The best solar kits
Solar Kits – Buying Guide and Comparison in 2022
Currently, electricity consumption within a home is completely essential in our day to day. If you consider yourself a person with alternative tastes, who cares about nature and is respectful of the environment, we recommend using solar panels to generate electricity for your home. These systems take advantage of the sun as a renewable and inexhaustible source of energy, saving money and preserving nature. Among the models that currently stand out we can mention the ECO-WORTHY L02P100-1, which works ideally for charging 12 volt batteries and allows multiple panels in series to charge higher voltage batteries. If, on the other hand, you are looking for a perfect model to take to the camp thanks to its versatility and reduced dimensions and that offers great performance even in extreme weather conditions, we recommend the Direct Importer SP10.
Opinions on the best solar kits
If you are preparing to acquire one of the best solar kits of 2022, you need to know the positive and negative characteristics of each product. Later, we will present a list of the most used models today, breaking down their outstanding functions to help you make your selection.
ECO-WORTHY L02P100-1
Faced with a market full of different models, we initially ask ourselves which is the best solar kit before proceeding to acquire one of these products. This handy 100W model is perfect for charging 12 volt batteries and by connecting multiple models in series you can power higher voltage batteries.
It has a very simple installation thanks to the pre-drilled holes and has a 90-centimeter long cable with MC4 male/female quick connectors. It integrates an IP-65 rated junction box that is waterproof, dustproof and any harmful particles.
This model has an approximate size of 99.6 x 66.5 x 3.5 centimeters. It has an Open Circuit Voltage (VOC) value of 20.6 volts, a short circuit current of 6.88 amps and a temperature range of -40 degrees Celsius to 80 degrees Celsius. It integrates a very resistant aluminum frame.
If you are looking for the best solar kit of the moment, but you are also interested in one of the cheapest, it is necessary to know its most important characteristics so that you can make a wise selection and that it meets your needs.
Pros
Power: A single plate of this model works with an output power of 100W and allows you to place several in series.
Reliability: These solar panels are made of polycrystalline materials and their corrosion-resistant aluminum frame allows them to be installed outdoors for long-term use.
Connections: This connection box has great protection against any type of environmental particle, being waterproof and dustproof.
Versatility: This model allows you to join several solar panels to achieve a greater electrical charge.
Cons
Performance: A user comments on the network that after a year of using this model it has begun to give very little voltage, from 4 to 5 volts.
DirectImporter SP10
If you are looking for the best solar kit that is advertised on the current market, we recommend you take this model into account. The Direct Importer SP10 is a high performance solar panel that has a 10 amp regulator, enough to charge two batteries, and is ideal for use in caravans, boats and mountain cabins.
This solar kit allows a very fast installation due to its pre-assembly, so you can easily mount it. This is a superior quality solar panel that generates real and certified declared energy.
This solar kit measures approximately 148.2 x 67.6 x 5.5 centimeters and weighs around 12.8 kilograms. It has cables with anti-UV coating six meters long. This is a model with high performance even in extreme weather conditions.
It is advisable to know which is the best brand of solar kits on the market, since they often offer us greater quality guarantees. In the case of solar panels, it is important to know the voltage of the product so that you know if it meets your needs.
Pros
Power: This model generates an output power of up to 100 watts for each panel. You even have the opportunity to join several in series.
Voltage: This solar panel generates a value of 12 volts per panel.
Anti-UV: The cables that this model uses for the connection have a practical and very useful special coating against ultraviolet rays, since these panels are installed outdoors.
Brackets: This product includes pre-assembled aerodynamic brackets made of aluminum.
Cons
Defect: A user points out in a negative way that his panel has blown some lights and that the regulator overcharges him, which seems to be an internal fault.
ViaSolar 2341KCPMP200M5
Solar kits allow you to take advantage of the energy generated by the sun and transform it into electrical energy to use your devices and that is what the ViaSolar model offers you.
We are facing a solar kit in which the 12V plate that has dimensions of 149.5 x 68 x 3.5 centimeters; Big enough to generate up to 200W of power and don’t worry about running out of power when traveling in your caravan for example.
It has everything you need for its use and installation, including an Epever solar regulator with which you can control the operation of the panel. In addition, it stands out that it has a robust construction that makes it resistant, so as not to show wear even if it is exposed to difficult conditions.
On the other hand, it stands out that both its size and utility make it practical to be installed in various spaces. This way you can get the most out of your investment.
If you have doubts about which model of solar kit you should buy, we recommend that you review each of the advantages and disadvantages of the models that you would be interested in acquiring:
Pros
Power: The ViaSolar team generates high-efficiency power that you can use with various electrical devices and systems.
Finishes: The plate is resistant and robust, thanks to its manufacturing materials, to be able to keep it outdoors without any concern.
Compatibility: You will be able to take advantage of the benefits of the kit in different places, such as boats, motorhomes, fences, among others.
