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--- electrical:solar:rationing [2017/10/26 12:18]
frater_secessus [small systems]
+++ electrical:solar:rationing [2020/10/11 19:48]
@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
-====== Rationing solar power ======
-Sometimes normal awareness is not enough to keep a solar setup functioning with usable power.  In these situations one might need to take steps to minimize loads and maximize power intake.
-===== minimizing loads =====
-  * find and eliminate parasitic loads
-  * turn off anything you don't need right now
-  * shift charging of phones, laptops, etc [[electrical:solar:nonessential|to periods of excess power]]
-  * charge light sources during full sun and use them at night
-  * go to bed early, sleep late :-)
-  * use low-power entertaining like reading instead of power-hungry entertainment like TV, gaming console, etc
-  * reduce or eliminate use of an inverter
-  * open your refrigerator as little as possible after sundown
-===== maximizing solar harvest =====
-  * ensure the panels are not shaded by natural obstructions:  move out from under trees, overhangs, etc.
-  * ensure the panels are not shaded by obstructions on your own RV:  antennas, A/C units, vents, etc. One way to minimize shading is to park so that the **greatest expanse of panel is facing south** and any obstructions are on the north side of the van.
-  * tilt panels if possible
-  * ensure no tarps, awnings or other obstructions are preventing cooling breezes from passing under/over the panels;  panel output drops as cell temperature rises.
-  * clean the solar panels.  Dust or dirt on the panels can decrease panel output by 5-10% in some cases.((http://www.lwd.com/solar/deratingfactors.htm))
-===== small systems =====
-FIXME
-===== unusual conditions =====
-FIXME

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