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  • Flexible Solar Panels?

    Is anyone using adhesive flexible solar panels? It is nice that the wire is run; but, I am hesitant to add penetrations to the roof to mount traditional panels. Any recommendations on panels would be helpful.

    Thanks!

  • #2
    Originally posted by steve1081 View Post
    Is anyone using adhesive flexible solar panels? It is nice that the wire is run; but, I am hesitant to add penetrations to the roof to mount traditional panels. Any recommendations on panels would be helpful.

    Thanks!
    I moved your post to it's own thread as it's a different topic from where it was originally. I don't have any experience with flexible panels--sorry!

    Howard
    Forum moderators are not GD employees--we are volunteers and owners presumably just like yourself. Unless specifically mentioned otherwise, we have nothing to gain should you choose to purchase a product or engage a service we discuss on this forum.

    2017 Ford F-350 DRW, '19 315RLTSPlus

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    • #3
      Originally posted by steve1081 View Post
      Is anyone using adhesive flexible solar panels? It is nice that the wire is run; but, I am hesitant to add penetrations to the roof to mount traditional panels. Any recommendations on panels would be helpful.

      Thanks!
      When I did my install I looked at them briefly. Granted my research is two years old now but they were less efficient and generated more heat. Plus they were a nightmare to get off of one failed. I decided on rigid. What's a few more holes in the roof, just check that sealent Aden I check the rest.

      Forum moderators are not GD employees--we are volunteers and owners presumably just like yourself. Unless specifically mentioned otherwise, we have nothing to gain should you choose to purchase a product or engage a service we discuss on this forum.

      Neil Citro
      2018 Reflection 28BH Pepwave
      2019 F350 6.7L Long Bed Crew Cab

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      • #4
        I would not use them. They build up excessive heat. They don't last as long as a traditional panel. And the adhesive may cause the roof membrane to be damaged if you have to remove the panel for replacement. In addition, they can't be tilted if need be.

        Jim
        Jim and Ginnie
        2024 Solitude 310GK
        GDRV Technical Forum Moderator
        GDRV Rally Support Coordinator

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        • #5
          I know that GD's parent company, Winnebago (i think it's ok to mention them) is using flexible panels on the Class B Solis. Maybe you can get some insight from that.
          Scott M. Barlag, RV Product Specialist, NW Indiana

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          • #6
            Originally posted by SBARLAG View Post
            I know that GD's parent company, Winnebago (i think it's ok to mention them) is using flexible panels on the Class B Solis. Maybe you can get some insight from that.
            Just understand that the Solls does not have a TPO roofing material.

            Jim
            Jim and Ginnie
            2024 Solitude 310GK
            GDRV Technical Forum Moderator
            GDRV Rally Support Coordinator

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            • #7
              I installed two 170 watt Sunflower flexible panels on my Imagine XLS 17MKE.I used the method in the following link,
              https://youtu.be/uJIEXhnF8MU from RV with Tito. It has less glue, and accounts for heat. Just got back from a 2500 mile trip and they worked perfectly.
              Click image for larger version

Name:	IMG_20210802_194214.jpg
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ID:	67347 I went through all the arguments for flexible and went with these. I also have 400 watts of portable panels that I can move around and face the sun if needed.
              Jeff & Pam
              2021 Imagine XLS 17MKE

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              • #8
                Originally posted by Noeltfire
                I wonder how the efficiency of a flexible panel compares to bougerv models. Does anyone here have an idea of the bougerv flexible solar panels? Seems like there is a big benefit by hugging the roof of the van/RV as far as aerodynamics and gas mileage go.
                I have 2 x 170 flexible SunPower on my roof and 2 x100 Bouge portable connected to a separate charge controller. I find the Bouge flexible just as effective probably because I can move them into a better orientation to the sun. Don't quibble over a few percentage points of efficiency.
                Jeff & Pam
                2021 Imagine XLS 17MKE

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                • #9
                  I have just (1) 170W rigid panel on my Imagine, which is fine for my needs. I may add a second or more in the future, but I’m not running out of power at this point.

                  I do have (2) 100W Renogy flexible panels on my truck canopy though! I have dual (isolated) batteries and a Dometic fridge in the back to keep some cold drinks in as well as grocery runs because we live a ways out. The panels are mounted with some 3M foam tape that holds the panels about 1/8” off the surface. So far, they’ve performed very well.

                  That said, I would not advise the use of flex panels on a TPO roof unless you’ll fasten them with something other than adhesive. Mounting rigid panels, or anything, to a TPO roof can sure be intimidating, but only the first time. Get some Dicor Lap Sealant and cover up the crews. It’s how the entire top of our trailers is held together, and it’ll remind you to inspect the roof a couple times per year.
                  Chad, Heather, a kid or two, and Scout the Doodle dog

                  2021 Imagine 2500RL
                  2018 Crew Max Tundra Platinum

                  I can’t leave things stock…

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