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Solar
- Thread starter Cathy L
- Start date
Jean W said:
Hi, Jean: and for how long did the Error lights disappear while the fridge wa son battery-only? for 24 hours? for 48 hours?
I could see this working for a few hours, provided the fridge didn't cycle on very much, but not much more than that
obviously a lot depends on the ambient temps and the fridge setting - if it's 40 degrees out, and you set that fridge at 38 degrees.....the fridge won't draw very much off the battery
but if your battery is new, or in new condition, your battery performance will be better than someone with the AGM battery that is two years old
and to be clear, I am only "chasing" this issue because I have been afraid that something was "broken" or not set correctly. Now that I know that nothing is "broken" I don't feel a need to chase it.
-Al
Kelly
Novice
I am finding the solar issue to be quite frustrating. It shouldn't be a worrisome process to find a customer friendly solar system (with simple plug-in & operate features), but it is. My biggest concern is shelling out a lot of money to buy a solar system, then holding my breath while I find out if it will actually be the appropriate product choice for my trailer (and it's draw demands) especially because I can't return the product after I have altered it (in order to hard wire it to Camp-Inn's solar connector). To no surprise, I haven't bought a solar panel as yet (even though I have spent an inordinate amount of time looking for one).
I see that T@B & Little Guy have clued in that their customers want a solar system that is easy to connect and operate (as they entered into an exclusive arrangement with Zamp to put their quick disconnect system in their trailers). Although the Camp-Inn is hands down an overall superior product, I am envious of T@B & Little Guy owners for having this solar feature - how nice it would be to have a simple to operate solar system ready to go. Camp-Inn needs to stop dragging their heels on this - and "no" providing a self-wiring solar connector isn't the solution.
I see that T@B & Little Guy have clued in that their customers want a solar system that is easy to connect and operate (as they entered into an exclusive arrangement with Zamp to put their quick disconnect system in their trailers). Although the Camp-Inn is hands down an overall superior product, I am envious of T@B & Little Guy owners for having this solar feature - how nice it would be to have a simple to operate solar system ready to go. Camp-Inn needs to stop dragging their heels on this - and "no" providing a self-wiring solar connector isn't the solution.
slumry
Novice
I won’t speak for Camp-Inn but I think their approach makes a lot of sense. You pay a lot for the convenience of the Little Guy solution and with it you get an overpriced panel that uses an uncommon- connector and does not provide a great deal of flexibility. Camp-Inn supports a DC cigarette style plug, the most common DC connector out there. When you get the Little Guy solar socket installed, you are pretty much locked into whatever solution they are willing to offer in the future, which may or may not include flexible panels. Camp-Inn could purchase a large number of panels, put their own logo on them and resell them at a huge markup. They would not even have to modify the panel. Why bother with the inventory and shipping when it is just as easy for their customers to buy their own panel at the size they want, using the technology they prefer and deploy them the way they want to. In addition Camp-Inn supports both panels with and without controllers. It would be nice to be able to bypass the controller if you have that option but this is actually easy to work around.
Depending on what your need is I would find a large panel that comes with a cigarette plug. If it has a controller, just plug it into the DC jack in the galley.
Also, don’t forget to check out some of the flexible or folding flexible panels, they are getting cheaper and for tear drops, they make a lot of sense.
Depending on what your need is I would find a large panel that comes with a cigarette plug. If it has a controller, just plug it into the DC jack in the galley.
Also, don’t forget to check out some of the flexible or folding flexible panels, they are getting cheaper and for tear drops, they make a lot of sense.
Kelly said:
Despite my "complaints" on this issue (which were mostly based on my incompetence with all things electrical....):
CampInn's approach gives you more flexibility than Little Guy's approach, and flexibility is always better for the consumer.
Pretty much everyone agrees that you have enough capacity if you buy an 80W panel. If you want to play it safe, buy a panel larger than 80W (as I did). Yes, it's overkill, but that overkill barely costs anything, especially if you spread that cost over a year or two (or more).
You can research this to death (as I was), but that is a waste of time, IMO. Is it really worth researching for 100 hours to save $100? Not to me. Now, if you enjoy that research, more power to you.
But my time (and yours) is worth far more than $1/hour.I bought a panel because, (a) I wanted a backup system to power my battery, and (b) I did not want to mess with a generator, and (c) the delta between the cost of a generator and the cost of a solar solution was "worth it" to me. Other folks have different decisionmaking approaches, which is fine.
My advice? First, figure out if you are going to load your electrical system with all sorts of stuff in addition to the lights and fridge. If you are going to blend margaritas every day, it would be better to figure that out sooner rather than later. Second, go buy a Zamp panel, refurbished, that is sufficient for the load and will fit in your tow vehicle.
Nothing against NEW Zamp panels, but the refurbd are just so cheap, and they are basically brand new.
Wiring the CampInn DC solar outlet (on the side) to avoid the onboard controller is EASY. Just do it. My wife and I did it in about 15 minutes, and that was because we went VERY SLOWLY to be sure we did it right. Anyone versed in electrical work would have it done in less than 10 minutes.
