Help for Solar System selection

[desertvince]

I'm sure in Tucson there is local expertise, but I have not found it yet. Been to several RV Dealer Service Dept.'s, including the nation's largest--not impressed with RV Solar System knowledge!!!!!!!!!!!
I've read many of the helpful posts here on irv2, and the helpful book "The Complete Book of Boondock RVing" by Bill and Jan Moeller.
I believe that I would like to HAVE installed three panel (85-115 watts each), Controller, and upgraded battery moniter. I would like to avoid replacing my Dimensions 2000 watt Inverter/Charger. I believe that I want Monocrystalline cell panel and a Controller with Multistage charging to include MPPT. Now the questions: I've received a local recommendation to purchase an Energy Del So Flexible RV Mat (68 watts, 8 amps, 12.9 volts) for $599.98. Any reader have experience with this product? It is NOT a Monocrystalline cell product. I would need 4 or 5 of these Mats (panels)--doesn't sound like economical solution.
So other product recommendations? Tucson or maybe Phoenix installation expertise? Thanks in advance!

[Ed-Sommers]

If you pay more than three dollars a watt now days, you've paid too much. I suggest asking around on 12VDC_Power : 12 VDC Power

Ed

[rorr1821]

Quote:

Originally Posted by desertvince I'm sure in Tucson there is local expertise, but I have not found it yet. Been to several RV Dealer Service Dept.'s, including the nation's largest--not impressed with RV Solar System knowledge!!!!!!!!!!! I've read many of the helpful posts here on irv2, and the helpful book "The Complete Book of Boondock RVing" by Bill and Jan Moeller. I believe that I would like to HAVE installed three panel (85-115 watts each), Controller, and upgraded battery moniter. I would like to avoid replacing my Dimensions 2000 watt Inverter/Charger. I believe that I want Monocrystalline cell panel and a Controller with Multistage charging to include MPPT. Now the questions: I've received a local recommendation to purchase an Energy Del So Flexible RV Mat (68 watts, 8 amps, 12.9 volts) for $599.98. Any reader have experience with this product? It is NOT a Monocrystalline cell product. I would need 4 or 5 of these Mats (panels)--doesn't sound like economical solution. So other product recommendations? Tucson or maybe Phoenix installation expertise? Thanks in advance!

I am also looking at solar for my motorhome. I have talked with a company in OR called AM Solar. They have a web site www.amsolar.com. Based on my preliminary search I am looking at initially 2 100 watt panels. The type controller is very important part of a good sytem. I am being told the MPPT type controllers is the best choice like TS-MPPT-45 or HPV-22B. I am going to use 6 guage wire which will provide less residance and allow for future expansion. You will also need a combiner box. Installing a solar system is not that difficult once you make a installation plan. One thing for sure I would not use an RV dealer. I would go to a company who specializes in solar. In AZ there is a company at www.solar-electric.com which is Wind and Sun Co. The more you talk with these companies you find out little things like" locationing the controller near the battery bank makes for a more efficience system". Also go to web site www.jackdanmayer.com/rv_electrical_and_solar.htm for an indepth discussion about solar.

Happy trails.