Frequently Asked Questions - Solar Panel 10 Watt

Question:

I am looking to set up a trickle charging solar unit to keep my boat's battery charged. Would I need a charge controller for this panel? And even if I did not need one could I fit one to provide info on the status of the battery, is it charged or not?
By John Waldon on Jun 5,2019

Answer:

We would recommend a charge controller for a boat battery as you could be in the situation where the engine has fully charged the battery and the panel is trying to charge it which can limit the life span of the battery.  If the battery is always in use and never gets fully charged then you could use this panel without a controller. 

Question:

Hello, We are using a couple of these: https://www.thesolarcentre.co.uk/products/Albany_Premium_Solar_Spotlight-766-83.html Would this or any other panel with higher wattage be compatible with our spots? We are looking to upgrade the included solar panels to something with more oomph! Cheers! Ted
By Ted on Mar 16,2018

Answer:

Unfortunately not, the Albany solar panel has batteries included and runs at a different voltage so these wouldn't be compatible.

Question:

Can I wire two 10W panels in series to charge my battery more quickly? I have two lights and a water pump wired into my system with one of these panels to charge the battery (34AH), but am having trouble maintaining the charge.
By Jackie Griffiths on May 31,2017

Answer:

Yes you can. It may even be worth looking at a bigger panel if the water pump is on all the time, any 12v panel will be compatible when wired in series.

Question:

Will this work coupled to an Astron floodlight?
By Peter Higgs on Jan 15,2017

Answer:

Yes, you'd need the right connector though to plug into the Astron. We still have some Astron panels left here, these would be the best option.

Question:

what other components do I need for thie system to be complete and can you give me. The simple circuit diagram
By Isaac on Aug 12,2015

Answer:

We recommend taking a look at the Geo Kit's in Shed Lights for an example of a circuit diagram.

Question:

For security reasons would this work to charge the vehicle battery of my motorhome if placed inside the vehicle
By Colin Staniforth on Jun 13,2015

Answer:

We do not recommend charging solar panels behind glass. The size of solar panel depends on how big the battery is.

Question:

Do I need a battery with this kit or can I connect directly to a light bulb?
By AL SIRISENA on May 16,2015

Answer:

You would need a battery.

Question:

Can you charge a 24v battery with a 12v solar panel?
By S McCusker on Jul 11,2014

Answer:

The short answer is no. However you can if you take 2 x 12v panels and wire the positive of one to the negative of the other panel together to create a 24v panel.