Or buy a panel that needs a separate controller.
see? Easy.
-Al
I am also on the hunt for a solar panel. I like this because it folds and has a protective nylon bag although I believe the weight may be an issue.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/120-Watt-1...US_Rechargeable_Batteries&hash=item4abb3cc0cd
http://www.ebay.com/itm/120-Watt-1...US_Rechargeable_Batteries&hash=item4abb3cc0cd
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Joan said:
Looks like the Zamp panel weighs about the same as this one, but the info about this panel is unclear, as it says "for 1 panel"....??
I like the Zamp carrying case better, as the Zamp case is padded and looks sturdier/more protective. Carrying case may be the most important aspect!!
They are both MONO panels, so performance should be similar.
The Zamp guys were great to deal with, which is a benefit. Not sure who you are buying from when it's over the web. But I don't mean any disrespect to the folks selling the panel you posted about. They may be great.
Maybe do a little googling on the sunpowerlink and see if there are solid reviews?
-Al
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David Olson
Novice
Kelly said:
I guess I don't see what is so frustrating about the solar issue.
We ordered our 560 with the solar wiring option. We bought a 95 watt panel, and the MC4 cables just plugged the cables into the panel, wired the cables into the plug that CI provides (take your time to get connections right, also wire size needs to be reduced, no big deal) and just plug into side of CI wahla ready to go. If I can do it, any novice can do it.
Hi, Kelly...
I too am finding the solar issue to be quite frustrating. I talked to "Mike" (Tech Rep at ZAMP.) Mike's recomendation was to connect the the ZS-40-P directly to the teardrop batteries and bypass the Teardrop regulator.
Mike
Zamp Solar
Bend, Oregon
541-728-0924 www.zampsolar.com
As of this time, I've made no decisions about solar EXCEPT that what I get will be portable.
I was cautioned that Solar Units are a high thieft item.
I too am finding the solar issue to be quite frustrating. I talked to "Mike" (Tech Rep at ZAMP.) Mike's recomendation was to connect the the ZS-40-P directly to the teardrop batteries and bypass the Teardrop regulator.
Mike
Zamp Solar
Bend, Oregon
541-728-0924 www.zampsolar.com
As of this time, I've made no decisions about solar EXCEPT that what I get will be portable.
I was cautioned that Solar Units are a high thieft item.
As "the wife", I will say that I was able to do it with Craig's great instructions, smaller fingers, and the ability to get my head INSIDE the right upper storage compartment so that I could see the solar controller up close (I'm glad we didn't take a picture of that action). The controller was successfully bypassed so we could use the Zamp panel, but reconnect if we get a panel in the future that doesn't have a built-in controller. It was such a relief to discover that the panel kept ahead of the fridge draw during our 2-week trip to Utah in April. All the research was worth it for that peace of mind. Thanks to everyone for their input!
Kelly
Novice
The frustrations with taking the "solar plunge" only partly relate to the wiring issue. I am well aware that the panel can be tested for suitability before I pull out the carving knife. It will not be my first time playing electrician. This does not change my stance, however, on my wish for CI solar systems to be "ready-to-go".
It has been my long-standing preference to go with a portable soft folding solar panel. I cannot waltz into a store in Canada to pick up these gems - my guess is that is most likely the case in the USA too. So, that leaves me with purchasing a unit online. I have come close a couple of times to placing an order for a solar panel. Moments before pressing the "confirm order" button though I checked out the companies addresses on Google Maps. In both cases I found the businesses were actually being run out of someone's home. Now, am I going to take a chance on buying a folding solar panel(s) online, shelling out between $1,200 to $1,700 plus exchange/shipping, trusting a company that is being run out of someone's basement and cross my fingers hoping that: a) I receive the product; b) it is not a knock-off; and c) the company will stand behind it's product (especially if it doesn't perform as hoped and needs to be returned)? Umm, let me think about that for a second - NOPE!
High price + high risk = converting fridge/freezer unit into an icebox when necessary or reducing solar panel expectations. It is, of course, out of Camp-Inn's control that folding solar panels (which is in keeping with these teeny tiny trailers) are very costly. I am not suggesting that it is - so please don't jump on that bandwagon.
I did break down and order a 55 watt hard solar panel system from Costco, but I already know that it will not produce the power I need, will take up too much space, and will be more onerous to prevent damage to the panels themselves(as it doesn't come with a protective case). It will most likely be returned.
It has been my long-standing preference to go with a portable soft folding solar panel. I cannot waltz into a store in Canada to pick up these gems - my guess is that is most likely the case in the USA too. So, that leaves me with purchasing a unit online. I have come close a couple of times to placing an order for a solar panel. Moments before pressing the "confirm order" button though I checked out the companies addresses on Google Maps. In both cases I found the businesses were actually being run out of someone's home. Now, am I going to take a chance on buying a folding solar panel(s) online, shelling out between $1,200 to $1,700 plus exchange/shipping, trusting a company that is being run out of someone's basement and cross my fingers hoping that: a) I receive the product; b) it is not a knock-off; and c) the company will stand behind it's product (especially if it doesn't perform as hoped and needs to be returned)? Umm, let me think about that for a second - NOPE!
