As someone who wants all the Mod Cons on their Boat I decided to get a decent sized system installed. As I could not live without the Internet and my TV / Blu Ray Player. I looked around at all the Companies which provide Solar Panel systems and instillation for Canal Boats and found LoryanMR They will fit systems anywhere across the UK so being up North did not hesitate to ring. I went for them because I wanted LG Panels due to the quality and 25 year life span, which cheaper Panels just can’t beat. I went for the LG 1.44kw 4 Panel system on the LoryanMR website
I also upgraded by Battery Bank from 3 110 Amp AGM Leisure Batteries to 4 210 Amp Led Carbon Batteries. So doubled my storage and longevity of system, as Lead Carbon handle large discharges very well. Originally was going for Gel Batteries but for a few hundred quid more got something which would last longer and better deep cycling and last another 1000 Cycles. The System came with 2 30 Amp MTTP controllers (The master minds= of the system which charge you’re Batteries and tell you what energy you are making) so allows for future expansion of several more Panels if I have any higher energy requirements in future.
I could of gone the DIY route and fitted the system, but even with cost of fitting and additional addon’s worked out cheaper than buying my Batteries myself. My knowledge of 12V Electric Systems is minimal. I’m used to installing 230v Sockets in Houses that need replacing Or running cables from Fused connections. LoryanMR offers clear pricing on its website which includes installation and VAT. There’s no hidden charges and also system was fitted within two weeks of placing my order.
I tested the system in dull weather with no Sun at 9.00 am on first day of using system I was drawing in 130 – 150 watt of energy continuous 12.4 – 13 volt current of Energy as displayed on both MTTP Controllers continuous. This was enough to run my 230v Fridge Freezer, My Laptop plugged in, all my lighting. 12v Freezer, Pumps for Toilet, Sink etc Without falling below 80 percent on my battery bank for a continuous 16 hours. So my conclusion even in dull bad weather in cold months if you don’t need to run the Engine to power the Inverter much or rely to much on shore power.
The fit out was hassle free, from start to finish. If you want quality I would recommend LoryanMR for a professionally fitted Solar System for you’re Narrowboat, Widebeam or Barge or Boat. P.S Please mention The Canal Pirate if you choose to use LoryanMr. http://loryanmr.com/ you can ring them direct on 0794757683
