Initial testing of solar panels on the boler - Fiberglass RV
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Old 02-22-2009, 10:22 PM   #1
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I got most of the major components installed and hooked up today and put the solar installation to the test to get an idea of how it will perform. I still have to fine tune the installation but today's project was to get the pv array to charge the batteries.

Here is a link to the video. My apologies in advance for the choppy editing.

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Old 02-22-2009, 10:50 PM   #2
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that is not bad considering that the sun at this time of the year isn't very strong at all. I'm sure on a hot summer day that panel will have your battery charged in no time!
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Old 02-22-2009, 11:03 PM   #3
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Thanks Kevin! You provided those of us neophytes who are contemplating putting in solar with a lot of useful information. Since I'm a visual learner, I always enjoy these "real world" videos.
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Old 02-22-2009, 11:22 PM   #4
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Quote:
Thanks Kevin! You provided those of us neophytes who are contemplating putting in solar with a lot of useful information. Since I'm a visual learner, I always enjoy these "real world" videos.

I'm a neophyte also but I ask a lot of questions and, over time it sinks in. I learn better when I can actually see something also.

I will be piecing together more videos showing separate stages of the installation so stay tuned.
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Old 02-23-2009, 12:32 AM   #5
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Kevin,

Does any of the differences in charging have anything to do with the controller? I know mine adjusts itself based on many factors.

Roy
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Old 02-23-2009, 08:51 AM   #6
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Kevin,

Does any of the differences in charging have anything to do with the controller? I know mine adjusts itself based on many factors.

Roy
From my understanding Roy the Morningstar Sunsaver MPPT will constantly adjust to changing conditions to deliver the maximum amount of power (to the battery) that is possible under the specific conditions.

ie: panels are in full sun and the controller operates at the optimum voltage for these conditions

When a cloud passes over the sun the MPPT automatically recalculates the optimum voltage for the new conditions.
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Old 02-23-2009, 11:15 PM   #7
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Kevin,
Thanks for the really helpful video. Can you tell me what model no. that Xantrex battery monitor is? Was it very expensive? It looks like a really useful one; told you everything you needed to know.
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Old 02-24-2009, 05:19 AM   #8
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Kevin, your videos are great, very informative. Though, they do leave me with a few questions, though I might just take some time and review them again.
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Old 02-24-2009, 09:57 AM   #9
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Kevin, your videos are great, very informative. Though, they do leave me with a few questions, though I might just take some time and review them again.

Jim,

I see you are in Calgary also. You can always stop by sometime if you want to have a look.

Kevin
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Old 02-24-2009, 10:24 AM   #10
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Kevin,
Thanks for the really helpful video. Can you tell me what model no. that Xantrex battery monitor is? Was it very expensive? It looks like a really useful one; told you everything you needed to know.
Pamela,

It is an XBM Monitor. It has been discontinued and replaced with this model.

http://www.xantrex.com/web/id/274/p/1/pt/7/product.asp

I believe it was in the $350-400 (Canadian) range, including the shunt and 30 feet of installation cable and temperature sensor.
You can always keep your eye on eBay as there are used ones available.

Have a look at peterh's posting about installing a volt/amp meter.
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Old 02-24-2009, 01:54 PM   #11
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Jim,

I see you are in Calgary also. You can always stop by sometime if you want to have a look.

Kevin
I might just take you up on the Kevin, thanks.
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Old 02-24-2009, 02:34 PM   #12
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Thanks, Kevin!!
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