Portable Solar Power

 

I'm looking for a system to use during hurricane-induced power outages,
something to keep the frig, TV, fans and a few lights working. A 1500W
system like this:
http://www.solarsense.com/Products/1-Complete_Systems/3-NOMAD_1500/NOMAD_1500.html
should work nicely. (Unfortunately, this particular company is going
through an acquisition right now.)
Anyway, the setup looks simple. I could bring the panels inside during
the storm and be back in business the next morning. I would also want to
use the battery frequently to power my computers just to cut down on the
electric bill.
Does anyone know of any other systems like the one above at comparable
price?

 



http://www.solarsense.com/Products/1-Complete_Systems/3-NOMAD_1500/NOMAD_1500.html

Check Costco and Harbor Freight, both have systems for sale.

Remember the systems are RATED for 1500 watts, performance is usually less
and in your situation considerably less.   Panels would need to be pointed
at the sun at the optimal angle all of the time ( they would have to move )
to get anywhere near rated performance.

A generator is easier to deal with.  I commend your solar thoughts.

 



http://www.solarsense.com/Products/1-Complete_Systems/3-NOMAD_1500/NOMAD_1500.html

     That system simply won't do what you are imagining it can do.  The PV
panels are only 42 watts maximum and you are only allowed three for a maximum of
126 watts in perfect full-sun conditions.  A really good day might have 10 hours
of effective full sun.  The days following a hurricane are unlikely to be
full-sun days.  Your refrigerator probably takes an average of about 200watts.
I will leave the math to you.  You will find that before the first day is over,
you will be dealing with a dead battery.  Additionally, that 60 Ah battery will
not run your 'fridge overnight.

     I suggest that you take a look at 2000 watt inverter generators such as the
Honda EU-2000.  They are immensly quiet and efficient compared to the stuff they
sell at Home Depot, but (like solar systems) they are not cheap.

Vaughn

 



Rather high, compared to the 4 watt Mt. Best chest fridge conversion.

If Frigidaire's FFC15C8CW 14.8 ft^3 chest freezer ($347 at Lowes) uses
397 kWh/year at 7 F in a 70 F room, it might use 397(70-36)/(70-7)
= 214 at 36 F, ie 0.59 kWh per day, or an average of 24 watts.

Are there more efficient chest freezers at a reasonable price?

Nick

 



     Perhaps so, but the OP didn't say anything about having a chest fridge
conversion.  My fridge takes about 180 watts and runs A LOT.  A refrigerator
will especially run continuously for (perhaps) several hours after being hooked
up following the aftermath of a hurricane.  (You usually don't do much until the
winds stop blowing and you usually lose power fairly early in the storm).

     If I had an off-grid cabin somewhere out in the woods, I would certainly
look into the freezer chest fridge conversion.

Vaughn