I’m interested in a solar charging system that would be used as a backup power source. The speed with which it takes to charge is not really a big deal, the bare minimum would be enough. I would prefer to have a system that charges slow, takes up less space with regards to the solar panels and offers enough capacity to run a large appliance such as an air conditioner for example for several hours.
I haven’t had much luck finding a commercially available solution that meets these requiremetns, so I’m guessing I may have to go the DYI route.
Can anyone offer some advice/guidance on how to proceed? Also, one other question. If given enough time, would pretty much any size panel eventually charge a battery?
Update: Thanks for the information. However, the commercial unit in that link is what I’ve normally seen online. That unit boasts a fast charging system, and I’m guessing that adds to the price. Since fast charging is not a priority for my scenario, that one is not a good fit. I may look into that DYI guide, although I’m still not clear on my second question which was regarding the size of the solar panels. For example, if there was a such thing as a panel that took 30 days to charge the battery because of its small size, I would be perfectly happy with that since I don’t plan on having to use the system on a regular basis.
More Pages:
- Solar Panel: How To Charge A Phone With A Solar Panel? (2/22/2012)
- Solar Panel: Could A Portable AC Be Powered By A Solar Panel, A Trickle Charger And A Large Car Battery? (10/30/2011)
- Solar Power: Solar Panel And Electric Fence- Help Please!? (8/17/2011)
- Solar Panel: What Type Of Battery And Solar Cells Should I Use For A Solar Panel System? (5/21/2012)
- Solar Panel: Converting A Solar Panel (direct Sunlight Power) To A Battery Backup System? How To Help!? (11/5/2011)
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Solutions from science sells an 1800 watt solar powered generator. I believe it uses a 90 watt Solar Panel. I don’t own one but I hear radio commercials for them frequently. They cost around $ 1800 but you wouldn’t need to do any work.
Several other companies sell 1800 watt generators too. With that voltage, it would be enough to keep your refrigerator running several hours each day, as well as cell phones, computers, etc.
The other route is like you suggested with the DYI option. Looks like several folks have done these for about $ 300 each. But you’d need to be pretty handy to build these. If you are, this could be a good option.
IF it is for backup in case of power outrage, 100 watt panel should do the job WITH enough battery storage.
For OFF grid, buy the largest panel setup you can afford, AND a gas/diesel generator also.