New solar system for Aquan.

> 10 years ago
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Offthegrid
Offthegrid
WA
127 posts
WA, 127 posts
10 Jan 2014 5:14pm
G'day all

Anyone had any experience with the solar power products from the latest witworths cataloge?

Looking at about a 120W system for running a 55 waeco and tv as the main draws.

Thanks.
Dezman
Dezman
NSW
818 posts
NSW, 818 posts
10 Jan 2014 9:26pm
Iv found about 200 watts does the job for fridge and TV, with a good reserve in the batts.
Good batteries are important and I'm a fan of gel and agm, however don't buy cheap ones.
Seamonkey_H2024
Seamonkey_H2024
VIC
344 posts
VIC, 344 posts
11 Jan 2014 11:15am
There is a picture on my profile showing two 12V 60W panels (120W total) mounted on my clansmans back rail. As you can see they are quite big, so that is an element to consider. On a typical sunny day (not overly hot) I can get 7-8amps. Remember in DC, P(W) = I(amps) * V(volts) , so 120W/12 =10amp rating, but that's a rating in best conditions.
Also the Chinese make some really good/cheap regulators that have lcd displays that tell you production stats, batt volts etc. I will try and find out what model I have.

I have not used the whitworth panels, I personally would buy panels from a solar shop or ebay, known brands.

My answer didn't really cover your question, but just my thoughts out loud.
Offthegrid
Offthegrid
WA
127 posts
WA, 127 posts
12 Jan 2014 8:37am
Thanks guys
Seamonkey_H2024
Seamonkey_H2024
VIC
344 posts
VIC, 344 posts
12 Jan 2014 6:15pm
I think mine is like...

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/SOLAR-PANEL-REGULATOR-CHARGE-CONTROLLER-20-AMP-12-VOLT-BATTERY-BOAT-SBC7120-/290923003130?pt=Caravan_Parts_Accessories&hash=item43bc5cbcfa&_uhb=1

or you could go the el'cheapo, I'm tempted to buy one of these as an emergency spare...

www.ebay.com.au/itm/10A-Solar-Panel-Charger-Controller-Regulator-10A-12V-24V-Auto-CMP12-100W-Panel-/151201503712?pt=AU_Solar&hash=item23344fd9e0&_uhb=1

I haven't done it yet, but I'm thinking of mounting the reg in a tupperware box to waterproof it. The ones with the rubber seal and clips. As I doubt these things are very rust proof.
nswsailor
nswsailor
NSW
1458 posts
NSW, 1458 posts
12 Jan 2014 7:40pm
I only needed an 80w'er but found after a lot of emails to the supplier that the 100w'er actually weighed less.

So I purchased the 100w panel, real happy with it

Pays to check the weight of the panels LESS the packaging!
keensailor
keensailor
NSW
702 posts
NSW, 702 posts
13 Jan 2014 8:37am
AquanMarine said..

G'day all

Anyone had any experience with the solar power products from the latest witworths cataloge?

Looking at about a 120W system for running a 55 waeco and tv as the main draws.

Thanks.



I suggest as well as your panel and solar controller buy one of these. It is soo valuable in monitoring battery use and charge;

http://www.victronenergy.com/battery-monitors/bmv-600s%20and%20bmv-602s/
Offthegrid
Offthegrid
WA
127 posts
WA, 127 posts
8 Feb 2014 1:17pm
Thanks, do you recall the price?
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