My Solar Install

Almot wrote:

bka0721 wrote:
Are you only watching your television at night? You certainly don't want to have that shadow on your new solar panel instal.

Yes, there will be shading from antenna at some times, and from A/C at other. It's difficult to fit that much solar in that little space without shading. Keep in mind that this shade is not 100% opaque, so the shaded cells will still contribute something. Or - would have, if panels were parallel, so it would still be better than less panel area.

With panels in series like in this install - don't know, there were many debates, but again, the shade is not opaque - maybe somebody with more brains than me will chime in.

Much of what you are sharing is true, some not. In looking at the pictures, there were other locations that the panels could have been installed. I don't have an issue with what the OP did with their install, but using Bigfootford's suggestion of using cardboard cut to the size of the solar panels, to test for locations, a future (there are lots of lurkers) that get ideas from post's like the OP did. It is up to some of us to help those future installers to consider alternatives. I have often stated that there is a problem with going the "Super Size" route of solar panels, on RVs. Yes, you can get a lot of $$$ per watt this way, but the downside to using larger panels often out weigh the gain. Yes, Opacity is important in how a Solar panel works, or doesn't work. In my install (900watts) I don't have any shadows from my A/C, Sat Dish or Maxx Covers. So yes, a person with good planning may avoid some of these pitfalls found on an RV roof. For the amount of Television watching, as stated by the OP, it seems to work for him, but might not for others. Ultimately that is what a post like this is a really good Solar Install template for others to use.

As for the cables the OP was working with, some of his issues with routing the wires could have been alleviated with using wire/cable from a welding supply center. Having the flexible wire/cable will aid in longevity in a vibration filled environment, of an RV. The OP will need to recheck the cable and connectors more often, than someone that used a more flexible cable for their install.