Just Starting Solar Research
Man, there's a lot to read and digest with possibly installing a small solar panel. I very recently replaced my original 1-stage converter/charger with the Progressive Dynamics PD4600 series conve...
Forum Discussion
I've just started using our panel this year and have been seeing what it can do tracking, tilted or flat. I can tell you that a 80w panel is going to have a better chance meeting your needs tracking than just tilted or flat.
while tilted south or flat, the system woke up later and at low amps, then slowly worked it's way to max amps as the sun rose. While tracking the system woke sooner and was close to max once the sun cleared the treeline. Another hour for the haze to burn off and the system produced max amps as long as the sun was out and the need was there.
I agree with getting on the roof and measuring if you plan on mounting it. Find out how much space you have and fill it with the biggest panel possible to fit. You will be drilling four sets of holes per panel, the fewer holes the better.
while tilted south or flat, the system woke up later and at low amps, then slowly worked it's way to max amps as the sun rose. While tracking the system woke sooner and was close to max once the sun cleared the treeline. Another hour for the haze to burn off and the system produced max amps as long as the sun was out and the need was there.
I agree with getting on the roof and measuring if you plan on mounting it. Find out how much space you have and fill it with the biggest panel possible to fit. You will be drilling four sets of holes per panel, the fewer holes the better.
