Everything You Need to Know About Milenco Solar by OptiMate – 12V Battery Charger, Desulfator & Maintainer – Panel + Controller – 3-Year Warranty (4596)

Milenco Solar by OptiMate (product code 4596) is a 12V solar battery charger, desulfator and maintainer for caravans, motorhomes, vans, boats and similar vehicles, designed to keep a leisure or starter battery healthy without needing a mains hook-up.

How it works

The system converts low solar input into a higher-current pulse charge, which is used to maintain, charge and desulfate a 12V lead-acid battery (flooded, AGM or gel). The pulse-charge logic continually analyses the battery's condition and adjusts automatically, so it's designed to be safe for the vehicle's electronics, with no risk of overheating or overcharging – making it suited to long-term maintenance between trips, without needing to remove the battery.

Panel and controller

Unlike a simple solar trickle charger, this kit keeps the charge controller separate from the panel itself, so it can be mounted where you can see it. A clear LED display on the controller shows battery status and charging activity at a glance. An extra-length charge lead is included to make routing from a roof-mounted panel down to the battery box easier.

What's included

The kit comprises the solar panel, the OptiMate charge controller with its LED display, and the connection leads supplied by Milenco. If you need extra reach between the controller and the battery, Milenco also sells separate SAE 2-pin extension leads in 180cm/6ft (code 5593) and 460cm/15ft (code 5616) lengths, both compatible with this system.

Fitting notes

Mount the panel in full sun and route the cable away from sharp edges and moving parts to the controller and battery, observing correct polarity throughout. For vehicles kept in storage, Milenco recommends leaving the system connected continuously for the best results.

Warranty

Milenco Solar by OptiMate comes with a 3-year warranty. It's suitable for 12V leisure and automotive lead-acid batteries on caravans, motorhomes, vans, cars, motorcycles and boats.