Solar Expert Component Review Requested
I had previously been looking at the GoPower Solar Extreme "Kit" and received some very good feedback from all you folks here in the forums. It is due to that feedback that I have decided to piece my ...
Forum Discussion
Panels say they can connect in series... I would check that they have bypass diodes. All I see is blocking diodes. Maybe it serves as both somehow. Bypass diodes allow current to bypass a shaded panel and avoid damage.
Under 6 amps and 12 amps parallel I would just use some parallel MC4 connectors and #10 MC4 cable to run down to the controller. Skip the box. No fuse needed but I recommend a switch rated DC 90+ volts to disconnect power for service. DC is a different rated switch than AC at these levels.
How are you mounting the panels? Adhesive? Two sided tape? screws in the mounting holes?
Larger 24v panels are about half the price per watt. Although large size and weight could be an issue.
Mounted flat on the roof you need to have extra shade clearance from vents, A/C, antenna etc. compared to a framed panel that is elevated several inches.
800 watts into the 60 amp controller is fine.
I skipped the controller remote meter. Have not missed it. Can add later if you need to.
3000w does seem big. 2000 watts will run anything you would plug into a normal outlet. OK to have reserve power too. If you plan to run over 2000 watts I recommend six+ batteries.
I am sure the inverter/charger is fine. I personally prefer separate components that would include separate inverter, transfer switch, and converter for charging. Inverter/charger does make whole house installation easier. Or are you thinking to break out inverter only circuits with a subpanel?
Just some random thoughts for discussion.
Looks like it will be a good system.
Under 6 amps and 12 amps parallel I would just use some parallel MC4 connectors and #10 MC4 cable to run down to the controller. Skip the box. No fuse needed but I recommend a switch rated DC 90+ volts to disconnect power for service. DC is a different rated switch than AC at these levels.
How are you mounting the panels? Adhesive? Two sided tape? screws in the mounting holes?
Larger 24v panels are about half the price per watt. Although large size and weight could be an issue.
Mounted flat on the roof you need to have extra shade clearance from vents, A/C, antenna etc. compared to a framed panel that is elevated several inches.
800 watts into the 60 amp controller is fine.
I skipped the controller remote meter. Have not missed it. Can add later if you need to.
3000w does seem big. 2000 watts will run anything you would plug into a normal outlet. OK to have reserve power too. If you plan to run over 2000 watts I recommend six+ batteries.
I am sure the inverter/charger is fine. I personally prefer separate components that would include separate inverter, transfer switch, and converter for charging. Inverter/charger does make whole house installation easier. Or are you thinking to break out inverter only circuits with a subpanel?
Just some random thoughts for discussion.
Looks like it will be a good system.
