Once you have decided on a type of solar charge controller, you'll want to identify what features you need. There aremany basic solar charge controllers that work well. In addition, there are somegreat features that will make your renewable energy experience even better. Oneimportant addition to your system is Battery Temperature Sensors. Batterycapacity depends on temperature, therefore proper battery charging can besignificantly enhanced with a temperature sensor.

       Additionally, some solar controllers offer adjustable control voltage set points, low voltage disconnect, overloadprotection and metering. If you plan to run a DC load, you can connect itdirectly to the solar charge controller. If the solar controller is equippedwith a low voltage disconnect (LVD), then the solar charge controller candetect when the battery is low and shut off the DC load until the battery is charged.