[Guide] Mobile Solar Panels ? . . . - How I Did It -

[Dellmassive]

Mobile Solar Panels ? . . . - How I Did It -

There is loads of background to this . . . . . but for now here is a vid for you all. =]

Just remember W = V*A and as a general rule a good 100W panel will give you up to 6A charge with good sun.

25w = 1.5A
50W = 3A
100w = 6A
200w = 12A
300w = 18A

So if you're looking to trickle charge your starter battery then a smaller panel would be sufficient.
But if you are running kit/load from your battery then its a good idea get a setup that can supply all the load, plus a bit more to keep the battery charged.
So if your loads are 50W or 3Ah, then i would get the next size kit up. . . . 100W/6Ah

In the Tent camping example below, i was drawing up to 100w/6Amps from the battery . . . . . so i went for the next kit up that could deliver 200w/12Ah. That way the battery had a good chance of recharging during the day while the loads were running.
What actually happens is that the loads draw power from the panels and any extra the panels are providing goes into the battery...... it all depends on the voltage levels as to where the current is drawn from..... Its the solar chargers job to detect the battery voltage level and then switch the charging output on and charge it up.

As a reference the static 12v battery charged would be 12.6v
under load the same charged battery would drop to 12.2v
The solar controller would try to charge (Bulk) up to 13.6V
the solar controller will the cycle "Bulk/Absorb/Float" as required.
That means that even when the battery is under load @ 12.2V the chargers output @ 13.6v has enough potential/pressure to push a charge into the battery......(we now need to look into the current flow and internal resistance of the system..... but thats not for today)

Roof panel is nice fit and forget solution that will help you out 24/7 and keep power in the batteries. (though fit vinyl wrap first and sikaflex to that) you can then always add extra mobile panels as/when you need them . . . ie camping.

******************
These mobile solutions are great, but they are all MOBILE solutions meaning that you have to set up and put away every time you want to use/move the van.

so its great to have a temp dash solar . . . . but have to put it away.
its great to have a temp roof solar . . . . but have to put it away.
its great to have a temp floor solar . . . . but have to put it away.

all this will cause wear and tear on the panels, kit and socketrs etc . . . . . . . possible failures in the future?

******************
So if its long term solar you need/want - get a panel fitted on the roof.
if its fit-and-forget you want - get a panel fitted on the roof.
if you want to add more power just get a mobile panel and add it to you roof setup . . .
if you dont want to stick or cut your roof - get a mobile panel.
if you cant get cables to a controller due to conversion - get a mobile panel.
if you just want solar for camping or the odd trip -get a mobile panel.

***********************
for any fitting method, 50w - 300w is best power range. (3A - 18A charge rate) with 200W up (12A) or above, being the best power user choice
100w - 200w (6A - 12A) being the best all rounder to run loads and keep a battery topped up
50w (3a) being best for small loads and a battery maintainer
below 50W is only battery maintainer.

*********************************
Here are some sources:
12V solar panels charging kits for caravans, motorhomes, boats, yachts, marine
Solar Power Panels For Sale - ACOPower.com
Foldable solar kit
Lensun 100W 12V ETFE Flexible Folding Solar Panel Kit, Including 10A Solar Controller, 5m cables, Portable Foldable for RVs, Campers, 4WD, Outdoor Off Grid Charge
Solar Panels - Renogy Solar
Amazon.co.uk: 100w Foldable Solar Charger
100w Foldable Solar Charger | eBay
12V solar panels charging kits for caravans, motorhomes, boats, yachts, marine
.

SHOW US YOUR PANEL - If you have a mobile solar setup, share it with us all below.

more info:
***************************************************************************************************************************

EDIT#:
I Just found a Nice 50W & 100W foldup Solar kit (with Mono SolarWorld Cells)
50W, 100w, 120W Kit . . . .

BlueFusion Portable Folding Solar Panel Charger 50W, 100W, 120W | eBay
Flex Power 50W, 100W, 120W. Peak Power (Pmax): 50W 100W 120W. Premium Solar Panels and Accessory for Leisure and Marine Applications. Lightweight and Portable. Panel Model: MD1199/50W MD1199/100W MD1199/120W.
rover.ebay.com

Premium Solar Panels and Accessory for Leisure and Marine Applications
BlueFusion Portable Folding Solar Panel Charger 50W, 100W, 120W

Off Grid Applications
Flex Power 50W, 100W, 120W

• Manufactured from High Efficiency Monocrystalline cells by SolarWorld GmbH, Germany.
• 25 Year Power Output Warranty***

Lightweight and Portable

• A quality product, designed to be portable and withstand outdoor environments.
• Charge mobile devices and batteries on the go.
• Off-grid charging of batteries for Caravans & RV, Camping and Hiking Equipment, Electric Outboard Trolling Motor, and Residential use.
  
