TechDesigner
New Member
- Joined
- Oct 15, 2021
- Messages
- 2
I am new and want to learn from others before I make too many mistakes.
I have a small camper and wanted to build a portable system that can be stored inside and set up on arrival. I bought 5 100W panels and was going to use a couple in the camper when boondocking (a couple of times a year) and then use all five on the house when not camping. I bought a cheap PWM (under $15) and a 12V marine battery.
I can purchase a different charge controller and batteries or use the ones I have. I think it makes more sense to make the house system off-grid and just plug a limited amount of items into it. I will build a mount that sits on the ground outside the camper and on the house porch roof. I may need less power in the camper. I can move all or part of the system(s) from the house to the camper. Only one location has to function at a time. I don't mind moving everything since it happens rarely. I don't expect this will replace my grid power since there is not adequate sun in this region near lake Erie.
I've spent $500 so far. I don't want to spend much but don't want to be penny-wise and pound-foolish. It would be great if I can purchase smaller/cheaper and grow the system great but I think when you upgrade solar you can't just add on, you have to toss the old. I want to avoid the "if I knew then what I know now" outcome. I wanted to find out what solutions/sizes/brands you experienced solar DIYers suggest before I buy. Let me know if you need more info or have questions. Thanks for your help!
I have a small camper and wanted to build a portable system that can be stored inside and set up on arrival. I bought 5 100W panels and was going to use a couple in the camper when boondocking (a couple of times a year) and then use all five on the house when not camping. I bought a cheap PWM (under $15) and a 12V marine battery.
I can purchase a different charge controller and batteries or use the ones I have. I think it makes more sense to make the house system off-grid and just plug a limited amount of items into it. I will build a mount that sits on the ground outside the camper and on the house porch roof. I may need less power in the camper. I can move all or part of the system(s) from the house to the camper. Only one location has to function at a time. I don't mind moving everything since it happens rarely. I don't expect this will replace my grid power since there is not adequate sun in this region near lake Erie.
I've spent $500 so far. I don't want to spend much but don't want to be penny-wise and pound-foolish. It would be great if I can purchase smaller/cheaper and grow the system great but I think when you upgrade solar you can't just add on, you have to toss the old. I want to avoid the "if I knew then what I know now" outcome. I wanted to find out what solutions/sizes/brands you experienced solar DIYers suggest before I buy. Let me know if you need more info or have questions. Thanks for your help!