Harbor Freight 45Watt Solar kit - Review (Page 4 of 6)
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Originally Posted By crzywlf:
My kit has been sitting on the kitchen floor annoying my wife for awhile now. Has anyone found a good source for DC lighting? Not trying to high jack just curious. I highly doubt enough sun gets in your kitchen to use them there. I'd suggest moving them outside somewhere... 
12v accessories: look to the RV or boating world... TONS of stuff out there EDIT: to add, I've got my mount about 75% made for mine. It's going on the roof rack on my truck to assist BOV needs |
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Originally Posted By airborne89:
I've been thinking of getting one of these sets. Do you think it work for a light and weater heater in my chicken coop? Could do the job with a good battery with a 12v light and depends on the needed Watts for the weater heater. |
"Do not call attention to yourself and invite the man into your life" Bama-Shooter
Semper Fidelis 1970-1974
Semper Fidelis 1970-1974
|
I picked up the kit for $169.99 in Austintown Ohio. They would not combine the coupon with the catalog price.
I also bought a 50 ft extension cord for $14.99/heavy duty 3 prong. Then I went to Walmart and bought the recommended Maxx 29/ 125AH battery. Now I am planning on buying some aluminum angle iron to build a light weight frame to hold all three of them together. Basically, imagine a picture frame that will hold them together, that has legs extending from the bottom about 12" to get the panels off the ground and then a swing out arm to hold the top up and set the angle however I want it. It will be very light so I can just grab it and move it around to get the angle to the sun right. At high noon, I can put them almost flat if I want. I just wish I could weld aluminum!
I decided this was more efficient than a swivel of some sort or something complicated. |
whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: Matthew 7:12
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Originally Posted By batmanacw:
I picked up the kit for $169.99 in Austintown Ohio. They would not combine the coupon with the catalog price. I also bought a 50 ft extension cord for $14.99/heavy duty 3 prong. Then I went to Walmart and bought the recommended Maxx 29/ 125AH battery. Now I am planning on buying some aluminum angle iron to build a light weight frame to hold all three of them together. Basically, imagine a picture frame that will hold them together, that has legs extending from the bottom about 12" to get the panels off the ground and then a swing out arm to hold the top up and set the angle however I want it. It will be very light so I can just grab it and move it around to get the angle to the sun right. At high noon, I can put them almost flat if I want. I just wish I could weld aluminum!
I decided this was more efficient than a swivel of some sort or something complicated. Lets have some pics of this setup batman once you get it done |
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My goal with this frame was to capture the panels together so they would be easier to move. The panels are surrounded by real rubber open cell weather stripping. I did this because I have no idea how much actual expansion these things might see in the hot sun. The panels are cushioned from the top, sides, and back. The do not move at all and won't vibrate. The flex you see in the frame is due to the pressure from the weather stripping cushion. The panels are not being stressed at all. They are just pressed together snugly.
I figured on a pretty steep angle, but I honestly don't know what is idea for this application. I can always change out the leg or add on to it. The legs extend down about 1 ft so the panels will be up off the ground. I am thinking about sawing off another 12", just to make the package a little smaller. I wanted it above short grass, but now its a little too high. The aluminum angle on the front captures the panels, but also sticks out the front to protect the panels for transportation. I can lay them face down in my truck bed and the panels are well protected. The leg in the back is on a hinge. I thought it would allow quick adjustment of the angle, but it really doesn't do much adjustment. 
I changed some things up today. The leads on these panels are just way, way too short for anything but using right next to a building, and that is not very good for catching sunlight. I cut the ring connectors off the ends of the wires. Then I used what radio shack calls a divider block, jumpers, and a project box to make a junction box. I never do projects like this so this was the best I could do with radio shack parts. I used 25 ft of 18 gauge wire. to get from the junction box to the controller. I honestly don't know if I will see any voltage drop in 25 ft, but I am pretty sure that it can carry the 45 watts, or even 90 watts if I decide to double up the system to a better controller. It is sitting on my battery charger so its just the little box in the picture. 
