OTG Upgrade

[BandT]

Since we just got our new Cougar, this stuff is all pretty new to me, particularly the solar charging thing. I have tried (and failed) making some inquiries to find the “recipe” to maximize the package as it exits. I am thinking lithium batteries, and more solar power, however I know there is more to it than that.
So can anyone recommend a business that might be willing to assist and sell me what I need to help? Thanks!

[jasin1]

Originally Posted by BandT

Since we just got our new Cougar, this stuff is all pretty new to me, particularly the solar charging thing. I have tried (and failed) making some inquiries to find the “recipe” to maximize the package as it exits. I am thinking lithium batteries, and more solar power, however I know there is more to it than that.
So can anyone recommend a business that might be willing to assist and sell me what I need to help? Thanks!

DonRowe.com…I bought my xantrex inverter and accessories from them.
Renogy also is a good company for Solar panels

[roadglide]

Bandt what equipment are you using and how did you fail ? A couple thousand dollars spent on batteries and not making changes to your system will only extend the failure.

[BandT]

Originally Posted by roadglide

Bandt what equipment are you using and how did you fail ? A couple thousand dollars spent on batteries and not making changes to your system will only extend the failure.

Exactly my point, if you know someone who has knowledge in solar, and is interested in some new business please share. Thanks.

[chuckster57]

There are a few options, GoPower has complete packages along with Renology. There are others, but those two come to mind quickly.

You need to determine your needs, and then start contacting the different makers. IMO you can’t go wrong with either one I mentioned.

[mikec557]

Originally Posted by jasin1

DonRowe.com…I bought my xantrex inverter and accessories from them.
Renogy also is a good company for Solar panels

^^^x2

Don Rowe for my inverter, Battleborn for my lithium batteries, solar charge controller, and battery monitor, and renogy for my solar panels.

But Chuckster's right. You have to determine your power needs before you can decide about batteries, inverters, and solar panels. That's research and knowledge you should learn as the end user, even if you want somebody else to do your installation.

Just my 2¢

[BandT]

Thanks all, I’ll continue throwing darts till I hit something. Had high hopes of making contact with Don Rowe as they deal with a lot of the stuff that came with my RV. I sent them an email a week ago through there web site, and no reply. I will call them next week and see if I have better luck.
I did get a reply from an Oregon Solar Specialist, I was told by them what Xantrex had suggested to do could not be done. Scratch that one off.

[jasin1]

Originally Posted by BandT

Thanks all, I’ll continue throwing darts till I hit something. Had high hopes of making contact with Don Rowe as they deal with a lot of the stuff that came with my RV. I sent them an email a week ago through there web site, and no reply. I will call them next week and see if I have better luck.
I did get a reply from an Oregon Solar Specialist, I was told by them what Xantrex had suggested to do could not be done. Scratch that one off.

I called them the few times I needed to speak with someone and they promptly answered…may have changed..

Possibly your email was too long or too vague to answer in a timely fashion? Also you probably know this but check your junk email folder.
Good luck with your project

Family member of mine had good luck with Gopower

[Cimriver]

Originally Posted by BandT

Since we just got our new Cougar, this stuff is all pretty new to me, particularly the solar charging thing. I have tried (and failed) making some inquiries to find the “recipe” to maximize the package as it exits. I am thinking lithium batteries, and more solar power, however I know there is more to it than that.
So can anyone recommend a business that might be willing to assist and sell me what I need to help? Thanks!

I am in the same boat. Our Cougar came with a 2000w inverter, a PWM charge controller, one 170w solar panel, and a single 12v lead acid battery. It's a system begging to be upgraded.

More solar panels is an obvious upgrade, but the Zamp panels are expensive. I am all about buying American, but have my limits. I have an mppt charger, so would replace the pwm with it.

The 2000w xantrex inverter is a good product, but I so wish it had charger capabilities.

Batteries are the next concern. Without getting into a big debate, I have decided to go with lithium batteries. That requires moving them off of the A frame and into an interior or at least a heated space. Lot's of wiring to do this.

I would also like help finding an installer. I really don't need a supplier.