Solar Panel for car

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DaveNF2G

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More than one vehicle, new and old batteries have run down within a few hours with an inverter running.

I might have to put a generator in the van. Eventually I will need to power a small fridge and other light appliances.

Maybe I should look into how they keep all that stuff running in motor homes...
 

Russell

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Check out RV equipment. They have all kinds of stuff that runs directly on 12VDC including refrigerators, televisions, computers, lights, etc. you name it and there's probably a 12 volt version. Also, when running that stuff two batteries are recommended. One to start the car and the other to run the other stuff - usually a deep cycle marine battery. Very cool equipment. Generator and solar equipment is common.

Excellent thread going here.

Russell
 

nanZor

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One way to deal with a battery designed for starting a car and put into constant current drain service (not recommended), is to derate it by 90 percent. Thus what may be the equivalent of a 75ah battery in your car, should be treated like it is only a 7.5 ah battery. Start the car, or immediately recharge after your session. You can get away with more, but you will be hurting the battery.

If your car battery is rated only in CCA, see if the manufacturer provides a 20-hour rating to get a better idea, and then derate that by 90 percent.

"Marine" batteries are hybrids, but are still primarily designed for starting services, with plates that are a little bit thicker for occasional constant current draw. You can choose these, but given the choice, opt for the TRUE deep-cycle types. Your wallet will thank you in the long run as you will be replacing marine batteries much faster than if you chose a true deep-cycle in the first place. Choosing Sealed lead-acid AGM types instead also means that you can use them indoors and not have to worry about spilling/splashing electrolyte etc.

Conversely, deep-cycle batteries can also be put into service for vehicle starting services, but you should figure in an additional 20 percent for the ah rating.

In the end, choose the right battery for the right job.
 
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loumaag

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Thread Unstuck

This thread was originally "stuck" based on a request and due to the current activity and useful information being put forth. The last pertinent post to the thread was made on 5/12, so it serves no purpose to remain stuck.

I will agree that the information contained herein is useful and I would suggest that the information be collated in from the various posts and an article be prepared for the RR Wiki.
 

E-Man

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E-Man

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Without spending alot of money, I do not know if you would be happy going the Solar Route? Perhaps another option would be something like the Priority Start:

PriorityStart Battery Saver - Stop Dead Batteries on Cars & Boats [Priority Start! Battery Protector]

This would protect your battery from being drained.

Or as already mentioned, something like:

http://www.amazon.com/Clore-Automot...JLP6/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1338495967&sr=8-3

Would allow you to restart your car, if you drained your battery and other options with the 12v outlet.
 
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