Rechargable Batteries/Solar Rechargers...Which Ones?

 

In light of New Orleans, I have decided to upgrade the method that I
care and feed for my battery operated equipment.

In an extended loss of power, one would soon find yourself running out
of batteries.

In light of this, I am considering switching my batteries to
rechargables and to have a solar recharger available as backup.

What would the group suggest for rechargable batteries in common sizes
and what solar charger would you recommend? Brands and models would be
welcomed information.

Also I am curious, how many batteries do you keep in reserve? If one
does not use a battery, how long is the shelf life of a typical
rechargable battery?

Thanks for any and all advice.

TMT

 

All of the small solar chargers are not very practical. They will charge
your batteries but in multiple days not nearly as fast as you think.

I'd go with a 12V setup, you can buy AAA and AA chargers which run off of
12V dc.
These batteries can be wrapped with cardboard and tape to make them fit into
C and D sized applications. I would get the new 2500mAh Nimh AA's
 You would be able to use a small inverter for 120V AC.
Also, there are many 12V appliances available.
Two golf cart batteries (about $100), Charge controller ($100) and a 75W
panel ($400-450) or if you want to start small buy the batteries and a
Vector smart charger.

Ed

 

Good idea about the 12v standardization...I have had to jerry rig
systems before with what is at hand...different voltages would just
complicate the efffort.

Do they make the Nimh in C and D size?

Any recommendations for the 12 v charger?

Any portable solar panel assembly for 12v at a respectable amperage?

TMT

 



  NiMH are made in C and D sizes. Check Radioshack
  or drug stores for Energizer or other brands.

   www.batteries.com

 

Too_Many_Tools wrote:

http://www.green-trust.org/2005/08/make-your-own-pv-panels.html

I use a AA, AAA charger (12vdc input) from walmart for my radio shack
NiMH's.

--
Steve Spence
Dir., Green Trust, http://www.green-trust.org
Contributing Editor, http://www.off-grid.net
http://www.rebelwolf.com/essn.html