  
  
  Inbuilt Charge Controller

Portable Folding Solar Panel with Integrated Charge Controller

• Integrated Charge Controller, concealed inside the panel.
• USB and Battery Charger outputs.
  • Charge Phones and Devices from USB socket, 5V, 1.2 Amp.
  • Charge 12V or 24V Battery. 2m Battery cable, fused and alligator clamps.
• Excellent low light capabilities.
• High conversion efficiency.

Electrical Characteristics

Electrical Specification:
Panel Model:	MD1199/50W	MD1199/100W	MD1199/120W
Peak Power (Pmax):	50W	100W	120W
USB Charger Socket (max):	5V, 1.2A
Battery voltage (V) *:	12V / 24V (Auto Detect)
Discharge Current Rated(Amp):	10A
Output power Tolerance:	±3%
Power Temperature Coefficient **:	-0.39%/°C
Operating Temperature(°C):	-35 to +55
Panel Output, Voc (V)/ Imp(A):	21.3V / 2.8A	21.3V / 5.62A	21.3V / 6.67A
* Compatible with Sealed, Gel, and Flooded Batteries. Battery connection required to operate controller. Battery not included. ** Based on standard testing conditions.

Panel Specification

Specification:
Cells:	Monocrystalline silicon solar cell manufactured by SolarWorld GmbH
Controller	Integrated Charge Controller concealed in zipped pouch.
Included Cable:	2m battery cable with integrated fuse and alligator clips
Folded Case dimension (cm), L x W x D	36 x 30 x 5 cm	36 x 30 x 7.5 cm	54 x 54 x 5 cm
Unfolded Panel dimension (cm), L X W	118 x 36 cm	118 x 72 cm	180 x 54 cm
Weight (kg)	2.4 kg	3.9 kg	5.2 kg
Note:	Specification subject to change, manufacturing tolerance and product improvement. Can withstand some drizzle, protect from substantial rain.

Linear Power Warranty***

• 25 Year, 80% power output warranty
• 1 Year limited product warranty

Precaution: Solar panels produce electricity and can lead to electrical shock and injury. All electrical connections should be carried out by a competent adult.

********************************
lets see the panels i have to test: . . . . .

20w kit wish cack - x2 (40w) - 20W Solar | Wish
50w accopower foldable kit - Portable Solar Panels, Portable Fridge, Solar Freezer, Solar Generator
100w renogy frame suitcase kit. - Solar Power Kits & Equipment for Sale | Renogy
100w renogy flexable suitcase kit. - Solar Power Kits & Equipment for Sale | Renogy
160w renogy flexable panel. - Solar Power Kits & Equipment for Sale | Renogy
150W Photonic univers panel semi-flex - x2 (300w) - 12V solar panels charging kits for caravans, motorhomes, boats, yachts, marine
110w Lensun flexable panel. - x2 (220w) - Flexible solar panel
160w Photonic univers semi-flex panel - 12V solar panels charging kits for caravans, motorhomes, boats, yachts, marine
200w Lenusun fold kit. - Flexible solar panel
50w BlueFusion foldable kit *NEW*
120W BlueFusion foldable kit *NEW*

so thats effectively @ 1500W total . . . NICE =]

****************************************
Basics:
*****************
its assumed that ALL panels are same make/model/size.
different makes/models/sizes will effect results

****************

Series combining of solar panels:
you add up all the VOC voltages on the string . . . But the ISC current will stay the same as ONE panel

******************
Parallel combining of solar panels:
You add up all the ISC currents, but the Voltage VOC stays the same as ONE panel.

*****************

******************
BUT LOOK WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU USE DIS-SIMILAR PANELS . . . (IE DOWN RATING)
EG:

*********************
you can also series/parallel panels together like this:

to achieve a certain VOC or ISC . . .

*********************
Here's a Victron slide:

**********************************************************************************************************************************

EDIT March 2021 : New DOKIO Kits available.

