hpdrver
Mansfield, Texas
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Joined: 05/17/2007
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I just got portable solar panels and plan to put them out during the day while we explore the national parks. Since I will not be present to face the panel to the sun throughout the day, how should I face the panel initially for the best all day placement. Thanks
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corvettekent
Marysville, WA
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Back when I use to tilt my panels I would tilt at 45 degrees aim them just a little bit east of due south so that could start charging in the morning. My batteries were charged by noon. I started with two 160 watt panels. Now I don't tilt because I have more panels.
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2oldman
NM
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Flat on the ground
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ktmrfs
Portland, Oregon
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easy peasy way to get them oriented for max power it to take an old tP tube, put stand it up on the panel and orient the panel for minimum (zero) shadow.
Now optimum placement will vary during the day, but the above done at a reasonable hour will get you oriented for pretty good all day orientation.
Where you are will have a big impact on the angle. But in all cases you will want the panel facing roughly south if you want the panels working all day w/o constant attention of direction.
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pianotuna
Regina, SK, Canada
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Slightly west of south.
Regards, Don
My ride is a 28 foot Class C, 256 watts solar, 556 amp-hours of Telcom jars, 3000 watt Magnum hybrid inverter, Sola Basic Autoformer, Microair Easy Start.
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time2roll
Southern California
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This time of year a little bit of tilt to the south will help. If you get morning clouds turn a bit to the east.
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hpdrver
Mansfield, Texas
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Good info, thanks
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