Boat Show 2017 - Marine Solar Panel Innovations
28 February 2017 · 49 min · 8K views · British Columbia
What this video covers
Flexible solar panels provide a reliable, maintenance-free method for recharging marine battery banks without the noise or vibration of a generator.2:17 In the Pacific Northwest, long summer daylight hours offer a distinct output advantage over lower latitudes.4:20 When selecting panels, boaters must balance available mounting space against power requirements.7:37 Monocrystalline panels offer higher efficiency for vessels with limited canvas or deck area, while polycrystalline panels provide a more cost-effective solution for boats with larger, open surfaces.8:45 Regardless of cell type, panels should be mounted parallel to the waterline, as the constant movement of an anchored boat makes tracking the sun impractical.11:25 Quality panels feature bypass diodes to mitigate power loss from shading caused by booms, radar masts, or domes.15:52 Proper installation involves secure mounting, such as using zippers on biminis or dodgers to withstand high winds.5:38 High-quality, epoxy-encapsulated panels can last up to 20 years with minimal degradation or maintenance.14:08
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