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- - Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? (http://goldismoney.info/forums/showthread.php?t=384028)

<SLV> | 06-17-2009 04:13 PM
Where are the best prices on solar power equipment? I don't know much about solar power equipment, but I have been told (after analyzing my expected usage) that the following system meets my needs: <TABLE style="WIDTH: 429pt; BORDER-COLLAPSE: collapse" cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=571 border=0 x:str><COLGROUP><COL style="WIDTH: 225pt; mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 8533" width=300><COL style="WIDTH: 32pt; mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1223" width=43><COL style="WIDTH: 92pt; mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 3470" width=122><COL style="WIDTH: 80pt; mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 3015" width=106><TBODY><TR style="HEIGHT: 15pt" height=20><TD class=xl70 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; WIDTH: 225pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; HEIGHT: 15pt; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffcc99" width=300 height=20>DESCRIPTION</TD><TD class=xl70 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 32pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffcc99" width=43>#</TD><TD class=xl70 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 92pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffcc99" width=122>PRICE</TD><TD class=xl70 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; WIDTH: 80pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffcc99" width=106>TOTAL</TD></TR><TR style="HEIGHT: 15pt" height=20><TD class=xl63 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; HEIGHT: 15pt; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" height=20>Mitsubishi 120 Watt Solar Modules</TD><TD class=xl64 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num>4</TD><TD class=xl66 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="630">$ 630.00 </TD><TD class=xl67 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="2520" x:fmla="=SUM(B2*C2)">$ 2,520.00 </TD></TR><TR style="HEIGHT: 15pt" height=20><TD class=xl63 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; HEIGHT: 15pt; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" height=20>Top Of Pole Mount - 4X</TD><TD class=xl64 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num>1</TD><TD class=xl66 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="525">$ 525.00 </TD><TD class=xl67 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="525" x:fmla="=SUM(B3*C3)">$ 525.00 </TD></TR><TR style="HEIGHT: 15pt" height=20><TD class=xl63 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; HEIGHT: 15pt; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" height=20>MC Quick Connects</TD><TD class=xl64 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num>8</TD><TD class=xl66 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="18.25">$ 18.25 </TD><TD class=xl67 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="146" x:fmla="=SUM(B4*C4)">$ 146.00 </TD></TR><TR style="HEIGHT: 15pt" height=20><TD class=xl63 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; HEIGHT: 15pt; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" height=20>Combiner Box</TD><TD class=xl64 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num>1</TD><TD class=xl66 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="159">$ 159.00 </TD><TD class=xl67 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="159" x:fmla="=SUM(B5*C5)">$ 159.00 </TD></TR><TR style="HEIGHT: 15pt" height=20><TD class=xl63 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; HEIGHT: 15pt; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" height=20>OutBack Breakers</TD><TD class=xl64 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num>4</TD><TD class=xl66 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="18">$ 18.00 </TD><TD class=xl67 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="72" x:fmla="=SUM(B6*C6)">$ 72.00 </TD></TR><TR style="HEIGHT: 15pt" height=20><TD class=xl63 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; HEIGHT: 15pt; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" height=20>Deka L16 Batteries 350 Amps 6 Volts</TD><TD class=xl64 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num>4</TD><TD class=xl66 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="225">$ 225.00 </TD><TD class=xl67 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="900" x:fmla="=SUM(B7*C7)">$ 900.00 </TD></TR><TR style="HEIGHT: 15pt" height=20><TD class=xl63 