Hey everyone! I'm on the hunt for an affordable, portable solar panel option to keep my Bluetti EB3A charged. I'm not in a rush to charge it quickly; I just need something to maintain a good charge level for some tool batteries. The EB3A has a maximum input of 200W and a max voltage of 28V. I'm hoping to keep the price under $200 if possible. Right now, I'm considering a 110W, 18V panel priced at $125 CAD plus tax. Does that sound like a good choice?
Also, I mistakenly purchased an 18V 80W panel, but it doesn't generate enough power for the EB3A. Is there a way to use a low-wattage panel alongside it to meet my charging needs? I'm pretty new to the solar game, so any advice would be appreciated!
3 Answers
Regarding combining panels, as long as the voltage matches, it is often possible to wire them together. You could connect your low-wattage panel with a higher-wattage panel, just make sure they have similar voltage outputs to prevent any issues. However, I’d recommend checking your charge controller’s compatibility to avoid damaging your setup.
I have some experience with the Dokio 110W panel, and it seems to output about half the power compared to my standard glass-framed panels of the same wattage. I had mine refunded under warranty since I suspected it was defective, but others have reported similar results. If you’re looking for a portable option, you might want to check out other brands that have better performance ratings!
I’d steer clear of the Dokio solar panels for regular use. They’re okay for occasional camping trips, but I’ve found they don’t hold up well over time when exposed to the sun. If you plan to use it frequently, you might want to consider other brands that are known for better durability.