Sorry it’s been a while since our last post. It’s all been pretty quiet in Malta and if i’m honest I got a bit lazy. Anyway the sun is now shining and we’re back in Malta after 10 days in the UK, with a long todo list.
Time to start the new electronics upgrade
I’m very excited as our new Victron electronics have arrived. This is the big upgrade we are doing that will ensure that we can be fully sufficient with our electricity production. We are also upgrading to Lithium batteries that reduce the weight on the boat and double the amount of usable power we can store. The first job is to install the new solar panels on the roof.
From this:
To this:
One of the challenges is that i’m going to need to move the existing panels. The problem with this is that there are cable holes and screw holes drilled in the coach roof. I’ve been looking at different options, but decided the best way is to remove all the current panels, fill all the existing holes and then start again. This will mean I can get the panels in the ideal location. I thought about working around what we have today, but it would be too messy. Also, the new panels will largely cover up all the old screw holes, so you shouldn’t notice too much difference.
One of the problems with flexible solar, is all the crap that builds up behind them. They also get VERY hot, which bakes that into the GRP and causes it to stain. A good bit of scrubbing and polishing removed the worst of it. Next job is to fill the holes with epoxy resin, repeat it all on the other side and then get ready for fitting the new panels.
A nice little trick I found on the internet – if you have a large hole you need to fill and can’t get to the back of it – thread some card onto a string, poke it through and pull it tight onto a piece of wood. i’ll give you a good back to pour the glue onto.
One Response
Hi Guys – good to see the update and the progress you’re making on the power improvements. Great Timelapse video.
Take care
Andy