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; HEIGHT: 15pt; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" height=20>Xantrex 1500 Watt Inverter</TD><TD class=xl64 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num>1</TD><TD class=xl66 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="880">$ 880.00 </TD><TD class=xl67 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="880" x:fmla="=SUM(B8*C8)">$ 880.00 </TD></TR><TR style="HEIGHT: 15pt" height=20><TD class=xl63 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; HEIGHT: 15pt; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" height=20>Conduit Box</TD><TD class=xl64 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num>1</TD><TD class=xl66 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="250">$ 250.00 </TD><TD class=xl67 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="250" x:fmla="=SUM(B9*C9)">$ 250.00 </TD></TR><TR style="HEIGHT: 15pt" height=20><TD class=xl63 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; HEIGHT: 15pt; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" height=20>DC Disconnect Box and Bonding Bar</TD><TD class=xl64 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num>1</TD><TD class=xl66 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="400">$ 400.00 </TD><TD class=xl67 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="400" x:fmla="=SUM(B10*C10)">$ 400.00 </TD></TR><TR style="HEIGHT: 15pt" height=20><TD class=xl63 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; HEIGHT: 15pt; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" height=20>Xantrex 35 Amp Charge Controller/Meter</TD><TD class=xl64 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num>1</TD><TD class=xl66 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="218">$ 218.00 </TD><TD class=xl67 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="218" x:fmla="=SUM(B11*C11)">$ 218.00 </TD></TR><TR style="HEIGHT: 15pt" height=20><TD class=xl63 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; HEIGHT: 15pt; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" height=20>60 Amp Breaker for Controller</TD><TD class=xl64 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num>2</TD><TD class=xl66 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="39">$ 39.00 </TD><TD class=xl67 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="78" x:fmla="=SUM(B12*C12)">$ 78.00 </TD></TR><TR style="HEIGHT: 15pt" height=20><TD class=xl63 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; HEIGHT: 15pt; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" height=20>Battery Cables</TD><TD class=xl64 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num>8</TD><TD class=xl66 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="16">$ 16.00 </TD><TD class=xl67 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="128" x:fmla="=SUM(B13*C13)">$ 128.00 </TD></TR><TR style="HEIGHT: 15pt" height=20><TD class=xl63 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; HEIGHT: 15pt; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" height=20>Inverter Cables</TD><TD class=xl64 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num>1</TD><TD class=xl66 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="150">$ 150.00 </TD><TD class=xl67 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext; BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" x:num="150" x:fmla="=SUM(B14*C14)">$ 150.00 </TD></TR><TR style="HEIGHT: 15pt" height=20><TD style="BORDER-RIGHT: #d4d0c8; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; BORDER-LEFT: #d4d0c8; BORDER-BOTTOM: #d4d0c8; HEIGHT: 15pt; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent" height=20></TD><TD class=xl65 style="BORDER-RIGHT: #d4d0c8; BORDER-TOP: #d4d0c8; BORDER-LEFT: #d4d0c8; BORDER-BOTTOM: #d4d0c8; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent"></TD><TD class=xl68 style="BORDER-RIGHT: #d4d0c8; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-BOTTOM: #d4d0c8; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffcc99">SUBTOTAL</TD><TD class=xl69 style="BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 0.5pt solid; BORDER-TOP: windowtext; BORDER-LEFT: #d4d0c8; BORDER-BOTTOM: #d4d0c8; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffcc99" x:num="6426" x:fmla="=SUM(D2:D14)">$ 6,426.00 </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE> It is a small system, but we use electricity sparingly. For those who have solar systems, can you tell me the following: 1. Are these quality components? 2. Is the above system well balanced? 3. Would the above system be scalable? 4. Are these prices good, or is there a cheaper place to get them? Thanks!

