Which solar panel

[Sean FSY]

I'm looking at fitting a panel to my 2007 Auto Trail Arapaho. It has 2x leisure batterires. I will do it myself so really need info on what kind I should be fitting and where to purchase the kit from. Any help appreciated. Thanks.
The main control unit is an EC325 which is already capable of taking a solar panel if that helps.

 

[jockaneezer]

Try and avoid Biard flexible ones, the replacement they sent me after my first 150 watt one failed has just packed in too. Two panels in less than 3 years and all the associated hassle of flat batteries when you didn't expect it and having to unbond them too.
I'm sure someone will be along with a more positive recommendation shortly.

 

[Boringfrog]

Check out "triple solar" on eBay.

 

[Stealaway]

Loads of s/h panels on eBay . Measure the roof spaces and see what will fit. 200watts would be good. Buy the 18/20 volt panels.

 

[Sean FSY]

I'm sure there's a huge frame already on the roof that can take 40kg. Could maybe utilise this space to attach it.
Would people recommend plugging it into the already fitted EC325 unit or use it's own control unit.

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[138go]

It’s a Sargent control panel so limited to 100w panel. You would probably be better with a separate solar controller. If you fit one with two battery outputs you can also charge the vehicle battery as well as the twin Habitation batteries.

 

[Ranger]

Try and avoid Biard flexible ones, the replacement they sent me after my first 150 watt one failed has just packed in too. Two panels in less than 3 years and all the associated hassle of flat batteries when you didn't expect it and having to unbond them too.
I'm sure someone will be along with a more positive recommendation shortly.

Likewise we installed two 100w Photonic Universe semi flexible panels and one packed up just over a year old, complained to them but they were not interested.

 

[Lenny HB]

I wouldn't bother with the Sargent solar regulator it yourself a decent MPPT regulator like a Votronic or Victron.

 

[Sean FSY]

So I think I will go with a controller that will charge the vehicle battery as well as leisure batteries. Along with a 150w panel. If any one could advise on any model numbers or a link to them would be great. Thanks.

 

[138go]

Depends how much you want to spend. Try Google, Amazon & EBay

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[Ivory55]

First I would ask do I need a panel am I camping with out ehu. If only using sites don’t bother. If it’s your first motor home there is a high chance you will change it as it’s not quite what you want. With this in mind a freestanding panel might be better as you can sell it separate from the van as you will not get your money back on fixed items. Just something to think about.

 

[138go]

First I would ask do I need a panel am I camping with out ehu. If only using sites don’t bother. If it’s your first motor home there is a high chance you will change it as it’s not quite what you want. With this in mind a freestanding panel might be better as you can sell it separate from the van as you will not get your money back on fixed items. Just something to think about.

It will help to keep the batteries topped up if not on EHU at home.

 

[Ivory55]

It will help to keep the batteries topped up if not on EHU at home.

Yes, so see if you actually need one and for what reason.

 

[gus-lopez]

Check out "triple solar" on eBay.

I bought 2 x 100w ones off them the other week.

 

[Lenny HB]

Votronic MPP range will do what you want available in 150/250/350/430 watt versions.

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[Bailey baby]

Hi all I have just fitted a CTEK dual battery to battery charger , It has its own built in mppt solar charger and seems to work very well