Under $250.00

If you still have doubts you can try this inexpensive system: solar module, charge controller and inverter. Each item may be purchased separately. Although a charge controller is not required for only a 10 watt solar module, the charge controller will be necessary when you expand the solar system. This is not a high powered system, but it will give you the capability to expand later. Larger solar modules are available. With the anticipated increase in electricity costs per kilowatt hour in the near future, this is a great place to start. It will prove that we do not have to rely on fossil fuels for our energy needs. And it is a perfect science kit to get children interested in alternative energy. The kit includes: 1). One 10-watt glass solar module. Output of approximately 600mA in full sun. Includes 10 feet of wire. Completely weatherproof. Dimensions are: 36.25" X 12.25" X 0.75". 3 year warranty. Item #11.9310. 2). One Morningstar SunSaver charge controller. The rugged anonized aluminum case and epoxy encapsulated electronics ensure durability and longevity. Has LED charging and load control indicators. Dimensions are 6" X 2.2" X 1.3". 5 year warranty. Item # 20.1236. See the section Alternative Energy Components or go to www.brodarecharging.com/gpage7.html to explain this product. 3). Samlex Modified Sine wave inverter. Provides modified sine wave output with over voltage,under voltage,overload and thermal protection, and low voltage alarm. Battery voltage 12v, 175 continuous watts, 300 surge watts, 1.6" X 4.7" X 5.4". Weight 2 lbs. Item #30.7220. See the section on the left, solar powered inverters or at www.brodarecharging.com/gpage8.html to explain the difference on sine wave and modified sine wave inverters. Remember These sine wave inverters, although occuring in very rare cases, can harm some rechargeable tools, printers or copiers. But they will work well with lighting, televisions,fans,appliances and more. Also see the inverter section for more details and pictures. If you want to store the power until needed, we also recommend you purchase a deep cycle, marine battery with the highest amp output available. These can be found at most battery or tool stores. Product number : DK1. All of this for only $249.00 ! For a limited time only.

Suggestions/Hints

These are important concepts that are necessary in order for your equipment to run efficiently: 1) - Contrary to popular opinion, mostly heat lowers the efficiency of solar cells. When mounting a solar module, do not lay it on a flat surface. If mounting on a roof, for instance, you need to mount it so that there is air flow UNDER the module. One inch of clearance is sufficient. Aluminum channels available at all hardware store are perfect for this. Pressure treated wood may also be used. However, the expected life of a good solar module will outlive even pressure treated wood. Sufficient air flow is allowed if you elect to mount it on a pole. We will be offering mounting equipment in a new section soon for those who do not have access to aluminum channels. 2) - Face your module to the south. Then the maximum exposure to the sun is realized. Try to set the unit at a 30 degree angle in order to maximize the efficiency of the solar effect. Of course, direct sunlight will hit the module at different angles at different times of the year. 3) - We ground most modules to prevent damage if a lightning strike occurs. Although the probability of a strike is very low and the cost of this specific system is inexpensive, we prefer to to protect the equipment, especially if we intend to expand the system over time. We suggest you also ground the module also. But many people do not ground these smaller systems and never have a problem. Simple 16 guage wire is more than sufficient to properly ground these components. And the cost is minimal. We have also received numerous requests for backup power, hurricane and earthquake kits. We will offer these soon.

More Wattage Upgrade

Want more power ? Charge your backup batteries sooner. Upgrade the solar module to an AEE 50-watt solar module. Has 50 watts peak power, 17.1 peak power voltage , 3.28 peak power current in amps, 21.78 open power voltage, 2.96 short circuit current. 28.3" X21.85". Go to : www.brodarecharging.com/gpage6.html for details on AEE solar products. The charge controller and inverter are the same as DK1 , so it can be expanded at a later time. This kit number : DK2 All this for only $519.00 ! Prices may rise soon.