Home » Public Forums » GMCnet » [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels
| [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels [message #153925] |
Wed, 21 December 2011 13:46  |
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ljdavick
Messages: 3548
Registered: March 2007
Location: Fremont, CA
Karma: -3
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What are the best solar panels - you know, the state-of-the-art? I would classify best in the following ways - please correct as needed.
1. Most watts per square inch in direct sunlight
2. Most tolerant of partial sun / shade.
3. Most watts / $$. I think this might be a fast moving target, and probably the most important metric.
4. Mounted vs portable - is this just a personal choice?
5. I never hear anyone voice concerns about the panel's ability to hold up to a mobile environment. I know they are made to withstand the elements, but our coaches aren't fixed to the ground. Is there anything to be concerned about here?
Extra credit for discussions of controllers, gauges, batteries and liquor.
Extra extra credit for identifying trusted vendors who have already worked out the particulars and put together packages that have value.
For some the Harbor Freight or Costco panels are perfect for their needs. Others pooh-pooh the low quality panels and insist on more. I don't want to get into a "country of origin" debate, as the stuff from China can be better than anywhere else - just look at my iPad... There are differences in the technology of the panels but I'm curious if the market has driven out promising technology for lower cost, etc.
Larry Davick
Fremont, California
The Mystery Machine
'76 (ish) Palm Beach
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Larry Davick
A Mystery Machine
1976(ish) Palm Beach
Fremont, Ca
Howell EFI + EBL + Electronic Dizzy
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| Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels [message #153947 is a reply to message #153925] |
Wed, 21 December 2011 15:46  |
Gary Worobec
Messages: 867
Registered: May 2005
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Larry, the best ,most efficient panels are Monocrystaline panels, next are
Polycrystaline and finally Amorphous. Make sure is says what it is before
you buy it. There is lots of crap on the market.
Thanks
Gary and Joanne Worobec
1973 GMC Glacier
Anza, CA
----- Original Message -----
From: "Larry Davick" <ljdavick@comcast.net>
To: <gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org>
Sent: Wednesday, December 21, 2011 11:46 AM
Subject: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels
> What are the best solar panels - you know, the state-of-the-art? I would
> classify best in the following ways - please correct as needed.
>
> 1. Most watts per square inch in direct sunlight
> 2. Most tolerant of partial sun / shade.
> 3. Most watts / $$. I think this might be a fast moving target, and
> probably the most important metric.
> 4. Mounted vs portable - is this just a personal choice?
> 5. I never hear anyone voice concerns about the panel's ability to hold up
> to a mobile environment. I know they are made to withstand the elements,
> but our coaches aren't fixed to the ground. Is there anything to be
> concerned about here?
>
> Extra credit for discussions of controllers, gauges, batteries and liquor.
> Extra extra credit for identifying trusted vendors who have already worked
> out the particulars and put together packages that have value.
>
> For some the Harbor Freight or Costco panels are perfect for their needs.
> Others pooh-pooh the low quality panels and insist on more. I don't want
> to get into a "country of origin" debate, as the stuff from China can be
> better than anywhere else - just look at my iPad... There are differences
> in the technology of the panels but I'm curious if the market has driven
> out promising technology for lower cost, etc.
>
>
> Larry Davick
> Fremont, California
> The Mystery Machine
> '76 (ish) Palm Beach
>
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
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| Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels [message #153948 is a reply to message #153925] |
Wed, 21 December 2011 15:56 |
Douglas Norton
Messages: 191
Registered: April 2008
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My comments on Larry's list are below
________________________________
From: Larry Davick <ljdavick@comcast.net>
To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
Sent: Wednesday, December 21, 2011 11:46 AM
Subject: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels
What are the best solar panels - you know, the state-of-the-art? I would classify best in the following ways - please correct as needed.
1. Most watts per square inch in direct sunlight
Real estate is precious on the GMC, but conservation of power may allow less efficitent panels in less space I have 140 watts but have done well with 65 watts in the past - LED + Gas Buddy + low consumption TV.
2. Most tolerant of partial sun / shade.
Amorphous panels are best here, they have less power per square inch.