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whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: Matthew 7:12
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If I build something like this I plan to make the back leg or legs, have not decided if I would do one or two, telescoping. At first I figured buying something with telescoping legs would work but a lot of that stuff only has a 6 to 8 inch range when I was looking at cheapy stuff to just dismantle for the legs. A friend told me to go play at lowes or home depot and buy some pvc pipe of 2 sizes, get it so one size slides into the other and you can use a spring clamp or hose clamp or whatever to adjust things. Rough estimates for setting angles start with you picking your longitude or latitude, I just got off work so my brain is not out of "lock all doors" mode yet. From there I would measure output while you mess with it. I don't know what sort of range it needs, my setup is probably going to be for car camping and who knows what so having more adjustability might be needed if the terrain sucks, and I kind of see this stuff as a learning process anyway so that is what I am thinking. To attach the pvc to your frame I would get some 90s or T fittings and attach them and slide the pipe into them. Just because of some of the winds around here lately I could see me going with 4 legs and even wondering about staking it down to some extent. If I am going to leave it out all night I want it to handle high winds and thunderstorms because so far this summer we have had plenty and I am too lazy to go out right before a storm and bring it in every time, plus I will probably be at work when it does blow up a storm. |
DK-Prof quote
Please do not engage in personal attacks, even if they are correct.
Please do not engage in personal attacks, even if they are correct.
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Originally Posted By batmanacw:
My goal with this frame was to capture the panels together so they would be easier to move. The panels are surrounded by real rubber open cell weather stripping. I did this because I have no idea how much actual expansion these things might see in the hot sun. The panels are cushioned from the top, sides, and back. The do not move at all and won't vibrate. The flex you see in the frame is due to the pressure from the weather stripping cushion. The panels are not being stressed at all. They are just pressed together snugly. I figured on a pretty steep angle, but I honestly don't know what is idea for this application. I can always change out the leg or add on to it. The legs extend down about 1 ft so the panels will be up off the ground. I am thinking about sawing off another 12", just to make the package a little smaller. I wanted it above short grass, but now its a little too high. The aluminum angle on the front captures the panels, but also sticks out the front to protect the panels for transportation. I can lay them face down in my truck bed and the panels are well protected. The leg in the back is on a hinge. I thought it would allow quick adjustment of the angle, but it really doesn't do much adjustment. http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i307/batmanacw/gear/solarfrontview.jpg http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i307/batmanacw/gear/solarbackview.jpg http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i307/batmanacw/gear/solarsideview.jpg I changed some things up today. The leads on these panels are just way, way too short for anything but using right next to a building, and that is not very good for catching sunlight. I cut the ring connectors off the ends of the wires. Then I used what radio shack calls a divider block, jumpers, and a project box to make a junction box. I never do projects like this so this was the best I could do with radio shack parts. I used 25 ft of 18 gauge wire. to get from the junction box to the controller. I honestly don't know if I will see any voltage drop in 25 ft, but I am pretty sure that it can carry the 45 watts, or even 90 watts if I decide to double up the system to a better controller. It is sitting on my battery charger so its just the little box in the picture. http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i307/batmanacw/gear/projectbox.jpg is that a EverStart Maxx-29? I got one today from WallyWorld, Running my fan and Two 60W lamps now to test load drop/time. 
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"Do not call attention to yourself and invite the man into your life" Bama-Shooter
Semper Fidelis 1970-1974
Semper Fidelis 1970-1974
|
Originally Posted By Pacs:
Originally Posted By batmanacw:
My goal with this frame was to capture the panels together so they would be easier to move. The panels are surrounded by real rubber open cell weather stripping. I did this because I have no idea how much actual expansion these things might see in the hot sun. The panels are cushioned from the top, sides, and back. The do not move at all and won't vibrate. The flex you see in the frame is due to the pressure from the weather stripping cushion. The panels are not being stressed at all. They are just pressed together snugly. I figured on a pretty steep angle, but I honestly don't know what is idea for this application. I can always change out the leg or add on to it. The legs extend down about 1 ft so the panels will be up off the ground. I am thinking about sawing off another 12", just to make the package a little smaller. I wanted it above short grass, but now its a little too high. The aluminum angle on the front captures the panels, but also sticks out the front to protect the panels for transportation. I can lay them face down in my truck bed and the panels are well protected. The leg in the back is on a hinge. I thought it would allow quick adjustment of the angle, but it really doesn't do much adjustment. http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i307/batmanacw/gear/solarfrontview.jpg http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i307/batmanacw/gear/solarbackview.jpg http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i307/batmanacw/gear/solarsideview.jpg I changed some things up today. The leads on these panels are just way, way too short for anything but using right next to a building, and that is not very good for catching sunlight. I cut the ring connectors off the ends of the wires. Then I used what radio shack calls a divider block, jumpers, and a project box to make a junction box. I never do projects like this so this was the best I could do with radio shack parts. I used 25 ft of 18 gauge wire. to get from the junction box to the controller. I honestly don't know if I will see any voltage drop in 25 ft, but I am pretty sure that it can carry the 45 watts, or even 90 watts if I decide to double up the system to a better controller. It is sitting on my battery charger so its just the little box in the picture. http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i307/batmanacw/gear/projectbox.jpg is that a EverStart Maxx-29? I got one today from WallyWorld, Running my fan and Two 60W lamps now to test load drop/time.
