435 6030  

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