Support
Would your panels be appropriate for a van/motorhome?
All our panels are compatible with all sorts of uses including camper-vans, caravans, motor-homes, boats, yachts, buildings, houses, sheds, garages, outhouses even installed on the ground. Some of our customers have kindly started to tag there pictures to Instagram and upload YouTube videos. Please search for CraigSolar.co.uk
Do I need an MPPT solar charge controller?
The purpose of a charge controller is to protect the battery. We recommend the Epever which will automatically supply the battery with the correct voltage and also prevent the battery from overcharging. We now stock a variety of these and they are sized in amps. Check the description of each product as we have tried to show there compatibility.
How do I test my solar panel?
Its best to do this test early afternoon with the panel angled directly at full sun. Just insert the multimeter clips directly onto the solar panel plugs.
Test Voltage
In this example I am testing a 200w solar panel. The multimeter I am using can be purchased from Screwfix for about £9. Use these settings to obtain the voltage.
Test Amps
Use these settings to obtain the amps reading. You will notice the amps fluctuate significantly in different light conditions. Multiply the voltage by the amps to obtain the wattage.
I am wondering if a 330w will be enough for daily use in my campervan?
It will vary far too much unfortunately for me to make even a rough estimate, the weather, the time of year and also your consumption may fluctuate daily. I’m always experimenting myself and currently managing to run all the house lights off 4 of these panels connected to x2 12v batteries. I switched over to this late November and been working good for the past couple of month. I find a lot of customers buy one or two to start off with then later add to there systems.
Would you be able to put a complete kit together for me?
We currently offer almost every item on our site to create a kit that is individually suited. The enclosed is a simple popular diagram of a common setup.
How do I calculate the power?
Voltage multiplied by the Amps equals the Wattage (Volts x Amps = Watts)
Do your panels have a blocking diode in order to prevent one panel trying to charge a second or third panel?
All our panels have blocking and bypass diodes installed in the junction box. The junction box is usually located on the back and accessible by pinching the clips with a small screwdriver.
Do I need to run a fuse between the panels and the solar charger?
Its not necessary due to the low voltage in my opinion but if you decide to do so place it on the positive cable.
Where is the best place to find project ideas?
I find that YouTube is a good source for Solar project ideas, advice and inspiration.
What is the best way to link several panels together?
Parallel is the most common, join all the positives and negatives together using MC4 adapters sold on our website. The Amps are multiplied but the voltage remains the same.
A series setup by linking positive and negative cables together multiplies the voltage but the Amps remains the same. This setup is sometimes useful if your inverter requires a higher 24V to operate but you only have space smaller 12V panels.
Is it possible to mix and match solar panels?
Its possible to mix and match different sized panels in different configurations but it will effect the end performance.
Powering Direct
It is possible to power DC appliances directly off solar panels. I’ve ran my larger panels off 24v DC water emersion heaters at home during the summer.
Beware of a few issues I have experienced. The cables can get very hot, this is why my setup is outside. The water gets very hot during sunny periods and a way to regulate the temperature is needed. Also during the long dark winter months, forget it.
How do I install a Solar Panel on a Camper Van/Motor Home and what parts do I require?
This is a very common question, please find below a few useful videos which past customers have kindly created and shared there experience.