These versions available now in 2021 : Working out about £1 per Watt, so start off with a kit like this . . Then look at upgrading the solar controller at a later date,

for example to a Victron MPPT 57/15 (or other) : Victron Energy MPPT 75|15

80w - DOKIO 80W
100w - DOKIO 100W
150w - DOKIO 150W
200w - DOKIO 200w
300w - DOKIO 300w

***


DOKIO 100W 12V Foldable Solar Panel Kit Monocrystalline with Solar Controller USB Output For Caravan RV Boat Camper Any Other Irregular Surface



NOTE: ALL BATTERY CONECTIONS MUST BE FUSED !

- So you will need to fit a inline fuse to the RED battery clamp / feed -

EDIT 2021 : - The RED battery connection MUST be FUSED - (all battery connections must be fused.)

you will need to add an inline 5/10/20A fuse to the RED battery connection !

Also be warned that the PWM controller has battery voltage at the SAE PV connection !!


DOKIO 100W 12V Foldable Solar Panel Kit Monocrystalline with Solar Controller USB Output For Caravan RV Boat Camper Any Other Irregular Surface: Amazon.co.uk: Business, Industry & Science




+


+++++++++++

Roof wrap for solar panel- whole roof or panel coverage?​

if you are going to stick a panel to the roof then its a good idea to vinyl wrap that section of roof first . .

the stick, bond, velco et c etc to that . . .

that will save a you world of grief when you need to remove it !!!

Roof wrap for solar panel- whole roof or panel coverage?

Hi All, I'm going to fit a flexi solar panel in the next few weeks. For those in the know, will an oversize panel of wrap on the roof hold down a glued panel or would I need to have the whole roof wrapped?

www.t6forum.com

View attachment 128626


+++++++++++


.

 

[Nigel W]

Mobile Solar Panels ? . . . - How I Did It -

There is loads of background to this . . . . . but for now here is a vid for you all. =]


.

.

That was fantastic, thank you so much I learnt a lot and your hard work much appreciated

 

[True Romance]

Nice one @Dellmassive Been looking at mobile solar panels. Where did you get the acopower from?

 

[Dellmassive]

cant remember exactly, it was last year (Amazon or Ebay i think) . . . . (But the LENSUN kit looks equivalent - if not better quality (and they have a UK store))

but here are some sources:

Solar Power Panels For Sale - ACOPower.com

Foldable solar kit

Lensun 100W 12V ETFE Flexible Folding Solar Panel Kit, Including 10A Solar Controller, 5m cables, Portable Foldable for RVs, Campers, 4WD, Outdoor Off Grid Charge

Solar Panels - Renogy Solar

Amazon.co.uk: 100w Foldable Solar Charger

100w Foldable Solar Charger | eBay

 

[Base1388]

@Dellmassive
Nice work Sir

 

[Dellmassive]

Here we go..

Solar charging the Starter batter via a 50w small foldable panel...

Folds away into the door pocket when not in use.

A small simple easy solution.

It's a 50w mono foldable panel with a 10a PWM controller, hacked onto a 12v socket.

Pics...

 

[Dellmassive]

@Martinf

I believe you have a similar setup with kit from Photonic Universe? (12V solar panels charging kits for caravans, motorhomes, boats, yachts, marine)

fancy posting a couple of pics for people to see your setup. (mobile solar starter charging)

.

.

 

[Dellmassive]

Here we go..

Mobile Solar Camping,

Charging the 110ah Leisure battery via a 200w small foldable panel from Lensun.

I had the battery in a Black battery box with a lid that also housed the solar controller. I used MC4 extension leads so that the panel and leads were waterproof.

I swapped out the supplied Lensun PWM solar controller for the spare Victron MPPT 70/15 i had so i could use the Bluetooth app for monitoring.

Heres the 200w panel folded out . . .



Kinda looks good with the tent . . . . i didnt bother with the fold out legs. The panel got enough sun just lying flat.



Here are some BM2 readouts showing the fully charged battery during the day . . . .



And the up/down readings are when the fridges kicked in.



and then recharged again during daytime.

a

This readout was fromthe summer meet camping weekend.

running a Dometic compressor fridge, Campingaz cooler box, fairy light - all from a 300W small inverter.

and a whole heap of 12v chargers/ USB chargers.

.

 

[Martinf]

After finding that the vehicle battery can drain fast when on a campsite, I built my own solar charging system. As @Dellmassive suggests it’s built around a Photonic Universe 20W semi-flexible panel. This panel is rigid so can be stood up outside but doesn’t have a metal frame to damage the dash when placed in the van.

The kit shown in the post above didn’t give me what I wanted though so I obtained a different controller that has an LCD display. Connection to the panel is via a pair of MC4 cable connectors. All direct from Photonic Universe, and also available through Amazon.

