Skip to Content

What Is a Charge Controller for a Wind Turbine?

What Is a Charge Controller for a Wind Turbine?

In the right conditions, a wind turbine can produce a massive amount of energy. Yet, in the wrong conditions, this can damage one’s home, business, or personal belongings. Thankfully, this is where charge controllers come in.

A charge controller limits the electric current traveling from the wind turbine into the property it powers––mostly batteries. How to use this device depends largely on your situation, including what model you purchased. Today, many are digital, allowing you to adjust how much energy you need.

Many renewable energy sources, such wind turbines and solar panels use charge controllers. However, some specialists note that if your system doesn’t produce that much energy (or just supplements your main power system), you might not need a charge controller. Continue reading to learn more.

A Charge Controller Controls Your Wind Turbine’s Energy Output

A charge controller is crucial to your system on many levels, primarily mitigating damage. If you have a high-output wind turbine, but you don’t have a charge controller, you risk:

Overcharging Your Devices

Here’s a scenario to understand overcharging. Suppose you’re charging your phone using a wind turbine without a control charger. Your phone won’t stop accepting power once it gets to 100 percent; instead, it’ll overcharge.

This could:

  • Cause a small explosion
  • Permanently damage your device’s battery
  • Cause your home’s inverter to shut off
  • Cause above-average wear and tear on your device

Having a charge controller installed would monitor how much energy your devices need and stop supplying energy once they reach a certain threshold.

Regulating Your Batteries’ Temperature

When your devices’ batteries go below a certain temperature, it will be difficult for them to maintain a charge and operate. Some charge controllers are able to regulate batteries’ temperature, so they continue supplying power.

Overloading Your Electrical System

If you have more things plugged in than your electrical system can handle, this is a huge risk. In the worst-case scenario, this could cause a fire and severe damage. Some charge controllers prevent this from happening, meaning that it protects your electrical system from overloading and malfunctioning.

As you can see, there are many benefits to having a charge controller for a wind turbine. It’s just one of the many parts that a wind-powered home needs to function.

How Do I Get a Charge Controller?

Unless you have an understanding of wind turbine engineering, you should not buy a charge controller and try to install it yourself. To ensure a smooth installation process, you should consult the company that originally installed your wind turbine.

A professional can explain what charge controller suits your system and install it for you. If your home doesn’t use that much energy, they might say that a charge controller isn’t necessary.

You Can Browse Models Online

You might know what charge controller you need for your wind turbine system. If so, you have many options to choose from. Here are some recommendations that are popular with homeowners:

  • The Original Factory 1400. This charge controller is compatible with different types of energy sources, from wind to solar. It even features an LCD screen where you can easily make adjustments. Reviewers on Amazon notes that the charge controller helped generate energy despite low winds.
  • The Pikasola Wind Turbine Charge Controller. If you want a bare-bones charge controller, this is the one for you. Instead of having to pour over user manuals and fumble with screens, this device does most of the work for you. It’s also waterproof.

As mentioned, before deciding on a certain model, be sure to consult your wind turbine provider first. That way, you can select the device that best meets your needs.

 

Things To Consider When Purchasing a Charge Controller

Earlier, we said that the best charge controller for you depends on your situation. When considering a new one, think about:

  • How much energy your property needs
  • Whether you’re solely relying on wind energy or another source
  • The time of year
  • How much energy your wind turbines generate
  • Your wind turbine’s size
  • Your location

You should also consider how involved you want to be in your wind turbine’s energy supply. If you want total control over your system, you should opt for one with a screen. If you trust your system to do the work, then you might consider a self-reliant one.

A Final Word

As the U.S. Department of Energy shares, a charge controller controls how much energy flows into a battery, keeping it safe from overcharge. It’s just one of the many nuanced parts that keep your wind turbine system safe and operational.