Victron BlueSolar PWM Charge Controllers — PWM-Light & PWM-Pro
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60-day hassle-free returns
The simplest, most affordable way to charge a battery from solar. The Victron BlueSolar PWM range is a no-frills pulse-width-modulation charge controller for small off-grid systems. It comes in two flavours: PWM-Light for straightforward, reliable charging, and PWM-Pro for those who want a fully programmable charge algorithm and a built-in battery monitor. Both include a load output that protects your battery from over-discharge and a day/night lighting timer.
PWM or MPPT — which do you need?
A PWM controller connects your solar panel almost directly to the battery, pulling the panel down to battery voltage. It's simple, reliable, and inexpensive — but it only works well when the panel's voltage already matches the battery. An MPPT actively converts excess panel voltage into extra charge current, harvesting up to 30% more and accepting much higher-voltage arrays.
PWM is the right call for small systems, warm climates, and a “battery-voltage” panel (a 36-cell panel for a 12 V battery, a 72-cell panel for 24 V) when you want the lowest-cost option. Choose an MPPT for higher-voltage (60-/72-cell “grid-tie”) panels, cold climates, longer cable runs, or maximum harvest from a larger array.
PWM-Light or PWM-Pro?
- PWM-Light — simple three-stage charging (bulk, absorption, float, not programmable), a two-digit display for setting the load output and timer, and a load output with low-voltage disconnect. The most affordable choice for basic 12/24 V systems (plus a 48 V/30 A model).
- PWM-Pro — a fully programmable charge algorithm (via free PC software or the optional BlueSolar Pro Remote Panel), an integrated battery-monitor function, an optional external temperature sensor, and an equalization stage. For installers who want to tune charging to a specific battery.
Match the panel to the battery
The one rule that matters with PWM: the panel must suit the battery voltage. For 12 V use a 36-cell solar panel; for 24 V use a 72-cell panel (or two 36-cell in series); for the 48 V model use two 72-cell (or four 36-cell) panels in series. High-voltage grid-tie panels need an MPPT.
Choose your model
| Model | Series | System voltage | Charge current |
|---|---|---|---|
| PWM-Light 12/24-5 | Light (simple) | 12 / 24 V (auto) | 5 A |
| PWM-Light 12/24-10 | Light (simple) | 12 / 24 V (auto) | 10 A |
| PWM-Light 12/24-20 | Light (simple) | 12 / 24 V (auto) | 20 A |
| PWM-Light 12/24-30 | Light (simple) | 12 / 24 V (auto) | 30 A |
| PWM-Light 48-30 | Light (simple) | 48 V | 30 A |
| PWM-Pro 12/24-5 | Pro (programmable) | 12 / 24 V (auto) | 5 A |
| PWM-Pro 12/24-10 | Pro (programmable) | 12 / 24 V (auto) | 10 A |
| PWM-Pro 12/24-20 | Pro (programmable) | 12 / 24 V (auto) | 20 A |
| PWM-Pro 12/24-30 | Pro (programmable) | 12 / 24 V (auto) | 30 A |
Features
- Load output with low-voltage disconnect — run lights or DC loads and disconnect them before the battery is over-discharged.
- Day/night lighting timer — a pre-set on-time after dusk, ideal for solar lighting.
- Three-stage charging — bulk, absorption, float (programmable on the Pro, fixed on the Light).
- PWM-Pro extras — fully programmable algorithm, integrated battery monitor (state of charge shown on the optional Remote Panel), optional temperature sensor with -30 / -60 mV/°C compensation, and an equalization stage.
- Comprehensive protection — battery reverse polarity (fuse), output short circuit, over-temperature, and overload (shuts down on sustained 130% / 160% load).
Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Battery voltage | 12 / 24 V auto-detect (48 V model: 48 V) |
| Rated charge current | 5 / 10 / 20 / 30 A |
| Maximum solar voltage | 28 V (12 V) / 55 V (24 V); 100 V on the 48 V model |
| Charge voltage (absorption / float) | Light: 14.2 / 13.8 V (12 V) · Pro: 14.4 / 13.8 V; equalization 14.6 V (Pro) |
| Low-voltage load disconnect / reconnect | 11.2 / 12.6 V (12 V; doubled for 24 V) |
| Self-consumption | < 10 mA |
| Operating temperature | -20 to +50 °C (full load) |
| Protection class | IP20 (Light) / IP30 (Pro), indoor |
| Battery types | AGM, GEL, Flooded (Pro: fully programmable) |
| Standards | IEC 62109-1 |
| Warranty | 5 years from date of purchase |
FAQs
Q: Light or Pro?
PWM-Light for simple, set-and-forget charging at the lowest price. PWM-Pro when you want to program the charge algorithm (PC software or Remote Panel), see state of charge, or add a temperature sensor.
Q: Will any solar panel work?
No — the panel must match the battery voltage: a 36-cell panel for 12 V, a 72-cell panel (or 2× 36-cell in series) for 24 V. High-voltage grid-tie panels need an MPPT.
Q: Is there a model with a built-in display and USB?
Yes — see the BlueSolar PWM with LCD & USB range, which adds an LCD and two USB charging ports.
Q: Can it charge lithium?
These lead-acid-focused PWM controllers are best for AGM, GEL, and Flooded batteries. For lithium, use a controller with a dedicated LiFePO4 profile (the LCD&USB PWM or, better, an MPPT).
Q: Does it connect to an app or GX device?
No. These are standalone — no Bluetooth, VE.Direct, or GX. The Pro can be programmed and monitored via PC software or the optional Remote Panel.
Q: What's the warranty?
A 5-year limited Victron warranty, fully supported through us as an authorized distributor.
Not sure which model or panel pairing fits? Email support@bluemarine.com or call (800) 628-6306.
Why buy your Victron PWM controller from Blue Marine
- Authorized Victron Energy Distributor — genuine product, fully supported warranty.
- ABYC-certified Advisors — real solar sizing help, not a call center.
- Free US shipping over $49 from our Seattle warehouse.
- 60-day hassle-free returns.
- Local pickup available in Seattle, WA.
- Custom quotes & full system design — request a quote for a complete build.
- Dealer & installer program — apply here for trade pricing.
Warranty Information
Shipping & Returns
We offer free shipping over $49. Lithium batteries & oversize items may have an applicable shipping charge.
We know returns are no fun so we aim to make the return process as hassle free as possible! We have a 60-day return policy, which means you have 60 days after receiving your item to request a return.
Lithium batteries and products with lithium batteries inside are non returnable: Due to carrier regulations surrounding the shipment of lithium batteries (classified as a fully regulated hazardous material), we are unable to accept returns unless arranged locally. We appreciate your understanding and encourage you to contact us with any questions prior to purchase.
For more information on returns, visit our return policy page.
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