High price + high risk = converting fridge/freezer unit into an icebox when necessary or reducing solar panel expectations. It is, of course, out of Camp-Inn's control that folding solar panels (which is in keeping with these teeny tiny trailers) are very costly. I am not suggesting that it is - so please don't jump on that bandwagon.
I did break down and order a 55 watt hard solar panel system from Costco, but I already know that it will not produce the power I need, will take up too much space, and will be more onerous to prevent damage to the panels themselves(as it doesn't come with a protective case). It will most likely be returned.
Kelly - a CampInn teardrop IS solar ready; even if you don't get the solar kit.
Without the CampInn solar kit, you can plug your solar panel in to any of the DC outlets and it will charge the battery, PROVIDED your panel has a controller on board.
If you solar panel does NOT have a controller on board, then you need a controller between the panel and the battery. CampInn, at the factory, will install a controller and an additional DC port, so that you can plug your controller-free solar panel in to your teardrop.
The only "complication" is when you want to use the DC outlet that is on the exterior of the td, which has the controller on it, to a solar panel that also has a controller on it. I can't really "blame" CampInn for installing an accessory that I requested, when I want to use that accessory differently than when I requested it.
The LAST thing I want is for CampInn to limit my solar panel choice. I have FULL flexibility, now.
I agree that I'd rather buy a solar panel from a company that will stand behind it, rather than off the internet from someone working out of their home. But as items become commodities, it's less likely that you can get that support. I find that most people want the support, but they also want the lowest price. Hard to get both, in my exerience.
-Al
Without the CampInn solar kit, you can plug your solar panel in to any of the DC outlets and it will charge the battery, PROVIDED your panel has a controller on board.
If you solar panel does NOT have a controller on board, then you need a controller between the panel and the battery. CampInn, at the factory, will install a controller and an additional DC port, so that you can plug your controller-free solar panel in to your teardrop.
The only "complication" is when you want to use the DC outlet that is on the exterior of the td, which has the controller on it, to a solar panel that also has a controller on it. I can't really "blame" CampInn for installing an accessory that I requested, when I want to use that accessory differently than when I requested it.
The LAST thing I want is for CampInn to limit my solar panel choice. I have FULL flexibility, now.
I agree that I'd rather buy a solar panel from a company that will stand behind it, rather than off the internet from someone working out of their home. But as items become commodities, it's less likely that you can get that support. I find that most people want the support, but they also want the lowest price. Hard to get both, in my exerience.
-Al
p.s. The UL panels are POLYcrystalline, and the Zamp panels are MONOcrystalline
just an FYI/FWIW
the costs seem to be comparable. The UL website prices are for only the panel, and you also need the controller, the mounting/tilt kit (depending on if you r mounting it on a roof or just putting it on the ground); extra cabling.
By the time you make the UL panel equal to the Zamp kit, I think you are in the same price range, but Zamp also gives you a padded case.
But Zamp only sells panels with controllers, I think. That may be wrong, as maybe it is only the "kits" that have the controllers on board.
-Al
just an FYI/FWIW
the costs seem to be comparable. The UL website prices are for only the panel, and you also need the controller, the mounting/tilt kit (depending on if you r mounting it on a roof or just putting it on the ground); extra cabling.
By the time you make the UL panel equal to the Zamp kit, I think you are in the same price range, but Zamp also gives you a padded case.
But Zamp only sells panels with controllers, I think. That may be wrong, as maybe it is only the "kits" that have the controllers on board.
-Al
My wife and I just returned from camping in Southern Oregon where I had a test of solar panels. I had a Zamp 60 watt panel and Joan yes Joan from this forum had her 100 watt panel. After a day of use running the Dometic refigerator Joan had gained about .5 amp from her starting point and I had lost about .5 amp. Since I only had a 60 watt panel I called Zamp and asked what they had in their spare parts bin and quess what they sold me another used panel that they got back from a Dealer demo and I will be able to double my power for very little $. Great job Zamp. Also for those considering solar go at least 80amp if you plan on haveing a refigerator. Dave
Argh-Argh.... (A La Tim 'The Tool Man" Allen
More Power... I think I'm catching the solar but. Yesterday up at the PSE Wild Horse Wind Turbine farm and cleared up some questions I had about "Solar in Seattle" aka clouds/rain. He confirmed that clouds don't really matter,just rain drops... so??? Off I go... thinking when I should be traveling... Do two things at once..heheh.. ok...
More Power... I think I'm catching the solar but. Yesterday up at the PSE Wild Horse Wind Turbine farm and cleared up some questions I had about "Solar in Seattle" aka clouds/rain. He confirmed that clouds don't really matter,just rain drops... so??? Off I go... thinking when I should be traveling... Do two things at once..heheh.. ok...