Solar Panels

[inchcailloch]

I am leaving the yacht in New Zealand for a year or so. I have 4 solar panel, 2x65 plus 2x120 on the frame over the stern. The question is should I take the 65 ones off (for security0 and cover the 120s to prevent deterioration or leave them uncovered. There will be no usage on the batteries during my absence. Thanks, Bob

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[Paul Elliott]

I'm not answering the questions you asked, but even a disconnected battery will self-discharge. How quickly depends on the battery chemistry and temperature, but I suggest leaving at least one of your panels connected (through a charge controller) to keep the batteries charged.

Of course if you will be using shore-power then you can cover or remove the panels. Solar panels do degrade over time (or so I am told), but for what it's worth mine have been out in the sun for fifteen years now with no significant reduction in output.

[Gunther wurth]

Leave one to keep the battery charge otherwise the system will go dead it's better that way