dupontcobb | 06-17-2009 07:08 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? <SLV> You might want to check out this forum www.solarpowerforum.net, they might help you out. I am just starting looking into solar and wind so I dont know that much. The people on the solarpowerforum are helpful people. You could post this setup and see what they think about it. As for solar panels, this place might be cheaper sunelec.com. I am personally looking into the kyocera panels. I can get a 130 watt, 7.39 Imp, 17.6 Vp for $455.00. I have seen Xantrex 1500 Watt Inverters cheaper than $880. But I dont know exactly which 1500 inverter you are looking at. Is it the portable one, AC to DC inverter, or statpower inverter....? Could you please be more specific which one you had in mind?

Igotyour6 | 06-17-2009 08:55 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? I have two new sets of gell cell 1200 amp hour deep cycle batteries and one used that I planed to put to use on solar panels but did not get that accomplished, if some one is interested in these send me a PM. I can help you load with a forklift and you haul they are about 1600 or 1700 pounds each set, they are in the north western part of Kansas and I would let them go for a trade of a Mosin Nagant rifle per set or some ammo or what ever. They will need to be put on a charger soon, but I checked them the other day and each cell is still good. these can be configured to 24VDC or 48VDC all of these are gone

nub | 06-17-2009 09:51 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? These guys have great prices, check um out here......http://sunelec.com/http://

mick silver | 06-17-2009 10:12 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? tn andy the man to ask about solar stuff

hoarder | 06-17-2009 10:38 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? Quote:
Originally Posted by dupontcobb (Post 1774939) As for solar panels, this place might be cheaper sunelec.com. I am personally looking into the kyocera panels. I can get a 130 watt, 7.39 Imp, 17.6 Vp for $455.00. ?
That's $3.50 a watt! Anything under $5 a watt is fair, that's what I paid 2 years ago. Nothing wrong with kyocera. The most practical way to mount solar panels is on the roof. If your ridge runs east-west (or within 14 degrees) mount them on the south side and forget about them. Much less likely to get stolen than on a tracker.

Tn...Andy | 06-18-2009 06:33 AM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? Thanks Mick....but there are several here with way more experience than me. I'd disagree about the roof mount.....for one thing, you have to have the right facing roof....then you have the problem of mounting without leaks...and the penetration of wiring.....and the problem of removal/re-install if you need a new roof down the road....plus you have to do away with tree shading that lowers summer house temps Overall, I see pole mounts as having far less problems.....whether you use a tracker mount or a fixed mount. About the only thing I can think negative about them is the utility look about them....but even that can be abated somewhat by where you place them.....as for theft....heck, if they are brave enough to steal 'em off a pole, I'd guess a roof won't slow 'em up much..... Overall, SLV....that's a very small system....480w of panels is only going to produce about 300-350 times 5 hours or so, or maybe 1.5 to 2Kw/hrs per day.....so you better have pretty low power requirements. And if by 'scalable' you mean expandable, then, no, not so much.....those panels ( assuming I got the right one by Google ) are 12v nominal panels at about 7amps....which just about maxes out the charge controller...(assuming the panels in parallel, which since they have 4 breakers for the combiner box, I assume is the plan ).....and the inverter is pretty small......so if you start adding much, you immediately have to change both of those. If you think expansion is in the plans, at least go with a larger charge controller and use an MPPT type. ( the one they list may be MPPT....don't know ) Also....doesn't give the specs on the inverter, but again, if 12v, you might want to go with a 24v model.....that would let you switch the panels later from parallel ( 4 at 12v ) to 2 strings of 2 @ 24v, which would give 14amps instead of 28, allowing you to double the number of panels....keep the same combiner box ( but up the breaker size...and now only need 2...and only two sets of MC connectors )....and keep the same charge controller ( assuming it will accept about 36-40v input...check that....my Outback will take up to 150v input )

Fatboy | 06-18-2009 06:52 AM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? Andy is spot on with his roof placement statements. Another disadvantage is the inability to brush snow off of them for those that may have the pleasure of experiencing it. There are days the sun is producing but the folks with them mounted on their roofs are not making power because they are covered in snow. If they were pole mounted, you could brush the snow off of them and be back in business. They are also easier to get to if you had to do work on them. About the only disadvantages that I can see is they may be more suceptable to damage from the lawn mower or kids playing and they take up space in your yard.

hoarder | 06-18-2009 08:12 AM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? Quote:
Originally Posted by Tn...Andy (Post 1775688) I'd disagree about the roof mount.....for one thing, you have to have the right facing roof....then you have the problem of mounting without leaks...and the penetration of wiring.....and the problem of removal/re-install if you need a new roof down the road....plus you have to do away with tree shading that lowers summer house temps
No problem with leaks if it's mounted to a metal roof with thru- bolts with rubber washers. I ran the leads up under the ridge flashing. With a composition roof I see where there could be a problem. With a metal roof you don't worry about removal/reinstall later. They last longer than the house. I see your point about not being able to have trees on the south side of your home. One alternative is to mount panels on your barn or garage. Because of the terrain my panels cannot be seen unless looking for them, which eases my mind when I'm not here. On a 10 in 12 pitch roof I doubt anyone would try to steal them anyway.