3. Most watts / $$. I think this might be a fast moving target, and probably the most important metric.
Some flexible roll up panels that can be taped or glued to the roof cost more, are ammorphic, and cost much more but may be set on the curve near the side of the roof. I think they can be walked on too. This convienence may make them better if you have limited needs and limited real estate (roof space). They are made in Phoenix and were for sale at the RV show in Quartzsite last year.
4. Mounted vs portable - is this just a personal choice?Â
Mounted is sure convenient and less likely to be stolen. Portable can tripple the actual power you can get by moving the panels during the day to maximize "solar suction".
.
5. I never hear anyone voice concerns about the panel's ability to hold up to a mobile environment. I know they are made to withstand the elements, but our coaches aren't fixed to the ground. Is there anything to be concerned about here?
I have owned 5 different types of panels. The first was hard glass with vertical lines
– that is a technical description Ha! They were the cheapest when I got them 15
years ago – they were the cheapest then. They shattered when dropped 15 years
ago. All other panels have been VERY
durable. My amorphous panel even
withstood a small fire on top of the coach.
Extra credit for discussions of controllers, gauges, batteries and liquor.
Controllers: New controllers that use 24 volts (2 panels) are
much efficient than standard controllers. These are MPPT controllers – maximum power point tracking controllers.They adjust power to push more of the "solar suction" into the batteries.
Gauges: Nothing beats a Triametric or equivalent. It measures amp hours in and out, tells how much you are charging, how long since fully charged, how long since equalized and lots more. A volt meter or LED that shows charge based on voltage are near useless. Using a Volt meter works if you have a chart that includes temperatue and if you disconnect the batteries for two hours - Ok for a winter inspection but not when boon-docking.
Batteries: All I have heard leads me to vote for my preference: Two lead acid golf cart batteries. Also, unless you use 24 volts and an MPPT controller, use number 6 or larger wires from panels to the batteries. Â
Liquor: I recommend Vodka or Tequila or another clear liquor for cleaning panels. Vodka cuts oils that attract dust and dirt on panels. Also, it works on bird droppings on panels. I do not drink, but one might wish to do so after an electrical fire, falling off coach when installing panels, or after a motor failure.
Extra extra credit for identifying trusted vendors who have already worked out the particulars and put together packages that have value.
Usually a company that installs residential solar knows their stuff and RV dealers are not as knowledgeable. I got a used panel and a 40 amp controller form Sierra
Power in Nevada City Ca. www.sierrasolar.com They sold me a used panel for about $2.00
per wattbut had a wide variety of equipment and panels and appear to know their stuff. I do not trust salesmen in Quartzsite; but there have been some great deals there. Also, I found Drake Services company in Long Beach CA to be knowledgable and I bought my Trimetric meter from them.    http://www.solarseller.com/
I found Handy Bob to be a trusted information source: His advice seems to be spot on: http://handybobsolar.wordpress.com/ He even comments on the best deals. He is negative about RV solar dealers and thinks few people have good solar understanding. He explains his bad attitude came from the school of solar hard knocks.
For some the Harbor Freight or Costco panels are perfect for their needs. Others pooh-pooh the low quality panels and insist on more. I don't want to get into a "country of origin" debate, as the stuff from China can be better than anywhere else - just look at my iPad... There are differences in the technology of the panels but I'm curious if the market has driven out promising technology for lower cost, etc.
Larry Davick
Fremont, California
The Mystery Machine
'76 (ish) Palm Beach
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| Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels [message #153956 is a reply to message #153948] |
Wed, 21 December 2011 16:52 |
Ken Henderson
Messages: 8726
Registered: March 2004
Location: Americus, GA
Karma: 9
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Now if there was EVER a statement here that begged for clarification,
that's it:
"My amorphous panel even withstood a small fire on top of the coach."
I can't believe you thought you could get away without it. Maybe it was a
test to see if anyone's paying attention?
Ken H.
On Wed, Dec 21, 2011 at 4:56 PM, Douglas Norton wrote:
> My comments on Larry's list are below
> ...
> I have owned 5 different types of panels. The first was hard glass with
> vertical lines
> – that is a technical description Ha! They were the cheapest when I got
> them 15
> years ago – they were the cheapest then. They shattered when dropped 15
> years
> ago. All other panels have been VERY durable. My amorphous panel
> even withstood a small fire on top of the coach.
