Monday, Feb 27, 2012 at 22:24
If you are carrying the fridge in the car then of course it uses some space.
The panel/s, maybe folding type, will use more space.
Will you carry the panels with you when on excursions or theave it at the tent site. Not recommended.
I would suggest you use a lowline roof rack with the solar panel bolted to it.
The battery may be possible to have fitted under the bonnet in its own cradle, however, you haven't said what type of vehicle you have so recommendations are hard to get accurate/close to the mark, for you.
Here is some questions/suggestions/comments.
Will the fridge live in the vehicle?
Where do you propose the battery to be?
Panels can be on roof rack would this suit or definitely no?
Why do you say you will upgrade wiring later, because getting it right first time is far cheaper.
If panels are only used periodically then you will need to use an MPPT regulator to get the most out of the panels with minimum sun time. "Maximum powerpoint tracking."
Using cigarette lighter plugs and sockets are not a reliable way to supply power to a fridge. Cig plugs get dirty and heat up and burn out. Then what do you do?
Hard wiring and fused eg direct to battery or via small anderson plug or similar will give a trouble free performance.
Battery can be in vehicle but must be restrained if it is.
LED voltmeter from Jaycar is good to use to monitor voltage level of battery.
Type of fridge? The amp draw is important factor when calculating battery size and panel size required.
Ambient temp where you
camp will vastly affect/vary battery charge life.
If you fit an Anderson plug on a lead to the vehicle battery, have Anderson plug x 2, extension lead and Anderson on battery you can connect direct to battery and charge it in emergencies. PS AGM 100ah don't like near or more than 20amp charge rate especially in hot weather.
I think it is not a great idea to just take your chances if battery goes flat and it is best to have a backup plan or just do a bit extra than what you require to make all run
well and no stress.
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