Solar panels extending over edge of roof

[more tired since retired]

Thank you for this suggestion. This seems like it will definitely solve the problem and allow me to go with just the one Multiplus II that handles 50amp pass through. They seem to be about $299 each through places like Amazon, etc. It seems you need one for each AC unit. Where did you install them? Up on the roof where electrical enters the compressor box?

If you want the factory warranty, buy it direct. I was told by a company rep Amazon is not an authorized seller and they are sold third party. You might also want to look into their thermostat. Bluetooth and wifi makes it easy to monitor, set temps, turn on and off. We replaced the factory install with one from Micro-Air.

https://www.microair.net/collections...-soft-starters

[Marcot1]

We have 2400watts on our 381m. Solar panels are rated in "best case" or at the equator under full sun. The max our system has ever put out is 1700 watts in Arizona this spring. The only questions that need to be asked about serious solar systems is how much space do you have and how much can you afford?

[Marcot1]

I have one full sized 395w panel on the front of our 381m, I would not have anything protruding over the front cap. I have 6 brackets holding that one down. We also have other panels along the side that overhang but no more than the awnings or the slide (when closed).

[tonygoncalves]

You haven't listed how much battery capacity you have. Running a single AC off a Victron 3000 multiplus is do-able, I do it on my trailer do problem. You'll need enough capacity to run the inverter whenever clouds roll in, etc. At least 300AH.
I installed a soft start from softstartrv in mine, works great, I can startup and run my AC off my 2kw generator or multiplus from the batteries, etc. https://www.softstartrv.com/
If you do decide to get one, let me know as they have a referral program running, and we can both get $25!
https://www.softstartrv.com/referral/

[Jmax99]

Hi Tony, yes, I do plan to get two of them since I need one for each unit. So if you want to do the referral that would be great. I plan to have 800 AH at 12 volts.

[jm_bc_]

Hello Jack & Sue-

We have a Reflection 367 BHS and have 6 panels of 305 watts each (1830 watts total) on our roof. With all of the stuff up on the roof we had to get creative with panel placement - all of the panels are flush with the outside edges of the trailer to minimize snagging them on stuff, but did end up having to hang one panel up front over the seam that connects the roof to the front cap. I had a local aluminum fabricator make up a wind deflector to reduce any uplift under that panel. Not sure if it was necessary or not, but now with about 20,000 kms with this setup and no problems, I can only assume it helped and has done its job. Panel is mounted on 4 roof stand-offs (6 screws each), then mounting rails. Happy to share more info if needed!

Cheers, Josh

[jm_bc_]

A few more images:

[tonygoncalves]

Why is the front panel so close to the front cap? From the pics it looks like you could have moved it back further, closer to the AC? That way it wouldn't be overhanging your cap, and you would have easier access to the sealant for inspection, etc?

[Redapple63]

Why is the front panel so close to the front cap? From the pics it looks like you could have moved it back further, closer to the AC? That way it wouldn't be overhanging your cap, and you would have easier access to the sealant for inspection, etc?

I agree with this, additionally, it looks like you can still do that. It does look like the rail system used and be adjusted further back, say 6 or 8 inches.

[jm_bc_]

Hello Tony- Thanks for the comment! Totally agree with you here - as @Redapple63 also mentioned, I could (and am planning to) shift the panel back this fall when I do my roof wash and sealant check by sliding the rails back on the mounting feet. The feet placement were done to ensure all 4 feet were on the same roof plane, since the Reflection roof profile dips quite a bit towards the front. The installer set them in place for me, and we were in a hurry to get on the road for a cross-Canada trip. Appreciate your feedback!