Solar panels

[rob71]

I am planning on installing a couple of solar panels 100 watt each.
I would only want them feeding the house bank (2 8Ds) when no shore power or generator.
If I put a battery cut off switch between the controller and the batteries would that work ?

 

[lake of the woods]

you might want to consider panels with more watts, like 250 to 300. That's what I did for my 40 DC and I would not want much less form my needs. if they will fit where you want to put them go for more wattage. i'm sure other members will offer their suggestions as well.

Mark
Lake of the Woods
1989 40 DC, Hull #377

 

[meteor64]

I would recommend installing the maximum panel wattage. It's amazing how liberating it is to not have to Run the generator. Its a bit like magic. We have 850watts of solar and it takes care of recharging batteries and run fridge and lights thru an inverter. You should not need a switch between batteries and charge controller. The controller takes care of that. It optimizes battery charging, and once all charged up, it just stops until there is a load comes on.

 

[Glory]

you might want to consider panels with more watts, like 250 to 300. That's what I did for my 40 DC and I would not want much less form my needs. if they will fit where you want to put them go for more wattage. i'm sure other members will offer their suggestions as well.

Mark
Lake of the Woods
1989 40 DC, Hull #377

What brand and size do you have? Thanks

 

[lake of the woods]

My panels are the same that are used in house applications and are both 250 watts each (they are the solid panels and have aluminum frames). Now my boat is in a fresh water environment so that may make a difference assuming you are in salt water. It's incredible to see a 33 year old boat with no rust anywhere. I've had my panels for about 8 years now and the technology has advanced. My suggestion is contact a solar company doing homes in your area and see what they offer. my panels cost me about $200 US each. You will also need what's called a "charge controller" with enough capacity to handle your panels output. I purchased a marine version of the "MidNight Sun Kid MNKID-B" for around $400. I also installed a three-way battery switch (battery 1, battery 2, combined 1 & 2) so that i can charge each of my 8D batteries separately or together. You may want to consider buying a "charger / inverter" at the same time. "Bob's B" on this forum would be the person to talk to about all of this as he is incredibly knowledgeable and experienced in this stuff.

good luck,
Mark
Lake of the Woods
1989 40DC, Hull#377

 

[lake of the woods]

Sorry I meant "Scott at BoatsB" (not Bob'sB).

Mark
Lake of the Woods

 

[rob71]

Next question is location/distance of charge controller between the aray and the batteries.
Also what gauge wire. Approximately 25 feet between panels on the roof and batteries in engine room.
Assuming 400 watt with 30 amp CNN controller.
Thanks all

 

[Vincentc]

You might also consider an inverter to save running the generator. I have a 2500 w inverter with 4 6v golf cart batteries. Its been over 5 years. great when you don't need the generator for the AC.

 

[rob71]

Thanks Vince, we do have an inverter set up already and love it.
Looking to extend quiet anchor time with the solar !