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| Here Comes the Sun! |
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The Solar Electrical System
One of the most significant requirements for the Flying Cloud was the solar system. From this we derive virtually all our power and it is the key to our carbon footprint reduction and our self-sufficiency. We looked long and hard at solar systems and suppliers before we decided what to buy and where to buy it. In the end, we were fortunate to find a supplier in our own back yard of Springfield, OR, who not only had the type of system we were looking for, they had extensive knowledge and are specialists in the installation of RV systems. As we were determined to install the system ourselves, we made a trip over to Springfield to pick up the system and to get some pointers from Deb & Greg Holder, and their staff of solar specialists. They were extremely helpful, and gave us all the info we needed to get started on the installation.
We won't tell you that installing a solar system by yourself is an easy DIY! There is some rather complicated electrical wiring, and the controller panel, batteries, and roof panels must all be carefully installed to avoid the potential for serious electrical malfunctions. With some background in electrical systems, the aid of the installation guide, and the help from AMSolar, we were able to install the system without a problem. When we made the final hookup to the solar panels, all the correct lights came on, the controller panel began reading as it should and nothing exploded or caught fire! It was a very rewarding experience. For those of you with less mechanical or electrical experience, I would highly recommend that you have the good folks at AMSolar install your system.
For more information on AMSolar visit their website at: www.amsolar.com
Pictured below are some of the highlights from the installation.
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