Accessories: The purchase of the solar kit includes, in addition to the plate and the regulator, the base to mount, the screws, the wiring and the necessary connectors.
Cons
Size: You must be very attentive to the measurements of the solar panel, to avoid problems when you want to install it in certain spaces that could be limiting.
Light saver 50W
Among the cheapest solar kits is this practical model, which generates about 50 watts of power. It is made up of a polycrystalline solar panel with a nominal 12 volts and 36 cells. This model provides enough energy for a small consumption, such as: three 9-volt LED bulbs for 5 to 10 hours a day, depending on the intensity of sunlight and the time of year.
This kit includes a handy charge regulator with a built-in display for up to 10 amps sustained at 12 or 24 volts. Thanks to its instructions and graphic diagram, the regulator is easy to connect, since it does not require extra special connectors. The screen reflects the battery voltage, parameter settings, load disconnection hours, bulk load voltage, float, overload cut-off and recovery.
It includes a practical USB port to charge mobiles and portable devices of 5V, 2A. It also integrates a heat sink at the rear. It has four modes of operation: permanent, manual, light control, timer.
When we are about to acquire a new solar panel, we must pay attention mainly to the power generated by the panel and the voltage it provides you to use your favorite electrical devices.
Pros
Power: This model of solar panel has a power of 50 watts, 12 volts and 36 cells.
Regulator: Includes a convenient charge regulator with integrated display of 10 amps sustained at 12 or 24 volts.
Easy connection: The regulator of this model is very easy to connect if you follow the graphic scheme that is included.
Energy: With a single panel you can generate electricity for a small consumption, such as three 9-watt LED bulbs for 5 to 10 hours a day.
Cons
Large consumption: As the only criticism, it can be pointed out that this model does not work for large consumption appliances.
PuntoEnergia Italy KSB-50-12
If you are looking for the best value for money solar kit, we recommend you take this product into account, since it has the cheapest price on this list. This practical polycrystalline solar panel kit can generate an amount of power up to 50 watts.
The stored charge can be used to power various low consumption devices such as 12V safety lamps, small refrigerators and portable devices. This PuntoEnergia Italia KSB-50-12 solar kit includes a panel and a solar charge controller with output from 10W to 3,000W.
This practical model has dimensions of 66.8 x 3 x 65.5 centimeters and weighs approximately 3.7 kilograms. This great solar panel can be easily placed on top of a caravan, powering your portable devices.
Finally, to choose the most appropriate model for your needs, we recommend you look at its versatility, since it is important that it allows you to easily install it in your caravan so that you can take it to your field trips and trips.
Pros
Voltage : This solar panel will provide you with a 12-volt power ideal for connecting your portable devices.
Power: Thanks to the 50 watts of this product you can provide electrical power to different small devices.
Controller: The solar charge controller included in this kit has a power output of 10W up to 3,000W.
Renewable: With this product you will be taking advantage of the endless source of energy from the sun in your favor, so that you keep your electricity bill low.
Cons
Battery: In the case of this solar kit, it should be noted that it does not include any type of battery that helps store the energy collected on the day.
Guide to buying a solar kit
If your last electricity bill has gone through the roof, it is normal for you to look for an efficient alternative that generates enough electricity for your home and reduces the amount of your electricity bill. In this case, we recommend you purchase a practical solar kit, with which you can generate the energy necessary to power your home, so that you can enjoy all the comforts of electrical energy, contributing to caring for the environment by using the sun as a source of energy. To help you choose the model that best suits your needs, we have prepared a guide to buying the best solar kit.
Shopping guide
Power, voltage and efficiency
In any comparison of solar kits, the power and voltage generated by the solar panel are one of the main characteristics that we must always take into account before choosing a model, since the first measures the work force of our device and the second the voltage generated by the panel.
It is important that you know the power generated by each solar panel, so that you can calculate how much energy you generate by adding each panel of the solar kit, if they are connected to each other. In this way, you will be able to provide the necessary current to connect several appliances simultaneously.
On the other hand, the great energy efficiency that practical solar panels present is indisputable, since they dramatically reduce the cost generated with electricity bills by replacing the energy source with an efficient and renewable alternative such as the sun. With these devices, the question is not how much it costs, but how much it saves you.
Installation and connection
When we talk about solar panels, you probably think of complicated cable installations. Nothing is further from reality. Currently, manufacturers of solar kits have been concerned with developing models with connection and installation systems that are increasingly simple and intuitive for users, so that you can assemble the panels yourself without any problem or need to hire to a professional.
It is very important that the connection is made correctly, so that you avoid any damage to your electrical devices, which is why the number of cables and connectors has been simplified. We recommend that you know that there are only three types of plate connection that are used according to your needs. If you need to achieve a high intensity, you must make a parallel connection, which maintains the same tension or voltage, while the intensity and power are added.