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i307/batmanacw/gear/solarsideview.jpg Yes it is. I had a walmart gift card that just barely covered it. It was recommended in this thread so I went for it. As I understand it, you should never use more than 50 to 60% of the AH available to keep the batteries healthy. That means running it until the voltage drops dramatically is a bad thing. I am figuring on running about 60 AH on the battery before stopping for recharging. My panels should be able to replace 20 to 30 AH per day of good sun. Someone who knows more about batteries will come along and give you more info. |
whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: Matthew 7:12
|
Originally Posted By Pacs:
Originally Posted By batmanacw:
My goal with this frame was to capture the panels together so they would be easier to move. The panels are surrounded by real rubber open cell weather stripping. I did this because I have no idea how much actual expansion these things might see in the hot sun. The panels are cushioned from the top, sides, and back. The do not move at all and won't vibrate. The flex you see in the frame is due to the pressure from the weather stripping cushion. The panels are not being stressed at all. They are just pressed together snugly. I figured on a pretty steep angle, but I honestly don't know what is idea for this application. I can always change out the leg or add on to it. The legs extend down about 1 ft so the panels will be up off the ground. I am thinking about sawing off another 12", just to make the package a little smaller. I wanted it above short grass, but now its a little too high. The aluminum angle on the front captures the panels, but also sticks out the front to protect the panels for transportation. I can lay them face down in my truck bed and the panels are well protected. The leg in the back is on a hinge. I thought it would allow quick adjustment of the angle, but it really doesn't do much adjustment. http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i307/batmanacw/gear/solarfrontview.jpg http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i307/batmanacw/gear/solarbackview.jpg http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i307/batmanacw/gear/solarsideview.jpg I changed some things up today. The leads on these panels are just way, way too short for anything but using right next to a building, and that is not very good for catching sunlight. I cut the ring connectors off the ends of the wires. Then I used what radio shack calls a divider block, jumpers, and a project box to make a junction box. I never do projects like this so this was the best I could do with radio shack parts. I used 25 ft of 18 gauge wire. to get from the junction box to the controller. I honestly don't know if I will see any voltage drop in 25 ft, but I am pretty sure that it can carry the 45 watts, or even 90 watts if I decide to double up the system to a better controller. It is sitting on my battery charger so its just the little box in the picture. http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i307/batmanacw/gear/projectbox.jpg is that a EverStart Maxx-29? I got one today from WallyWorld, Running my fan and Two 60W lamps now to test load drop/time.
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i307/batmanacw/gear/solarsideview.jpg Ran MaxXX-29 down to 12.12v no load. 1-60 what bulb and a medium size pedestal fan running on medium. That's down to about 55 % charge left, well 50% is about 12.02 volts no load. No specific gravity test. 9.0 hours. Cut it off. I need one or two more Maxx-29's in parallel for what I want. One might work. Want to drive a one or two 60 what lamps for about 4 hours w/ fan running 12 hours. I know the 12v DC lamps would be more efficient but what the heck. One more Maxx-29 would get the job done, and run music in the evening also. Cool Music, light, and fan for cool breeze all night. Fun....
