solar panel efficiency decreases when it gets hotter, so an elevated panel that can flow air under it will be the most efficient
(also, in regards to cost per watt that is almost 5 times more expensive than a regular solar panel!)
Can you wire solar panel without drilling?
- Thread starter kaitlyn2004
- Start date
solar panel efficiency decreases when it gets hotter, so an elevated panel that can flow air under it will be the most efficient
(also, in regards to cost per watt that is almost 5 times more expensive than a regular solar panel!)
ttime4four
New member
For the use case the OP describes, I would recommend the following:
(1) Mount on the roof rack (leave it there for the trip), wire down the A-Pillar windshield channel to the charger in the engine bay [single or dual battery setup]
(2) Transport panels inside the car (set up on ground / lay on windshield / lean up on tire / etc - flexible placement when on the campsite), wire-up a plug quick connect up front somewhere, charger in the engine bay [single or dual battery setup]
(3) Go with a Goal Zero type system - separate battery and panels - deploy flexibly.
The only thing I see that's needed to run into the cabin would be power - e.g. dedicated higher load always-on 12V for a fridge.
I'm currently using the #2 approach.
(1) Mount on the roof rack (leave it there for the trip), wire down the A-Pillar windshield channel to the charger in the engine bay [single or dual battery setup]
(2) Transport panels inside the car (set up on ground / lay on windshield / lean up on tire / etc - flexible placement when on the campsite), wire-up a plug quick connect up front somewhere, charger in the engine bay [single or dual battery setup]
(3) Go with a Goal Zero type system - separate battery and panels - deploy flexibly.
The only thing I see that's needed to run into the cabin would be power - e.g. dedicated higher load always-on 12V for a fridge.
I'm currently using the #2 approach.
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Runamok
New member
How can I remove the fin?
ElectroBoy
Banned
Portable battery, portable solar panel. I’ve been considering getting this Jackery Solar Saga 100W panel. I already have the 500W Power Station battery.
100W Solar Panel, Foldable with USB & DC ports
– Jackery
100W Solar Panel, Foldable with USB & DC ports
– Jackery
Attachments
ElectroBoy
Banned
True. But I’m willing to pay more for convenience, and foldable for easy stowing in the cargo area. A lot of regular solar panels are large and have sharp corners.
stepHuntMario
New member
Wiring up solar panels without drilling sounds like a smart move, especially if you're trying to keep things neat and avoid messing with your ride. I've heard folks use strong adhesive tapes or magnetic mounts to stick those panels on their vehicles. It's a good idea to check the adhesive's strength and make sure it can handle highway speeds and all kinds of weather. Some even go for portable panels that they can set up when they need 'em, then pack away for the road. Just be sure to secure everything tight—last thing you want is your solar setup flying off on the freeway! Overall, if you're into DIY and looking to save on gas or go off-grid, giving it a shot could be worth it.
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