Tn...Andy | 06-18-2009 08:21 AM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? There are, no doubt, cases for both. I'm just reminded of this photo when I think roof mount.....ahahahaa...guy that lives in the next county up from us.... I'd think the way to go in that case was make up the connections, THEN do the mount....... ( Their blog: http://www.city-data.com/forum/tenne...tennessee.html Photo is from page 134 ) http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/k...onbrackets.jpg

<SLV> | 06-18-2009 10:25 AM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? Thanks for the tips. I'm building with a south-facing roof plane on a 12/12 pitch (43 degrees north lattitude). I understand that it is an ideal roof around these parts for solar panels. I will have a metal roof, and the structure will not be impeded by trees. I think a roof mount is right in my circumstances. So, can I put the batteries and invertor in my basement, or is that some sort of hazard?

Tn...Andy | 06-18-2009 10:42 AM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? No problem in the basement, but you will need a sealed battery box and vent for it so when they charge, you vent the hydrogen gas off outside. If you use a standing seam type metal roof, there is a company that makes a mounting bracket that attaches to the seam with no penetration of the roof......

dupontcobb | 06-18-2009 12:32 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? Tn-Andy and Fatboy has some valid points about roof mounts. I considered putting some on mine until I saw a picture of a roof that was partically burned because of solar panels. Please keep in mind, it is believed these panels were homemade and either shorted or didnt have enough ventilation to keep them cool. To me, it would an added safety precaution being away from the house in case something went wrong with the panels or if the house caught on fire. Tn-Andy, great picture. It looks like beautiful country.

<SLV> | 06-18-2009 01:08 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? I'm going to the Midwest Renewable Energy Fair in Custer, WI, tomorrow and Saturday. I hope to get in on some great PV workshops. It is the largest fair of its kind in the world, and this is their 20th year. http://www.the-mrea.org/energy_fair.php

Fullpower | 06-18-2009 03:02 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? I have had the worst imaginable customer service from XANTREX, and so I could not recommend any of their equipment. XANTREX will not provide repair parts, and will not give out ANY service information to customers. If you need inexpensive, disposable electronics, they may serve your needs.

nub | 06-18-2009 05:22 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? Quote:
Originally Posted by <SLV> (Post 1776155) I'm going to the Midwest Renewable Energy Fair in Custer, WI, tomorrow and Saturday. I hope to get in on some great PV workshops. It is the largest fair of its kind in the world, and this is their 20th year. http://www.the-mrea.org/energy_fair.php
I've always wanted to go to that, should be a hoot!....say hi to the folks in the HomePower booth. I'm not big on putting panels on roof tops if there's any other way, yes 12/12 pitch roof is good but you'll have extra heat build up and they will be much harder to clean, mine are on a ground mounted rack, low end of panels are about 4' off ground top is about 7' (guessing) when it's time to clean (3-4 times a year) I just hose and squeegee off with a long handled 2' wide squeegee.Aaaaand it will be fun enough just doing a 12/12 pitch metal roof...but it will help to keep your house cool with a nice tall attic, roof lasts longer also, but it's a biotch to work on. also if you have exposed fasteners the wind loads on the panels will elongate the holes from the exposed roofing screws in shorter time than normal. If you do mount on roof......http://www.designbuild-network.com/c...tal-roohttp:// We've used these standing seam roof clamps before their pretty good , there's a few manufacturers to choose from I think they're all probably decent. They make hydro caps for each individual battery that recapture water vapor and decrease hydrogen gas loss, here's one company.....http://discoverpower.com/shop/item.asp?PID=233 Or just put them all in a box and vent it out , just make sure the room has make up air. Wether or not any of our ideas seam helpful at this juncture(we're making it hard for you) at least you'll have plenty of questions for the pros at the fair. Oversize your inverter and controller , you'll be glad you did.....even if you save some money on the panels you'll probably wind up spending it on up-graded equipment, try to do it as "right" as you can afford. Have fun at the fair:23_30_104: Edit to add....of course you have no exposed fasteners , it's a standing seam roof. Don't know what got me talking about exposed fasteners....brain fart.