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"Do not call attention to yourself and invite the man into your life" Bama-Shooter
Semper Fidelis 1970-1974
Semper Fidelis 1970-1974
|
Originally Posted By Pacs:
Originally Posted By Pacs:
Originally Posted By batmanacw:
My goal with this frame was to capture the panels together so they would be easier to move. The panels are surrounded by real rubber open cell weather stripping. I did this because I have no idea how much actual expansion these things might see in the hot sun. The panels are cushioned from the top, sides, and back. The do not move at all and won't vibrate. The flex you see in the frame is due to the pressure from the weather stripping cushion. The panels are not being stressed at all. They are just pressed together snugly. I figured on a pretty steep angle, but I honestly don't know what is idea for this application. I can always change out the leg or add on to it. The legs extend down about 1 ft so the panels will be up off the ground. I am thinking about sawing off another 12", just to make the package a little smaller. I wanted it above short grass, but now its a little too high. The aluminum angle on the front captures the panels, but also sticks out the front to protect the panels for transportation. I can lay them face down in my truck bed and the panels are well protected. The leg in the back is on a hinge. I thought it would allow quick adjustment of the angle, but it really doesn't do much adjustment. http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i307/batmanacw/gear/solarfrontview.jpg http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i307/batmanacw/gear/solarbackview.jpg http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i307/batmanacw/gear/solarsideview.jpg I changed some things up today. The leads on these panels are just way, way too short for anything but using right next to a building, and that is not very good for catching sunlight. I cut the ring connectors off the ends of the wires. Then I used what radio shack calls a divider block, jumpers, and a project box to make a junction box. I never do projects like this so this was the best I could do with radio shack parts. I used 25 ft of 18 gauge wire. to get from the junction box to the controller. I honestly don't know if I will see any voltage drop in 25 ft, but I am pretty sure that it can carry the 45 watts, or even 90 watts if I decide to double up the system to a better controller. It is sitting on my battery charger so its just the little box in the picture. http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i307/batmanacw/gear/projectbox.jpg is that a EverStart Maxx-29? I got one today from WallyWorld, Running my fan and Two 60W lamps now to test load drop/time.
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i307/batmanacw/gear/solarsideview.jpg Ran MaxXX-29 down to 12.12v no load. 1-60 what bulb and a medium size pedestal fan running on medium. That's down to about 55 % charge left, well 50% is about 12.02 volts no load. No specific gravity test. 9.0 hours. Cut it off. I need one or two more Maxx-29's in parallel for what I want. One might work. Want to drive a one or two 60 what lamps for about 4 hours w/ fan running 12 hours. I know the 12v DC lamps would be more efficient but what the heck. One more Maxx-29 would get the job done, and run music in the evening also. Cool Music, light, and fan for cool breeze all night. Fun....
I would buy a couple compact fluorescent bulbs rated higher than what you need in warm white. Then you can run your test again with much different results. |
whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: Matthew 7:12
|
I am having a hell of a time figuring out when this thing is charging or not. It only seems to have enough voltage to run something by itself when the sun is really, really bright. I have not seen 45 watts out of this thing yet.
The voltage at the ends of the long wire to the panels is between 21 and 23 volts depending on the light. I am trying to figure out if this system is ever supposed to put out 45 watts without the battery, or a 45 watt charge into the battery. It cannot run the florescent lights that came with it without the battery hooked up. They don't use more than 10 watts combined. |
whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: Matthew 7:12
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if you are putting out more than 13 volts it is charging the batteries. You wont see watts. |
Pussification : the state in which a society becomes less and less tough. The originator is the famous comedian George Carlin.
"We are undergoing a pussification of our entire society."
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I re ran the numbers to better understand what this system is putting out. If the panels put out 45 watts, then its 1.96 amps at 23 volts. I got the amperage numbers I was using before from 45 watts at 12v.
What I am really wondering is if this is basically a really wimpy battery charger? I need to run the battery down some tonight and then see how it does charging in the morning. The controller is putting out 13.5 to 14 volts depending on the sun, so I guess its working okay. Just really low amps going into the battery. Maybe because its very close to full? |
whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: Matthew 7:12
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Originally Posted By batmanacw:
I re ran the numbers to better understand what this system is putting out. If the panels put out 45 watts, then its 1.96 amps at 23 volts. I got the amperage numbers I was using before from 45 watts at 12v. What I am really wondering is if this is basically a really wimpy battery charger? I need to run the battery down some tonight and then see how it does charging in the morning. The controller is putting out 13.5 to 14 volts depending on the sun, so I guess its working okay. Just really low amps going into the battery. Maybe because its very close to full? thats exactly what it is! By no means am I knocking it, I have a set myself. 
