Flexible solar panels June 15, 2017, 08:59:28 pm I think I read on this web page that flexible solar panels were not good on a metal roof, Is that correct?
Re: Flexible solar panels Reply #1 – June 15, 2017, 09:20:05 pm You'll soon get plenty of more expert replies than mine. Flexible panels are interesting, especially for applications like Airstream trailers. The issue is that they are less efficient at the PV process than today's tip panels, and applying any panel to a roof directly reduces air circulation around the panel, boosting temperatures and reducing efficiencies. Personally I can see no benefit on an LD roof- you may have a reason to use flexible panels I haven't thought about?
Re: Flexible solar panels Reply #2 – June 16, 2017, 09:10:00 am Bree,Sorry to hijack your message thread, but we now know you survived the dump valve issue; the one where you were pleading for help in capital letters as your tank was filled and the dump valve would not open.Can you let us know how you resolved the issue so we can benefit from your experience? Communication on this site is a two way street.Thanks,Steve K.
Re: Flexible solar panels Reply #3 – June 16, 2017, 12:49:31 pm "I have two 200W flex panels that I use to supplement the roof panels (450W) in my 23.5. I just lay them on the ground or lean them against something. I have a 50' cable so if I'm in trees I can at least move them out into the sun when I can't use the roof panels. I store them either in the shower or on the top bunk. It's possible when on the ground there is a heat issue, but I have seen no drop in output. They are the plastic type non fold-able. So far they have held up well to all the moving about.Nice to have 850 W on my little LD."•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•Bob -Did I miss the particulars about your auxiliary panels? Could you share the brand name and perhaps the cost, if you feel comfortable doing so?We have 400 watts on the roof of the Lazy Daze, but worry about cloudy days providing the wherewithal to keep DH's CPAP cruisin' along all night.Might want to take them along on a short trip with just the Sportsmobile when the Lazy Daze is left at home, so that would provide some power in that instance. BUT - I am wondering about the complications of moving the two panels for use with another rig. Easy to do? Plug and play? Or auxiliary wiring needed? We have two big 200 WH AGM's in the Sportsmobile, so storage should be sufficient for the first night, even without auxiliary input. But it would be nice to be able to supplement without having to find a campground to utilize their electricity.Many thanks. Virtual hugs, Judie <-- Sierra Vista, Arizona Adventures of Dorrie Anne | Photographing the West Today: The Tale of Tippy Tail ******************************
Re: Flexible solar panels Reply #4 – June 16, 2017, 05:14:01 pm We have 400 watts on the roof of the Lazy Daze, but worry about cloudy days providing the wherewithal to keep DH's CPAP cruisin' along all night.[/quote]JudieWith the different size of solar panels available, you should be able to add several hundred watts of solar to yours RB's roof . On our 23.5' FL's roof, even with the kayak rack, there is room for 700-watts of solar.Larry
Re: Flexible solar panels Reply #5 – June 16, 2017, 06:55:16 pm I'm not a fan of the flex panels because you pay a premium to have them and then get less usable power.On my roof, there is plenty of space for normal panels, ones that are much cheaper and put out a lot more power.
Re: Flexible solar panels Reply #6 – July 03, 2017, 07:02:10 pm Thank you for your information.As to how I resolved the value issue. It was not pretty, Funny, my sister was following me with her phone to put it on utube she knew what was going to happen.I put it off so long she went under the motor home and took the bolts off and was covered in you know what.I replaced the value and it works fine.
Re: Flexible solar panels Reply #7 – July 03, 2017, 09:34:24 pm Quote from: bree49 - July 03, 2017, 07:02:10 pmThank you for your information.As to how I resolved the value issue. It was not pretty, Funny, my sister was following me with her phone to put it on utube she knew what was going to happen.I put it off so long she went under the motor home and took the bolts off and was covered in you know what.I replaced the value and it works fine.I guess you owe her BIG time.Chris
Re: Flexible solar panels Reply #8 – July 04, 2017, 11:51:59 am Yes, I do owe her. However I did her laundry while she showered and catered to her every need that day.She did deserve that mess, she followed me with her cell phone to post it on U-tube. All the while she was giggling at what was about to happen.
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