Setting up a solar system can be intimidating, but once you understand the basics of a system, you can feel confident in setting up a system to fit your needs. There are 4 basic parts to a system which I'll explain below. You can get away with 3 parts though if you decide that is the best way to go once you understand how everything works. You will need to decide what you want to power with your system and set it up according to that. Don't plan on running your refrigerator, a/c, stove, and microwave off your system. This is for a long term emergency. Plan on recharging AA and AAA batteries for flashlights and radios, maybe running some LED lights at night for lighting up a room or 2 in your house. By planning your preps that way, you won't need to spend several thousand dollars on a system. My system consists of a 100 watt panel, 10A charge controller, 80 watt inverter, and a 100Ah deep cycle battery. This allows me to charge a bunch of AA/AAA batteries, 2 way radios, and tablets (for entertainment) with ease. I won't drain the battery too fast so my panel can keep up with the charging. I can easily add another panel and 100Ah battery if I want, but I'll have to upgrade my charge controller.
Solar Panels
Solar panels are the most visible (and usually the ONLY visible) part of the system. Panels are rated for wattage and voltage. You have to look at both, to make sure your system will work properly. Systems are usually made in 12 and 24 volt systems. You can do 36 or 48 volts, but those are generally more costly for each part. 12 volt systems are the easiest to put together because there are more devices that run off 12 volts, like most automobiles do.
The best deal for a panel is usually a 100 watt panel. The cost per watt can usually be under $1. There are great deals on panels on Amazon, Home Depot, eBay, etc. A 100 watt panel will put out a maximum of 8.3 amps. So, determine what you plan to use your system for (as I talked about above), and double the amount of panels and battery capacity.
I'll try to finish this page as soon as I have time!!
The best deal for a panel is usually a 100 watt panel. The cost per watt can usually be under $1. There are great deals on panels on Amazon, Home Depot, eBay, etc. A 100 watt panel will put out a maximum of 8.3 amps. So, determine what you plan to use your system for (as I talked about above), and double the amount of panels and battery capacity.
I'll try to finish this page as soon as I have time!!