Cruisers & Sailing Forums - View Single Post - Basic Solar Hookup

corkscrew · 07-07-2009, 07:06

Well, the panel I have coming in is a simple 20 Watt (1.14 amps). I did get a controller...just to be safe and have a diode for reverse charging. Most of the time they won't even be in use as I'll be hooked to shore power, but the system is just going to be for overnights and long days out....to help keep the battery relativly up. If I like the panel I will add 1-2 more. If I add the second one I'll be at 40 watts (2.25 amps approx) - that should be fine for my needs. The only things I really have running all the time are (stereo, GPS/Depth/Alarm and VHF) - at night maybe a few lights, a fan.....etc. Now someone told me that stereos and VHF run like 5-10 amps each...is that true?

07-07-2009, 07:06	#13
corkscrew Registered User Join Date: Aug 2008 Posts: 39	Well, the panel I have coming in is a simple 20 Watt (1.14 amps). I did get a controller...just to be safe and have a diode for reverse charging. Most of the time they won't even be in use as I'll be hooked to shore power, but the system is just going to be for overnights and long days out....to help keep the battery relativly up. If I like the panel I will add 1-2 more. If I add the second one I'll be at 40 watts (2.25 amps approx) - that should be fine for my needs. The only things I really have running all the time are (stereo, GPS/Depth/Alarm and VHF) - at night maybe a few lights, a fan.....etc. Now someone told me that stereos and VHF run like 5-10 amps each...is that true?