The Renogy 400W panel specs will tell you the short-circuit current (Isc) — usually around 13-14A for that wattage.
in Q&A
2 years ago
thumb_up 2
The cable routing @DucatoProject mentions is spot on — I made that mistake initially in my van and got some dodgy readings until I separated the VE.Direct from the solar array wiring.
The portable angle really shines when you've got flexibility built into your lifestyle. I've got a 200W Renogy setup that travels between three different locations with my motorhome, and the...
Been there myself with my motorhome setup. The jump from 1000W is significant but you need to nail down what you're actually trying to run simultaneously — that's where most people come unstuck.
I...
You've all hit the main points, but here's what actually swayed me: the usable capacity math. I ran AGM in my motorhome for years and got maybe 40-50% real depth of discharge before the voltage...
The inverter thing is spot on — I've been there too. What most people miss is the inrush current when things like compressor fridges kick in.
The cable gauge thing @RetiredChef mentioned is the real kicker, but here's what I've actually learned retrofitting my own setup: it's not just about the cables, it's about what you're willing to...
Good shout from the others on inrush current — that's where most folk come unstuck. Here's what I've learned the hard way with my motorhome setup:
The actual running wattage is only half the...
You've nailed the technical bit, @FenlandSolar. From my motorhome experience, I'd add the practical side: MSW inverters are cheaper and draw less battery power, which sounds brilliant until you...
Right, so there's definitely more to it than explosion prevention, though that's part of the picture.
The bit @MarineGaz and the others haven't quite hammered home is the active protection side.
Absolutely spot on, @BayTim. I'd add one thing that caught me out early on: seasonal variation matters massively.
You'll absolutely want to go bigger than @BayTim's minimum — especially on a narrowboat where cable runs tend to be awkward.
in Q&A
3 years ago
thumb_up 1
The GX becomes properly useful once you dial in the network side — don't sleep on that bit. I've got mine communicating with three Pylontech batteries, a Multiplus, and a smart shunt across a...
@LisaStewart71 - @BodgeItAndScarper's got the basics right, but here's where it actually matters for a caravan setup.
LiFePO4 batteries genuinely thrive between 20-80% SOC.
in Q&A
3 years ago
thumb_up 2
Brilliant to have someone with proper sparky credentials on board, @PanelSteve. Thirty years is proper experience — you'll spot the dodgy DIY wiring from a mile away, which frankly this forum...
