Solar Panel Comparison: What to Consider Before Buying

Off-Grid Trek Solar Blanket

Powerfilm 110W

Inergytek solar generator and solar panels

Jackery solar panel

Ecoflow solar panel

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[kristinec]

Just got a jackery, my husband doesnt know 🤫. I'm waiting for when we need it to be like see we should have bought it... then bust it out 🤣 I'm the prepper in the family

[sherryakuta]

I am a mom of 4 and a newbie at all of this. Perhaps if you could put out a “for beginners with zero knowledge” video to show us how to connect the panels to a source? What wires go where and how to actually plug things in. How to connect to a solar generator and how and where to access the power needed. Sounds trivial I know but I’m sure there are more individuals like myself who could benefit from step by step dumbed down instruction. Appreciate your content!

[HomesteadEngineering]

I think the main thing that preppers need to understand is the difference between small systems that are good for camping, powering your phone and a few light bulbs VS. large systems that will actually power your house. I see a lot of videos (not this one) that mislead folks into believing that small systems are going to hold them up when SHTF. For reference, you need to look at about 10, 000-20, 000 Watts of solar panels, 20-40kWhrs of battery backup and 8, 000-10, 000 Watts of inverter to run 80% of a typical house.

[iraidstarbucksXDD]

One of the most important pieces of advice for people new to solar panes is, don't freak out when your amp output suddenly drops to .5 even in full direct sunlight. It just means your battery is charged. Took me two frustrating days to figure that one out.

[parkerposey]

Perfect timing. In the process of purchasing. Thank you!

[dropshot]

I have been a subscriber for several years, but only recently started viewing more of your videos. I must say that your video's the last few months have been high quality productions with lots of information. Thank you for your work in producing these video's.

[deedieducati]

Considering the current state of world affairs, we should all have at least a solar generator for our refrigerator, and maybe a small solar generator for charging the phone, a lamp or a small fan.

[fishcreekcountrygal]

I'm just coming out of a 24 hour power outage and have been using my Goal Zero Yeti 1250 for many years. But because of the increased frequency of outages, I'm looking to add or upgrade to my current system, so I appreciate this timely video!

[OnusBones]

I've been experimenting with a variety of these devices. When you decide to go solar, define your needs first. Optimize those needs to reduce power requirements, then find the products that will meet them. If you take heating (from a pot of coffee to a living area) off the table, it's amazing what you can run with just a few solar panels, from a 20W-30W folder for device and battery charging, to a couple of fixed 100W panels to run a refrigerator, laptop, and charge tool batteries.

[DMF]

I went with a major name brand solar panel Kyocera solar.
I have a small off grid cabin, so 12 volts is good enuf, instead of 24 volt.
600 watts is more than enuf for my cabin. 6000ft elevation, so no AC needed in summer time. Runs my TEN TEC ARGOSY 525 and thats all I need for hf communications. Using a Morningstar 30 amp charger. 6 volt batteries that are now 9 years old. The trick is never take them down below 50%. Otherwise, you take life away out of them.
I bought used panels off Craigslist. 120watt Kyocera solar panels. Good deal!

[NTheSnake]

Regarding the Inergy Solar Panels, they are configured in a proprietary fashion with EC8 connectors that really only makes them usable with Inergy products. They are wired to daisy chain together to an Inergy Kodiak, Apex, or Flex unit. There is no positive or negative wire like you find on solar panels traditionally.

[arkansaslady]

I couldn't have asked for any better timing on this video, Thank you. I've been looking at solar panels for the past 2 days trying to figure out what is the best for me, my needs and my budget. So much to consider. You have saved me many hours of sorting out options.

[lawrencegaceta]

Very helpful information. I also consider location of panels, cleaning, and upkeep of panels, when selecting panels. I created a few custom DYI 100W in the past.

[MrRandal]

Great Video! I have the inergy Apex with 4 flex panels and 1 hard panel on my shed roof. Works really well when the power goes out it can keep my fridge powered up, so I am happy.

[silvergoldsaver]

I think you meant "parallel" (vs series) earlier in the video around 1:30. In parallel, when one panel is shaded, the system still works. In series, when one panel is shaded, it drops the whole system.

[brookeshomesweethomestead]

Yes my husband and I are looking into this for our apartment freezer 7.0.

[deangriffin]

I started buying panels a few years ago. The latest buy was by far the best, on used one's on ebay by a company in AZ does specializes in such. Many solar panels farms get completely warranted and some are just fine to use for years and years, Take advantage of the cooperate write off and warranty stuff is my advice.

[FairieChele]

Great info and timely as I'm picking up a couple panels next weekend. This explains a lot without making me feel stupid. Thanks!

[charchark]

One good option is to look for not only solar but also wind to charge the system.. The one I'm looking at is natures generator... Lead acid batteries (the one downside) but it does offer an input for a small wind turbine to also charge the system....

[georgesrisomsak]

Excellent video. The efficiency of info being condensed in this one is incredible. You should review more items and make a review channel. Your really really good.

I'm glad to have solar for a hobby, starting about 6 years ago. I personally found flexible sun power panels to be most efficient and lightweight while giving good value for the $. The down side is they aren't as tough an option, so you have to be careful with them.

A few tips for those learning. Buy the silver bubble wrap style insulation, and use it to refract more light into panels you already have for super cheap. Save weight, increase power output, and make use of what you already have to the fullest extent. In the years I've tested and played with this "cheat" I've had zero I'll effects with many type panels. I've proved some serious gain in output using this simple method. As in 50+% output, consistent. Maybe reduce panel life over extensive time, but worth the mention. Mppt solar controller is a MUST. Worth the $ for making full use of the panels you intend to use.

Also, check out diy solar projects with Will Prouse. Excellent channel for in-depth reviews on storage and solar, giving you the best value for the $ possible. Highly recommend, just as this channel.