Wiring is a CTEK extension cable sliced in two, the male end cut off and wired into the MC4 connectors (which have to be cut down slightly to make it easier to disconnect without a special tool). The female end then plugs into the CTEK Connect Cig Plug when used in the van, or the CTEK connector under the bonnet when used outside.

Advantage is my set up fits the CTEK connecting arrangement I already use both inside and outside the van. Disadvantage is it’s still a bit difficult to disconnect the MC4s (I could use different connectors) and perhaps the panel isn’t big enough! Last week I saw a max on the controller display of 1.1A when the panel was sited outside in the summer sun.

System photo and Photonic Universe links shown.



12V solar panels charging kits for caravans, motorhomes, boats, yachts, marine

12V solar panels charging kits for caravans, motorhomes, boats, yachts, marine

12V solar panels charging kits for caravans, motorhomes, boats, yachts, marine

 

[Dellmassive]

New link on ebay for folding panels.

I Just found a Nice 50W & 100W foldup Solar kit (with Mono SolarWorld Cells)

.

50W, 100w, 120W Kit . . . .





BlueFusion Portable Folding Solar Panel Charger 50W, 100W, 120W | eBay
Flex Power 50W, 100W, 120W. Peak Power (Pmax): 50W 100W 120W. Premium Solar Panels and Accessory for Leisure and Marine Applications. Lightweight and Portable. Panel Model: MD1199/50W MD1199/100W MD1199/120W.
rover.ebay.com

Premium Solar Panels and Accessory for Leisure and Marine Applications
BlueFusion Portable Folding Solar Panel Charger 50W, 100W, 120W

Off Grid Applications
Flex Power 50W, 100W, 120W

• Manufactured from High Efficiency Monocrystalline cells by SolarWorld GmbH, Germany.
• 25 Year Power Output Warranty***

Lightweight and Portable

• A quality product, designed to be portable and withstand outdoor environments.
• Charge mobile devices and batteries on the go.
• Off-grid charging of batteries for Caravans & RV, Camping and Hiking Equipment, Electric Outboard Trolling Motor, and Residential use.
  
  
  
  Inbuilt Charge Controller

Portable Folding Solar Panel with Integrated Charge Controller

• Integrated Charge Controller, concealed inside the panel.
• USB and Battery Charger outputs.
  • Charge Phones and Devices from USB socket, 5V, 1.2 Amp.
  • Charge 12V or 24V Battery. 2m Battery cable, fused and alligator clamps.
• Excellent low light capabilities.
• High conversion efficiency.

Electrical Characteristics

Electrical Specification:
Panel Model:	MD1199/50W	MD1199/100W	MD1199/120W
Peak Power (Pmax):	50W	100W	120W
USB Charger Socket (max):	5V, 1.2A
Battery voltage (V) *:	12V / 24V (Auto Detect)
Discharge Current Rated(Amp):	10A
Output power Tolerance:	±3%
Power Temperature Coefficient **:	-0.39%/°C
Operating Temperature(°C):	-35 to +55
Panel Output, Voc (V)/ Imp(A):	21.3V / 2.8A	21.3V / 5.62A	21.3V / 6.67A
* Compatible with Sealed, Gel, and Flooded Batteries. Battery connection required to operate controller. Battery not included. ** Based on standard testing conditions.

Panel Specification

Specification:
Cells:	Monocrystalline silicon solar cell manufactured by SolarWorld GmbH
Controller	Integrated Charge Controller concealed in zipped pouch.
Included Cable:	2m battery cable with integrated fuse and alligator clips
Folded Case dimension (cm), L x W x D	36 x 30 x 5 cm	36 x 30 x 7.5 cm	54 x 54 x 5 cm
Unfolded Panel dimension (cm), L X W	118 x 36 cm	118 x 72 cm	180 x 54 cm
Weight (kg)	2.4 kg	3.9 kg	5.2 kg
Note:	Specification subject to change, manufacturing tolerance and product improvement. Can withstand some drizzle, protect from substantial rain.

Linear Power Warranty***

• 25 Year, 80% power output warranty
• 1 Year limited product warranty

Precaution: Solar panels produce electricity and can lead to electrical shock and injury. All electrical connections should be carried out by a competent adult.





