Using a residential PV panel on RV
Hi everyone, Newly registered to the forum here, I've been reading a lot of helpful information here over the past year while doing my conversion though. I haven't been able to find a straight ans...
Forum Discussion
mexicanfooddude wrote:
I can get the 245 watt panel for $350... which I know is more than a lot of similar output panels designed for RV systems, but I was considering it as it is made in the US and manufactured by a very reputable company.
I am trying to avoid items of questionable quality. With panels this would mean staying away from unknown Chinese makers. Doesn't necessarily mean "US made". My 245W panels are by well known European brand, made in Philippines though, but at least a good brand. The price was $260 each, 2 years ago when prices were higher. Today $350 for 245W sounds too expensive. But then, this is a longterm investment for 15 years or more, and $100 difference spread over 20 years is nothing - if you can afford the item. If you can't, I suggest to consider Chinese brand Trina Solar. Solar Blvd and other places have them ~$200-220, 240W.
mexicanfooddude wrote:
It seems though that I will spending a lot more to make it compatible with my system. I'm getting deterred from going this route...
Do not despair. There is an MPPT Chinese knock-off called Eco-Worthy, $100, 20A. This is as low as you can get 20A MPPT without sacrificing performance and reliability. Though, I recall Ecoworthy has 40V maximum input, if memory doesn't fail me. So you need a 30V panel with this one.
mexicanfooddude wrote:
As I said, my load it pretty minimal - led lights, water pump, and possibly a 12-volt refrigerator (i'm trying to decide between building my own chest-type 12 volt refrigerator or buying a propane refrigerator).
12V frig is a big unknown there. A single-door built-in 4 cu.ft would draw ~40 AH on 77-80F day, a chest usually less. Novakool have 4.3 cu.ft unit for ~900 bucks. Standard 6 cu.ft propane unit would cost the same, plus propane costs $2 or 3 every day, and it still draws 12-15 AH from battery every day.
mexicanfooddude wrote:
I think I can easily get by with 100-150 watt panel.
Without fridge, yes. With a propane fridge - just barely. With 12V fridge of a size suitable for longterm stay, say, +4 cu.ft, - unlikely. Flat 150W panel on the roof on a sunny day in SoCal or Baja Norte in winter will collect 30 AH, and not all the days are sunny.
