Home Depot Solar

[Ruth C.]

I did a search, but it doesn’t look like anybody has asked it this Home Depot system would be as good a deal as it looks:



https://www.homedepot.com/p/NATURE-P...3000/311140816

[Jann Todd]

Originally Posted by Ruth C.

I did a search, but it doesn’t look like anybody has asked it this Home Depot system would be as good a deal as it looks:



https://www.homedepot.com/p/NATURE-P...3000/311140816

Go talk to someone at Home Depot that knows about these things. One thing about it is if you buy one and don't like it you can take it back. Best to buy locally for that reason.

[bobblangley]

The same kit seems available on eBay all the time for $107.70.

And HD also has the same kit with a 300-W inverter for $11 more = $99.88 BUT, it is out of stock at the moment.

[Gerry]

I am no expert on the subject but I do know there is a difference between a Policristaline and a monocristaline panel.
I was told by a solar panel installer the Mono is better.
Why I can not answer this but I am sure others can.

[T2S]

Mono panels are more efficient so a physically smaller panel can generate similar output. Since space is limited that is generally prefferred for permanent installs (maybe less so for portable panels). I have friends that have used grape solar panels from Home Depot and been happy. Generally the charger included in kits is the weak link. If you find a great deal on a kit then I would still recommend replacing the charger with a better quality one. The kit in the link doesn't look like a good deal to me, but I haven't been following prices lately.

[sokhapkin]

Originally Posted by Gerry

I am no expert on the subject but I do know there is a difference between a Policristaline and a monocristaline panel.
I was told by a solar panel installer the Mono is better.
Why I can not answer this but I am sure others can.

The only difference is in the panel size. Monocrystaline panels are slightly smaller than poly at the same rated wattage. If the size works to you, then buy either one.

[sokhapkin]

Big box home improvement stores are good for everyday items. Novelties like solar panels/charge controllers etc are extremely overpriced there.

[Steve Outlaw]

Originally Posted by sokhapkin

The only difference is in the panel size. Monocrystaline panels are slightly smaller than poly at the same rated wattage. If the size works to you, then buy either one.

This is incorrect. Monocrystalline panels have a higher conversion efficiency than polycrystalline panels, which means they produce more kilowatt-hours of electricity. If you want to install a solar system but your space is limited, monocrystalline panels will be more productive per square foot. Also, they have a lower temperature coefficient, making them more efficient in the heat of the sun and about a 10% greater expected lifespan. However, they are the more expensive of the two types. The charge controller does not say, but is most likely a PWM as opposed to an MPPT and will be another weak link in this system.

Personally, I'd pass on this system.

Originally Posted by Jann Todd

Go talk to someone at Home Depot that knows about these things. One thing about it is if you buy one and don't like it you can take it back. Best to buy locally for that reason.

Good luck with finding that person.

[Larry C Hanson]

Hello,

A great place to further your understanding of solar electric systems is here:

https://www.solar-electric.com/learning-center

Uncle Larry

[redbarron55]

I have three Grape Solar panels on the roof of my 16' Scamp. The small controllers that typically come with these is worthless.
I paid about $75 each at a Home Depot surplus store new in the box. These are usually mis-hipped rejected orders etc.
I have mine hooked up in series with an MPPT controller after using a couple of the cheaper controllers.
I looked and did not find these for that price on the website.
Looks like the prices have gone up to $110 +.
My Grape Solar 100 watt panels have held up well in several years service and 10's of thousand miles.

[David B.]

Originally Posted by sokhapkin

The only difference is in the panel size. Monocrystaline panels are slightly smaller than poly at the same rated wattage. If the size works to you, then buy either one.

The size difference is significant. I use one Renogy monocrystaline 160 watt panel on our roof, vs 3 of the HF poly panels.