Folding solar panels

[Hermit]

Hi all, we are considering buying a folding solar panel to keep our car aux battery charged while out bush.

I have a 120aH AGM battery and can easily discharge it down to about 60% SOC in one afternoon using my HF radio (Amateur Radio).

I have calculated I would need a 120w panel.

 

I have seen various panels on ebay and at other outlets for around the $200 to $300 mark, and also for 2 to 3 times these amounts.

 

Some of the cheaper brands claim A grade panels with multistage MPPT controllers and all waterproof and in stock in Australia. Some even say they are a shop outlet, not just a backyard trader.

 

Does anyone have any advice or experience with these cheaper brands. I'm not entirely convinced that the more expensive ones are twice or three times better.

 

Cheers

Rob

Currently in Renmark SA.

 

 

 

 

 

 

[ATV42]

Hi Rob

 

Having read your post, it is almost the same as another post on the Caravaners Forum !!!!!!!! 

 

We have a Waeco 120 watt panel purchased from Anaconda, we purchased it to supplement our roof mounted solar panels on the van.

 

Works well for us.

 

Peter

[Cargo05]

G'day Rob

Have a look on You Tube "Kickass 12v Portable Solar Panel Demonstration", and

http://www.australiandirect.com.au/kickass_150w_12v_portable_solar_panel_for_camping

 

Hope these help

 

Regards

Cargo 05

[Vulcan]

Hi, Hermit.

 

We don't own a Keddie as yet (give me time to get the cash together and the time to travel...), but have a camper trailer, with solar panels and an Ark Pack battery system. What I can say is simply this - avoid the ebay sellers and go to a reputable dealer with a bricks and mortar shop. We went through Springers Solar in Brissy and have a quality solar panel product (120 watt) with two fold-up panels, quality regulator, quality cable, quality plugs and a guarantee. If anything goes bung (which it hasn't), then we would simply take it back. It's worth the extra for peace of mind. With regard to your HF station - I keep the power to 30 watts max, throw a doublet up in the trees as high as I can and it always works a treat. Often of late, I've gone QRP and used my 10 watt KX-3 with a 7 Ah SLAB and have amazed others with the signal. I recharge the SLAB off the battery/solar system through a mini charger.  

 

73 de Vulcan (VK4BZ)

[TonyH]

I will ditto Vulcans comments above.......speak to Springers they are very knowledgeable, they are certainly are after a sale....not saying in anyway, don't buy from them.... but use their advice/recommendations.....in making a decision.

I (personally) have been a very happy customer of Springers for many years....

CU down the road.

[Mullerenergyco]

You’re on the right track. A 120W panel will just cover your usage, but in real-world conditions (heat, shade, angle), you’ll likely see only 60–80W average output. If you're regularly pulling your 120Ah AGM down to 60%, I’d suggest going for a 160W to 200W panel to give you a bit more buffer and ensure full recovery each day.

Cheap vs Expensive Panels:

• Cheaper options ($200–$300) can work, but:

  • Often come with PWM controllers (even if labelled MPPT)

  • May use lower-grade cells

  • Build quality and connectors can be hit or miss

• More expensive panels ($500+):

  • Use better quality cells (more efficient)

  • Include genuine MPPT regulators

  • Have better build, waterproofing, and longevity

Best approach:
Consider buying a quality folding panel without a built-in regulator, and use a proper MPPT controller mounted near your battery. This gives you better performance and flexibility.

Look for setups with Anderson connectors, and double-check voltage ratings if pairing with your own controller.

Let me know if you want help choosing a solid mid-range option.

Cheers.