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Originally Posted By batmanacw:
I am having a hell of a time figuring out when this thing is charging or not. It only seems to have enough voltage to run something by itself when the sun is really, really bright. I have not seen 45 watts out of this thing yet. The voltage at the ends of the long wire to the panels is between 21 and 23 volts depending on the light. I am trying to figure out if this system is ever supposed to put out 45 watts without the battery, or a 45 watt charge into the battery. It cannot run the florescent lights that came with it without the battery hooked up. They don't use more than 10 watts combined. yes this is a charging system, not a stand alone power system. i do get full power out of mine at peak times but then the alabama sun is about as bright as you can get this time of year. why would you need the flourescent lights during peak sun? 
these are designed to charge batteries when normal ac charging is not an option. it's not fast, but it's an option for renewable power with very limited resources. |
The purpose of fighting is to win. There is no possible victory in
defense. The sword is more important than the shield, and skill is more
important than either. The final weapon is the brain. All else is
supplemental.
defense. The sword is more important than the shield, and skill is more
important than either. The final weapon is the brain. All else is
supplemental.
|
Originally Posted By The_Beer_Slayer:
Originally Posted By batmanacw:
I am having a hell of a time figuring out when this thing is charging or not. It only seems to have enough voltage to run something by itself when the sun is really, really bright. I have not seen 45 watts out of this thing yet. The voltage at the ends of the long wire to the panels is between 21 and 23 volts depending on the light. I am trying to figure out if this system is ever supposed to put out 45 watts without the battery, or a 45 watt charge into the battery. It cannot run the florescent lights that came with it without the battery hooked up. They don't use more than 10 watts combined. yes this is a charging system, not a stand alone power system. i do get full power out of mine at peak times but then the alabama sun is about as bright as you can get this time of year. why would you need the flourescent lights during peak sun?
these are designed to charge batteries when normal ac charging is not an option. it's not fast, but it's an option for renewable power with very limited resources. Thanks for the clarification.
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whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: Matthew 7:12
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Originally Posted By batmanacw: Under perfect conditions, I believe these panels can put out around 1 amp each.Originally Posted By The_Beer_Slayer: Originally Posted By batmanacw: I am having a hell of a time figuring out when this thing is charging or not. It only seems to have enough voltage to run something by itself when the sun is really, really bright. I have not seen 45 watts out of this thing yet. The voltage at the ends of the long wire to the panels is between 21 and 23 volts depending on the light. I am trying to figure out if this system is ever supposed to put out 45 watts without the battery, or a 45 watt charge into the battery. It cannot run the florescent lights that came with it without the battery hooked up. They don't use more than 10 watts combined. yes this is a charging system, not a stand alone power system. i do get full power out of mine at peak times but then the alabama sun is about as bright as you can get this time of year. why would you need the flourescent lights during peak sun? these are designed to charge batteries when normal ac charging is not an option. it's not fast, but it's an option for renewable power with very limited resources. Thanks for the clarification. |
This post is solely the opinion of capnrob97 and does not reflect the views of ar15.com
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Originally Posted By capnrob97:
Originally Posted By batmanacw:
Under perfect conditions, I believe these panels can put out around 1 amp each.
Originally Posted By The_Beer_Slayer:
Originally Posted By batmanacw:
I am having a hell of a time figuring out when this thing is charging or not. It only seems to have enough voltage to run something by itself when the sun is really, really bright. I have not seen 45 watts out of this thing yet. The voltage at the ends of the long wire to the panels is between 21 and 23 volts depending on the light. I am trying to figure out if this system is ever supposed to put out 45 watts without the battery, or a 45 watt charge into the battery. It cannot run the florescent lights that came with it without the battery hooked up. They don't use more than 10 watts combined. yes this is a charging system, not a stand alone power system. i do get full power out of mine at peak times but then the alabama sun is about as bright as you can get this time of year. why would you need the flourescent lights during peak sun?
these are designed to charge batteries when normal ac charging is not an option. it's not fast, but it's an option for renewable power with very limited resources. Thanks for the clarification. that is pretty close to what i saw on GOOD bright day |
The purpose of fighting is to win. There is no possible victory in
defense. The sword is more important than the shield, and skill is more
important than either. The final weapon is the brain. All else is
supplemental.
defense. The sword is more important than the shield, and skill is more
important than either. The final weapon is the brain. All else is
supplemental.
|
I just stumbled across this tonight, a forum dedicated to these 45 watt kits. |
This post is solely the opinion of capnrob97 and does not reflect the views of ar15.com
|
Originally Posted By blacksuit:
I am a complete newby when it comes to this solar stuff. How long will these deep cycle batteries last if used and cared for properly? I've had the 12 deep cycle batteries last up to 5 years with not the best maintainence. Application was aircraft aux power for checking avionics on the ground and occassional starting. The batteries were used infrequently and charged about 4 times a year. I used 2 in series for 24 VDC but charged them separately at 12V. |
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Sunday paper had a harbor freight flyer with a solar panel coupon, the kit is marked down to $139.99
coupon code: 62224878 valid through 08-15-2010 the code can be used on the website, or possibly in the store without the flyer, although without the flyer you may need to come up with a good story on how you lost it, or your dog ate it. I bought this kit a year ago for $159.99, after catching it on sale for $200 and using a 20% coupon, which they gave me shit about, but they took the coupon after i was going to walk out, they tried to tell me the coupon could not be used on "sale" items. Thought I would let you know. |
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Thanks for the code. I placed the order, we will see.