nub | 06-18-2009 05:30 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? While we're talking solar energy, make sure you use reflective barrier under your metal roof if your in a hot climate.....Astro foil or Low-E to name a couple , they are all comparable. It's the best money you'll ever spend , my house is all steel and I wrapped the whole place with it, walls & roof.....it makes a huge difference.

dupontcobb | 06-18-2009 07:29 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? Quote:
Originally Posted by Fullpower (Post 1776326) I have had the worst imaginable customer service from XANTREX, and so I could not recommend any of their equipment. XANTREX will not provide repair parts, and will not give out ANY service information to customers. If you need inexpensive, disposable electronics, they may serve your needs.
Thanks for the heads up. Can you recommend another brand besides Xantrex?

ImaCannin | 06-22-2009 01:29 AM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? I would like to know the answer to the question above. I have an xantrex 1500 modified, but just found out that its great for part time use. Not every day use. They are trying to sell me a xantrex sine 1800, the company I was talking to had them for 1200.00 but I found them for 900.00 elsewhere. While reading on them, they take 2 or 3 other components ($$$ ching ching) What are your recomendation for an inverter for a smaller system? I only have two 125 watt Mitsubishi panels. I am not planning on buying more panels or having a whole house system. Basically something to run my SUNDANZER DC POWER- CHEST REFRIGERATOR and a light or mixer. Nothing major. Thanks for any help!

hoarder | 06-22-2009 08:41 AM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? Quote:
Originally Posted by ImaCannin (Post 1780771) I only have two 125 watt Mitsubishi panels. I am not planning on buying more panels or having a whole house system. Basically something to run my SUNDANZER DC POWER- CHEST REFRIGERATOR and a light or mixer. Nothing major. Thanks for any help!
I don't know the answer to the inverter question. I don't think 250 watts will be enough to run that fridge in the summer. What if there are hot cloudy days? I don't think there is any DC fridge that you can expect to run year round with less than about 500 watts. My place has 492 watts but I use a propane fridge. What confuses me about your question is you plan to use a DC fridge yet you're asking which inverter to use. What are you going to do with the inverter?

<SLV> | 06-22-2009 10:13 AM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? MREA Fair was AWESOME! Everyone really should make an effort to be there. 22,000 attendees (last year) and 200 workshops! I had brain overload on everything from composting humanure to building my own wind power generator. Thanks for the tip on Xantrex. I will have a standing seam roof and I'm planning on using S-5 connectors.

