Solar Charger

[pdo]

I have a 2024 Cutwater 288 with a175 watt solar panel. I am considering adding another panel. Does anyone know if the current solar charger and electrical setup on the boat is adequate for handling another panel? Thanks

 

[serendipity]

Hopefully, this helps. We added a second 175w panel on our 2023 R27OB last year. The stock wiring was able to handle the extra panel. We had our dealer do the install and they verified with the factory.

We were told we could have added a third panel, but only added the second panel.

 

[venajeff]

Assuming the solar charger can handle the higher voltage, installing a second equivalent panel in series should not change the current demand on the wiring.

 

[Eagle 2]

I don't know what solar controller yours comes with, you will need to determine the allowable solar amps it can handle. I know the controller on my Cutwater is less than desirable, you may want to simply upgrade your controller to a Victron with bluetooth capability, about $150 for the extra panel to tie them together, that way you have a clean electrical flow from the panels to the batteries,and can monitor it on your phone. Don't forget to fuse at the panels and add an on/off switch before the controller.

 

[DDean]

Instead of getting a second panel, consider just getting one new big one and using the stock panel for something else. I put a bifacial 440w panel up there with a new Victron 100/30 controller - probably more efficient than having two panels.
Careful increasing the amperage (increase volts instead) or you may have to change wiring.