Forum Discussion

Rbertalotto's avatar
Rbertalotto
Explorer
Jul 02, 2013

Let's Try This Again.Why wdn't I buy this Solar Kit for $264

I did some calculations on my needs to run my water pump a few times a day and power my laptop for two hours total and a couple LED lights for a few hours and it seems 120 Watts might be sufficient to keep my battery up on sunny days. My Honda EU2000i will do duty on sunless days. The price od solar per watts seems to have plumited just in the last few months. These new system prices from Solar Boulevard were just posted on June 13. I'm seeing 120watt systems from $250 to well over $600.
This one from from Solar Boulevard is $288 and from what I can find out on the internet they seem to be a reputable concern.

http://www.solarblvd.com/p2748/12-Volt-120-Watt-Solar-Panel-Kit-with-FREE-SHIPPING/product_info.html


But it is also available on Ebay from same vendor (Solar Boulevard) for a few $$ less....$264 No tax/free shipping

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Complete-Kit-120-W-Watt-120W-120Watts-Photovoltaic-PV-Solar-Panel-12V-RV-Boat-/271209960880?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3f255f95b0

Brand New
Solar Cynergy 120 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline
Solar Panel Complete Kit.

You will receive:

1 pcs: 120 Watt 12 Volt Solar Panel
1 pcs: Phocos CML-20, 20 Amp 12V PWM Charge Controller
1 pcs: Phocos CMM Volts/Amp Display For Charge Controller

1 pcs: 40 FT 10 Gauge PV Cable With MC4 Connectors
1 pcs: Z Bracket (4 Pack)


PV-SC120J12

Solar Cynergy photovoltaic modules are designed for commercial and domestic applications and suitable for both grid-tied and off grid systems. Solar Cynergy offers both high performance and reliability. The silicon solar cells, held by heavy duty anodized aluminum frames, are laminated with TPT & EVA for longer working life and high efficiency output. An ideal power supply for boats, traffic signs, lights, pumps, vehicles, RVs, homes, camping and caravans.


Model Name: PV-SC120J12
Number of Cells: 36 cells in series (4 x 9)
Max Power: 120Wp
Open Circuit Voltage (Voc): 21.0V
Short Circuit Current (Isc): 7.50
aximum Power Voltage (Vmp): 17.0
Maximum Power Current (Imp): 7.00
ensions (inches): 53.12 x 26.50 x 1.25
Weight: 27 pounds

Back of panel includes a juntion Box with MC4 Connector.

Warranty: For panels that range from 80w to 200w, an output power of more than 90% of the minimum peak power within 10 years and more than 80% in 20 years is guaranteed.

Max Module Current: 20 Amps
Max Load Current: 20 Amps
System Voltage: 12/24
Self Power Consumption: <4mA
Dimensions: 80 x 100 x 32 mm
Type Of Protection: IP22

Battery State-of-Charge display with 3 LEDs
Acoustic load disconnect pre-warning
PWM-regulation (series type)
Boost, Equalize and Float charging, also for VRLA
Automatic 12/24 Volt detection
Integrated temperature compensation
Large terminals (up to 16mmwire size)
SOC and voltage controlled LVD
Fully electronically protected

Information on the Phocos CMM:

Remote Display for Phocos CA, CML and CMLNL

Measuring and display panel current, load current and battery voltage.
Clear, readable 3-digit LCD Display
3-position switch to select which value to be displayed
3LEDs to show which value is displayed by LCD
Prepared for DIN rail and wall mounting



Any comments or suggestions are welcome

28 Replies

  • Hi,

    Group 27 12 volt batteries are usual 85 to 105 amp-hours. Likely the maximum total is between 170 and 210 amp-hours.

    At 210 amp-hours it would be best to have between 126 and 315 watts of panels.

    I see they have a 240 watt system on ebay for a good price.

    Some one on RV net has already down the four way tilt design.

    Rbertalotto wrote:
    I have two Group 27 / 150AH batteries
  • Because it is a pop-up truck camper, I'm going to rig up a PVC pipe that runs from the roof and collapses into the cabinet where the power currently enters the camper.

    I'm thinking about designing a mount that allows the panels to pivot in four directions on each edge for better winter sun orientation.
  • Solarblvd is a good outfit. Bought most my components from them :B

    Just verify the 40' cable is long enough. They will cut any length and crimp the connectors on.

    I assume the controller is 20 amps allowing a second panel if desired later.

    Consider some 2 hole strain relief fittings if going down the fridge or other panel.
  • Hi,

    How many amp-hours is the battery bank? Solar BLVD does appear to have great pricing.
  • That price isn't bad for a complete 120 Watt system. Only thing that would worry me is can't tell what the charging algorthym (setpoints & timing) is for that controller. If you get the system and junk the controller then replace it with a 10 amp morningstar sunsaver you would have a decent system for lite power usage or to minimize generator run time.

    I used to use a 125watt system for weekend collegae football tailgating (read multiple TVs, radios, and lights). Did great with 2 6volt GC2 batteries but after 3 nights the batteries were pretty low. Added 140 Watt solar for a total of 265 watts, which works great.
  • I have the Cynergy 120w/24v from 'SolarBlvd' they ship quickly and are nice folks to do business with. One long time poster here bought from them years ago and speaks highly of products they sell and stand behind. Sometimes it pays to pay just a little more.