New to Solar. Conect directly to battery ????
I am completely new to solar panels. I know almost nothing about them. We boondocks and dry camp about 50% of the time in our 5th wheel. We have 2 deep cycle lead acid batteries. When the batteries ne...
Forum Discussion
Regarding that HF 100W briefcase, I see nothing wrong with it other than the price per watt. I haven't looked at briefcase type panels much, so maybe the price isn't too bad either - you do pay for that form factor.
You will need a separate controller to protect your batteries at this wattage, you can get super cheap PWM controllers off Amazon or Ebay that will work just fine with it. I wouldn't direct connect anything over maybe 20 watts.
As SJ-Chris says, you can find panels much cheaper -for example, this one is $120, includes a cheap controller, wires and mounting brackets and will ship to Lowes and maybe your home for free.
Renogy Starter Kit
Further searching & the used market could likely save more, but that one ain't too bad.
I disagree that HF panels are junk - in general, panels are panels and 100W is 100W.
SJ-Chris is correct in that you should take a look at how much power you need before purchasing: 100W may be perfect, or leave you frustrated with lack of performance. There are lots of threads on here (and people to opine :) )about how to do a power audit and estimate your needs.
Good luck!
You will need a separate controller to protect your batteries at this wattage, you can get super cheap PWM controllers off Amazon or Ebay that will work just fine with it. I wouldn't direct connect anything over maybe 20 watts.
As SJ-Chris says, you can find panels much cheaper -for example, this one is $120, includes a cheap controller, wires and mounting brackets and will ship to Lowes and maybe your home for free.
Renogy Starter Kit
Further searching & the used market could likely save more, but that one ain't too bad.
I disagree that HF panels are junk - in general, panels are panels and 100W is 100W.
SJ-Chris is correct in that you should take a look at how much power you need before purchasing: 100W may be perfect, or leave you frustrated with lack of performance. There are lots of threads on here (and people to opine :) )about how to do a power audit and estimate your needs.
Good luck!
