Solar power and electricity very well explained.

[One Awesome Inch]

This guy does an excellent job in explaining solar power and electricity for use in an RV or van. Its the most understandable explanation I have read on the subject.

http://tynan.com/living-in-a-small-rv-electricity

The rest of his blog is very informative as well.

 

[Starlight]

After reading the linked page originally posted, I needed a better understanding of how to size a charge controller to the power setup. I found this page: (excerpts)

http://www.freesunpower.com/chargecontrollers.php

The three phase charge controllers can change the amps as needed.
The larger the solar array, the larger load the controller must be able to handle at peak production and when production wanes it must add amps to achieve storage capacity. If you are using four 75 to 80 Watt solar panels, your charge controller should be rated up to 40 amps.

http://www.freesunpower.com/inverters.php

... when you decide on a system voltage, the Solar Panels, Inverter, and Battery Bank all need to use the same voltage.

Power Inverters are available for use on 12, 24, or 48 volt battery bank configurations. Most Power Inverters can also charge the batteries if connected to the AC line.

 

[Cheap Web Repair]

I see a lot of pro solar on this site, in complete contrast to what I read elsewhere. My solar didn't work, and according to other boondocking sites its rubbish and the solution is an AC/DC generator to charge your batteries. Thats what I use now.

Let's get both sides, not just who likes it. Misery loves company, and I was a sucker. Before anybody even thinks how great solar is, investigate all of the people who say it's trash too. Theres plenty of them. Dont be a sucker.

 

[Bela's Mom]

I use both. I have a generator that runs on propane that I use when I need to run something large, like the AC. I use the solar panel to keep my battery charged up during the day when I don't want to run the generator and use fuel unnecessarily. There is a place for both systems. Reasons for use and personal preferences regarding fuels are individual choices. I like having some free fuel.

If your solar didn't work, then maybe there was something wrong with the equipment or wiring?

I studied a lot before purchasing my components and installing them myself. Mine works great! No sucker here!! LOL

 

[Lucky mike]

ditto ....I use both also......the solar on average takes care of the batteries on extended stays without solely firing up the generator for battery charging purposes....

solar is a good investment if it serves a purpose for you...

wind power is the same thing.....tried it liked it , but solar was a lot simpler.

generator is a good investment and works well for its purpose....but I have to dole out cash for every working minute it runs...which is not a complaint , it keeps me cool on hot days...and takes care of charging , heating and lighting....but at a minimum it costs 110.00 per month at a reasonable 1 gallon a day plus oil.

there will always be an opinion on why one is better than the other......but the bottom line answer will be the long term effect on your comfort and your wallet !!

 

[Simran]

I've got both only because I used the gen before I got solar. For me, anyway, solar works exceptionally well. Even in the winter months in North Dakota where the days are short in winter months. Some places where cloud cover supersedes sunshine solar may not work but I love my solar.
I'll say it here:
Once you have a rack; you'll never go back!!

 

[Zil]

Whatever solar set up. It is only as good as the components used in the system. enough battery bank, panels sized for the system, proper gauge wire, and good charge controller. Harbor Freight will not make it.

 

[Bela's Mom]

"Once you have a rack; you'll never go back!!Cool"
Simran, that there is funny!

 

[akrvbob]

Cheap Web Repair, your story seems remarkably similar to another member of the forum.

I don't know what you both did wrong, but I've installed a dozen systems and every one of them has been a total success. Maybe if you had found people who knew what they were doing it would have worked for you as well.

The technology is extremely reliable and well-proven and the prices have dropped to where most of us can afford it.
Bob

 

[highdesertranger]

obviously something was not done right or junk panels, controllers were used. I use solar and have installed some. what's not to like. after the initial investment you get free power. I bought my first panel in the early 90's a 15 watt arco. still have it mounted on my rack as a battery maintainer, still works. highdesertranger

 

[Starlight]

In my research (quite extensive and I still don't understand it) I read things about people who get a system installed and the installer did not use big enough wires and ran a length of wire too long -- thus loosing electricity all along the way. Between the drain of the inverter and backup system, there wasn't a lot for house use and could never meet their needs. They didn't need more panels, they needed better and shorter wires.

 

[Bela's Mom]

Starlight, I read the same articles. That is the reason that I used larger wire than I needed; the wire is also large enough to add another panel when I can, as is the charge controller that I bought.

A little research goes a long way to avoid problems and waste of money.