How are my solar panels doing?
First time extended camping with my new panels and I would like to know what others think of their performance. I have two 140 watt panels and a Morningstar sunsaver duo charge controller. Highest amp...
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I also have 2 x 140 watt 12V panels (Cynergy, max current rating = 8A each), Morningstar Tristar 45 PWM, and 2 x 6V GC batteries. Panels are mounted fixed and flat on the roof, although neither is actually parallel with the ground due to the slope of the slightly rounded roof. During summer, I regularly see over 15A max current. I use MSVIEW software on my laptop linked to the charge controller via RS-232 cable to monitor panel performance.
During the winter here in Montana, when the panels aren't buried under snow, I'm lucky to get upwards of 7A max charging current due to the reasons that many have mentioned (low sun angle). I have been watching it closely lately though because I've been worried that maybe only one panel is working since I wouldn't ever see more than 8A. As we get further into spring, max amp ratings have moved upwards as well and now I regularly see it over 10A. So I think your observations sound normal for winter harvest with flat mounted panels.
During the winter here in Montana, when the panels aren't buried under snow, I'm lucky to get upwards of 7A max charging current due to the reasons that many have mentioned (low sun angle). I have been watching it closely lately though because I've been worried that maybe only one panel is working since I wouldn't ever see more than 8A. As we get further into spring, max amp ratings have moved upwards as well and now I regularly see it over 10A. So I think your observations sound normal for winter harvest with flat mounted panels.
