Best Solar Panels

[Dustysprinter]

I'm looking for one or two good quality solar panels, around 230 to 300 watts total, has to fit in a 48" by 55" space, any recommendations?

 

[MrNoodly]

Go with monocrystalline panels. You'll get the most power per square inch out of them. And if you shop around, you might find a single 230W+ panel that would fit within your dimensions. That would probably simplify mounting—assuming you have another set of hands available. However, some large panels put out too much voltage for some charge controllers. Buy from a supplier who's able to recommend the proper panel-controller match.

 

[GotSmart]

Just remember that the large panels have a large shipping charge, while the smaller ones are usually shipped free.

 

[Dustysprinter]

Go with monocrystalline panels. You'll get the most power per square inch out of them. And if you shop around, you might find a single 230W+ panel that would fit within your dimensions. That would probably simplify mounting—assuming you have another set of hands available. However, some large panels put out too much voltage for some charge controllers. Buy from a supplier who's able to recommend the proper panel-controller match.

As you said, in my extensive search, it seems that all the higher wattage panels (that would fit) require a 60+ amp controller (spendy).

 

[jimindenver]

at one time mono panelsmwere smaller for a given wattage and you could fit more on a roof than polys. anymore Poly tech has caught up and the difference between my 245w monos and 250w polys are just a inch on o9ne end in the same frame, so it is no longer a plus.

What I have found testing multiple panels is that mono panels don't like overxast weather much and the output drops dramatically with even light cloud cover. My polys do drop in the same conditions but more in respect to how thick the clouds are and will continue producing even in pea soup when the monos are down so far the controller goes to sleep.

A single grid tied 24v panel up to 300w can be run off of a $102 MPPT controller. However you will be hard pressed to find a panel of that wattage in the dimensions you are talking. 12v panels are smaller and I know some like Eco-worthy can have a different shape so keep that in mind.

 

[LilNomad]

I went with the Zamp Portable Solar Panel charges my 25ft trailer & light weight.
LilNomad

 

[wagoneer]

I'm looking for one or two good quality solar panels, around 230 to 300 watts total, has to fit in a 48" by 55" space, any recommendations?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/271681229503?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT

 

[Dustysprinter]

http://www.ebay.com/itm/271681229503?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT

Those are great panels, but unfortunately together they're too bid. but thanks'

 

[jimindenver]

Here is a 180w panel that would fit but it would require a MPPT controller.

http://www.eco-worthy.com/catalog/worthy-180w-polycrystalline-solar-panel-p-513.html

I believe two of these 100w panels would fit.

http://www.eco-worthy.com/catalog/worthy-100w-polycrystalline-solar-panel-p-139.html

Two of these 100w

https://www.solarblvd.com/product_info.php?cPath=1_269&products_id=2713

I know they don't meet your minimum wattage but it's a odd space to fill. What fits on the roof can be a very limiting thing.

 

[jimindenver]

another

http://www.windynation.com/Polycrys...Solar-Panel-Off-Grid-RV-Boat/-/317?p=YzE9NDU=

 

[jimindenver]

To add

If you have a small space else where on the roof, one of the advantages of going PWM is that as long as the smaller panel has the same ratings except for Isc, it can be run in parallel with the others. A 50w panel added to the 100's could make a difference. You can't do it with MPPT.

 

[Dustysprinter]

Thanks for all the help, but the magic number seems to be 200 watts. I'm having no problem finding that for my space issue, but it seems
nearly impossible to brake the 200 watt barrier.

 

[jimindenver]

From 200w to 230w is not huge difference, a small portable could make up the difference when needed.

Have you considered raising the panel to clear whatever is limiting it?