Anyone Using the Front Section of the Roof?

[kdarling]

Hey Kev - even if you don't get much direct sun with that panel it will act as a wind deflector!

Heh heh! Exactly!

Might even cut down on vent wind noise (for those without vent covers, that is).

[Jermanitor]

I have a glacier 2500.I have used the front portion of the roof to install a 100 amp solar panel.

[pdemarest]

Interesting. When I had solar panels installed this was the one area they didn't use but then I was going with really large panels. If I wind up not using it for storage I may have them add another panel as I have really enjoyed being able to dry camp without having to run the generator.

[chin_k]

I think the reason they did not use the front is because the average output of a tilted panel is lower than one that is horizontal, due to the fact that it is on a mobile rack. Unlike a fixed installation, where they can optimize the angle for the latitude (whether you want higher output during summer or winter, or a higher average year-round), the average output of a randomly tilted platform will be less. Obviously, if you are driving from North to Sound, and heading in that direction all the time, it will be a great way to mount it for the trip.

[pdemarest]

I hadn't thought of that. My panels are all mounted horizontally but they are up on brackets that do allow for tilting. However, I've never gotten below 60% of battery capacity so I just leave them in the horizontal position.