Hail damage to solar panels on a 2020 T@B 320

Jeansor

My husband and I are going to look at a trailer that has received some hail damage.  We've been told it's minor, small mostly pea-sized dings to the roof.  They said that the solar panels were damaged also but that they still work.  We're going to look at it in person but I'm just wondering if anyone knows how hail damage affects the performance of the panels.

Cbusguy

I doubt pea sized hail could dmage them.   But in a glass panel it would fracture the solar cells flexible panels are probably the same


Hook to the victron controller in the trailer via bluetooth and the victron app via smartphone.    The victron code is 0000 or 00000

With the trailer unplugged from AC power and the battery switch on.......turn the refrigerator on dc power and give it a couple of minutes.    

Open up the victron app and see what the current delivery is to the battery.....IMO anything over say 14 volts and 5 amps you are doing okay.   

The solar panels are not mounted for optimal performance and I have been disappointed by the performance of mine.

pthomas745

They might still "work" but they might be damaged in such a way that they are "working" at a reduced capacity.

I have a flexible panel (not installed on the camper) that has lost half its capacity because one or two of the elements have failed for whatever reason.

So, unless they can prove that the panel is working to specifications, don't assume it is ok. 

If you know how to use a multimeter, bring it.

Edit: Cbusguy is correct.  The Victron app will tell you how much the panel(s) are putting out.  Just make sure the trailer is in as good a sun as you can get.

Cbusguy

If the dealer doesn't have a battery in the trailer.  Don't use the fridge on dc as it will never start.   Try using the roof vent instead

BirdieJane

If tif you need to replace them get 2 of these. Easy install.

https://www.windynation.com/Monocrystalline-Solar-Panels/WindyNation-Inc/WindyNation-100-Watt-12V-Flexible-Solar-Panel-with-Monocrystalline-Solar-Cells/-/2855?p=c3E9RmxleGlibGUrcGFuZWw=

Jeansor

Thanks for your replies.  We're new to all of this and trying to figure out as much as we can.