pianotuna wrote:
Huntingdog,
.
I designed the solar to work with a large battery bank of 875 amp-hours which would give me about a week of off the grid boondocking. It also allowed running the engine block heater for 3 hours before starting the RV up at -40. The full recharge would happen between trips. Cost of the system was $5.50 per watt ($1700). It served me faithfully for 5 years.
....snip.....
$1,700/5.50 = 309 watts?
Herein lies the problem with the "Solar Snobs". I heard stories (bragging) about people spending $2,500-$3,000 to get a system installed by experts in Arizona. I was told that a $300 system would be junk and worthless in the real world. So, I avoided solar for ten years. Finally, I ordered some pieces and discovered that the snobs had been lying to me. I could recharge a battery, run a few lights, recharge some electronics, pump some water, and even watch a little television with my $300 setup. Thanks to all who delayed my purchase with talk of lithium batteries, mppt controllers, mc4 connectors and other such jargon. Solar can be simple enough for the novice. The HF, and other kits, can be charging a battery within one half hour by the owner. Not to say there is not a place for those who like to talk in thousands of dollars, but there are economical options for those wanting to discover how solar works too.
I don't know if the HF kit is all junk, as described. I have never owned one, but the video reviews are positive. The only wiring required is from the battery to the controller. How easy is that? Lots easier than using a mc4 connector tool.