+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

edit:

after T6F Summer camp 2020,

I've decided to add DOKIO kit to the recommended list, (as a cheap and cheerful kit) (Black Betty had a temp 200w on the poptop)

They come as basic kits with PWM controllers that has a small LCD screen, they are foldable kits with corner loops making it easy to deploy. They have crock clips for the battery (that can be cut off hand hard wired and XC or SAE inter conects . . . Rich was very happy with the performance and it appeard to be good value for money.

EDIT 2021 : - The RED battery connection MUST be FUSED - (all battery connections must be fused.)

you will need to add an inline 5/10/20A fuse to the RED battery connection !

Also be warned that the PWM controller has battery voltage at the SAE PV connection !!

////////////////////////////

Heres a 150w example

IPL Hair Removal System Blusmart Hair Removal Device for Women Men Permanent Pai for sale online | eBay

Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for IPL Hair Removal System Blusmart Hair Removal Device for Women Men Permanent Pai at the best online prices at eBay! Free delivery for many products!

rover.ebay.com

/////////////////////////////

Heres a 100w example

Dokio 100W 12V Solar Panel Kit FOLDABLE LIGHTWEIGHT Monocrystalline with SOLAR 2 | eBay

Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Dokio 100W 12V Solar Panel Kit FOLDABLE LIGHTWEIGHT Monocrystalline with SOLAR 2 at the best online prices at eBay! Free delivery for many products!

rover.ebay.com

/////////////////////////////

heres a 200W example

DOKIO150W Solar Panel 12V Monocrystalline foldable with Inverter Charge | eBay

PUT A LOT OF POWER INTO YOUR BATTERY BANK-- powerful high conversion efficiency with high efficiency monocrystalline solar cell, you will get greater power efficiency even though the panel is smaller than a traditional model.

rover.ebay.com

///////////////////////////////////////////


heres a 300W kit example . . .

DOKIO 300w Solar Panel Kit Mono Portable Flexible Folding include Solar Charge | eBay

Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for DOKIO 300w Solar Panel Kit Mono Portable Flexible Folding include Solar Charge at the best online prices at eBay! Free delivery for many products!

rover.ebay.com

...

 

[Pete C]

It’s interesting how the solar panels are getting more compact.

We have a system on our T6 where all the electrics are in place to plug in a 100W (or more) solar panel, but we only take it with us if we think we need it. The 100W panel is a suitcase folding style, which is fairly bulky, but it stands alongside the van, or lies flat on the roof. It works really well though.

These new folding panels look a lot lighter and more compact. I suspect we will move to one of these in due course, as our flexible system works well for us.

Pete

 

[Dellmassive]

Camping weekend - Solar Panel Fail !!!!

we had a nice 3/4day weekend camping booked in up in Cambridge, No EHU so this time i took a 100Ah Xtreme AGM, 100W Renogy foldable panel & renogy PWM charge controller.

This was the setup . . .






The weekend started on thursday with topup of the battery the day before . . . . . up to 12.8v so all good . . . . (charged up via the solar 300w/MPPT system on the shed = free power)



Arriving onsite and setting up camp we had some nice sun on the friday so the panel was connected up with the fridges and all was great . . . . . a charging voltage of 13.6v while running the fridges and loads . . . .



The day time we had 4.1A coming from the panel into the system . . . . for a while when the sun was out . . . .




By the following morning, things were not looking so good . . . . the battery was down to 11.8v.

There were some clouds in the sky and we started to see a charge about 10am, but with overcast conditions it was not favorable . . . . by 6pm we had lost all ability to charge the battery and it was at 12.0v and dropping due to the fridges and USB chargers putting a load on the system!




.........



By the following morning it was game over . . . . . by 6am the battery was down below 11v and the alarms were going and the inverter had shut down....

At 10am the overcast sky was not enough to power the loads or charge the battery . . . . . at this point it was game-over to time to quit.

well not so fast sonny . . . . . . . .

The T6 come to the rescue, i connected to flat battery up to the vans leisure battery in parallel with a set of beefy jump leads and started the engine . . . . . we have a Redarc BCDC1240lv DC-DC charger capable of delivering up to 40Amps . . . . . which it did.

We connected the battery like this . . . and you can see the Redarc kicked into action giving us 40amps of much needed charging power..




.

you can see here that most of the 40A was being drawn by the AGM Extreme battery, we used a clamp meter to monitor the power levels and keep an eye on the cable temperatures . . . . the sustained 40A charge started to warm up the Redarc power in/out cables, but the jump leads stayed cool....

