[Rhodes22-list] Solar Cell Replacement/Charger

[Bob Keller]

Al,
I have one for both.  Have not had a problem since Rummy & I installed it probably 8 years ago.
BK
 

> From: al_shell at tampabay.rr.com
> To: rhodes22-list at rhodes22.org
> Date: Mon, 31 Oct 2011 22:02:11 -0400
> Subject: Re: [Rhodes22-list] Solar Cell Replacement/Charger
> 
> Thanks all for the great info. I'll check the panels this weekend for
> the output voltage with a multimeter. I saw a charge controller at West
> Marine that fits the description of the one below. Can one charge
> controller handle both GB solar panels (parallel ?) to both batteries or
> do I need one charge controller per panel per battery? Either way, $60
> is not a bad deal to keep the batteries charged properly.
> 
> Thanks again for the great advice.
> Al
> Mishka 01
> 
> On Mon, 2011-10-31 at 15:41 -0400, Rick wrote:
> > I second the need for a charge controller. I found even a 3 watt charge at
> > the high voltage produced by the solar panel mid summer kills the battery.
> > 
> > Just be sure when hooking the battery to the solar panel circuit that no
> > charge is coming off the panel. A seat cushion covering the panel assures
> > the controller correctly calibrates when hooked up to the battery.
> > 
> > Rick
> > 
> > On Mon, Oct 31, 2011 at 10:34 AM, <R22RumRunner at aol.com> wrote:
> > 
> > > Al,
> > > You definitely need a charge controller. I helped Capt. Keller install one
> > > on his Rhodes. Prior to that he was going through batteries on a regular
> > > basis. Now with the controller they don't over charge or discharge when
> > > it's
> > > cloudy. The cheapest one is around thirty bucks and will handle panels up
> > > to 100 watts, or 7 amps.
> > > I would test the current solar cells to see if they are still functioning.
> > > Newer cells might be more efficient if yours are really old. Size and
> > > output are all that matters. I'm sure Stan would be willing to help you
> > > out, but
> > > there are other outlets. Solar panels for marine installations have
> > > connections that are built to withstand the marine environment.
> > >
> > > Rummy
> > >
> > >
> > > In a message dated 10/29/2011 9:32:40 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time,
> > > al_shell at tampabay.rr.com writes:
> > >
> > > Hello All,
> > >
> > > Mishka, our 2001 Rhodes, has been on her trailer far too long.
> > > Fortunately, I have had the Rhodes list to keep me engaged! I am now
> > > working on her project list and have a target date of late summer next
> > > year to be sailing again.
> > >
> > > I have many questions but power and wiring are first on the list.
> > >
> > > The solar panels have been in the weather since we bought her from Stan
> > > and likely need to be replaced. I wonder if anyone can tell me what
> > > make/wattage the solar panels are that Stan provides as original
> > > equipment. And where they can be had. Does GB sell them? Cost? Maybe
> > > they don't need to be replaced?
> > >
> > > Also, has anyone had experience with any solar cell charger/controllers
> > > on the market. I understand that they keep a battery better charged for
> > > longer life.
> > >
> > > Thanks in advance,
> > >
> > > Al
> > > s/v Mishka 01
> > >
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