Useful extras

February 03, 2009

Solar-power your car battery

By Kashi Read more daily challenge, eco-friendly, eco gear, energy savers, home life, and living responsibly
Challenge Yourself for: 24 Hours

Here’s a way to let the sunshine in: Portable solar battery chargers can be used to power 12V engines in cars, motorcycles, trucks, boats – even RVs and mowers. As with other solar technologies, they use the power of the sun to build electrical voltage. Sometime this week, challenge yourself to learn more about charging your lead-acid car battery with a solar panel. Here are some tips and ideas to get you started: • Think about getting a voltmeter and solar panel. To use it, simply follow the instructions to connect the panel to your battery and charge to about 14V. Disconnect to keep from overcharging. • Batteries can be damaged by charging too fast; check with the manufacturer to make sure you’re using the right size panel. • Look at panels specifically optimized for cars parked for long periods of time.

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  1. 48_old_bus_home-1
    busdweller commented on this. almost 3 years ago

    I’ve lived in a solar powered bus / home for about 7 years now and I love it “All” of my electric power comes from the sun.

    Peace along the way
    Dennis the bus dweller N.Y.

  2. User_48
    tijoma commented on this. about 3 years ago

    I already own an X-treme Electric Bicycle, Model XB-508. I’ve been saving gas with it for two years, by not having to drive my truck all the time. Being able to recharge the batteries with a solar panel would be very cool.

  3. User_48
    niobe commented on this. about 3 years ago

    Hopefully the cost of solar panels will begin to decrease.

  4. 48_kashi
    klusk commented on this. about 3 years ago

    Thanks for the challenge. I will “google” this subject to check it out. I purchased a Toyota Highlander Hybrid last year….. and this has been a great investment….. saving us on gas exense.