Solar panel vs generator?
I am having 2-3 days on 1 solar panel before it drains. Thinking of getting another panel or a generator, any thoughts? John.
Forum Discussion
Solar isn't quite that limiting but it does depend on individual situations. We run our microwave, a auto drip coffee maker, hair dryer and vacuum too and it doesn't require a generator either. We left the generator home this year and never missed it. I am also looking for a good deal on specific window AC unit that pulls just 465w and 3.9a and that should run off the solar and leave the battery in float.
Now then, there are a lot of unique things that make our system work. First we have twice as many watts as we do AHs of battery bank. Second is we can look at the forecast and decide to go next week or not, we never have to camp in bad weather. Third is our 720w of solar is portable and can track the sun. When we run a heavy load, I swing the panels into the sun and if they can't cover the load, they greatly reduce what is coming out of the bank. As soon as the device is turned off, the solar replaces the power removed quickly.
So our system is set up for fair weather camping. we can go a few days without sun but it requires that we do without the high powered toys and just run the trailer and TV/Sat. Any longer than that and we need the generator to keep us going since I don't have room for more battery. it all works for us in our unique situation.
Now then, there are a lot of unique things that make our system work. First we have twice as many watts as we do AHs of battery bank. Second is we can look at the forecast and decide to go next week or not, we never have to camp in bad weather. Third is our 720w of solar is portable and can track the sun. When we run a heavy load, I swing the panels into the sun and if they can't cover the load, they greatly reduce what is coming out of the bank. As soon as the device is turned off, the solar replaces the power removed quickly.
So our system is set up for fair weather camping. we can go a few days without sun but it requires that we do without the high powered toys and just run the trailer and TV/Sat. Any longer than that and we need the generator to keep us going since I don't have room for more battery. it all works for us in our unique situation.