ImaCannin | 06-22-2009 01:35 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? Quote:
Originally Posted by hoarder (Post 1780995) I don't know the answer to the inverter question. I don't think 250 watts will be enough to run that fridge in the summer. What if there are hot cloudy days? I don't think there is any DC fridge that you can expect to run year round with less than about 500 watts. My place has 492 watts but I use a propane fridge. What confuses me about your question is you plan to use a DC fridge yet you're asking which inverter to use. What are you going to do with the inverter?
Yeah, I dont understand why they said I needed the bigger pure sine inverter either, since my Sundanzer is DC. I was going to use the extra power for a light or some other lite use items. According to the salesman at the Backwoods Solar, they said that I could run my Sun Danzer on one 125 watt panel. (I have 2) He said where I am located I should have enough sun to do so. But you make a good point. I will have to investigate more. Quote:
Save on system costs with SunDanzer DC-powered solar refrigerators and freezers. These highly efficient units with exceptionally low energy consumption require a smaller photovoltaic (PV) solar energy system for your refrigeration needs. SunDanzer units feature 4.33" (110 mm) of polyurethane insulation and coated steel cabinets. The brushless DC motor compressor operates on 12 or 24 VDC. A patented low-frost system reduces frost build-up for low maintenance. <br> SunDanzer's high quality construction provides excellent reliability and long life. Super-insulated cabinets feature 11cm of polyurethane insulation with powdered-coated galvanized steel exterior and aluminum interior. A zero maintenance, brushless, thermostatically controlled DC compressor operates on 12 or 24 VDC. A patented low-frost system reduces frost and moisture build-up for low maintenance. The Sundanzer chest-style refrigerators and freezers are easy to clean using the drain hole at the bottom of the unit. With thick insulation and a refrigeration system optimized for solar, SunDanzer refrigerators and SunDanzer freezers provide outstanding economical and reliable operation. Low energy consumption is the key that allows SunDanzer refrigerators and SunDanzer Freezers to be cost effectively powered from solar, wind, fuel cells or batteries. This technology allows refrigeration in remote locations where it was previously unavailable or prohibitively expensive. SunDanzer Features: # Runs on a single 80W module in most climates! # 12 or 24 VDC with low voltage disconnect for battery protection. # Environmentally friendly CFC-free refrigerant # Rugged scratch resistant galvanized steel exterior # Easy to clean aluminum interior # Lockable lid with interior light # Patented low-frost system # Automatic control with adjustable thermostat # Baskets for food organization SunDanzer Electrical and Physical Specification: # Input Voltage: 10.4-17VDC (12V) 22.8-31.5VDC (24V) # Power (typical-max): 40-80W # Fuse Size: 15A @12V 7.5A@24V # Ambient T Range: 50 to 109 degrees F # Refrigerator T Range: 30 to 48 degrees F Exterior Dimensions: 36.8W x 26.2D x 34.5H in
http://ep.yimg.com/ip/I/sundancesolar_2058_1831421

hoarder | 06-22-2009 02:43 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? Quote:
Originally Posted by ImaCannin (Post 1781337) Yeah, I dont understand why they said I needed the bigger pure sine inverter either, since my Sundanzer is DC. I was going to use the extra power for a light or some other lite use items. According to the salesman at the Backwoods Solar, they said that I could run my Sun Danzer on one 125 watt panel. (I have 2) He said where I am located I should have enough sun to do so. But you make a good point. I will have to investigate more.
I don't think you need an inverter at all. If you had any extra power you could use them for DC lights. You can get DC compact flourescents that screw into ordinary light fixtures. Look at the sizing chart. http://www.sundanzer.com/PDF/residen...tem_sizing.pdf. If you don't plan to run an air conditioner at the same time you run the fridge, you have to consider that on some summer days it may be 95 degrees in your kitchen. That would be 370 watts-hours per day. What if it's hot and overcast? If someone forgets to close the fridge door it might take a day to recover while your food rots. If you had your fridge in the basement where it's 65 degrees all the time it might work with 250 watts. You might also consider a 24 VDC system, they make lights for them too. 24 volts is a little more efficient.

ImaCannin | 06-22-2009 03:30 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? Quote:
Originally Posted by hoarder (Post 1781461) I don't think you need an inverter at all. If you had any extra power you could use them for DC lights. You can get DC compact flourescents that screw into ordinary light fixtures. Look at the sizing chart. http://www.sundanzer.com/PDF/residen...tem_sizing.pdf. If you don't plan to run an air conditioner at the same time you run the fridge, you have to consider that on some summer days it may be 95 degrees in your kitchen. That would be 370 watts-hours per day. What if it's hot and overcast? If someone forgets to close the fridge door it might take a day to recover while your food rots. If you had your fridge in the basement where it's 65 degrees all the time it might work with 250 watts. You might also consider a 24 VDC system, they make lights for them too. 24 volts is a little more efficient.
Ah...... Now I am really confused. You are telling me just the opposite of what the guys at backwoods said. They said the 12volt system would be better ......I originally wanted the 24v system. :banghead: I dont do fluorescent lights, they give me migraines. I guess its back to the drawing board. Thank you for your help.

hoarder | 06-22-2009 03:50 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? 24 volts is more efficient than 12 volts in general. The Sundanzer may be better suited for 12 volts for some reason I'm not aware of. Backwoods Solar is more familiar with that product. 12 or 24 volt incandescent lights suck power like crazy and are not suitable for off grid. There is an option in flourescent lights...you could go with the "yellow" or "warm" type for people who dislike flouescent lights. They are only a little less efficient. My 8 cu.ft. propane fridge costs 40 cents a day to run, but does give off some heat in the kitchen. GLTU.

