Adding more solar panels question?

Almot wrote:

westend wrote:

X2, first step is to understand your total power needs. Tally up everything you will power.

2nd step - post in Tech Issues. More solar threads there.

I am 99% positive that a single small panel installed on your bus has to go, it's too small.

Roughly, in summer - at least 300W flat solar, 300W PSW inverter and 200-300 AH battery bank without microwave and other kitchen gadgets.

Some people opted for running generator when they make breakfast in microwave, and use solar rest of the day.

Interior lights MUST be replaced with LED.

Consider that so-called "flat" panels should still have a few degrees slope to drain water and debris - this usually comes naturally when conforming to the roof slope. Dust accumulated on panels can reduce the output by 5-10%, not enough to climb there with a broom (or spraying with a hose) more than once a year.

I have 520 watts of solar and 240 ah of battery and we didn't replace the lights with LED and get by just fine. So not it's not a must to install LED.

westend wrote:

X2, first step is to understand your total power needs. Tally up everything you will power.

2nd step - post in Tech Issues. More solar threads there.

I am 99% positive that a single small panel installed on your bus has to go, it's too small.

Roughly, in summer - at least 300W flat solar, 300W PSW inverter and 200-300 AH battery bank without microwave and other kitchen gadgets.

Some people opted for running generator when they make breakfast in microwave, and use solar rest of the day.

Interior lights MUST be replaced with LED.

Consider that so-called "flat" panels should still have a few degrees slope to drain water and debris - this usually comes naturally when conforming to the roof slope. Dust accumulated on panels can reduce the output by 5-10%, not enough to climb there with a broom (or spraying with a hose) more than once a year.

MrWizard wrote:
when going 'solar' and limiting generator run time

you need enough battery to make thru the night, lights , TV, Heater, device charging, and stay above 50% SOC

and enough solar to replace that use, while ALSO powering your daytime use, water pump , laptop etc..

X2, first step is to understand your total power needs. Tally up everything you will power.

when going 'solar' and limiting generator run time

you need enough battery to make thru the night, lights , TV, Heater, device charging, and stay above 50% SOC

and enough solar to replace that use, while ALSO powering your daytime use, water pump , laptop etc..

I had (5) 100w panels on the roof by the original owner.
-Unless the sun was directly overhead the panels loose efficiency at angles. -Going up on the roof and keeping the panels clean was a PITA.
-(6) 6 volts to keep watered and since only 4 fit on the tray the other 2 were in the engine bay so I had to periodically balance (can't recall the correct term but it was a cycle of heavy charging to even out the bank).

I only have a MSW Inverter so some stuff did not like it.

So, is the expense still worth it for you?

Lwiddis wrote:
Stick with a generator to run the TV and a few lights? What a waste of time, money and trouble.

Not sure if you got what I was saying. I would only want the SOLAR to run the tv and few lights. I know it would cost a LOT to get it to run the AC. I would continue to run the generator when I need AC, but I would like if I could go solar for everything else.

Stick with a generator to run the TV and a few lights? What a waste of time, money and trouble.

Ok... I was not worried about the AC. really just the TV and a few lights. If I have to start all new, I will likely just stick with the generator. I was just thinking that maybe it would be a little easier as there is one solar already. But I am not sure about the charging controller. Maybe it can only handle one? I will check out the book. Thanks. :)

PatrickA51 wrote:

I agree with Mr.Wizard get a book called the 12v side of life

http://www.marxrv.com/12volt/12volt.htm
http://www.marxrv.com/12volt/12volta.htm

Your links are not working.

The 12 Volt Side of Life

MrWizard wrote:
how large an existing panel ? little thing on top of the a/c ?

start from scratch

you still the generator for large items, coffee maker, MW etc..

unless you go big on the battery bank and LARGE on the solar, very large

and you will still use the generator occasionally, especially for the A/C

I agree with Mr.Wizard get a book called the 12v side of life

http://www.marxrv.com/12volt/12volt.htm
http://www.marxrv.com/12volt/12volta.htm



Also you will need more batteries I have a 2005 Jamboree 26Q. I have 6 Lifeline AGM 6v Batteries and 3 100W Solar Panels.
Those books are a very interesting read.