Solar Panel Height
I posted this at the end of a old thread but I think it has ran it's course. After viewing many photos of RV Solar Panel installs I see a big difference in the distance between the roof of the RV ...
Forum Discussion
Make it as low as possible.
Some guys have super high mounts to clear objects on the roof as otherwise the panels would not fit between the objects.
Some might be trying to get above any shadows that the object could cast.
Some have high mounts because the mounts they bought are high, no other reason.
Some have them high bc they have it set up to be able to rotate the panels at an angle when parked, so need the extra wiggle room.
Others yet have absurdly high mounts bc they are crazy.
The panels do need an air gap so the air can circulate, it can get hot under those black cells.
How much of a gap is debatable, but 1/2 an inch will allow cooling. Yes, a big gap will allow more cooling, but that small gap will circulate plenty of air.
Keep in mind you will be driving and if you care about the mpg's a lower stack is better.
I prefer the panels low to the roof where minimal wind turbulence will occur.
Some guys have super high mounts to clear objects on the roof as otherwise the panels would not fit between the objects.
Some might be trying to get above any shadows that the object could cast.
Some have high mounts because the mounts they bought are high, no other reason.
Some have them high bc they have it set up to be able to rotate the panels at an angle when parked, so need the extra wiggle room.
Others yet have absurdly high mounts bc they are crazy.
The panels do need an air gap so the air can circulate, it can get hot under those black cells.
How much of a gap is debatable, but 1/2 an inch will allow cooling. Yes, a big gap will allow more cooling, but that small gap will circulate plenty of air.
Keep in mind you will be driving and if you care about the mpg's a lower stack is better.
I prefer the panels low to the roof where minimal wind turbulence will occur.