On the other hand, if you make a series connection, you must add the voltage while maintaining the current. However, for this type of connection it is required to use an MPPT regulator/maximizer, which are devices that modulate high voltage and optimize the capacity to generate energy.
Autonomy
Last but not least, is the autonomy of the solar kit, to which we recommend you pay close attention, as it determines the duration of operation of the devices connected to the solar panel. You must bear in mind that not all models of solar kits include a battery that stores the energy charge collected throughout the day.
It is important that you acquire a complete solar kit, which integrates a battery that allows you to use your appliances when there is no longer sunlight. For this, it is advisable to know what type of connection there is between the plates and to know the voltage and intensity that your electrical devices require.
If you are looking for a compact and economical model, you can choose one of the solar panels specially designed for lovers of camping and adventure sports, which you can easily carry in a backpack and that allows you to connect and charge a few mobile devices such as a phone. mobile or a tablet. There are even slightly more powerful models that manage to power a small portable refrigerator or an electric stove.
Frequently asked questions
Q1: What does a solar kit contain?
Normally, photovoltaic solar kits are mainly composed of solar panels, which are responsible for transforming solar radiation into electrical energy. Also, they integrate a charge regulator that manages the electrical energy that is charged in the battery, which is responsible for storing electrical energy in the form of chemical energy. Finally, they incorporate an inverter that transforms direct current into alternating current, thus allowing you to connect your favorite appliances.
Q2: What is the difference between a caravan solar kit and a normal one?
Mainly, it must be taken into account that the solar kits for caravans are models that are provided with a complete series of accessories that are necessary to provide electricity to your vehicle, allowing you to connect lamps and other electrical devices on your trips and in places where you have no electricity.
On the other hand, solar kits for normal use are often installed on the roofs of homes, so that they help reduce or completely eliminate electricity consumption, providing an efficient alternative to a renewable energy source.
Q3: Can a solar kit be used with an air conditioner?
It is really not recommended to use an air conditioner, however compact it may be, since it would be a complex process to carry out, as well as very expensive and not very beneficial in the long term. In theory, this installation can be carried out, taking into account the power you need and acquiring the number of panels that generate that or more electrical power, apart from needing an inverter, a charge regulator, batteries, the necessary electrical wiring and the hand of work corresponding to a professional who carries out the installation.
Q4: Is it really a cheap solar kit?
It is important to keep in mind that the cost of each solar kit varies per square meter, as well as the number of accessories included in the package, since the inverter and the battery represent a large part of the total price of the package. On the other hand, you can rest easy knowing that, in the market, the value of solar panels decreases notably and proportionally, as you increase the size of the installation, so the larger the size, the lower the economic cost.
Q5: What is a zero consumption solar kit?
Zero consumption solar kits are equipment made up of traditional solar panels and other current accessories, also called self-consumption, which include a device that is responsible for measuring solar production and the exact consumption of a solar installation in real time, so that when production exceeds consumption, production is automatically reduced, preventing a number of kilowatts per hour from being generated in the form of surpluses, which are lost but are counted by digital meters, notably increasing consumption on our bill. electricity and being completely useless for the user.
On the other hand, it is possible to structure a professional solar energy monitoring system, which allows you to measure active and reactive power and energy, tension, voltage, among others, from your mobile phone.
» Review information from previous years
Solar Photovoltaic DSP
If you are a professional or amateur camper, this model will be ideal for your outdoor adventures. This solar kit has an approximate autonomy of one to two hours a day and 3 to 4 hours on weekends and allows you to use light bulbs, TV, charger or mobile phone. This model is perfect for people who are starting to use electricity.
This solar kit includes a 50-watt, 12-volt photovoltaic module and an LKS charge controller, which delivers a 5-amp hour (Ah), 33-Ah solar battery. It integrates an Eleksun inverter of 12 volts of direct current and 300 watts.
The Photovoltaic Solar DSP brings cables with multi-contact terminals that will allow you to connect several panels together, which are monocrystalline. This solar panel has approximate dimensions of 68 x 58 x 3 centimeters, ideal to take to a country house.
If you are still wondering which solar kit to buy but it is difficult for you to make a decision, then we recommend you look at its most relevant features and take into account what accessories it includes. This complete kit contains a module, a regulator, a battery and a power inverter.
Pros
Autonomy: The autonomy of this model may vary but it can reach 4 hours if you have several light bulbs, a TV, a charger or a mobile phone.
Kit: This practical solar kit includes a 50W and 12V photovoltaic module, a 5Ah charge regulator and USB socket, a 33Ah solar battery and a 12V DC and 300W power inverter.
Versatile: You can take this versatile model in your caravan to connect your mobile phone and other devices on the beach or in the mountains.
Power: A single plate generates a power of 50W and allows several modules to be joined to reach higher values, such as three panels to create 150 watts.
Cons
Installation: A user comments that as a complaint it could refer to the fact that you must do the installation yourself.
» Review information from previous years
