Complete Solar Setups

[Gunny]

Rather than hijack someone else's thread I will start a new one. I don't want a complicated setup, just a decent system with the least fuss. I've looked at Az Wind and seen their systems, they look reasonably priced. I have no idea what installation costs, one of our members (thanks JiminDenver) has offered to help install but I feel a bit odd not being able to help at all really. 

Maybe someone would know the approximate cost to install of a system like this;

https://www.solar-electric.com/rv-kit-265-watts-mppt.html


Rob

 

[jimindenver]

Checking

Controller with digital meter appears to be between $330 and $350

I am seeing 315 watt Sunpower panels in the yuma area on Craigslist for $280

255w Yingli panels in Long beach for $125

Last time I picked up 10 gauge MC4 cables of 25 ft was around $30-40 on ebay

Will need basic brackets, wire from controller to battery, fuse/switch

So I could piece it together for less and likely have better components here and there. Using the 255w panels and the Eco-worthy 20 amp controller that be had for $104 that I have been using for 5 years, much less. I gave my last one away at the RTR along as well as a 230w panel. I use to piece the systems together and sell them for $4-500 on craigslist. The last two went onto vans. The Morningstar likely has better control inputs and temperature compensation as a option which the Eco-worthy did not.

I hope that helps

By the way I have a spool of 1/0 cable, feet of 6 and 8 gauge, connectors, ect.

 

[Gunny]

As old as my trailer is I am sure the charge controller is ancient. I've looked at inverter / chargers and the more I look the more confused I get. Maybe we can sit down and have a meal and you can spec one out for me.


Rob

 

[jimindenver]

The converter your trailer has is different from a charge controller. One converts 120v to 12 volt for battery charging, the other handles the solar. The converter in my trailer isn't anything wonderful but I have left it as I am so rarely plugged in that it's not worth the effort. (3 times in 7 years)

 

[DuneElliot]

I'm investing in the full system from Renogy that you can get on Amazon; 400W with MPPT charge controller and everything you need for a solar set-up. Of course you need an inverter and batteries separately.

 

[GotSmart]

Rob, 

Let Jim set you up.  He has more of a clue than many so called solar companies.  

 

[blars]

NAWS https://www.solar-electric.com/residential/solar-panels.html?p=3 in Flagstaff has some over 330 watt panels for less than $250, if you are willing to deal with the huge heavy high-voltage beasts.

 

[jimindenver]

I need to see his roof before anything is decided on. I'll move my rig down to where he will be passing through and start by talking needs, wants and options. I'd love to see a big panel up top and a pair of 6v down below but it all depends on what the rig dictates.

 

[Gunny]

I will come to you, no need for you to move. I'm not sure what my endurance will be, 2 days to get there then not in any hurry to get back.

Rob

 

[jimindenver]

I go to Yuma Monday for tires and will stay in that area for a bit, it's all in the general area. My endurance isn't what it use to be either especially with Max taking Dad to the max. lol

 

[Gunny]

I sort of have an idea of what might work within my budget. Blue Sky 3000i MPPT, One Kyocera KU265-6MCA Solar Module and whatever the installation items would be. I am going to try and find two Deka 6 volts to mount and beyond that I am a lost soul.

If I can't get it done on the way home, I may, with your permission, have it shipped to you. wherever you job is.

As I told you on the phone I am not in a great hurry but time itself may be limited.

Call sometime and we can give it a look.

Many thanks and well wishes. Gunny.

 

[gapper2]

Hi Gunny,
  I'm a new member and I live in the Southeast and we not too many solar dealers in the area.  Last year I purchased this:
https://www.solar-electric.com/rv-solar-kit-795-watts-mppt.html kit from NAWS.  I found the people there to be knowledgable.  The panels had to be shipped by truck because of their size.  But that only cost aprox $120 for 3 panels to GA.  Haven't started my build yet but all 3 are going on GMC Savana 2500.  Good luck on your purchase.

 

[bullfrog]

Gunny remember being able to slow down is the best part of this way of living so go visit Jim and let him see what you've got and what the two of you can do. Enjoy the journey!

 

[Gunny]

Thanks for the sound advice Bullfrog. I won't have the money to do anything too stupid for a few weeks. And daughter has maxed out ye old credit card.

I am more interested in meeting Jim and having some Posole. And get some good advice..

Rob

 

[GotSmart]

Solar prices are dropping as new panels are getting more efficient. 

You are old enough to know about high pressure salesmen.    There will always be a better deal down the road. 

Take the slow lane and enjoy the ride. 

 

[Optimistic Paranoid]

Thanks for the sound advice Bullfrog. I won't have the money to do anything too stupid for a few weeks. And daughter has maxed out ye old credit card.

If you haven't got the funds to do the whole thing, maybe you could swing just the solar panel and Jim could mount it on the roof for you and run the wire inside.  You could probably do the controller and wiring yourself later.  Just tape the bare ends of the wires up good and you would be fine until you can get to the inside work.

 

[Gunny]

Thanks, John. I'll have enough to do the basics and Jim can detail what extras I need.

Rob

 

[rvpopeye]

If I was there instead of here I'd be happy to do the design and instal just for the karma points....
Jim probably has the same attitude??????

Sounds like you already have a good understanding of what you need.
Just a few gaps to fill.

Doing the as you can afford method is not a bad idea.

 

[Gunny]

Popeye, Where abouts are you? In general terms. Not being nosy..Yes I am.

Thanks for the encouragement.

Rob

 

[rvpopeye]

Well , when I used to tell folks in Texas I was from Maine , they usually replied "oh ,isn't that in Northeast Texas somewhere beyond Dallas" ??????