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Thoughts on the harbor freight solar panel kit?

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1:19 am
April 29, 2010


Nick

Delavan Wisconsin

Admin

posts 70

 
1

What do you guys think about the harbor freight solar panel kit. it comes with 3, 15 watt solar panels, a charge controller, mount framework, two 12v flourescent lights.

 

 

8:55 pm
May 27, 2010


Ageless

W. WA state

Member

posts 31

 
2

I have one here;  waiting for the sun. I modified the mounting framework to make it a rigid unit. After the gathering next weekend; I'll get it outside for testing.

Strangers on this road we are on; we are not two, we are one – Ray Davies

11:41 pm
June 4, 2010


Ageless

W. WA state

Member

posts 31

 
3

New HF flyer; it'sdown to $170 with added 20% off coupon

Strangers on this road we are on; we are not two, we are one – Ray Davies

9:36 am
June 5, 2010


Nick

Delavan Wisconsin

Admin

posts 70

 
4

ah I just got the paper yesterday they said its 159 on sale!

I might buy it to set out for additional charging since my main panels will be mounted to roof of the camper and to do a review for the site.

 

11:49 am
September 30, 2010


Grant Wagner

Deerfield IL

Member

posts 10

 
5

I know this post is quite old now, but I picked up one of these last November as a black thursday gift to myself. It's an easy entry into solar energy, but all in all, you can do much better.

 

At the time I ought it, $5 watt for solar was a standard price, but cost have long since dropped. That makes this kit expensive and not nearlly a good value.

 

The frame is pretty weak. You must secure it to a surface or else it will fall apart. It only holds on to the panels with a steel lip across the bottom. It's also unadjustable. When I bought mine, I considered it a free extra, but compared to current costs, I can't do that anymore.

 

The "Charge Controller" is little more than a few voltage switches and an automotive style socket. While it does provide all expected safety features, if you put in more than one kit worth of solar, even a small good charge controller will make up it's cost in energy savings. It does have some alternative power outputs, including a usb connector, but the step downs on these seem to use up a lot of power. They drop the voltage quickly.

 

Finally, I never used the CFLs. They were a cold institutional blue color, and after 5 minutes, they had to go. There are numerous alternatives to use.

11:42 am
October 1, 2010


Nick

Delavan Wisconsin

Admin

posts 70

 
6

gah that blue light can drive you crazy heh.

i've actually been using candels for light the past week and leaving the led lights off. it is a nice change.

and it also is able to take the edge off the cold for the fall months in here without firing up a big heater.

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