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Considered posting this in Prep & Survival forum, but my goal here is neither, just general purpose.
I'm looking at the Harbor Freight 100W Solar Panel Kit and wondering if anyone here (who's actually owned/used one) would recommend it - or not.
I can permanently install the panels on a perfectly angled roof of my back-yard shed. Purposes/Goals:
- Simple lights (two included) when I go in there for short durations.
- Power small tools with an inverter I already own (again, just for a few minutes now and then).
- Keep a couple beefy deep cycle 12V RV-type batteries topped off all the time.
First, is this decent equipment for what I'm planning? I'm well aware of Harbor Freight's reputation for breakage, etc. I've had years and years of really good luck using HF tools for basic home upgrade projects and hobbies (perhaps because I'm not a pro using them 40hrs/wk). Is there better beginner solar gear in the same price range?
I looked at all the YouTubes but never found a direct answer to this: Will the included charge controller serve as a "float" charger and just trickle-charge my batteries so I can leave them connected 24/7?
Any other components I should add to accomplish my goals? Recommended brand/type RV batteries?
Thanks for constructive input.
I'm looking at the Harbor Freight 100W Solar Panel Kit and wondering if anyone here (who's actually owned/used one) would recommend it - or not.
100 Watt Amorphous Solar Panel Kit
Amazing deals on this 100 Watt Solar Panel Kit at Harbor Freight. Quality tools & low prices.
www.harborfreight.com
- Simple lights (two included) when I go in there for short durations.
- Power small tools with an inverter I already own (again, just for a few minutes now and then).
- Keep a couple beefy deep cycle 12V RV-type batteries topped off all the time.
First, is this decent equipment for what I'm planning? I'm well aware of Harbor Freight's reputation for breakage, etc. I've had years and years of really good luck using HF tools for basic home upgrade projects and hobbies (perhaps because I'm not a pro using them 40hrs/wk). Is there better beginner solar gear in the same price range?
I looked at all the YouTubes but never found a direct answer to this: Will the included charge controller serve as a "float" charger and just trickle-charge my batteries so I can leave them connected 24/7?
Any other components I should add to accomplish my goals? Recommended brand/type RV batteries?
Thanks for constructive input.