Posted on 09/05/2016 1:25:09 PM PDT by w1n1
So for you preppers out there, which type of Solar chargers have you come across that was reliable? Solar chargers and gadgets that run on solar can be found all over the place, and like many I have tried almost all of them disappoint. Some never fully charge, lose their charge too quickly, fall apart, short out if they get wet or any number of things that render it useless after just a couple tries. These are all the reasons I fell in love with Sunjack. Here's some specs on it.
My first impression of the Sunjack after taking it out of the package was wow! The quality of the case, stitching and construction was exceptional – good sign. Then I expanded the case and was impressed to find four full solar panels. Surprising for such a thin case, but the test was yet to come, and test it I would.
The Sunjack was clearly designed by those who need and use these devices. It comes with a carabiner and multiple attachment points around the case, so that you can hang, attach, suspend and clip onto almost anything and any angle. Read the rest of the test here.
bttt
Looking for RV trailer solar charger
What are you trying to charge? Type and size of battery(s).
This is just an ad. I like the one I bought.
The guy drones on about the case before he mentions that it’s only has a 14 watt max output. That condition requires full sun full face on. All photovoltaic devices performance falls off rapidly to trickle charge levels.
His “testing” is subjective. If one pays $139 (Amazon price) one should at least invest in a $20 volt/amp meter to show real output.
Anker and others have 20 watt folding panels with 2 USB ports in the $60 range.
I have a 20W folder for camera batteries, Handi-Talk radio, and 10,000mAH battery packs. Need 6 hours full sun to charge the latter, rarely get that. Use car 12V accessory socket to fully charge it.
Bigger question raised is intended use. For occassional camping or hiking one is better off with the several battery packs for a third of the cost and far hardier in the field. Question of what one carries in the field; GPS unit, camera, USB flashlight. An I-Pad in the field??
Look for 100 watt units with solar charge controllers to feed your 12V batteries. And an inverter for 110V stuff.
Good starting place for reseach and browsing is Renogy:
They’ve got a broad range of products with guides for specific usage. RVs are a part of that.
Have used their 100W panels for two + years. Sturdy and reliable units, never failed me yet. Monocrystalline panels will still produce power,albeit reduced, even if in partial shade.
USB only, and no 12V capability? For nearly 150 bucks? NO thanks
thanks for the info
Oh and BTW,
A Renogy 100W 12Volt panel goes for just under $150.
Grass and trees.
Have used their 100W panels...
I have 2 of the Regony 100w panels feeding into 4 massive 6 volt fork-lift batteries. Output from the panels is adjusted by one of their regulators which feeds into a 1100w Inverter. You can’t beat this arrangement especially, as you noted, the Monocrystalline panels generate power even in full shade.
Also, it is substantially quieter than a gasoline generator - a critical element for any Prepper.
I have tried three. They were all junk. Maybe the new gen work better.
Sounds like a very nice set-up, something I'd been considering in the back of mind as the next phase. Dare I ask about the cost of those forklift batteries? ;>)
Dare I ask about the cost of those forklift batteries?
I must confess, they were free. Acquired over a few years from my employer and a friendly association with the Fork-Lift repairman - an “outside” contractor.
That’s what I started with and still use with quad sheets.
But .... there are times and situations when something like a Garmin 60-C is damned handy when really fast moving is required.
Just a prepper sayin’.
Ahh .... kind of like my acquisition of buckets of old wheel weights... just in case of a fishing weight shortage.
Also, I might add, an investment in LED light bulbs, will reduce the power for lighting requirements considerably.
According to Duke Energy, my home is now slightly below their rating for “Most Efficient Home”, and far below the “Average Home”.
Anyway, the 100w LED bulb uses only about 24watts. Very nice for solar power.
BM
Solar CHARGERS for Preppers
Usage, size , mobility, size needed, and expense are the Vairiables
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