I did not want to order these by mail, preferring to pick them up in the store. But I never found a National Geographic coupon. The Davenport, IA Harbor Freight had a 45 watt kit set up, and also one of the solo 15 watt panels on display. The sold alone 15 watt panel looked like it had a more robust frame than the panels in the kit. |
Change is not a destination.
Hope is not a strategy.
(Unless you're out of ammunition.)
Hope is not a strategy.
(Unless you're out of ammunition.)
|
Originally Posted By ljh824:
I think I asked this before but I'm too lazy to scroll through the thread. I have one of these kits and want another. Can they be linked together to have a full 90 watts? Anyone tried this or have a schematic? + goes to + - goes to - I can do an mspaint if you need....
not 100% sure on how many panels that controller will take. Maybe someone near their manual can tell you |
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In-the-know Solar power guys,
What are some of the better books you have on setting up systems? I'm looking at purchasing a house in the near future that will be ideal for a solar panel system and would like to began educating myself on set-ups. What do you guys think of the kits on the following sight? Off Grid |
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Originally Posted By FlatlinesUp:
Originally Posted By ljh824:
I think I asked this before but I'm too lazy to scroll through the thread. I have one of these kits and want another. Can they be linked together to have a full 90 watts? Anyone tried this or have a schematic? + goes to + - goes to - I can do an mspaint if you need....
not 100% sure on how many panels that controller will take. Maybe someone near their manual can tell you So you are saying that you can hook both controllers up to the same battery and they will charge and shut off the charging correctly? |
whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: Matthew 7:12
|
Originally Posted By ljh824:
I think I asked this before but I'm too lazy to scroll through the thread. I have one of these kits and want another. Can they be linked together to have a full 90 watts? Anyone tried this or have a schematic? I originally purchased 2 of the kits. I hooked all six panels to one controller and have not had any problems so far. I have found no indication (in the manual or on the controller) of the maximum input rating for the controller, but mine has been running a few months and all is well.
ETA: Originally Posted By ljh824:
<snip> So you are saying that you can hook both controllers up to the same battery and they will charge and shut off the charging correctly? I only used one controiller. |
Whether you think you can or you think you can't . . . . You're right! - Stewie Griffin
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Originally Posted By wshbrngr:
Originally Posted By ljh824:
I think I asked this before but I'm too lazy to scroll through the thread. I have one of these kits and want another. Can they be linked together to have a full 90 watts? Anyone tried this or have a schematic? I originally purchased 2 of the kits. I hooked all six panels to one controller and have not had any problems so far. I have found no indication (in the manual or on the controller) of the maximum input rating for the controller, but mine has been running a few months and all is well.
ETA: Originally Posted By ljh824:
<snip> So you are saying that you can hook both controllers up to the same battery and they will charge and shut off the charging correctly? I only used one controiller. Thanks! |
whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: Matthew 7:12
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Originally Posted By wshbrngr: Originally Posted By ljh824: I think I asked this before but I'm too lazy to scroll through the thread. I have one of these kits and want another. Can they be linked together to have a full 90 watts? Anyone tried this or have a schematic? I originally purchased 2 of the kits. I hooked all six panels to one controller and have not had any problems so far. I have found no indication (in the manual or on the controller) of the maximum input rating for the controller, but mine has been running a few months and all is well. ETA: Originally Posted By ljh824: <snip> So you are saying that you can hook both controllers up to the same battery and they will charge and shut off the charging correctly? I only used one controiller. I may buy more cheap panels and hook them to my existing controller now. Thanks |
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Originally Posted By wshbrngr:
Originally Posted By ljh824:
I think I asked this before but I'm too lazy to scroll through the thread. I have one of these kits and want another. Can they be linked together to have a full 90 watts? Anyone tried this or have a schematic? I originally purchased 2 of the kits. I hooked all six panels to one controller and have not had any problems so far. I have found no indication (in the manual or on the controller) of the maximum input rating for the controller, but mine has been running a few months and all is well.