> ...
>
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Ken Henderson
Americus, GA
www.gmcwipersetc.com
Large Wiring Diagrams
76 X-Birchaven
76 X-Palm Beach
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| Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels [message #153957 is a reply to message #153950] |
Wed, 21 December 2011 16:53 |
Kudzu
Messages: 377
Registered: November 2011
Location: Marshville, NC
Karma: 0
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Yep. Most panels have the diode but some do not. That's why it's good to
have a proper charge controller which will prevent over-charging and
send power to the panels which could damage them as well.
Dan in NC
Caregiver to a 1976 Eleganza II
On 12/21/2011 5:16 PM, Greg and April wrote:
> Just one thought .....
>
> Some less expensive solar pannels, will actually alow low levels of current
> to flow backwards from the battery when they are not actually charging, so
> it's a good idea to make sure a diode is installed so they don't add a slow
> drain on the battery.
> .
>
> Greg H.
>
> "Your health is bound to be affected if, day after day, you say the opposite
> of what you feel, if you grovel before what you dislike... Our nervous
> system isn't just fiction, it's part of our physical body, and it can't be
> forever violated with impunity."
>
> Doctor Zhivago
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
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1976 Eleganza II
1996 Chevy Impala SS
1999 Kawasaki Vulcan Nomad
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| Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels [message #153959 is a reply to message #153956] |
Wed, 21 December 2011 17:35 |
Douglas Norton
Messages: 191
Registered: April 2008
Karma: 0
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Now that you mention it, someone might like to hear how to burn down a coach - or avoid it. Several years ago I bought a used 65 watt amorphous panel with a controller attached to it's back side. The controller was not rated but probably was 6 amps, however, I figured it was over engineered to 10 amps. Later I added a 50 watt panel that ran into the same controller. That panel system worked good for a year. Then, with a panel potential for 10 amps and often working at or over the design limits, the controller apparently heated enough to melt internal components and create a little short. The little short ignited plastic sealer and a small fire followed. When things got a bit hotter, the main wires to the battery melted together and according to the guy who saw it, flames were blowing several feet to the side of the coach in the wind. He called the fire department and sprayed some hose water at the flames. The panels did not have enough
power to do much damage alone but after the short, the 200 amp battery added a lot of heating to the molten mess. I now would recommend a fuse. The paint on top of the coach was scorched and the back of the panel was blackened to the point my wife approved a new 80 watt panel and a new 40 amp controller. I purposely did not test the old panel till after I had the larger new one. The scorched amorphous panel still worked! It now adds to my total power. The fire department cut some wires and removed the panel. Surprisingly, they used a wrench and did not damage the coach. I had expected them to have applied advanced axe technology to the roof of my coach. Thanks to GM engineers for a metal roof!Â
Doug Â
________________________________
From: Ken Henderson <hend4800@bellsouth.net>
To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
Sent: Wednesday, December 21, 2011 2:52 PM
Subject: Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels
Now if there was EVER a statement here that begged for clarification,
that's it:
"My amorphous panel even withstood a small fire on top of the coach."
I can't believe you thought you could get away without it. Maybe it was a
test to see if anyone's paying attention?
Ken H.
On Wed, Dec 21, 2011 at 4:56 PM, Douglas Norton wrote:
> My comments on Larry's list are below
> ...
> I have owned 5 different types of panels. The first was hard glass with
> vertical lines
> – that is a technical description Ha! They were the cheapest when I got
> them 15
> years ago – they were the cheapest then. They shattered when dropped 15
> years
> ago. All other panels have been VERY durable. My amorphous panel
> even withstood a small fire on top of the coach.
> ...
>
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| Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels [message #153960 is a reply to message #153959] |
Wed, 21 December 2011 17:46 |
Ken Henderson
Messages: 8726
Registered: March 2004
Location: Americus, GA
Karma: 9
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You were REALLY lucky! If that 200A source had really gotten a short to
the roof panel, it might well have burned through and ignited the urethane
foam -- then, "Katie bar the door!"
Thanks for sharing and reminding us of the importance of circuit protection.
Ken H.
On Wed, Dec 21, 2011 at 6:35 PM, Douglas Norton wrote:
> Now that you mention it, someone might like to hear how to burn down a
> coach - or avoid it...
