Fitting solar from scratch

Discussion in 'Mech Tech' started by 1973daisey, Jun 22, 2017.

  1. Most compressor fridges average less than an amp per hour. Mine is 0.64ah average. They literally sip power.

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  2. I must say it was on over time in Belgium as it was roasting hot and was more than that but the hotter it is the more solar I'll get


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  3. Here seems as good a place as any to ask, how do you know how good a panel is going to be, what do I need to look for ... why are some more expensive than others when they seem to be the same (very similar)?
     
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  4. @theBusmonkey

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  5. theBusmonkey

    theBusmonkey Sponsor

    It's construction!
    Monocrystalline are more efficient than polycrystalline so less space is needed for the same output.
    The more expensive thin film panels (flexibles) have aluminium backing sheets (remove plastic anti-oxidation film before instal eh @Razzyh lol) for stability and often come with hi-tech self cleaning coatings such as ETFE which are alleged to be more UV stable than the cheaper polyester (PET) panels.
    Thin film panels are generally not as efficient as rigid frame panels but the latest cells are claimed to be 21% efficient.
    Air space below rigids is recommended for cooling but the more expensive flexibles are designed for direct mounting to surfaces such as building roofs so air circulation under the panels is not necessary.

    Ours are CIGS constuction, ETFE coated and aluminium backed. They cost 200 quid each from the US 4 years ago when flexibles weren't available to plebs in the UK.
    They output only 90w each and cover most of the Westy roof so it shows how much technology has improved in a short time.
    Our Dometic compressor chest fridge has now been running for 9 weeks continuous without hook-up and the battery is on float every evening, even in dull weather.
    The panels are controlled by a high efficiency Mppt charge controller and the system paid for itself in the first 15 days of campsite free camping.

    Hope that helps....
     
    Last edited: Jun 28, 2017
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  6. I like reading things like this after iv found the job but I'll let u all check it out at techenders,just need someone to drive my bus there as Im having ligament reconstruction in my ankle so will be in full cast to hip so no work for me for a while


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  7. theBusmonkey

    theBusmonkey Sponsor

    Nowt wrong with what you've done or spec'd as far as I can see bud!
    There's as many different ways to do this as there are people who do it haha.
    Anyway, it's all about keeping the Prosecco cold ain't it....:D
     
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  8. sANDYbAY

    sANDYbAY On benefits-won't sponsor!

    It's a shame there isn't an app for an iPhone otherwise love the remote access capability. I could sit here in the lounge and check what my panels are doing out on the driveway.
     
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  9. I did the same last night I could even tell when the fridge kicked in it's only cheap for an android tablet it will live in the bus on the side when camping I just hope they make an iPhone app soon


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  10. sANDYbAY

    sANDYbAY On benefits-won't sponsor!

    What's the name of the remote bit you've put on?
     
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  12. sANDYbAY

    sANDYbAY On benefits-won't sponsor!

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  13. Let me know if u get a response mate


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  14. sANDYbAY

    sANDYbAY On benefits-won't sponsor!

    :thumbsup: Will do.
     
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  15. sANDYbAY

    sANDYbAY On benefits-won't sponsor!

    That was quick, I've just received an email from Lee Man at Photonic Universe Ltd. He says "they are in the process of developing an app for iPhone, unfortunately it is not quite ready yet and he does not know specifically when it will be available"
    I've just replied thanking him and asking him to let me know when the app is ready.
     
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  16. Wow of I'm honest I bought Tuesday night and came Wednesday there feedback and service is good Bod


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  17. sANDYbAY

    sANDYbAY On benefits-won't sponsor!

    Yeah, on that basis we might not have to wait too long for the app to be finished.
     
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  18. nicktuft

    nicktuft Supporter

    You are a monkey....;)
     
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  19. nicktuft

    nicktuft Supporter

    No doubt be Linux open source...........
     
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  20. Last update until my holidays now been a full week and turned fridge off today after 1 solid week battery was 13.3v so this should last no problem on my holidays game changer having permanent leisure battery power !!


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