Clamp Meters

Any recommendations for clamp meters? They have been mentioned in a few threads but I can’t find suggested products. Suitable for small mA measurements with dc in the van and elsewhere and also if possible up to mains ac. I’m not sure how much I need to spend for a tolerably decent one with the...

www.t6forum.com

this was the Victron BMV readout showing the Redarcs charge . . . . . the dip is due to the Redarc cycling the charge every 40seconds to monitor the output/load state . . .




The outcome was that after 25mins of the van running the Redarc 40A charge had started to drop to about 27A and was disconnected..

You can see the charge spikes in the chart above between 1600-1700hrs . . . .
That short charge gave us enough power to bring the battery up over 12.1v and keep the fridges going for another night . . . .


but as you can see below . . . . a quick 30min charge does not charge a battery properly . . . . by 10am we was back down to 11.5v but it was enough to keep the kit running another night....



Conclusion:

So whats to be learned by this . . . . . . ?

well first off, dont rely 100% on solar and always have a backup plan. (genny, DC-DC, EHU, go home)

also as we are entering Autumn season the solar energy available is less and less, so a larger or more panels are required to give you the same power as in summer time . . . remember the 6A/100w i was getting a month ago? . . . . well now its down to 4amp/100W.

Also note that this time i left the Victron MPPT at home and went for the stock PWM solar controller . . . . this also made a large difference to the ability of the system to eek out all the power fom the panel from non perfect conditions . . . . id say i may have been down 20-30% on efficiency.

Also panel size . . . . . before i was taking 200W worth of, this time only 100w..

Also a backup battery, or two battery's in parallel . . . before i had a second spare battery to swap out . . . . this time i only had one.




what will i do next time . . . . . . . . ?

I will take at least 200W worth of panels (if using 2x100W then connect in series)(or more, maybe 300w or 400W if low solar levels and connect up in series (upto max of your MPPT))

i will stick with a MPPT controller . . . (unless its perfect mid-summer sun all day)

i will take a second battery (as a spare or run both in parallel)

i will make sure i have jump leads and the vans DC-DC charger for a backup.

I may look at Lithium Lifepo4 as an AGM replacement (SLA only has 50% DOD, so one Lifepo4 is equivalent to 2xSLA)

I could take a genny (but it takes up space and you need another source of fuel)

I could go EHU (But wheres the fun in that (we like being tucked out the way of everybody else))

I could reduce my loads (but again, we take stuff that needs power because we want too/need it, every year the power demands grow so of us its a case of ensuring we have sufficient power to run it all)

Let me know what you think of the situation . . . . and happy camping Ya-All

#OfGridIsTheWayToBe
#KeepCalm-KeepBeerCold
#TellTheMissus-NoStraightners-Or-2000WHairdryer

>

 

[Lukavell]

@Dellmassive, first thanks for taking the time to explain all that you do for the forum, your threads have come in handy a few times and I'm sure that they will continue to do so. I'm particularly following all the Solar power charging stuff at the moment so your last post is timely!

After three nights away in August I realised that we need a leisure battery; I was getting worried that I wouldn't be able to start the van come time to leave, as a result I switched the engine on for half an hour every day. The worst bit was the cool box not staying cool and having to cook all the meat on the second night.

To start with I will make a mobile solar charging system, it seems a bit simpler to do and will build my confidence for future projects like converting it to a split charging system. Our load is quite low, Ideally I'd like:

2 x 12v cigarette lighter sockets to power:

1 x 40 l cool box at 3.5 A
1 x Spare
​

3 x USB charging point at 2 A each to charge devices.

3.5 + (2*3) = 9.5 A

Sooo....

9.5A x 12v = 114W

We also live in Italy for now so luckily the sun is usually shining! That said, we will be moving back to the UK next year so as said I'd really like to be able to turn it into a split charging system once I've got my head around how to do that.

My shopping list is therefore:

1 x suitcase style 200W solar panel
1 x deep charge battery - might look at Lithium Lifepo4
1 x solar controller - does this need to be DC - DC?
2 x 12 v sockets
3 x USB socket

Does that look about right?

I plan on putting everything except the panel into a box of some sort ( still TBD) and fitting the sockets to the side so it looks neat and will store away well.

 

[Dellmassive]

@Dellmassive, first thanks for taking the time to explain all that you do for the forum, your threads have come in handy a few times and I'm sure that they will continue to do so. I'm particularly following all the Solar power charging stuff at the moment so your last post is timely!