ImaCannin | 06-22-2009 05:18 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? What about LED lights? Are they "suckers"? I do also have some solar led lights, which are not the brightest but I guess they would work if needed. I also have a solar battery charger for my mag light or head lamp. I called Backwoods and they said that with 2 trojan T 105 batteries fully charged, that they Sun Danzer should go for 3 days, and with my 4 batteries, should go for almost 7 days. I guess the best thing to do is to get the system hooked up and see what it does! Now if I could get my loving man to move it up his list of stuff to do!!!!

hoarder | 06-22-2009 06:42 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? Quote:
Originally Posted by ImaCannin (Post 1781669) What about LED lights? Are they "suckers"? I do also have some solar led lights, which are not the brightest but I guess they would work if needed. I also have a solar battery charger for my mag light or head lamp.
I've never tried them, heard of off-gridders using them for night lights. Quote:
I called Backwoods and they said that with 2 trojan T 105 batteries fully charged, that they Sun Danzer should go for 3 days, and with my 4 batteries, should go for almost 7 days. I guess the best thing to do is to get the system hooked up and see what it does! Now if I could get my loving man to move it up his list of stuff to do!!!!
That sounds pretty good, but I wonder what the battery voltage drops down to under those circumstances. My laptop draws much more than that. Never let the batteries drop below 12.3 volts if you want them to last.

Fullpower | 06-22-2009 06:42 PM
QUALITY solar power equipment Quote:
Originally Posted by dupontcobb (Post 1776707) Thanks for the heads up. Can you recommend another brand besides Xantrex?
I have an OUTBACK brand inverter in continuous service since spring of 2003 My system has had ZERO down time.. In addition to a smaller deep freeze, and the regular size kitchen refrigerator, it runs a half horsepower deep-well pump, and doesnt miss a beat when the microwave, coffee pot and toaster happen to also be in operation. Outback is a small company based in NW washington state, They build high quality, field repairable power inverters, and do NOT put their label on inferior Xhinese imported equipment.

<SLV> | 06-22-2009 07:10 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? Off-grid LEDs are expensive and the light has a funny color. Here are the CFLs I'm planning on using -- same light spectrum as daylight: http://products.mercola.com/light-bulbs/

dupontcobb | 06-28-2009 12:08 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? http://store.solar-electric.com/solarpanels.html Solar panel sale going with some prices that beats sunelec.com (I have no connections to the site.)

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gunDriller | 06-28-2009 07:45 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? in 2004 i did some load testing on the 50 watt Kyocera 2x2 foot panel. most i could get was 35 watts, in San Diego sunshine with a balanced (aiming towards the sun) array. ever since then i've always wondered if you buy a 100 watt (2x4 foot) PV panel, should you budget for 70 watts, or 100 watts ?

Mill Man | 06-28-2009 08:13 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? I worked for Xantrex. They went around buying up portable power companies, gutted them out and shipped all production overseas. The sinewave line of units was a Trace Engineering product and Trace engineering was located in Arlington, WA. XFMR's were wound onsite, PCB's were stuffed onsite, tech support was onsite, and service/warranty was onsite. Xantrex shut down the Arlington plant sometime last year and I have no idea where they are made now or where tech support is, etc. Outback is located in Arlington, WA so I'll give ya 3 guesses as to where everyone that works there came from and the first 2 don't count.

dupontcobb | 06-28-2009 11:02 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? Quote:
Originally Posted by gunDriller (Post 1791130) in 2004 i did some load testing on the 50 watt Kyocera 2x2 foot panel. most i could get was 35 watts, in San Diego sunshine with a balanced (aiming towards the sun) array. ever since then i've always wondered if you buy a 100 watt (2x4 foot) PV panel, should you budget for 70 watts, or 100 watts ?
The site claims http://store.solar-electric.com/kykc50wasopa.html Kyocera KC50T 50 Watt solar panel with j/box. This panel is actually rated at 54 watts, see spec sheet. 3.11 Amps @ 17.4 Volts. 25.2" x 25.2" x 2.1". 11 Pounds (5 kg). UL. That is a good question to ask and will see if I can get an answer.

jaybone | 06-30-2009 09:02 AM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? FWIW, I use a AIMS 2500W mod-sine wave inverter from invertersrus.com cost about $200, runs fridge, ac, etc. all fine. I run it constantly too, kind of surprised to have reliable performace at this price point.

