Feedback on this solar kit?

Darryl&Rita wrote:
Tom, that's a bad idea to use connectors that aren't designed for the use. Sooner or later, somebody will plug that plug into a 120v cord, and there's going to be an impressive show.

Good point. There are risks. For short term experimenting it's a cheap approach and you probably already have an extension cord lying around.

I use Anderson Powerpole SB50 connectors myself. They are foolproof and color coded for specific voltages.

JiminDenver wrote:
I know it it's possible to use a panel direct but usable controllers are so inexpensive I just don't see the reason. Forget to check the voltage or leave the panel on while you are gone and a new battery will cost a lot more than a cheap controller. You also gain not having to worry about over charging and never deal with needing the charging but can't because you are leaving the site for too long.

A 75watt panel is essentially a 6 amp battery charger. If you have flooded/wet cell batteries think of it as an equalizing charge, which recommended periodically.

If you know for sure that solar is for you, by all means set up the whole system properly. But if you are in the experimenting stage I would recommend a step-by-step approach.