The Quilting Lady
Senior Member
Considering portable solar, don't know a thing about it. ETI said they would make a port for me for 100.00.
Considering portable solar, don't know a thing about it. ETI said they would make a port for me for 100.00.
Thanks for the info Alan. i am seriously thinking about a portable. Do I need a special port or can I just hook the portable to the battery directly since most portables have a regulator? Which portable did you get and does it come with a sturdy frame. Some of the reviews I have read on some models report the stands are flimsy.My camping style occasionally puts me out in Colorado between the autumnal and vernal equinox where the sun angle is low and the nights are cold and long. In response I have equipped my trailer with the Escape solar on the roof plus a portable panel for a total of about 300 watts. (The theoretical maximum, which is never actually reached.)
As you can see in the photo my portable is about the same size as the Escape roof panel and is somewhat awkward to lug around. Guessing that combined with the stand it runs about 40 pounds. But in the winter I can aim it directly at the sun and get double, or more, power than the roof panel produces. I also take it along in summer when I know I will be parked in heavy timber (deep shade) and I can move the portable out to a sunny spot. It connects to the Escape provided solar controller through the optional porthole via some 40' of 6ga flexible wire. The panel, stand, wire, connectors and porthole probably totaled around $400.
I don't take it on every trip but am glad to have it on certain occasions.
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Alan
Thanks for the info Alan. i am seriously thinking about a portable. Do I need a special port or can I just hook the portable to the battery directly since most portables have a regulator? Which portable did you get and does it come with a sturdy frame. Some of the reviews I have read on some models report the stands are flimsy.
DidETI wired in a Zamp port on the exterior for me at build (they suggested it)
Zamp was about $10
my existing portable just plugs right in.
and having a folding suitcase style solar panel that fits into a (stock) 21' wardrobe is a great idea..... as there isnt a big easy to access storage area otherwise on a 21.
dont add ETI shelves to wardrobe, of course.
Many are happy with a 100 watt (some even less) panel such as the EcoWorthy Portable Panel.
Thanks for the info Alan. i am seriously thinking about a portable. Do I need a special port or can I just hook the portable to the battery directly since most portables have a regulator? Which portable did you get and does it come with a sturdy frame. Some of the reviews I have read on some models report the stands are flimsy.
I hate replying but.........you should never run 150w panel without a charge controller as the consequences are quite disastrous. I don't even run my 20w panels without a controller. I am just trying to help you avoid a very severe problem.
Has anyone used this adapter to connect an extra solar panel via the 7 pin plug on the trailer?https://www.amazon.com/Go-Power-Trailer-Accessory-Portable/dp/B00FYUCQXK
We have one to use with our folding panel . Pat