Layout of Components for Solar Install
I'd like some input on my conceptual plan for my solar install, in particular the best location for the various components. For reference, here is my floor plan: This photo is lookin...
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I look at this a little differently and have not studied the solar completely yet as I'm still figuring out my basic power setup. But, as I understand it if you are getting identical panels then their output voltage will all be the same so buy the higher voltage panels of 30 volts(24v system panels), let the PWM controller bring it down to our charge rate of 13.8/14.4 etc. It will cut the cost of the panels almost in half and allow use of a smaller amperage controller and wire size due to lower amperage(I think they are based on input amperage-this needs to be verified) cutting cost further. "They say" you will also gain a couple of points of efficiency with the PWM.
I don't know enough about MH's to comment on location, but if you're concerned about the distances make sure to be generous on wire size. We have had 220 watts solar and a 400 watt Samlex for 4 years on our truck camper with no problems. I don't know if you can run enough stuff off 400 watts to really draw the system down. At least we can't. This time around very few to no hook ups, basically full timing and want to run microwave and coffee pot with a portable genny only for emergencies so things inverters(2kw) and wires(2/0) get really big quickly. Also just remember that with panels not pointed directly at the sun that the efficiency is lower, I've never seen more than about 11 amp output(in October with a low sun angle) or about 50% of the panel rated output which is not to say that other folks don't do better.
I'm near Salida if I can be of any assistance pm me.
I don't know enough about MH's to comment on location, but if you're concerned about the distances make sure to be generous on wire size. We have had 220 watts solar and a 400 watt Samlex for 4 years on our truck camper with no problems. I don't know if you can run enough stuff off 400 watts to really draw the system down. At least we can't. This time around very few to no hook ups, basically full timing and want to run microwave and coffee pot with a portable genny only for emergencies so things inverters(2kw) and wires(2/0) get really big quickly. Also just remember that with panels not pointed directly at the sun that the efficiency is lower, I've never seen more than about 11 amp output(in October with a low sun angle) or about 50% of the panel rated output which is not to say that other folks don't do better.
I'm near Salida if I can be of any assistance pm me.
