If you’re a boat owner in Perth, chances are you spend more time on the water than you do on land. Probably not unless you are retired and cruising around all day. So this is why it’s so important to make sure your vessel is equipped with the best marine solar panels money can buy!
Your boat is the scape of many adventures, both near and far. And it’s important to have a source of renewable energy that can sustain you while you’re away from the dock. Marine solar panels are the perfect way to power your boat, and there are a few different types to choose from.
Marine solar panels
So what makes the marine solar system different from those used on land? Marine solar panels need to be able to withstand the harsh conditions of being out at sea. They’re often exposed to salt water and high winds, so they need to be constructed differently.
Best marine solar panels are made with corrosion-resistant materials like aluminium and stainless steel. these panels are also built to be much tougher, so they don’t break or crack as easily.
Will a solar panel charge a marine battery?
Yes, a solar panel will charge a boat’s battery. Solar panels generate DC electricity, which is the same type of electricity that a boat’s battery use.
So by connecting your solar panels to your battery, you’ll be able to charge it up with sunlight! Solar panels and marine batteries Charging a boat battery with solar power is a great way to keep it topped off while you’re out on the water.
The solar energy generated can power a boat to a top speed of 10knots and maintain it for a day. Isn’t that great? the more power you have, the longer you can stay out and enjoy your time on the water.
How many watts of solar do I need for my boat?
The amount of solar you’ll need for your boat depends on a few factors, such as the size of your battery and how much power you use. A rule of thumb is that you’ll need about 10 watts of solar for every 100 amp hours of battery capacity. So if you have a 100 amp hour battery, you’ll need a 1000 watt solar panel.
To get more power, you can either get a bigger battery or add more solar panels to your system.
How do you size a marine solar system?
When sizing a marine solar system, you’ll need to take into account the power needs of your boat. You’ll need to know how much power you use, and what type of battery you have. You’ll also need to consider the amount of sunlight that your boat will be exposed to.
So for a boat the size of a 25-footer, you’ll need about 100 watts of solar. And for a 40-footer, you’ll need about 200 watts.
So if you need to power a boat and also generate extra power for a day or two of storage, you could go for a 200-watt panel. However, if you looking to power electronics for an extended period of time, you’ll need a more powerful panel, like a 400 watt one. This way you can easily run appliances like a TV or laptop for several hours a day.
So if you want to go off the grid on a larger boat and live on your boat, you’ll need a very powerful solar system like the one below. This system can generate enough power to live comfortably on a boat, including powering a fridge, microwave, and other appliances.
How do you hook up solar panels to a boat?
Hooking up solar panels for your boat is a pretty simple process. First, you’ll need to mount the panels to the roof of your boat. You could use mounting brackets for this, or you can drill holes and screw the panels down. Make sure they’re secure and that they have a good angle to the sun.
Next, you’ll need to connect the positive and negative wires from the solar system panels.
Then, you’ll need to connect the solar panels to your battery. You can do this by using a special connector called an MC4 connector.
Finally, you’ll need to turn on the switch that powers your solar panels.
Types of solar for boats
let’s talk about a few types of solar panels and see which are the best solar panels.
Crystalline silicon panels
The most common type of marine solar panel is the crystalline silicon panel. This is because they’re the most durable and can withstand the harshest conditions. They’re also the most efficient, so you’ll be able to generate more power with fewer panels. So your boat’s batteries will get charged up quicker.
Marine solar panels flexible
Flexible solar panels are also a popular choice for boats, as they’re much lighter and can be mounted in a variety of locations. The great thing about flexible solar panels is that they can conform to the contours of your boat, so you make the most of the available space. They’re not quite as durable as crystalline panels, but they’re still a good option for powering your vessel.
Sunpower marine solar panels
Another option to consider is Sunpower marine solar panels. These are some of the most efficient panels on the market, and they’re also very durable. Sunpower makes a variety of different sizes and types of panels, so you can find the perfect fit for your boat. These panels are a bit more expensive than other types, but they’re worth the investment if you want the best possible performance. Sunpower marine panels are made of high-quality materials and backed by a 25-year warranty, so you can be confident they’ll last for years to come.
Best solar panels for sailboats
there are few options out there, but the best solar panels for sailboats are definitely the flexible ones. These panels are designed to contour to the curved surfaces of a boat, and they’re also much lighter than their rigid counterparts.
Flexible solar panels are also a great choice if you often sail in areas with high winds. That’s because they’re less likely to be damaged by flying debris.
Rigid marine solar panels
Rigid solar panels are also a good option for sailboats. They’re often cheaper than flexible panels, and they’re also easier to install. However, they’re not as durable as flexible panels and they can be more difficult to mount on a curved surface.
Who to install solar panels on your boat
If you’re not sure which type of solar panel is best for your boat, then consult a professional. They’ll be able to help you choose the right type of panel for your needs. Solar panels Perth is a great place to start your search for a professional installer.
We offer a range of solar systems and service all areas of Perth. Whether extremely lightweight, highly efficient, flexible panel, complete off grid for your entire boat.
Give us a call today to learn more about our services.