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Ken Henderson
Americus, GA
www.gmcwipersetc.com
Large Wiring Diagrams
76 X-Birchaven
76 X-Palm Beach
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| Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels [message #153964 is a reply to message #153950] |
Wed, 21 December 2011 18:47 |
jhbridges
Messages: 8412
Registered: May 2011
Location: Braselton ga
Karma: -74
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My coach has two panels made by Siemans. No idea they're good, bad, or indifferent, except they keep the house battery happy whent he coach is parked at home, and they now do a much better job with all the crud washed off.
--johnny
'76 23' transmode Norrid
'76 Palm Beach
________________________________
From: Greg and April <gregandapril@earthlink.net>
To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
Sent: Wednesday, December 21, 2011 5:16 PM
Subject: Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels
Just one thought .....
Some less expensive solar pannels, will actually alow low levels of current
to flow backwards from the battery when they are not actually charging, so
it's a good idea to make sure a diode is installed so they don't add a slow
drain on the battery.
.
Greg H.
"Your health is bound to be affected if, day after day, you say the opposite
of what you feel, if you grovel before what you dislike... Our nervous
system isn't just fiction, it's part of our physical body, and it can't be
forever violated with impunity."
Doctor Zhivago
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Foolish Carriage, 76 26' Eleganza(?) with beaucoup mods and add - ons.
Braselton, Ga.
I forgive them all, save those who hurt the dogs. They must answer to me in hell
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| Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels [message #153966 is a reply to message #153956] |
Wed, 21 December 2011 19:03 |
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USAussie
Messages: 15912
Registered: July 2007
Location: Sydney, Australia
Karma: 6
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G'day,
I'm a bit confused by:
Doug noted:
2. Most tolerant of partial sun / shade.
Amorphous panels are best here, they have less power per square inch.
Gary noted:
Larry, the best, most efficient panels are Monocrystaline panels, next are Polycrystaline and finally Amorphous.
Why would the "worst" panel be best in the "worst" sunlight?
Regards,
Rob M.
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Regards,
Rob M. (USAussie)
The Pedantic Mechanic
Sydney, Australia
'75 Avion - AUS - The Blue Streak TZE365V100428
'75 Avion - USA - Double Trouble TZE365V100426
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| Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels [message #153978 is a reply to message #153947] |
Wed, 21 December 2011 19:33 |
Ray Erspamer
Messages: 1707
Registered: May 2007
Location: Milwaukee Wisconsin
Karma: -3
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Senior Member |
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This is the panel I was able to get my hand on.....what are the opinions on it?
Quality?
http://www.infinigi.com/sunwize-sws110p-110-watt-solar-module-p-3113.html
Thanks
Ray
Ray & Lisa Erspamer
78 Royale "Great Lakes Eagle"
Center Kitchen TZE368V101144
Wauwatosa, Wisconsin 53226
Email: 78GMC-Royale@att.net
414-745-3188
Web Site: http://ray-lisa.page.tl/
----- Original Message ----
From: Gary Worobec <gtw5@earthlink.net>
To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
Sent: Wed, December 21, 2011 3:46:38 PM
Subject: Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels
Larry, the best ,most efficient panels are Monocrystaline panels, next are
Polycrystaline and finally Amorphous. Make sure is says what it is before
you buy it. There is lots of crap on the market.
Thanks
Gary and Joanne Worobec
1973 GMC Glacier
Anza, CA
----- Original Message -----
From: "Larry Davick" <ljdavick@comcast.net>
To: <gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org>
Sent: Wednesday, December 21, 2011 11:46 AM
Subject: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels
> What are the best solar panels - you know, the state-of-the-art? I would
> classify best in the following ways - please correct as needed.
>
> 1. Most watts per square inch in direct sunlight
> 2. Most tolerant of partial sun / shade.
> 3. Most watts / $$. I think this might be a fast moving target, and
> probably the most important metric.
> 4. Mounted vs portable - is this just a personal choice?
> 5. I never hear anyone voice concerns about the panel's ability to hold up
> to a mobile environment. I know they are made to withstand the elements,
> but our coaches aren't fixed to the ground. Is there anything to be
> concerned about here?
