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Old 01-16-2019, 01:48 PM   #1
Howie
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Solar panel to charge batteries while in storage

I have my 5th wheel parked in storage where there is no electrical connection. Instead of removing the batteries between trips, I am considering a mobile 80 -100w solar panel that I would leave set up and hopefully would keep the charge up. I do turn off the master switch but there is still a slight discharge. I looked at a kit that includes panel, controller, and 10" of wire. One option is a solid aluminum frame and another foldable one that is described as a briefcase model and it weights about 1/3 the frame type. I would just set either up on 2x4s, etc. to keep it off the ground for weeks at a time between uses. Any suggestions, ideas, etc. based on your experience?
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Old 01-16-2019, 02:06 PM   #2
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If your RV is parked in a public storage area where other people also store their equipment, anything you "stack on the tongue, support on 2x4's, lean against the RV, etc is subject to "growing legs" the first day someone walks by and decides they need it more than you..... Any solar system should be "secured against theft" which is something difficult to do with a portable system. I don't have an answer to your needs, but would urge you to consider the expense and whether you can afford to "donate" it to someone else????? Any plan should, IMHO, consider securing your system against theft, something that's difficult to do in a public location.
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Old 01-16-2019, 03:54 PM   #3
Howie
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theft isn't an issue as it is on private property, just trying to get input on style.
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Old 01-16-2019, 05:11 PM   #4
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We have the briefcase type made by Zamp. Ours comes out of the case and is completely self contained and weatherproof. We store the case in the cargo area when the panels are deployed. If theft isn't an issue I'd recommend the type like ours as the panels are well protected with the case while traveling and stored in the cargo area of the Cougar.
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Old 01-20-2019, 05:51 AM   #5
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Wondering about a small battery maintainer vs. solar system

I'm a first year TT owner, and decided to just bring my battery into the garage for the winter, but I've been thinking about getting one of the small, low power solar maintainers for next winter.

https://www.amazon.com/Battery-Tende...004Q83TGO?th=1

Here's one, in the $66-100 range (depending on Wattage). Given that the battery has made it 2 months in the garage before finally dropping 0.1V, I figure that even the 5W model should be enough to keep it from self discharging. I put in a disconnect, so there shouldn't be any parasitic loads.

I'm in a locked, but public, storage location, so I want to keep the costs down and will try to figure out a good way to secure it.

What do you all think? This doesn't have the power of the larger systems, but I'd be starting with a full charge and just want to keep the battery up.

Thanks,
-Rick
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Old 01-20-2019, 06:33 AM   #6
fourfourto
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I would get the 15 watt.
I have a 15 watt 1 amp panel mounted(can be removed easy) in the window well of my garage up against window.
This way snow doesn't cover it.
My battery is switched off from camper.
keeps up charge good.
I don't like the idea of leaving it plugged in with power on in camper all winter.
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Old 01-20-2019, 07:03 AM   #7
Howie
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My batteries are wired in parallel and the specs on the panels say they work with multiple batteries in parallel. I am not sure if the + on one battery and - on the other is the correct attachment of the panel leads or if + and - on same battery would work. My batteries are on different sides of RV so would need wire extensions if leads go to different battery. Appreciate you assistance.
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Old 01-24-2019, 12:13 PM   #8
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Assuming your batteries are 12 V and wired in parallel, there is no difference between which set of battery terminals to use. Just be sure to get the positive on the charger to the positive on the battery and the same for the negative terminals.
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Old 01-24-2019, 02:30 PM   #9
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Quote:
Originally Posted by just1rick View Post
I'm a first year TT owner, and decided to just bring my battery into the garage for the winter, but I've been thinking about getting one of the small, low power solar maintainers for next winter.

https://www.amazon.com/Battery-Tende...004Q83TGO?th=1

Here's one, in the $66-100 range (depending on Wattage). Given that the battery has made it 2 months in the garage before finally dropping 0.1V, I figure that even the 5W model should be enough to keep it from self discharging. I put in a disconnect, so there shouldn't be any parasitic loads.

I'm in a locked, but public, storage location, so I want to keep the costs down and will try to figure out a good way to secure it.

What do you all think? This doesn't have the power of the larger systems, but I'd be starting with a full charge and just want to keep the battery up.

Thanks,
-Rick
I actually use one like this.. I have been using it now for about 5 yrs.. I have not taken my battery out during winter..I am in public storage, and luckily have never had a problem.. I don't use it during the summer months as we try to go out every 2 to 3 weekends..
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