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big_whitey's avatar
big_whitey
Explorer
Dec 12, 2013

solar panels

i am looking to add to my solar panels. can anyone recommend somewhere in Florida for purhase/install. prefer someone located in jacksonvile,orlando,naples or miami. thanks. wonder if camping world would be a good option as they are offering a $29 install on anything.

3 Replies

  • Sun Electronics in Miami, but I don't think they do installs. Not positive about that. Many of their offerings have minimum purchase requirements, but some don't. If you're even minimally handy it's pretty easy to install yourself.

    As far as adding to existing system, it's most important to match panel voltages if you have an MPPT controller. If you have PWM it isn't as critical. I have one odd panel out of 4 and the system still works great (the three matching panels came from Sun). But if you know your existing panels' ratings you might be able to find something that matches.
  • LanceDuyen wrote:
    The problem with adding solar panels is they need to be almost exactly the same rating or you will need to buy a second charge controler. Constantly evolving solar technology makes adding on complicated. Might be possible to find some more of what you have or sell the older ones and replace with newer higher output panels. Will the existing charge controler handle more panels? Just for the record I would never consider paying just $29 to have a solar panel installed on my roof.


    after further research,sadly i agree on all points.
  • The problem with adding solar panels is they need to be almost exactly the same rating or you will need to buy a second charge controler. Constantly evolving solar technology makes adding on complicated. Might be possible to find some more of what you have or sell the older ones and replace with newer higher output panels. Will the existing charge controler handle more panels? Just for the record I would never consider paying just $29 to have a solar panel installed on my roof.