Can Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger Work With 160 Watt Solar Panel and 120 Watt Solar Blanket

Updated 04/14/2021 | Published 04/13/2021

Question:

I have a redarc 1240 bcdc charger currently running with a 120 watt solar blanket, can i add a 160 watt solar panel to the yellow wire and run both the solar blanket and solar panel at the same time ? My 160 solar panel will be connected full time, if i park in the shade can i plug in the solar blanket aswell without causing damage

asked by: Darrell

Helpful Expert Reply:

I reached out to Redarc and you will have no issues using both your 120 watt solar blanket and a 160 watt solar panel at the same time with the Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger - Dual Input - DC to DC - 12V/24V - 40 Amp # 331-BCDC1240D as long as the solar panel and blanket are wired in parallel meaning the both positive wires are connected together, and both negative wires are connected together.

The reason for this is the # 331-BCDC1240D will only draw the power that it can take, and will not be overloaded.

We do not offer a 160 watt solar panel at this time, but do have a 165 watt option, the Furrion Solar Panel - Rigid - 165 Watts - 59" x 26-5/8" # FR73SR if you have not already purchased a solar panel.

I included a video review for both of the products mentioned for you to take a look at.

expert reply by: Samuel C