StirCrazy
Kamloops, BC, Canada
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Joined: 07/16/2003
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Like Richard said, I also recommend 24V panels and if you can find them split cell design. more efficient, more shade tolerant and so on. As for tilting, I don't worry much about that as it is rare where I camp that I can ensure I am facing the right direction to take advantage of the tilt and it is a hassle to climb up and do it. Also, a moving mount puts a weak spot in the system. I like your idea of building a rack setup.
2014 F350 6.7 Platinum
2016 Cougar 330RBK
1991 Slumberqueen WS100
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groundhogy
PA
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Joined: 12/17/2014
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Mount panels to top of RV, and you have to have RV in sun.
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Dusty R
Charlotte Michigan 48813
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Joined: 04/05/2003
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Different areas have different amounts of sun shine.
Michigan ranks 47th of the 48 Continental States.
So how long would it take for Solar Panels to pay for them selfs, in Michigan?
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pianotuna
Regina, SK, Canada
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Joined: 12/18/2004
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Dusty R wrote:Different areas have different amounts of sun shine.
Michigan ranks 47th of the 48 Continental States.
So how long would it take for Solar Panels to pay for them selfs, in Michigan?
Most solar systems in Michigan pay for themselves with utility bill savings in 9 to 12 years, but the lifespan of solar systems is usually between 25 and 30 years.Mar 2, 2023
https://www.greenlancer.com/post/going-solar-in-michigan
Regards, Don
My ride is a 28 foot Class C, 256 watts solar, 556 amp-hours of Telcom jars, 3000 watt Magnum hybrid inverter, Sola Basic Autoformer, Microair Easy Start.
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TurnThePage
North ID
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Joined: 10/08/2003
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groundhogy wrote:Mount panels to top of RV, and you have to have RV in sun. Guess I'll just have to deal with it. I'm putting 7 panels up there. NO WAY I'm going to goof with 7 panels on the ground so I can park in the shade. Besides I won't be pulling that much power most of the time. The number of panels is intended to offset shaded or partially shaded scenarios too.
So... 920AH of lifepo4 batteries arrive tomorrow. Now to get serious about the other hardware. I found a Victron 3000 watt Multplus that will arrive preprogrammed for my set up. I have a few other expensive pieces to put in place too.
Where do you guys get the support hardware? Cables, bus bars, connectors, etc.? I think I would like to order the big cables pre-cut and connectorized.
2015 Ram 1500
2022 Grand Design Imagine XLS 22RBE
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Cptnvideo
Arizona - most of the time
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Joined: 11/05/2006
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When I added 2 more 206ah batteries, I bought ready made 4-0 cable from Amazon. I bought 2 12" and 2 18" flexible welding type with connectors installed.
Bill & Linda
Arizona
2019 Dodge Ram Laramie 3500 dually 4x4 diesel
Hensley Trailer Saver BD5 hitch
2022 Grand Design Solitude 378MBS
1600 watts solar, Victron 150/100 MPPT controller, GoPower 3kw inverter/charger, 5 SOK 206AH LiFePo4 batteries for 1030 ah
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TurnThePage
North ID
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Joined: 10/08/2003
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I go to Amazon for almost everything and never even thought to look there for that! Thanks!
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time2roll
Southern California
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Joined: 03/21/2005
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groundhogy wrote:Mount panels to top of RV, and you have to have RV in sun. With enough panels the RV is always shaded. (at least on the top)
2001 F150 SuperCrew
2006 Keystone Springdale 249FWBHLS
675w Solar pictures back up
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pianotuna
Regina, SK, Canada
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Joined: 12/18/2004
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TurnThePage,
Which charge controller have you decided on?
Be sure to wire the batteries in a balanced manner.
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TurnThePage
North ID
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Maybe a Victron "SmartSolar MPPT 150/70 up to 250/100 VE.Can" The total open voltage of the panels I'm looking at is just over 151 volts.
I know that's some expensive hardware, but it might be worth it for me to keep installation effort to a minimum. I just don't know if I want to open the roof and try to route more wire. I already have gimpy shoulders and knees.
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