My 100w portable solar setup
I built a 2x50 watt folding pair of panels. Many photos below. These panels from ML Solar I took the advice of Don the Pianotuna and used loose-pin hinges. I had to put each half in the vise and...
Forum Discussion
Here in IL, at this time of year, 2 moves during the day will pretty much cover it. 3 moves would definitely keep the angles less than 30ยบ all day here. But with the trees at the edges of our property, 2 moves get all the useful sun for me.
I don't see 100 watts replacing a genset for most campers. But the solar can put a nice finishing charge on a battery or two. Run the genset in the morning to get the batteries quickly up to 80-90%, then let the solar fill them up.
Although based on my early tests, if we were camping in a sunny region, I think the portable 100 watts would darn near keep up with our usage. It depends if we need the furnace or not. If we keep this camper, I'll put panels on the roof. And maybe still carry the portable 100!
I don't see 100 watts replacing a genset for most campers. But the solar can put a nice finishing charge on a battery or two. Run the genset in the morning to get the batteries quickly up to 80-90%, then let the solar fill them up.
Although based on my early tests, if we were camping in a sunny region, I think the portable 100 watts would darn near keep up with our usage. It depends if we need the furnace or not. If we keep this camper, I'll put panels on the roof. And maybe still carry the portable 100!