>
> Extra credit for discussions of controllers, gauges, batteries and liquor.
> Extra extra credit for identifying trusted vendors who have already worked
> out the particulars and put together packages that have value.
>
> For some the Harbor Freight or Costco panels are perfect for their needs.
> Others pooh-pooh the low quality panels and insist on more. I don't want
> to get into a "country of origin" debate, as the stuff from China can be
> better than anywhere else - just look at my iPad... There are differences
> in the technology of the panels but I'm curious if the market has driven
> out promising technology for lower cost, etc.
>
>
> Larry Davick
> Fremont, California
> The Mystery Machine
> '76 (ish) Palm Beach
>
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
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Ray Erspamer
78 GMC Royale Center Kitchen
403, 3.70 Final Drive
Holley Sniper Quadrajet EFI System,
Holley Hyperspark Ignition System
414-484-9431
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| Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels [message #153987 is a reply to message #153956] |
Wed, 21 December 2011 20:26 |
Bob de Kruyff
Messages: 4260
Registered: January 2004
Location: Chandler, AZ
Karma: 1
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Senior Member |
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""Now if there was EVER a statement here that begged for clarification,
that's it:
"My amorphous panel even withstood a small fire on top of the coach."
I can't believe you thought you could get away without it. Maybe it was a
test to see if anyone's paying attention?
Ken H""
I'm glad you asked--I was afraid to.
Bob de Kruyff
78 Eleganza
Chandler, AZ
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| Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels [message #154004 is a reply to message #153966] |
Wed, 21 December 2011 21:54 |
Kudzu
Messages: 377
Registered: November 2011
Location: Marshville, NC
Karma: 0
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Senior Member |
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The Monocrystaline and the Polycrystaline basically only work in direct
light. While less efficient given the same amount of light, Amorphous
will work on cloudy days, the others will not. Also, Mono and Poly work
better at cooler temperatures.
Dan in NC
Caregiver to a 1976 Eleganza II
On 12/21/2011 8:03 PM, Rob Mueller wrote:
> G'day,
>
> I'm a bit confused by:
>
> Doug noted:
>
> 2. Most tolerant of partial sun / shade.
>
> Amorphous panels are best here, they have less power per square inch.
>
> Gary noted:
>
> Larry, the best, most efficient panels are Monocrystaline panels, next are Polycrystaline and finally Amorphous.
>
> Why would the "worst" panel be best in the "worst" sunlight?
>
> Regards,
> Rob M.
>
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
>
_______________________________________________
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1976 Eleganza II
1996 Chevy Impala SS
1999 Kawasaki Vulcan Nomad
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| Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels [message #154032 is a reply to message #153947] |
Thu, 22 December 2011 07:28 |
Steven Ferguson
Messages: 3447
Registered: May 2006
Karma: 0
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Senior Member |
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I was hoping Gary would jump in here. He is our resident expert on solar
systems and has given exceptional presentations on them at GMCWS rallies.
On Wed, Dec 21, 2011 at 2:46 PM, Gary Worobec <gtw5@earthlink.net> wrote:
> Larry, the best ,most efficient panels are Monocrystaline panels, next are
> Polycrystaline and finally Amorphous. Make sure is says what it is before
> you buy it. There is lots of crap on the market.
>
> Thanks
>
> Gary and Joanne Worobec
> 1973 GMC Glacier
> Anza, CA
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Larry Davick" <ljdavick@comcast.net>
> To: <gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org>
> Sent: Wednesday, December 21, 2011 11:46 AM
> Subject: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels
>
>
> > What are the best solar panels - you know, the state-of-the-art? I would
> > classify best in the following ways - please correct as needed.
> >
> > 1. Most watts per square inch in direct sunlight
> > 2. Most tolerant of partial sun / shade.
> > 3. Most watts / $$. I think this might be a fast moving target, and
> > probably the most important metric.
> > 4. Mounted vs portable - is this just a personal choice?
> > 5. I never hear anyone voice concerns about the panel's ability to hold
> up
> > to a mobile environment. I know they are made to withstand the elements,
> > but our coaches aren't fixed to the ground. Is there anything to be
> > concerned about here?
> >
> > Extra credit for discussions of controllers, gauges, batteries and
> liquor.
