| Author | Message | ||
| Debo Cox (Debo)
Registered Member Username: Debo Post Number: 20 Registered: 1-2009 Posted From: 149.168.204.10  Rating: N/A |
I've been considering using fixed, roof-mounted solar panels to supplement my battery-charging efforts in my MC9 conversion and am curious about the "survivability" of them in an application like this. They're used in houses all the time so it would seem to make sense, but I've also seen hail that has put big, golfball-size dents in car hoods while living in Texas. Anyone care to share any real-world experiences? Would I be better served to have a small portable (but less desirable) setup? I guess I could just park under a bridge during a storm. (That's a joke fellas.) Thanks! | ||
| Glenn Williams (Glenn)
Registered Member Username: Glenn Post Number: 257 Registered: 6-2006 Posted From: 216.163.57.219  Rating: N/A |
The solar panels are pretty stout. They get used on construction road signs all the time. In a serious hail storm they could get damaged, but so would the rest of the bus. I wouldn't worry about it. It's why we pay for insurance. Let us know how the installation goes! | ||
| Jim Wallin (Powderseeker01)
Registered Member Username: Powderseeker01 Post Number: 68 Registered: 10-2008 Posted From: 208.68.48.77  Rating: N/A |
In order to get UL approval, solar panels are required to survive simulated hail storm conditions, and in the event of a failure they must maintain their structural integrity. | ||
| Debo Cox (Debo)
Registered Member Username: Debo Post Number: 22 Registered: 1-2009 Posted From: 65.164.195.228 Rating: N/A |
Thanks guys. Good info. I'm going to try to minimize the time I have to spend with the genny running when boondocking. I'm planning on an all electric coach at this point, but my needs are pretty minimal. Thanks again. | ||
| Debbie and Joe Cannarozzi (Joe_camper)
Registered Member Username: Joe_camper Post Number: 207 Registered: 10-2006 Posted From: 99.23.150.99 Rating: N/A |
I am wondering. Would hail be harder on a panel that was lying flat compared to one that is on a 45degree angle? Are they just as strong mounted on a flat roof? I do not know. Do they get tested lying flat? |