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GaryS1953's avatar
Mar 22, 2017

Wind deflector for solar panels

Hi All,

Going to be installing at least 2 and possibly 3 100 watt panels to our small fiver. The best open real estate for them is in the front of the fiver. Should I be concerned about airflow under and above the panels? I was think maybe I should put some kind of air deflector in front of them. Thoughts?

6 Replies

  • rjxj wrote:
    No deflectors needed and as mentioned just good mounts. What type of mount are you using? Do you want to be able to tilt?


    I actually have not ordered the panels yet, but I was thinking of either ordering the Windy Nation ones that tilt, or making my own, which didn't look that difficult using the angle aluminum with holes from Menards or Home Depot.
  • No deflectors needed and as mentioned just good mounts. What type of mount are you using? Do you want to be able to tilt?
  • An air deflector isn't needed. The air that passes over and under the module improves electrical harvest as it lowers the temperature of the module. Be sure to allow for some space below the modules when installing. An inch or two is all that is necessary.
  • Think about how the air flows at the front of the trailer. I would bet your panels will be subject to a vacuum than any direct air flow on or under them. As mentioned, just make sure they are mounted very well.
  • My 150 watt panel has been mounted on the front part of the roof for two years with no problems. I was initially worried about the strong airflow pushing against the panel. But after 25 camping trips, now I don't even think about it. If properly mounted, the panels will stay on the roof.

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