Trailer: EX 2013 Scamp 16 OWNER, CURRENT 2016 Escape 21C
Posts: 139
Solar Panel Configuration Options for 21C
If this has been discussed elsewhere, I apologize in advance and would appreciate being directed there.
We are in line for a 21C that I am leaning toward doing the solar on. Ideally, I'd add one large panel (350-400W) on the roof between the operable vent and the front of the trailer. That panels would be 77"x39". Would it fit there, long dimension side-to-side?
Next option would be two 190W panels side-by-side in the same location requiring about 59"x 56" rectangle. Is there at least 54" of usable flat roof between the front and the vent?
I'd prefer one of these options to having one forward and one aft panel as Escape does so that I don't have to run wires between the two or put two holes in the roof.
I can't find detailed measurements of the roof layout and don't want to ask someone to measure if this information is already known.
here's a birds eye view of the roof of my 21 'classic' (2014), with the then factory 160 watt solar in the back.
if you print this, and can find the size of any of the standard items on the roof (maxifan deluxe hood, or toilet vent cover), and measure it on your print, then take the ratio of actual size / measured size, you can then take any given thing you want to put up there, and divide by that ratio to get measured size, and draw a box on your printout to see how big it will be.
note the center section of the whole top is raised like 3-4 inches from the sides, so anything that straddles that center section would need to be mounted on standoffs, thats how my factory solar is installed.
on a 21 classic (front bed, rear dinette), the batteries are in the BACK under the dinette bench, on the curb side, so front solar would require extra long wires. longer wires equals more power loss unless even heavier gauge.
Trailer: EX 2013 Scamp 16 OWNER, CURRENT 2016 Escape 21C
Posts: 139
It looks like the bathroom vent pretty much shoots down my idea. What is the oblong unit just in front of the solar panel along the left side of the roof?
Ideally, I'd add one large panel (350-400W) on the roof between the operable vent and the front of the trailer. That panels would be 77"x39". Would it fit there, long dimension side-to-side?
Next option would be two 190W panels side-by-side in the same location requiring about 59"x 56" rectangle. Is there at least 54" of usable flat roof between the front and the vent?
I'd prefer one of these options to having one forward and one aft panel as Escape does so that I don't have to run wires between the two or put two holes in the roof.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Semievolved
It looks like the bathroom vent pretty much shoots down my idea.
That roof vent and bath exhaust fan are probably doing you a favor. I would be VERY cautious putting a large panel crossways very close to the front of the trailer. The uplift can be considerable. First picture is a 21NE where Escape mounted a second panel very close to the front edge (no vent/fan to contend with). Thread here. Second picture is an AM Solar installation of two panels on a 21C. They are highly regarded installers and I know I wouldn’t hesitate copying what they do.
Refrigerator roof vent. Looks like an upgrade from stock Escape vent.
It's a replacement part it was exactly the same as what it replaced. The original one cracked and was yellowing so I picked up the camco replacement which just snapped in place
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