After three nights away in August I realised that we need a leisure battery; I was getting worried that I wouldn't be able to start the van come time to leave, as a result I switched the engine on for half an hour every day. The worst bit was the cool box not staying cool and having to cook all the meat on the second night.

To start with I will make a mobile solar charging system, it seems a bit simpler to do and will build my confidence for future projects like converting it to a split charging system. Our load is quite low, Ideally I'd like:

2 x 12v cigarette lighter sockets to power:

1 x 40 l cool box at 3.5 A
1 x Spare
​

3 x USB charging point at 2 A each to charge devices.

3.5 + (2*3) = 9.5 A

Sooo....

9.5A x 12v = 114W

We also live in Italy for now so luckily the sun is usually shining! That said, we will be moving back to the UK next year so as said I'd really like to be able to turn it into a split charging system once I've got my head around how to do that.

My shopping list is therefore:

1 x suitcase style 200W solar panel
1 x deep charge battery - might look at Lithium Lifepo4
1 x solar controller - does this need to be DC - DC?
2 x 12 v sockets
3 x USB socket

Does that look about right?

I plan on putting everything except the panel into a box of some sort ( still TBD) and fitting the sockets to the side so it looks neat and will store away well.

yes @Lukavell that looks about right,

1 x solar controller - does this need to be DC - DC? - make sure you get a MPPT solar controller (Victron are very good, not the max VOC for the controller and panel dont exceed each other)

you dont mention any LED lights/lighting?

make sure you get a large enough battery if its SLA look at getting a AGM, if you can afford look at Lifepo4. - Lithium Lifepo4 12v Batteries - - - Time For An Upgrade ? - - -

If you want the engine to help charge the Leisure battery look at getting a DC-DC charger. - Dc-dc Charger (for Leisure Battery) -- How I Done It --

what ever you decide make sure you have enough charging capacity to charge the battery while drawing your expected loads . . . .

eg: see below, which relates to the DC-DC thread . . . But the solar sizing is the same, you need enough solar power/current from the MPPT solar controller to run ALL your loads AS WELL AS charging your battery - - - - or you will end up in the situation that the solar power will run the loads, but not fully charge your battery, so over a day or 2 you will end up with a flat battery.

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What size DC-DC charger do i need?

This is a good question, and the answer is very similar to the "what size solar do i need?" . . . Its not just about charging your battery . . . . its also about charging you battery WHILE running your loads. So you need to account for your worst case scenario - which will be a low AUX battery while remote camping while running all your loads - at nighttime - in the rain - and its snowing etc etc ..

Joking aside i believe that the sizing of a DC-DC should account for the above, whats the point in getting in that situation, then having to switch off all your lights and fridges etc . . . just to give the battery as much charge as possible while running the engine for 20mins at nights . . . . . nope thats not right.

So take your AUX battery size say 100Ah and go with 10-20% which is a recomended charge rate for SLA/AGM etc - thats 10-20A charger .

Then measure all your loads, either with a current clamp meter, or add up all your Watts or any other way get an idea of what your worst case scenario is . . . an example may be 6amp, 10amp, 15amp, 20amp . . . whatever. Lets take 10Amp for thius example.

Add the Battery charge rate of 10-20A plus the Loads draw rate of 10A give you a figure of 20-30A.

Now you know that a 30A DC-DC is needed to fully charge your AUX battery while drawing a Load.

If you are a POWER USER like me then the sky is the limit . . . . i have 1000-1500W inverters that will draw 100A easy frona SLA/AGM battery which causes large volt SAG and depleates the battery rapidly . . . im my case i use DC-DC to offset the current draw from the battery . . . . So ill draw say 40A from the DC-DC charger, then the rest from the Aux battery. - doubling up DC-DC chargers in parrallel is also posdsible so 2x 40A DC-DC chargers will give 80A then only 20A will be drawn from the battery. (remember the cables on the system will need to handle the 80A current)

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Battery Chargers - How I Did It -
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Which Jump Starter?
.
Lithium Lifepo4 12v Batteries - - - Time For An Upgrade ? - - -

What Solar Panel & Controller ?

Solar Panel Cutting Hole In Roof !!!

300w Solar Club -- How I Done It --
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Dc-dc Charger (for Leisure Battery) -- How I Done It --
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Mobile Solar Panels ? . . . - How I Did It -
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Battery Monitoring -- How I Done It --

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heres an example of a solar battery box . . . .

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[Dellmassive]

LENSUN release 200w & 360W foldable solar blankets !!

