solar panels

[gypsyrose1126]

Hi everyone! wondering if anyone uses the portable solar panels? I need something to keep my batteries charged and to charge my phone or kindle with once in awhile. Don't care about the TV or the AC. I have propane for frig and stove. I had considered a generator, but heavy, some noise and maintenance. I seldom have hookups when I camp, like woodsy campsites, which could be a problem. Any info would be helpful. Thanks a bunch!

[Bethers]

My solar is on my roof, but many friends have suitcases. They work and are good for camping under trees as long as you can get them under the sun without going too far away. They say that's usually not a problem.

[monik7]

Lyn (SoCalGalcas) had one of the suitcase varieties. I was with her when she bought it in Q but I don’t remember the brand. Maybe she will comment.
Sandi

[snowball]

Kerry has one as well but really don't know much about them ... you see them all over I wonder where they stash them when moving mine are on the roof all I claim to understand it that they work
sheila

[SoCalGalcas]

Yes, I had a suitcase solar panel. It worked perfectly for my purpose. I , too, did not need much electricity. Never watched TV. Solar panel was 80 W. Kept my phone, iPad charged and kept the lights on all evening in winter. You can see the solar panel in the picture of my camp site in the mountains. Moving it around to face sun no problem. Lyn

[gypsyrose1126]

Lyn good information as I did not know what size to get, I am just starting to read up on them, a lot of different sizes and brands. Basically I need it for charging the same items you mentioned.

[MandysMom]

There is more to consider than just enough to charge what you need. Check the size of the battery you wil charge as to Amp hours. Size at lease watts of solar equal to amp hours of battery. 80 w is pretty small on panel. Think about items you might add in future that would be increased draw on your system. More watts in panel means faster charge to full capacity each day.
Velda

[gypsyrose1126]

Velda, thanks for the info. I will have to do some research as I am clueless about anything electric. I have 2 batteries, don't use my TV or AC, seldom use a mircrowave, I do use the furnace on occasion.

[Bethers]

You wouldn't be able to use AC or the microwave, a hair dryer, etc. The furnace will use the batteries for the fan. Tit can use it, but I'd suggest making sure you had a full charge before the sun goes down on what will be a cold night withthe furnace running a lot.

I also suggest sticking with some name brand panels and getting the charge controller (it will keep the panels from overcharging the batteries which is important). BTW, I consider what harbor freight sells not worthy.

Here is one you could consider that would give you 100 watt panels and the charge controller:
https://www.renogy.com/100-watt-eclipse ... -suitcase/

And a lower price with 120 watts and including a charge (lesser known but getting good reviews):

https://www.eco-worthy.com/products/120 ... ag_organic

[MandysMom]

Good suggestions Beth. I'm not experienced with portable panels, but know many do use them.
It is possible to run AC, with a soft start and sufficient panels and batteries, there are even RVs being made to do that today, such as Winnegagos new Ekko. But we are talking several hundred watts solar (at least 400) plus big expensive Lithium battery systems. For us who don't want to put thousands and thousands into a system,, 100-200 watts in panels plus 2 batteries should take care of lights, tv, charging electronics, furnace (while running on gas but electric for its fan), and Cpap. Of course on a cloudy day, you may want to top off with generator or if it's a drive day, charge by the RVs engine.
Velda

[gypsyrose1126]

I have looked at the renogy which did get good reviews also. Checked out the link you sent Beth, on the eco-worthy, which sounds good and a great price. I have actually been looking on Amazon and reading the reviews. I have had good luck with Amazaon items so far! Thanks for the info