Solar panel roof install question.

[gonzor57]

So I bought a Renogy 200W kit. Thought that I might use C channels, and hinges on both sides of the panels, possibly with removable pins so I can raise the panels to attain maximum exposure.


Any positive or negative thoughts?
TY!



2017 24RBS

[Kevin Cooper]

For 200 watts, I’m thinking it’s not worth the cost, or the trouble of getting on the roof twice every time you want to get a few more watts. RV roofs are not made to be walked on a lot.

[RogerR]

I installed mine with the provided legs and they have not failed me as I travel mostly in Colorado and surrounding areas and shade is not that bad. Also, demand is the driver and I primarily use 12 volts for lights, pump and furnace so I have seen my lithium back full every day with 200 watts of solar.

I agree that unless you park some where for a long time getting on the roof and adjusting them would be a lot of work. I want to spend my time hiking, etc.

[ARoamer]

My thoughts. Yes, much more power produced if pointed directly into the sun. Our flat mounted panels output roughly 1/3 less in the winter due to low sun angle. Not all campsites allow proper orientation for a 2 way tilt, and a 4 way tilt would be complicated and heavier. Trees can be a issue also. You could lay them out on the ground and use them awhile to check if performance is adequate before investing time and $ on a tilt system you might not use. Possible options- Make a stand and use them as portables. If output isn't enough, mount them flat and purchase another panel as a portable. Or buy another panel and flat mount it with the others to make up the loss.

[dvspl]

Originally Posted by ARoamer

My thoughts. Yes, much more power produced if pointed directly into the sun. Our flat mounted panels output roughly 1/3 less in the winter due to low sun angle. Not all campsites allow proper orientation for a 2 way tilt, and a 4 way tilt would be complicated and heavier. Trees can be a issue also. You could lay them out on the ground and use them awhile to check if performance is adequate before investing time and $ on a tilt system you might not use. Possible options- Make a stand and use them as portables. If output isn't enough, mount them flat and purchase another panel as a portable. Or buy another panel and flat mount it with the others to make up the loss.

I don't have any solar panels yet, but have been researching the possibilities. I'm old enough to avoid climbing on the roof unless I have to. When I do put solar on the roof, I'll just buy more than I had planned and leave them flat all the time. Extra panels are cheap enough that it's not worth the time/trouble to try tilting them, in my opinion.

[retroboy1989]

Originally Posted by dvspl

I don't have any solar panels yet, but have been researching the possibilities. I'm old enough to avoid climbing on the roof unless I have to. When I do put solar on the roof, I'll just buy more than I had planned and leave them flat all the time. Extra panels are cheap enough that it's not worth the time/trouble to try tilting them, in my opinion.

I don't have a ladder or a desire to get on my roof. I went with 400w mounted flat to make up for the less-than-optimal mounting orientation. Two in the front, two in the rear. Series wiring in pairs, parallel for the two sets for about 40V and 10A PV.

After a night of heavy use, my batteries are back to float by lunch.

[Rihana]

Did you figure it out? It sounds like a smart plan for your portable solar panel setup. Using C channels, hinges, and removable pins can offer flexibility and adjustability for maximizing sun exposure. This setup can allow you to adapt to different conditions and optimize energy generation. Just ensure that the hinges and pins are sturdy and the panels are securely attached to mitigate any potential drawbacks.

[gonzor57]

Thanks for your thoughts/replies. I am going with fixed mounts directly on the roof, I'm in agreement about doing more hiking and less stair climbing. I have 4 6V agm batteries that will be installed on the rear corner where the sink/stove are and will eliminate the front battery. Going to connect in series as two 12v and separated with a switch (B1-off-B2), that way I have extra AH to use. Still in the process of figuring out a few more things. Gotta contact Renogy (solar questions) and Jayco (wire schematics).

[gonzor57]

Short video of an install on a Jayco. 10 panels. In another video it shows an AC mod, replaced roof unit with a split mounted in the rear.
https://youtu.be/50Lbt-q9Cys?si=Q6vlcWTZCYyIDMek