> > Extra extra credit for identifying trusted vendors who have already
> worked
> > out the particulars and put together packages that have value.
> >
> > For some the Harbor Freight or Costco panels are perfect for their needs.
> > Others pooh-pooh the low quality panels and insist on more. I don't want
> > to get into a "country of origin" debate, as the stuff from China can be
> > better than anywhere else - just look at my iPad... There are differences
> > in the technology of the panels but I'm curious if the market has driven
> > out promising technology for lower cost, etc.
> >
> >
> > Larry Davick
> > Fremont, California
> > The Mystery Machine
> > '76 (ish) Palm Beach
> >
> > _______________________________________________
> > GMCnet mailing list
> > Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> > http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
>
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
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>
--
Fathom the hypocrisy of a nation where every citizen must prove they have
health insurance......but not everyone has to prove they're a citizen.
Steve Ferguson
Sierra Vista, AZ
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| Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels [message #154174 is a reply to message #153959] |
Fri, 23 December 2011 11:52 |
sgltrac
Messages: 2797
Registered: April 2011
Karma: 1
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Senior Member |
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Douglas, you have no idea how lucky you were with the fire dept. I watched them DESTROY a honda accord in the street a few years ago. Rather than open the hood to put out an engine fire they attacked the hood and windshield to add 'access ports' for their hoses. Truly ugly and senseless
Sully
77 royale
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
-----Original Message-----
From: Douglas Norton <nortocd@yahoo.com>
Sender: gmclist-bounces@temp.gmcnet.org
Date: Wed, 21 Dec 2011 15:35:31
To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org<gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org>
Reply-To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
Subject: Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels
Now that you mention it, someone might like to hear how to burn down a coach - or avoid it. Several years ago I bought a used 65 watt amorphous panel with a controller attached to it's back side. The controller was not rated but probably was 6 amps, however, I figured it was over engineered to 10 amps. Later I added a 50 watt panel that ran into the same controller. That panel system worked good for a year. Then, with a panel potential for 10 amps and often working at or over the design limits, the controller apparently heated enough to melt internal components and create a little short. The little short ignited plastic sealer and a small fire followed. When things got a bit hotter, the main wires to the battery melted together and according to the guy who saw it, flames were blowing several feet to the side of the coach in the wind. He called the fire department and sprayed some hose water at the flames. The panels did not have enough
power to do much damage alone but after the short, the 200 amp battery added a lot of heating to the molten mess. I now would recommend a fuse. The paint on top of the coach was scorched and the back of the panel was blackened to the point my wife approved a new 80 watt panel and a new 40 amp controller. I purposely did not test the old panel till after I had the larger new one. The scorched amorphous panel still worked! It now adds to my total power. The fire department cut some wires and removed the panel. Surprisingly, they used a wrench and did not damage the coach. I had expected them to have applied advanced axe technology to the roof of my coach. Thanks to GM engineers for a metal roof!Â
Doug Â
________________________________
From: Ken Henderson <hend4800@bellsouth.net>
To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
Sent: Wednesday, December 21, 2011 2:52 PM
Subject: Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels
Now if there was EVER a statement here that begged for clarification,
that's it:
"My amorphous panel even withstood a small fire on top of the coach."
I can't believe you thought you could get away without it. Maybe it was a
test to see if anyone's paying attention?
Ken H.
On Wed, Dec 21, 2011 at 4:56 PM, Douglas Norton wrote:
> My comments on Larry's list are below
> ...
> I have owned 5 different types of panels. The first was hard glass with
> vertical lines
> – that is a technical description Ha! They were the cheapest when I got
> them 15
> years ago – they were the cheapest then. They shattered when dropped 15
> years
> ago. All other panels have been VERY durable. My amorphous panel
> even withstood a small fire on top of the coach.
> ...
>
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Sully
77 Royale basket case.
Future motorhome land speed record holder(bucket list)
Seattle, Wa.
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| Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels [message #154181 is a reply to message #154174] |
Fri, 23 December 2011 14:14 |
James Hupy
Messages: 6806
Registered: May 2010
Karma: -62
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Senior Member |
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Probably the best thing that they could have done for that "rice grinder".
