I'm trying to set up a solar power system for my chicken coop, which has been tricky because my puppy keeps chewing on the extension cords. I want to run two heat lamps and a shop light, and I'm hoping to keep the budget under $250 if possible. The coop has a shed area where I can store batteries and other equipment. How do I determine the right amount of solar panels or wattage I need for this setup?
3 Answers
To figure out your needs, start by noting the wattage of each item you want to power. Combine the watts and make sure your system's charge controller can handle the load. For instance, if your heat lamps draw high wattage for extended hours, you must size your battery storage and solar panels accordingly. A basic setup from Harbor Freight is around $169, but you'll need a battery and an inverter too, adding to your budget.
You might struggle to meet your goal of $250. A good tip is to use a Kill-A-Watt meter to see how much power each device pulls. Once you know your total wattage, you'll need an inverter rated 1.25 times that number. Calculate your battery needs based on daily usage, then size your solar panels according to how fast you want to charge the batteries.
Honestly, considering you'll be using heat lamps, it might be better to run a direct line from your house instead. Heat lamps consume a lot of power. To get a proper solar setup, you'll likely need a much larger array than what fits in the coop. Digging a trench for wiring could save you in the long run.