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Solar Panel Upgrade

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Brent Hohlweg:
Hi everyone,

Has anyone done a solar panel upgrade? Cannot seem to find such a project in past forums. If someone has done this what panels did you choose or any comments or thoughts before I begin this project on our 2004 Beaver Marquis...

1. I am thinking I might be able to just swap out the current panels (100watt x 2 = 200watts) and have nothing else to replace (not sure if there is anything to consider). The original solar panels are almost 10 years old now, and produce 3 - 7 amps when charging (seems newer panels produce ALOT more watts for the same size and would allow for extended dry camping).

2. Looking at something like these panels (250 watts x 2 = 500watts): http://www.homedepot.com/p/Grape-Solar-250-Watt-Monocrystalline-Solar-Panel-2-Pack-GS-S-250-Fab5x2/204507725?N=bm31

Open to all idea, and input on swapping put the panels. Looking forward to hear what others say.

Cheers Brent

LarryNCarolynShirk:
Brent,

I added a 205 watt to the existing 150 watt (2x75).  You should consider the maximum current the existing controller will handle.  I opted to install a new one that would handle 16 amps, more than the combination would produce.  The existing controller was rated a 7.5 amps, and my combination put out 14 amps.  The new controller has a readout, which I mounted in the dinning room.  I disconnected the wires going down, and increased the size also.  By running the wires down the refrigerator vent, I could place the controller on the wall next to the refrigerator, where I could easily watch it inside the coach.  The output will vary with weather and direction your coach faces, and if you tilt the panels while camped.

I wish you well with your project.

Larry

Sean Donohue:
Will you also be upgrading your batteries?

Steve Adams:
I had a 2 panel (300 watt) system installed in 2011. They used 6GA wire and installed a 45w controller. I plan to add at least 1 to 2 more panels in the next year or so. I did not upgrade the batteries at the time but I should have. Coach was plugged in for about 6 months while I recuperated from a motorcycle accident and cooked the lead acid batteries. Oops!

The work was done by AM Solar in Springfield Oregon. I highly recommend their service and very nice people to boot!

Steve

Joel Buchan:
AM Solar would be you best source for info and supplies. Very honest and straight forward. Be patient as they are busy.

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