Recent content by azozrider

Thanks for posting. I was just noticing these wild claims on Amazon, as I am about to power a small work/storage shed. Already have a huge system on one of my RV trailers. There are some on Amazon claiming to be Renogy panels, and claiming 400 and 600w PER panel, on that same 46 x 21 dimension...

You want max power per square inch. When you spread the weight across all the roof structure points, weight really isn't an issue. I have 12 -250W Sunpower panels on an elevated (aluminum) structure I built, with aluminum tilt frames, on the 24' of roof I have on my GD 24MPR Toy Hauler. No...

Yeah I'm actually surprised no manufacturer has tried moving to the mini splits. That alone would be a game-changer.

The challenge then (split systems) becomes where to mount the units. There often is not wall space for the units inside, and nowhere for the compressors, particularly in 5th wheel trailers. I've seen people sacrifice nearly all their storage in coaches, but then you challenge your ability to...

Yeah, true power independence is not happening in these small arrays. On my first trailer, Solar IS my primary, but must be supplemented with a generator at times to bring charge state up. I have yet to see a system as large as mine, and it still needs help. 3kw of Sun Power 250w panels at 22%...

I dont spend as much time on highway lately, but when I did, towing with a 6.7 powerstroke, I saw no real measurable difference in mpg. Towing at 85mph across Dakotas with wind would have me slow 5-10mph once I had the panels elevated. For me, its not totally about $ saved but also independence...

With that kind of specialised application, it makes sense. What about glass panels mounted to roof and a short flashing down sides for aesthetics? Flexible panels are just so non energy dense. I get the looks thing… my trailer stands out with its giant superstructure on the roof, but I dont...

The flexible panels though, especially in a power per square inch factoring (critical on rv roof), are radically inferior. A 72x40 SunPower Maxeon 5 is 425w. And at an efficiency of 22.8%. Takes a lot of flexible panels, eating a lot of real estate, to do that. That roof in pic...10 Maxeon...

When they are secured well, its not a concern. Mine are elevated around a foot, allowing a lot of air beneath them.

Yes I have lost a couple thumbscrews & nuts, so check and tighten them much mote often. I had a panel flip over and bend a tilt frame on a trip with high wind on the road.

Yeah I have tilt frames now, and have thought if I ever get time, I’ll design something with small servos to tilt them. The trick is ensuring they are locked down tight in any position due to winds from either travel or Stationary.

Yeah it can be rough, but being a perpetual nomad and owning a business in Sedona now, I can't always ensure not being in the heat... which really doesn't bother me like it does many. Rain is my kryptonite! Costa Rica generally gets my nod as the place I like best, even in some of the rain...

I pay a good friend to do the TIG welding, as I’m just a hobby guy with MIG, stick, etc. And… I’m a global nomad. No more house, shop, etc so I have to do all this on the road… driveways, parking lots, etc.

Yeah, panels not going anywhere! Lol. Wicked storm tested that again last night. The next project is another rig, starting from scratch, so I have nothing to start with. Because an RV is all about max production per square inch, not having option to “simply add more panels”, the bifacials are...

Yes on RV, but like my current one, they will be elevated about 1’