ETA: Originally Posted By ljh824:
<snip> So you are saying that you can hook both controllers up to the same battery and they will charge and shut off the charging correctly? I only used one controiller. Want to sell the spare one? I am in need of a charge controller. TRG |
Uncle Ruckus is my hero.
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Originally Posted By TheRedGoat:
Originally Posted By wshbrngr:
Originally Posted By ljh824:
I think I asked this before but I'm too lazy to scroll through the thread. I have one of these kits and want another. Can they be linked together to have a full 90 watts? Anyone tried this or have a schematic? I originally purchased 2 of the kits. I hooked all six panels to one controller and have not had any problems so far. I have found no indication (in the manual or on the controller) of the maximum input rating for the controller, but mine has been running a few months and all is well.
ETA: Originally Posted By ljh824:
<snip> So you are saying that you can hook both controllers up to the same battery and they will charge and shut off the charging correctly? I only used one controiller. Thanks for the tips. |
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Originally Posted By TheRedGoat:
Want to sell the spare one? I am in need of a charge controller. TRG I have been kicking the idea around for a couple of days, however, I am kind of waiting to see if the one I am using fails, first. I have not been ignoring your request. ETA: I could not in good conscience sell it, as discussed in the other thread, it is a piece of junk. Not sure what part of Texas you live. |
Whether you think you can or you think you can't . . . . You're right! - Stewie Griffin
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Originally Posted By wshbrngr:
Originally Posted By TheRedGoat:
Want to sell the spare one? I am in need of a charge controller. TRG I have been kicking the idea around for a couple of days, however, I am kind of waiting to see if the one I am using fails, first. I have not been ignoring your request. ETA: I could not in good conscience sell it, as discussed in the other thread, it is a piece of junk. Not sure what part of Texas you live. I am planning on buying another set and then keeping the extra box for a spare. I might even by a better charge controller and keep these as spares. |
whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: Matthew 7:12
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Well I have survived the last 2 weeks on one hf kit and an extra 15w panel, on 1 deep cycle battery. Charge the net book, cell phone, run 2 lights, and 2 fans. When not at work. Now I can afford to turn on the power at the new place. Soon I will be able to get internet at home. |
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Originally Posted By TheRedGoat: Originally Posted By wshbrngr: Originally Posted By ljh824: I think I asked this before but I'm too lazy to scroll through the thread. I have one of these kits and want another. Can they be linked together to have a full 90 watts? Anyone tried this or have a schematic? I originally purchased 2 of the kits. I hooked all six panels to one controller and have not had any problems so far. I have found no indication (in the manual or on the controller) of the maximum input rating for the controller, but mine has been running a few months and all is well. ETA: Originally Posted By ljh824: <snip> So you are saying that you can hook both controllers up to the same battery and they will charge and shut off the charging correctly? I only used one controiller. Want to sell the spare one? I am in need of a charge controller. TRG You can pick one up on eBay. |
This post is solely the opinion of capnrob97 and does not reflect the views of ar15.com
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I'm a total newbie to solar, but I've been following this thread along with a couple others with interest.
The range that I belong to want to put in a surveillance monitoring system, but they don't have electrical other than a generator which obviously does not run all the time. The system would consist of 4 cameras at 1 amp each and a stand alone DVR that should be in the 40 - 60 watt range. The DVR would be constantly running, but would record only on motion. After reviewing this thread for the umteenth time I think it's finally sinking in that the Harbor Freight kit would not produce enough juice to run the system. Anyone want to input? Thanks. |
“The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who are willing to work and give to those who would not.”
Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson
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Originally Posted By CTRob65:
I'm a total newbie to solar, but I've been following this thread along with a couple others with interest. The range that I belong to want to put in a surveillance monitoring system, but they don't have electrical other than a generator which obviously does not run all the time. The system would consist of 4 cameras at 1 amp each and a stand alone DVR that should be in the 40 - 60 watt range. The DVR would be constantly running, but would record only on motion. After reviewing this thread for the umteenth time I think it's finally sinking in that the Harbor Freight kit would not produce enough juice to run the system. Anyone want to input? Thanks. If you had 2 deep cycle batteries I think you would be GTG. I run a TV on an inverter for hours at a time as well as lights on just one deep cycle, so you should have no troubles at all. |
It is what it is....
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I've been thinking about this HF solar product but haven't had a chance to run any numbers.
