A charge controller fitted to your system will ensure:

· The system operates automatically

· Prevents damage to your batteries through over voltage

….so if the batteries become fully charged in your absence from the site the batteries will not be overcharged. Some charge controllers or regulators also incorporate a low voltage disconnect to prevent deep discharge to the batteries. Other features indicating the system’s operation are also available on some models.

Which type of regulator is recommended?

Marlec has a range of regulators designed for use with wind, solar or hybrid systems (combined wind & solar).

· Choose the unit that best matches your windcharger or solar panel. If you plan to later expand your system we suggest that you choose a regulator that will accommodate the planned system growth. For example, you might decide to use a windcharger initially but plan to later add a solar panel to supplement your power requirements particularly in the summer or if you intend to cruise in warm climates.

· Decide what features you would like the regulator to incorporate. Overcharge protection with simple system indication or if you want to be able to see detail of how the system is performing.

The table below shows the Rutland Windcharger models and the appropriate regulators to choose. The box completed also indicates the capacity of solar panels that can be connected in parallel. Click on the model name to find detailed specifications.