After having run with our solar for a year, and doing some measuring, we decided to add two more 180 watt panels to our roof. That means we’re now at:
12 x 180 watts = 2160 total watts of sun gathering power
Before:
After:
I’m actually amazed at how much it’s helped increase our gathering throughout the day. Our batteries are fuller earlier, and we’ve been able to run the dryer or one AC unit during max solar hours without hindering anything. Of course, this means that we’d benefit from another battery to store this extra power. It will come in time.
I’ve also recently learned about the “cloud edge effect”. During this effect the sun is magnified around the edges of clouds, so you can take in more than your panels are rated for. It’s exciting to watch, and I now smile when I see puffy clouds in the sky.
Cloud edge effect caught on the logs:
For those more technically inclined, here is an updated diagram of the recently added equipment.