Couldn't figure out why "cash for clunkers" did not apply to Japanese
autos. Bunch of em running around that shouldn't be.
Jim Hupy
Salem, OR
78 GMC Royale 403
On Fri, Dec 23, 2011 at 9:52 AM, <sgltrac@gmail.com> wrote:
> Douglas, you have no idea how lucky you were with the fire dept. I watched
> them DESTROY a honda accord in the street a few years ago. Rather than open
> the hood to put out an engine fire they attacked the hood and windshield to
> add 'access ports' for their hoses. Truly ugly and senseless
>
> Sully
> 77 royale
> Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Douglas Norton <nortocd@yahoo.com>
> Sender: gmclist-bounces@temp.gmcnet.org
> Date: Wed, 21 Dec 2011 15:35:31
> To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org<gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org>
> Reply-To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
> Subject: Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels
>
> Now that you mention it, someone might like to hear how to burn down a
> coach - or avoid it. Several years ago I bought a used 65 watt amorphous
> panel with a controller attached to it's back side. The controller was not
> rated but probably was 6 amps, however, I figured it was over engineered
> to 10 amps. Later I added a 50 watt panel that ran into the same
> controller. That panel system worked good for a year. Then, with a panel
> potential for 10 amps and often working at or over the design limits, the
> controller apparently heated enough to melt internal components and create
> a little short. The little short ignited plastic sealer and a small fire
> followed. When things got a bit hotter, the main wires to the battery
> melted together and according to the guy who saw it, flames were blowing
> several feet to the side of the coach in the wind. He called the fire
> department and sprayed some hose water at the flames. The panels did not
> have enough
> power to do much damage alone but after the short, the 200 amp battery
> added a lot of heating to the molten mess. I now would recommend a fuse.
> The paint on top of the coach was scorched and the back of the panel was
> blackened to the point my wife approved a new 80 watt panel and a new 40
> amp controller. I purposely did not test the old panel till after I had the
> larger new one. The scorched amorphous panel still worked! It now adds to
> my total power. The fire department cut some wires and removed the panel.
> Surprisingly, they used a wrench and did not damage the coach. I had
> expected them to have applied advanced axe technology to the roof of my
> coach. Thanks to GM engineers for a metal roof!
>
>
> Doug
>
>
>
> ________________________________
> From: Ken Henderson <hend4800@bellsouth.net>
> To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
> Sent: Wednesday, December 21, 2011 2:52 PM
> Subject: Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels
>
> Now if there was EVER a statement here that begged for clarification,
> that's it:
>
> "My amorphous panel even withstood a small fire on top of the coach."
>
> I can't believe you thought you could get away without it. Maybe it was a
> test to see if anyone's paying attention?
>
> Ken H.
>
>
>
> On Wed, Dec 21, 2011 at 4:56 PM, Douglas Norton wrote:
>
> > My comments on Larry's list are below
> > ...
> > I have owned 5 different types of panels. The first was hard glass with
> > vertical lines
> > – that is a technical description Ha! They were the cheapest when I got
> > them 15
> > years ago – they were the cheapest then. They shattered when dropped 15
> > years
> > ago. All other panels have been VERY durable. My amorphous panel
> > even withstood a small fire on top of the coach.
> > ...
> >
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
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> GMCnet mailing list
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| Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels [message #154229 is a reply to message #153966] |
Fri, 23 December 2011 21:15 |
Douglas Norton
Messages: 191
Registered: April 2008
Karma: 0
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Senior Member |
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Rob:
Amorphous panels seem to be wired different. If I put the shadow of my hand on the amorphous panel, the output drops about 5 percent. However, if my hand casts a small shadow on my amorphous panel to block only one of the cells, the output goes to zero. I can not speak to cloud cover. My amorphous panel is often partially shaded by my pod; it makes only a small/proportional reduction in total output. I can not speak to cloudy conditions, but my amorphous panel does continue to work when parked in partial tree shade but my Polycrystalline panel ceases to make power in partial shade. It may be some sort of series type wiring/construction for the Polycrystalline and parallel wiring/construction for the Amorphous. Thus, putting an efficient panel next to one or more vent pipes can create a major drop in output when a pipe's shadow moves on to the panel late or early in the day.
Thanks for your patience with my overly worded and late response.
