Suitcase Solar Panel

 
 
 
 
 
 
DBH
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Suitcase Solar Panel

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Posted: 27.07.2020  ·  #1
Considering getting a suitcase type solar panel for use during the summer months to top up the leisure batteries and wondered if anyone could recommend a make?

Looking for around 100 Watt and would probably use it at the touring in the trees sites where I am not allowed to use the RV generator.

My previous Swift had a 100 watt on the roof which was fine in summer but useless in winter.

The other alternative is to go for 300 Watt fixed panels on the roof, but maybe in the future.

Thank you in advance.


tony glenn
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Re: Suitcase Solar Panel

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Posted: 28.07.2020  ·  #2
I'll be upgrading from my suitcase to a larger roof panel in the next few weeks, and will then be selling my 80 watt Dokio suitcase with charge controller. Great piece of kit, very efficient. Let me know if you might be interested. Cheers.


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Re: Suitcase Solar Panel

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Posted: 28.07.2020  ·  #3
Thanks Tony.

Did it do the job okay?


tony glenn
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Re: Suitcase Solar Panel

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Posted: 28.07.2020  ·  #4
Very much so. It was our first serious test of the set-up, Ardmore the week before last. Positioned outside around ten each morning, moved occasionally to get the best of the sun, then stored each evening. The weather was patchy, charging peaked around 14.1, and (like right now in Sneem) usually settled around 13.5.
We were six full days and nights off-grid, no engine at any time. The only concessions we made were to be sparing with the lights, and only watch the Cello camper tv for three hours or so each night.
The lowest overnight voltage all week showing on the charge controller readout was 12.5, which is 90% charge apparently.
Well pleased with the whole set-up, the only reason for the upgrade is so that we won't have to store it each time if we go off on a sunny for a few hours in an unknown area. The suitcase comes with the charge controller (with two USB sockets for phones etc) plus a strong black canvas carry bag. Let me know if you'd like some pics, cheers for now, Tony


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Re: Suitcase Solar Panel

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Posted: 10.08.2020  ·  #5
Hi Tony , do you still have that suitcase solar panel ? If so how much etc ?


tony glenn
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Re: Suitcase Solar Panel

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Posted: 10.08.2020  ·  #6
Hi, I'm away this week (with the panel!) and I have a buyer lined up on my return. It should be a done deal, if it doesn't happen I could let you know over the weekend? Cheers Tony


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Re: Suitcase Solar Panel

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Posted: 03.09.2020  ·  #7
tony, who did solar installation for you? Would you recommend them?
I'm looking to get roof panel for my Hymer B544 '98 and would do with a good installer who does it well.


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Re: Suitcase Solar Panel

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Posted: 03.09.2020  ·  #8
Quote by bob-the-pirate

tony, who did solar installation for you? Would you recommend them?
I'm looking to get roof panel for my Hymer B544 '98 and would do with a good installer who does it well.


Alot cheaper to fit it yourself it's not that difficult , just make sure you buy the right mppt controller not a cheap one

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Re: Suitcase Solar Panel

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Posted: 03.09.2020  ·  #9
Fitted it myself Bob, as mentioned it's easy enough. A bit of research, the right adhesive/sealant and a dry day.
Oh, and a ladder.
I must admit actually starting to drill the cable hole through the roof was 'a moment'.
My wife was very impressed with my handiwork, and was nice to me for several hours afterwards, which made the whole project worthwhile.

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Re: Suitcase Solar Panel

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Posted: 03.09.2020  ·  #10
Quote by tony glenn


I must admit actually starting to drill the cable hole through the roof was 'a moment'.



Gets the adrenaline pumping alright 😁😁

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Re: Suitcase Solar Panel

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Posted: 04.09.2020  ·  #11
Quote by tony glenn

the right adhesive/sealant and a dry day.


What sealant did you use, tony? I'm reading Sikaflex is a good one.


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Re: Suitcase Solar Panel

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Posted: 04.09.2020  ·  #12
Sikaflex is great, I prefer Soudal RV61 though. Its so much easier worked with.

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Re: Suitcase Solar Panel

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Posted: 04.09.2020  ·  #13
Or Tec 7 is widely available


tony glenn
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Re: Suitcase Solar Panel

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Posted: 04.09.2020  ·  #14
Quote by Ally

Sikaflex is great, I prefer Soudal RV61 though. Its so much easier worked with.


Agreed Ally. I used Soudal, easy to use and working well so far.

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