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Post by rammerjammer on Jan 30, 2021 17:10:39 GMT -5
Has anyone here added panels to a factory KZ "Off The Grid" solar installation?
We just ordered our 2021 KZ Durango D301RLT, with the "Off The Grid" solar package, which includes the 2000W inverter and two panels with a total 220W capacity. I am planning to add two more panels after we receive the 5th wheel, and am curious whether any other KZ owners here have done this modification and what was needed. It looks like the same panels can be ordered directly from Xantrex, but I won't know until I see my trailer what the rooftop collector connection box looks like and whether it has extra ports for additional panels or not. I know KZ can configure them with up to 440W of panels at the factory.
Any feedback is welcomed.
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Post by lynnmor on Jan 30, 2021 19:44:37 GMT -5
Not a solar expert, but I often hear of wiring not heavy enough. If add capacity, check with some solar forums or websites and find the needed wire sizes with the lengths you need.
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Post by laknox on Feb 1, 2021 10:54:59 GMT -5
Not a solar expert, but I often hear of wiring not heavy enough. If add capacity, check with some solar forums or websites and find the needed wire sizes with the lengths you need. I've heard this, too. Were I adding more panels, I'd just run a whole other set of wires. It'd either be that, or rip out the original wiring and put heavy enough wiring to handle the full input. Remember, while what's there would likely handle the load, the =efficiency= can be greatly affected. Also, if the controller isn't an MPPT controller, dump it as soon as the warranty's up and install a good MPPT controller. Again, you're talking double-digit gains in charge efficiency just by having a good controller. You want to see a wild solar/electric setup, check out my cousin and her husband's bus project: www.beginningfromthismorning.com. 3,500 watts of solar feeding a Nissan Leaf battery at about 2800+ amp hours. Yeah, it's pretty cool! :-) Lyle
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Post by rammerjammer on Feb 1, 2021 21:19:00 GMT -5
Well, if anyone with actual experience with KZ Xantrex installations comes along, I'll be looking forward to their input.
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idmt
Weekender RV’er
Posts: 94
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Post by idmt on Apr 2, 2021 18:13:24 GMT -5
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bmobe
Newbie RV’er
Posts: 2
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Post by bmobe on Feb 28, 2024 17:40:41 GMT -5
Getting ready to do this myself. This is an older thread. Going to add another 2 panels in series then connect in parallel to existing 2 panels. I was going to upload a simple diagram but apparently the site has exceeded its storage space for uploads.
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Post by SkipperDude on Mar 3, 2024 11:31:36 GMT -5
Our new 358RPQ has the “Off the Grid” with 2 panels. It is also pre-wired with a plug-and-play connector on the roof for 2 more panels. Am going to wait to see our usage before deciding on adding 2 more.
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