Opinion on solar panel kit wanted

NinerBikes wrote:
The Imp value on those panels looks low in the kit you selected, if you are going to use a PWM type Charge controller.

I have decided to look locally for panels since the kit has wire and Z brackets that I wouldn't use. Buying panels from the west coast simply costs to much to have them shipped to the north east.

Thanks for the info though, it all helps me learn what to look for.

The Imp value on those panels looks low in the kit you selected, if you are going to use a PWM type Charge controller.

JiminDenver wrote:
What makes something a good deal or not is if it fits your needs. Parts that can't be used or that are under spec are money not well spent.

x2.
Solar system is a long-term use item. Estimate you energy needs accurately, slightly oversize the system, buy good quality parts and adequate wire, and you won't have to tinker with it until the end of you trailer lifespan.

Solar Blvd 12 v panels for sale.$1 a watt at Solar Blvd 120 watt 12v panels. Add a $15 PWM off of ebay and some decent gauge wire for the length of the run, based on amps.




Prices vary from week to week.

There is another one of those high Voc (22.7v), low Isc (5.6a) 100w panels. For PWM you want high Isc. A 100w panel should be about 6.3a

It may be that this high Voc, low Isc type you see now and again is better for MPPT when put in series, don't know, but it is another thing to watch out for when using PWM. Shop for the cost per amp not just for the usual cost per watt.

What makes something a good deal or not is if it fits your needs. Parts that can't be used or that are under spec are money not well spent.

Remember to check craigslist in your area.

pianotuna wrote:
Hi RJ,

It is under $2 per watt. Please show us your source for $1 per watt with hardware, controller and wire?

RJsfishin wrote:
W/ solar running near $1 a watt, and a $15 controller, how is that a good deal at $500 ?

W/ little effort, I see this http://www.ebay.com/itm/COMPLETE-KIT-300-Watt-300W-UL-Poly-PV-Solar-Panel-12V-RV-Boat-Off-Grid-/251364785068?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3a86823bac
A better deal already.
And w/ little more effort, I see this http://www.ebay.com/itm/Polycrystalline-100W-100-Watt-Solar-Panel-Off-Grid-12-Volt-12V-RV-Boat-/181304559213?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item2a3698066d,
that's $320 for 300 watts, + a controller, + 100 ft of 10ga twin lead red/blk wire $36, + some connectors,.....I see $400 bucks. And I'll find it cheaper if I really look !

Thanks to all who responded to my question. I have learned a lot and I know I have a lot more to learn.

I will look into buying individual parts, hopefully locally, and will study all the references you have been so kind to give me.

Great people on this forum!

Thanks, Westend - this is the List that I was talking about.

Tenbear- check the installs by Mr. Wizard and Bigfootford. Both have flat roofs. Mr Wiz used both VHB tape under the bracket foot and screws into the roof, - belt and suspenders so to speak. Bigfootford made more complicated brackets with angle "legs" attached via pins to the angle brackets because he wanted a 2-way tilt, but the concept remains the same - a 4"-6" piece of 3x3 or 4x4 angle anchored to the roof and a screw into the side wall of the panel. For simplicity and security use rivet nut aka nutsert in the panel, then you don't need a nut for that screw.

Golden HVAC that sometimes is posting here, has done the same, his install is not on the list. In fact, his suggestions of rivnuts and long 1ft-2ft angles for tilt supports was what I used.

With a short length of C-class you "might" get away with 40ft MC4 cut in half, i.e. 20ft from panel to controller, but check the voltage drop for that run and use a thicker wire if necessary. MC4 wire comes in #8 as well: here, and there are also places that will make you a custom length MC4 for not too much money.

tenbear,
Forum member's completed solar installations