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Old 12-16-2015, 10:56 PM   #1
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Replacing old solar panel

My motorhome game with a basic 40W solar panel mounted on the roof. Over the years it is requiring replacement.

My question is: Can I upgrade to a larger wattage? Say 100W or 200W panel. Would this require any additional controllers or ?

FYI - I have an 2000W Xantrex Freedom 458 Inverter/Charger
House batteries are in good condition. 4 (6V) Interstate Deep Cycle

I appreciate any information. Eventually I will be Boondocking more and look to a full system upgrade, but right now just looking for the basic replacement. Thx
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Old 12-16-2015, 11:16 PM   #2
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The existing 40w panel likely has little or nothing for a controller. A 100-200w panel will require a appropriately rated controller.
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Old 12-17-2015, 03:05 AM   #3
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Controllers carry an amp rating as vsheetz noted. If you already have a controller, check its rating (should be on the controller). You really have to get quite a bit on the roof, before amp output is an issue, until you go big.

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Old 12-17-2015, 11:58 AM   #4
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the major thing to check is the existing wire size from pv to controller. most likely it's 14 or 12 gauge. if you want to use it, you can use high voltage panels (native or connect them in series), like 48v or higher, then 200 or even 400w is of no problem.

as above said, check the controller what it is. recommend to get a mppt controller (some of the chinese mppt controllers on ebay are decent. i bought a 20a mppt controller from ebay couple years ago and it worked nicely until last year i bought a midnite when i upgraded my entire system).

good luck on your project.
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Old 12-17-2015, 08:17 PM   #5
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Quote:
Originally Posted by vsheetz View Post
The existing 40w panel likely has little or nothing for a controller. A 100-200w panel will require a appropriately rated controller.
OK...that makes sense. Your correct the only indication about the solar panel is a green light on the monitor panel in side the MH. So, I will add that to the list. Thank you, and Happy Holidays.
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Old 12-25-2015, 09:43 AM   #6
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Question - Is there a proper way to dispose of spent solar panels?
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