Adding a 3rd mobile panel
Thanks for all the replies in my other post. I stated I was going to purchase the 120w suitcase kit. Well after alot of reading and learning from all here on this site Ive changed direction. I DID pur...
Forum Discussion
Almot wrote:I am one that favors the portable solution. I have three panels, two of which are portable. One of my portable panels is a 180 watt flexible which I framed with aluminum channel. My 125 watt glass panel which is on the roof weighs 27 pounds and my 180 watt flexible panel weighs 12 pounds. I mounted my portable panels on the side of my coach. If that side of my coach is toward the sun I can leave them attached, otherwise I remove them and place them on the ground. I've had my flexible panel for three years and it is still working well. Flexible panels are actually more efficient than similar glass panels.
2 reasons:
1) They are (usually) less efficient per sq ft, i.e. 100W flexible is larger than 100W rigid.
2) More difficult to make a frame to hold it in tilted position. To rigid you just bolt 2 hind legs of alum angle or PVC pipes.
I would also think that they are less durable, there is no glass, they use some clear film on top.
But they can be a good choice for roof mount on expensive MH where you don't want to drill any holes. I'm talking about flexible that you can roll out, not those that come with rudimentary metal trim around the perimeter and can "flex" but not roll out. You probably bought the latter type - with metal trim.
Solar Blvd. is selling a 120 watt flexible panel for $119.
https://www.solarblvd.com/products/solar-cynergy-flexible-bendable-120-watt-12-volt-solar-panel/
Their 120 watt flexible produces about 15 watts per sq ft. Their 140 watt monocrystalline glass panel produces about 13 watts per sq ft.
The flexible panels are very durable and should be stiff enough to use without a frame. About the only down side is a much shorter warranty.
My install. 80 watt on the left, 180 watt flexible on the right:
