Mix solar panels?

[Canuck27]

My 2019 R27OB came with a Custom Marine 160W Polycrystalline solar panel. I can only purchase a new 160w Custom Marine Monocrystalline panel as they no longer sell the Poly panels. Would mixing a Poly and a Mono panel be an issue? I do plan to wire the panels in series and add a new Victron MPPT controller. Any feedback on this plan would be appreciated.

 

[dbsea]

are they the same power characteristics? Generally, it's not good practice to mix panels of unlike power characteristics. If you set up two MPPT controllers it doesn't matter, but if you intend to use one, you should match the panels as closely as possible to ensure the most efficient power from them both.

 

[Gin]

Canuck, check your messages. I sent you a PM. I have a panel that is an exact match to the one you have. It will go to a marine consignment store in the next month or so. Unfortunately, Salem Oregon and Victoria BC are probably too far away for my panel to help with your expansion project.

Gini

 

[scgck]

About 2 months ago I added an additional 100w Renology panel the the existing solar factory setup on our 2021 R 27 OB
I had this panel from a previous marine installation.
I wired them in parallel to retain the same voltage more or less. This increased the ampere output roughly 60%
The DMT-1230 (30amp) controller easily handles the additional input. 500w at 14-50 vdc ( controller limit)
If you have any questions don’t hesitate to ask.
Chris
2021 R27 OB

 

[fidalgoisland]

If you haven't I would recommend you contact Tom (or his son Tom) at Custom Marine. They are very helpful and can give you the best advice on mixing their panels or with other types.