Quote:
Originally Posted by timberdoodle
We have a 2013 19'with solar package. [95 watts I think]Everything is stock E T .
I want to add a 50 watt movable solar panel and controller to the system .
Can I just put alligator clips on the 50 watt system and clip them on my 12v. battery when needed?
Will I then increase my wattage potential to 145 Watts?
Thanks,Herb
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Yes, you can, but you will have to keep an eye on your battery voltage. Without a controller the voltage could go up to the maximum of the moveable panel which might be as high as 16 to 18 volts. It wouldn't be good to charge at this voltage level for more than an hour or two. But that said, if your battery is low from a hard night of use then it is unlikely you will hit that voltage in a single day of charging. The extra moveable panel will be most practical in situations where you have less than ideal sunlight. Say in the fall, or a partly cloudy day, or when you are camped near trees. In these circumstances it becomes rather unlikely you will go over a charge of 14.5 volts if starting with a drained battery. Just remember to check a couple of times a day and remove the moveable panel when - and if - you reach the desired 14 - 14.5 volts.