Lensun 200W 12V Portable Solar Blanket Panel Kit with Waterproof MPPT Solar Controller, 5m cables lighweight perfect for any camping lifestyle


Lensun 360W 12V Portable Solar Blanket Panel Kit with 30A MPPT Solar Controller perfect for keeping your 12V dual battery system charged


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Lensun 200W 12V Lightweight Portable Solar Blanket solar panel full kit,
Come 15A Waterproof MPPT solar controller, 5m cables ready to charge battery and solar generator

Note: the original solar controller is charge for lead-acid batteries, if you want to charge lithium battery, pls contact us, we will change the solar controller for you to charge lithium battery.

The Lensun 12V 200W Portable Solar Blanket is the apex in portable, convenient and lightweight solar power to suit any camping lifestyle. Designed for portability and strength, Lensun solar blankets are constructed with a solid copper backing and thick connectors for higher efficiency.

Using high quality A-Grade Monocrystalline Solar Cells, this solar blanket is perfect for keeping your 12V dual battery system charged, powering fridges, LED camp lights and other campsite gadgets. The solar blanket is constructed of high-quality canvas, allowing it to be flexible, lightweight and pack down to 1/8th of its open size and weigh under 6.5kg!

Made of Newest Hight Efficiency 21.5% Monocrystalline PERC Solar Cells

Feature of PERC Monocrystalline solar cells
A High performance solar cells is the decisive factor for top quality solar modules.

* First-rate efficiencies and excellent output consistency.
* The uniform color of the cell surface looks more beautiful.
* PERC is a good improvement on the conventional standard solar cell, density of energy increases and also ROI.
* Advanced diffusion technique ensuring the homogeneity of energy conversion efficiency of the cell.
* PERC solar cells component efficiency is as high as 21.5-22%, generating more power per unit area. The conventional standard solar cell is only 18-19%.

The 5BB(5-busbar) technology that optimizes electricity collection and ensures optimal electricity yield from your system. And 5BB technology batter performance against crack than the other 2BB, 3BB or 4BB technology.

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[Pete C]

The speed with which solar technology is changing is scary (and for the good). Our suitcase style 100W folding solar panel is looking old hat now.

Pete

 

[Dellmassive]

Lensun 30W on VW Tiguan - "battery maintainer"

(not sure on that blocking diode location as i think the panel may have its own one in the panel junction box, if he felt he needed it it might have been better between the solar controller and 12v socket - to stop any reverse flow)

Review Lensun 30W Black Flexible Solar Panel as a Solar Battery Maintainer Trickle Charger for VW Tiguan car – Lensun Solar Panel – Lensunsolar





June 26th on Facebook:

“Hi Abby, pics as promised from 30w ETFE solar panel install into a VW Tiguan, installed on the rear parcel shelf – helps maintain car battery from parasitic battery drain when not used for a while. Car uses stop/start and electronic parking brake systems which for smooth running require high voltage levels from the installed AGM battery. Fully charged AGM battery level is 12.6v, current solar maintained battery level is 12.4v not bad for a 3yr old car.

Previously a smaller 10w solar battery maintainer was used, but due to internal installation system loss through car windows etc reduced the smaller panel output as a higher percentage of overall capability i.e. bigger starting panel (yours) loss is less of an effect on delivered voltage/power via solar controller to internal battery

Diode protection protects any back current leaking from battery to solar panel in case solar controller breaks/becomes faulty. ”


Lensun® 30W 12V Back Flexible Solar Panel Kit with 10A Regulator,5m Cables, Ready to charge for Boat RV Cabin Tent Truck


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.

 

[tifflepops]

Hi guys,

I have a split charge system if I get one off the flexible case jobbies can i just plug it into one of the 12v sockets off the leisure batery and it'll top the battery up or am i looking at this way too simply?

Waeco CR60 & Led lights.

 

[Pete C]

Hi guys,

I have a split charge system if I get one off the flexible case jobbies can i just plug it into one of the 12v sockets off the leisure batery and it'll top the battery up or am i looking at this way too simply?

Waeco CR60 & Led lights.

You need some sort of regulator between your solar panel and the leisure battery. What you describe might work with a regulator, but I don’t like putting more than 10A through 12v cigar lighter socket, so you would be limited to 120W of solar power (and that’s pushing it).

Pete

 

[tifflepops]

would this be OK? wiring some sort of plug inside the cupboard my batter is on the floor inside the cupboard. Then plug the solar in when parked up.

100 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Foldable Portable Solar Suitcase with Voyager Waterproof Charge Controller(New Version)