Solar power question

[Jim Bennett]

Originally Posted by Red Dog

I agree that the rooftop model works quietly and safely behind the scenes.

However, after traveling full time through all 50 states and all the Canadian provinces, we have never lost our portable solar panel due to theft. Perhaps I am too trusting but I don’t think so.

In my opinion, the portable solar panel allows for times when a shade is inevitable. Plus, I use a 50’ 10 gauge extension cord to extend my range and harness as much light as possible.

Fred M.

I agree on all accounts, Fred. Another thing the portable is good for is that even if you are in the sun, but are in a need for a good charge, you get to aim the portable right at the source of solar power.

[sclifrickson]

Agree. I don’t much care for the false dichotomy question of roof vs portable, as the correct answer for “what is best”, is the synergy of both together! If you have both options then you are best covered for all circumstances.

[Sheepdogger]

I connect my portable solar panels to the batteries directly. No Zamp port needed.

[John in Santa Cruz]

Originally Posted by Sheepdogger

I connect my portable solar panels to the batteries directly. No Zamp port needed.

with the Escape's batteries generally being inside, what do you do, run a long wire through the nearest window ? or are your batteries on the hitch tongue ? Mine are under the bench on the curbside of the rear dinette....

[Brian B-P]

Originally Posted by John in Santa Cruz

with the Escape's batteries generally being inside, what do you do, run a long wire through the nearest window ? or are your batteries on the hitch tongue ? Mine are under the bench on the curbside of the rear dinette....

Only the 21' and 5.0TA, plus the old 5.0 and early 19', have batteries inside. The 17' has always had the battery outside at the rear, the 19' has had the battery on the tongue for years, and the 13' and 15' had it on the tongue as well.

It looks like Sheepdogger got a 17B last year... so the battery (or batteries) would be outside in a box (or boxes) on the frame ahead of the bumper at the rear.

[gbaglo]

My 17B has a single 12V battery on the rear bumper. I plug two 40 watt portable solar panels into a hub to controller to battery terminals. I was trying to figure out how to protect the controller in the rain, but so far I've found I can just disconnect it and put it inside. Haven't been that desperate for power.

[Sheepdogger]

Mine are outside (17B). Makes it easy.