Solar panel advice.

[Oldsalt49]

Hi Folks,

Does any of you out there use a solar panel mounted under the Heki rooflight for the purpose of battery maintenance charging? I did consider putting one in the front window, but think there is too much tint.

 

[Bazz1]

Hi David, theres a topic on Solar Panels in Rquipement and accessories, most people seem to have them outside. Not sure but wouldnt the plastic defuse the effect. I suppose it may keep your battery topped up though, Bazz.

 

[Oldsalt49]

Hi Bazz,

I was concerned that the plastic of the Heki roof would diffuse the effect. I was hoping that someone has or had experience of my proposal. I know a 10 watt solar panel can keep a 110 amphere topped up without the need of a regulator. If diffusion does take place and reduce the panels output, then a higher capacity panel with a regulator may well be the answer?

 

[D4ve]

I initially tried this method but the output from my old 8 watt panel in this position was no where near enough to overcome the self discharge of the battery and the drain from the alarm during the winter months as the sun is so low in the sky. If you have the solar panel already by all means do it as it does slow the discharge process but if you are planning to buy a panel specifically for this purpose you will probably be wasting your money. As we rarely use EHU I purchased a "proper" panel (80W) that is now a permanent fixture on the roof with the result that the battery is now always fully charged when the 'van comes out to play!