Question by : Questions about solar panels and batteries?
I have a few questions about solar panels and batteries.
1. looks to me that 60 watt solar panels are the most common and cost efficient. I understand that a 60 watt panel produces 60 watts of power at 12vdc. lets say i have five hours sun on the panel. how long would it take for a 60 watt panel to charge a standard 12 vdc battery from basically dead to full charge. I know it depends on the type of battery, but let’s just call it a standard car type battery. looking for just general info not exact science info.
2. if one panel is capable of charging one battery in less than 5 hours of sun. how many batteries can it charge completely in 5 hours of sun?
3. using a 12 to 120 volt power converter to get 120 volts from a battery how many watts of power are you able to pull from a battery before the charge is to low to be usable without a recharge. again, i know there are variables to take into consideration, but i’m looking for just general answers. like for example, “X” watts of use for”X” hours.
4. I assume a 60 watt panel is a 60 watt panel? meaning, all 60 watt panels are created equal, they basically all produce basically the same amount of power with basically the same efficiency.
5. with a solar panel is it better to catch the morning sun or afternoon soon or does it matter? I understand the more amount of sun you catch, the better.
6. in order to take advantage of the tax credit, do you have to use a professional installer or if i buy the panels, converter, batteries, etc, myself and install myself can i claim the tax credit?
Best answer:
Answer by b
you get 60w from a 60w panel only when the sun is shining directly on it, since the panel will be in a fixed position you will not always get 60w. This fact makes the remainder of your questions not worth while.
Solar panels are not all made the same, its the build quality and efficancy that differ.
The truth is that unless you live somewhere that is sunny all day everyday, the cost of solar panels, the batteries, and the controls the pay back is not worth it, which is borne out by the fact you dont often see it being used.
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