Doug
________________________________
From: Rob Mueller <robmueller@iinet.net.au>
To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
Sent: Wednesday, December 21, 2011 5:03 PM
Subject: Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels
G'day,
I'm a bit confused by:
Doug noted:
2. Most tolerant of partial sun / shade.
Amorphous panels are best here, they have less power per square inch.
Gary noted:
Larry, the best, most efficient panels are Monocrystaline panels, next are Polycrystaline and finally Amorphous.
Why would the "worst" panel be best in the "worst" sunlight?
Regards,
Rob M.
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| Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels [message #154241 is a reply to message #154174] |
Fri, 23 December 2011 23:24 |
Ken Burton
Messages: 10030
Registered: January 2004
Location: Hebron, Indiana
Karma: 10
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Senior Member |
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Many, many years ago (early 1960s) a friend of mine wanted an engine and trans out of a car that another friend had parked in a field. The car was scheduled to go to the junk yard. We showed up in the field with a very small tow truck to lift the engine and a torch. The gas tank was removed so Frank attached the hoist to the engine and started cutting things with the torch. He eventually caught the car carpeting on fire just as we yanked the engine and trans out. We had what we wanted out of it so we stood back to watch it burn.
Pretty soon the volunteer fire department showed up. We had no idea who called them because this was out in a rural area. It was like watching the Keystone Cops with one guy trying to command the others on what to do. As they were all gathered around fire attacking the car with crow bars and axes, Frank said to me "Watch this". Frank asked the leader "What about the gas tank?" He response was "Oh My GOD" and he immediately commanded all of his men to get away from the car. They had already smashed every window and pried open the trunk and every door even though they were not locked. They now stood 100 feet away waiting for it to blowup. They sprayed it with water from that distance until they finally put it out.
After the fire the leader started filling out a report and asked Frank how the fire started. Frank told them he started it intentionally because they would pay him more for it at the junk yard if it was gutted. He further stated that once it dried out in the sun he would finish the job. Frank also asked who was going to pay for all of the damage that they did to his car. He said he wanted some of the body panels that they destroyed. With that they all got in their trucks and cars and left.
Ken Burton - N9KB
76 Palm Beach
Hebron, Indiana
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| Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels [message #154248 is a reply to message #154241] |
Sat, 24 December 2011 07:45 |
Carl S.
Messages: 4186
Registered: January 2009
Location: Tucson, AZ.
Karma: 13
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Senior Member |
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Would it be practical to mount a solar panel on the storage pod? I'm thinking one of these would be just the right size to fit on the pod: http://www.solar-electric.com/kykc130wasop.html Of course the pod would have to be reinforced and my thought on that is to build a lightweight framework, out of 1 X wood material or Aluminum, to fit inside of the pod, to support the extra weight. Mounting it on the pod would also allow the pod to be tilted, if you were parked the right direction. Any opinions on this?
Carl Stouffer
'75 ex Palm Beach
Tucson, AZ.
Chuck Aulgur Reaction Arm Disc Brakes, Quadrabags, 3.70 LSD final drive, Lenzi knuckles/hubs, Dodge Truck 16" X 8" front wheels, Rear American Eagles, Solar battery charging. GMCSJ and GMCMI member
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| Re: [GMCnet] Best Solar Panels [message #154257 is a reply to message #154248] |
Sat, 24 December 2011 08:48 |
Bob de Kruyff
Messages: 4260
Registered: January 2004
Location: Chandler, AZ
Karma: 1
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Senior Member |
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| Carl S. wrote on Sat, 24 December 2011 06:45 |
Would it be practical to mount a solar panel on the storage pod? I'm thinking one of these would be just the right size to fit on the pod: http://www.solar-electric.com/kykc130wasop.html Of course the pod would have to be reinforced and my thought on that is to build a lightweight framework, out of 1 X wood material or Aluminum, to fit inside of the pod, to support the extra weight. Mounting it on the pod would also allow the pod to be tilted, if you were parked the right direction. Any opinions on this?
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Mine is mounted to the pod and covers almost the whole top lid. I didn't need to reinforce it and it swings up with the lid--let me see if I can find a pic.
Bob de Kruyff
78 Eleganza
Chandler, AZ
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