45W at 12V < 4A (peak) My deep cycle battery is 80 Ah. It would take about 20 hours to recharge my battery. 80 Ah/4A = 20 h Given that I get only about the equivalent of 5 hours of peak sun per day, that would equate to 4 days to recharge the battery. FOUR DAYS is not okay by me. I guess this is a decent way to get your feet wet if you've never had any prior experience with these systems but I think a larger system is the way to go. There is probably a fair amount of up front engineering for a decent system. It would likely start with conservation measures and monitoring to collect data. Then sizing and installing a minimal (prototype) system, scaling that up until it all works. I am mostly concerned about the batteries. I see a fully charged, high capacity battery as a real hazard. Very few people know what they are and are aware of the hazards involved. It is also a life limited thing and expensive. Batteries,... ugh! |
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Originally Posted By Mike_Mills:
I've been thinking about this HF solar product but haven't had a chance to run any numbers. 45W at 12V < 4A (peak) My deep cycle battery is 80 Ah. It would take about 20 hours to recharge my battery. 80 Ah/4A = 20 h Given that I get only about the equivalent of 5 hours of peak sun per day, that would equate to 4 days to recharge the battery. FOUR DAYS is not okay by me. I guess this is a decent way to get your feet wet if you've never had any prior experience with these systems but I think a larger system is the way to go. There is probably a fair amount of up front engineering for a decent system. It would likely start with conservation measures and monitoring to collect data. Then sizing and installing a minimal (prototype) system, scaling that up until it all works. I am mostly concerned about the batteries. I see a fully charged, high capacity battery as a real hazard. Very few people know what they are and are aware of the hazards involved. It is also a life limited thing and expensive. Batteries,... ugh! I think your expectations of solar may be a little high. If you look and see solar run homes, they have very large arrays of panels, not to be compared to 3 small panels in the HF kit. They are usually of much higher quality of HF as well and more efficient. Keep in mind you are discussing a $150 kit here that includes the panels, controller, frame, and a couple low consumption lights.... Also, the first time you run your 80 Amps out of your 80 Ah battery most likely, is the last time you will. You shouldn't run them past 50% discharge, nor should you ever run them all the way down. The basics with any solar set up is to start with what you want to run, add up the load, then design the system around it. It may take 2 HF kits, or 4 to get what you expect, and it may also take a half dozen deep cycle batteries, but if you want something to power a fan while camping, some lights at night, or your emergency comms, this HF kit will do wonders with a deep cycle battery added and still come in around $225 for electricity in places you can't normally get it. Yes, batteries carry an inherent danger and deserve respect like a lot of mechanical/electrical items we use every day. If you don't like batteries in general, you're going to be very limited in what you can do as far as emergency electricity. IMHO Learn about them, learn to handle them safely, and respect them for what they can do. Put together a properly designed system and you are gtg... |
hatin' on the online rudeness...
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Originally Posted By Mike_Mills:
I've been thinking about this HF solar product but haven't had a chance to run any numbers. 45W at 12V < 4A (peak) My deep cycle battery is 80 Ah. It would take about 20 hours to recharge my battery. 80 Ah/4A = 20 h Given that I get only about the equivalent of 5 hours of peak sun per day, that would equate to 4 days to recharge the battery. FOUR DAYS is not okay by me. I guess this is a decent way to get your feet wet if you've never had any prior experience with these systems but I think a larger system is the way to go. There is probably a fair amount of up front engineering for a decent system. It would likely start with conservation measures and monitoring to collect data. Then sizing and installing a minimal (prototype) system, scaling that up until it all works. I am mostly concerned about the batteries. I see a fully charged, high capacity battery as a real hazard. Very few people know what they are and are aware of the hazards involved. It is also a life limited thing and expensive. Batteries,... ugh! All I can tell you is mine charges mine fully in one day of not so direct sunlight. I don't have all the math you do, but it will go from 11.2 'ish volts after I use the lights, TV, etc all night. I always have 13+ when I go to bed or it gets dark again. It's GTG for what I need. |
It is what it is....
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Originally Posted By FlatlinesUp:
I think your expectations of solar may be a little high. Well, it wasn't so much expectations as it was seeing if these panels fit my need for a solar powered charger for my deep cycle battery. I was evaluating this set up to see what it can/cannot do for me. The point about not fully discharging the battery is a good one. Even so, a 50% depth of discharge would still take a long time to replenish with this set up. The other way to look at it is with 4A output and 5 hr/day, I can replenish 20Ah/day. So, a 20Ah battery would work with this system. That is not half bad. |