<SLV> | 06-30-2009 10:54 AM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? Quote:
Originally Posted by j-son (Post 1793776) i just tried to orderhalf dozen of these to see how they are and the website wouldnt go through checkout.
I've ordered there before without a problem. Maybe they are having some technical problems. If you get the bulbs be sure to report on your impression!

Tn...Andy | 06-30-2009 01:03 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? Quote:
Originally Posted by gunDriller (Post 1791130) in 2004 i did some load testing on the 50 watt Kyocera 2x2 foot panel. most i could get was 35 watts, in San Diego sunshine with a balanced (aiming towards the sun) array. ever since then i've always wondered if you buy a 100 watt (2x4 foot) PV panel, should you budget for 70 watts, or 100 watts ?
Most I ever see out of my Solarworld 175 watt panels is about 150 watts.....so, yes....I would knock off 25% or so of the "window sticker"....

ImaCannin | 06-30-2009 01:19 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? Quote:
Originally Posted by jaybone (Post 1793748) FWIW, I use a AIMS 2500W mod-sine wave inverter from invertersrus.com cost about $200, runs fridge, ac, etc. all fine. I run it constantly too, kind of surprised to have reliable performace at this price point.
How long have you used it? Does it run your computer ok? Is this the one you have? http://www.invertersrus.com/inv2500w.html

ToBeSelfEvident | 06-30-2009 04:50 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? What about something like this semi-portable setup? 2 x 150-watt panels plus a controller, inverter, and 180AH battery pack for $4100 shipped. http://www.mysolarbackup.com/playvideo.html I live in Florida and have a flat roof that gets gobs of sun. I'm thinking I could run part of my household off this system, and then during power outages the system could run a small fridge, a one-room air conditioner, and a few lights. Concerns: There seems to be no mounting hardware, just a light frame for adjusting the panels. If I just stuck 'em on the roof they would blow all over in a thunderstorm, which we have almost daily. I guess I could mount them on a wooden frame in the back yard. I like the idea of cutting my electric bill any way I can, and also having a power source that is silent. When all power is out, you can hear a generator from half a mile away.

dupontcobb | 06-30-2009 06:56 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? ToBeselfEvident From http://store.solar-electric.com/hiposopa.html Kyocera KD180GX-LP 180 Watt Solar Panel 180 watt (23 volt) solar panel Our Discounted Price: $587.00 x 2 = $1174 1800 Powerhub from http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NONM94 Amazon $829.99 That equals $2k right there with 30W more than what they are advertising. So I could imagine you can get the controller and inverter for less than $2k... There are other solar panels cheaper than the kyocera ones so the cost could be a little lower.

Tn...Andy | 06-30-2009 09:17 PM
Re: Where are the beat prices on solar power equipment? Quote:
Originally Posted by ToBeSelfEvident (Post 1794481) I'm thinking I could run part of my household off this system, and then during power outages the system could run a small fridge, a one-room air conditioner, and a few lights.
Part of your household.....sure, but a very small part. "Maybe" a small fridge, but no air...and some lights....but not many if the fridge is running..... A small, dorm style fridge ( like 4cuft ) will use about 700-800watt/hrs per day ( .7KwHr)...say your 300 watts of panels actually produce 250 watts for 5-6 average hours ( you may get more sunshine than that, but not DIRECTLY perpendicular to the panels....so use 5-6 hrs as an average, at best )....6 x250 = 1500watt/hrs on a sunny day (you probably won't do that much with inverter loss )....that dorm fridge will take about 1/2 of that....the lights will take the rest.

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