solar power trickle charger

[Michael Wallach]

I am considering adding a solar panel to keep the batteries on my 1992 Hunter 33.5 "topped off". Any suggestions on preferred makes/models of solar panel and preferred arrangement for connecting the panel to the electrical system would be appreciated. Also, where is the preferred mounting location (it looks to me to be on top of the sea hood). Any information/comments?

 

[Ed Schenck]

Couple of places are. . . .

1) the Forum Archives here on HOW, should find lots of hits with "solar" as search argument; 2) SailNet has had a few articles, see www.sailnet.com and open "View Last 25 Articles"; 3) check a solar web-site like www.siemenssolar.com.

 

[Roger Mummah]

Solar Panel Info

Hi Michael Wallach, We use two 55W Siemens SM55 solar panels, but they do way more than trickle charge the batteries. We have NEVER had a problem with the Siemans panels and highly recommend them. I have a friend who runs an e-business that specializes in marine electrical stuff including solar panels and battery conditioning stuff. There is a lot of info on Siemens, Kyocera, etc solar panels on the site as well as info on mounts, controlers and pictures of some custom installations. You can check out the site at www.e-marine-inc.com Drop my name to Joe and he'll double the prices. Good luck with your trickle. Roger Mummahs/v Endless Summer (H31 #58)