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Topic: Some thoughts on tilting solar panels (Read 33 times) previous topic - next topic
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Re: Some thoughts on tilting solar panels
Reply #25 –
Yahoo Message Number: 151181
We are not retired and run an internet business out of our LD when we are on the road, which brings up what I think is a valid point in this discussion. It depends on your needs.

We're boondocking with no external power and running two computers all day, including a 27" iMac. We have a more significant need for power than someone only needing to keep house batteries up for a 12V TV and lights in the evening so tilting our panels makes a big difference. We have five 100 W panels from AM Solar feeding four AGM batteries and a 2000W inverter. All five of our panels are tilted.

Charlie 1999 MB "Gandalf the Grey"
Re: Some thoughts on tilting solar panels
Reply #26 –
Yahoo Message Number: 151190
Ref Larry's comment: "Occasionally, someone does needs to go up and clean the panels... A little Windex goes a long way. " Is Windex ok?

My manual says factory installed AM Solar panels should only be cleaned with plain water and a soft cloth. Sure would make degunking easier here in the NW.

Lori Y 2011 24FL
Lori Y
2011 24FL
Re: Some thoughts on tilting solar panels
Reply #27 –
Yahoo Message Number: 151196
"Is Windex ok?
 My manual says factory installed AM Solar panels should only be cleaned with plain water and a soft cloth."

Lori

Hate to tell you to do some thing the book says not  to, but it's just Windex and solar panel panels have a glass surface.  Plain water and cloth will do it, Windex speeds the cleaning process and probably does a better job..

I also scrub the panels periodically with a brush and soapy water, when washing the roof.
Twenty years of this without any damage to the solar panel's glass surfaces.
There are better things to worry about.

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: Some thoughts on tilting solar panels
Reply #28 –
Yahoo Message Number: 151199
Something in the back of my mind tells me that the solar panels have some kind of coating on them that can be damaged with harsh chemicals. The instructions for our home solar panels also say to clean only with soap and water, or just water. Windex contains ammonia, and can damage glass coatings. Especially on the inside of tinted glass in vehicles. Maybe someone else can comment on what if any coatings the RV panels have. Personally I would stick with what the manual is telling you.
 If you want to use a spray cleaner, get some Sprayway Class Cleaner. It is ammonia free, and is available in a 3-pack at Costco. I imagine Walmart and other stores also carry it. It is the only approved cleaner for tinted glass by our installer. If there is a coating on the solar panels, I would treat them the same way I would treat tinted windows.

Dick
Re: Some thoughts on tilting solar panels
Reply #29 –
Yahoo Message Number: 151209
I just washed my panels.  They looked clean, but the wash water became brown when I washed them.  I used a soft brush on a handle, plain water (with about 2 or 3 drops of Dawn detergent, not enough to foam, just enough to reduce surface tension, then I used a squeegee, then a finish wipe with a damp rag.  I waited until the panels dried, when I saw a few smudge spots, which I wiped again.  I went from 17 amps to 19 amps.  Time - about 15 minutes, so the sun's angle did not change significantly.

Ken F in NM
'08 MB
Re: Some thoughts on tilting solar panels
Reply #30 –
Yahoo Message Number: 151210
"Something in the back of my mind tells me that the solar panels have some kind of coating on them that can be damaged with harsh chemicals.

Dick

AFAIK,  RV solar panels use clear, tempered glass, with no coatings. They have a very hard and durable surface, almost never breaking or scratching. If bird droppings and acid rain do no etch the glass, I not too worried about Windex.                                                                                                                                       Fresh water, with a little detergnet and then a rinse, as Ken recommended, works fine too.

I just find it easier to go up with a roll of paper towell and a spray bottle, while traveling. At home, the top gets washed regularly with auto soap, a brush and and a  fresh water rinse. Our 12 year old Factory panel's glass surface is still clear and smooth. along with the added panels.　

You do not want to use is a caustic cleaner, like dish washer soap, it can etch the glass.
Do not use any type of brush that can scratch the panel, such as abrasive scrub pads.
I  use an RV-type brush, with soft bristles, to wash the entire rig.
http://www.campingworld.com/shopping/item/adjust-a-brush/11053

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
 
Re: Some thoughts on tilting solar panels
Reply #31 –
Yahoo Message Number: 151211
I'm very glad to hear that the LD manual no longer advises cleaning the solar panels with *0000 steel wool*!! ;-)

I use a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle to clean the solar panels; cheap and effective. Dry with a terry shop towel or other soft, lint-free cloth.

Joan
2003 TK has a new home