Adding solar

[Igg]

I am in the process adding a solar panel.
I currently have two flexible panels that came wirh the boat,,a leopard 40. Is it possible to add a third panel that has more amps and use the same controller?

 

[KompetentKrew]

Depends how many amps you're putting / planning to put through the controller, innit?

I would start by looking up the model of the controller. What is it rated for?

If you don't know the model / specification of the existing panels, I would think the conservative way to operate is on the assumption that they're the same wattage / area as your new ones.

 

[Igg]

Does anyone know the wattage of the solar panels installed by the factory for a leopard 40 (2018)

 

[jac]

Do you have anything already fitted that shows how much power (peak) they are generating? That may give you a starting point.

failing that- measure the physical size and search for panels of that size. Assume they are the best that you can find of that size and then maybe round up a little. It won’t be accurate but should at least give you a reasonable maximum output from them that should enable you to decide if the controller and wiring is man enough for the new panel

 

[William_H]

As said the answer is variable. Do not imagine that all Leopard 40m of that era will ahve the same solar charging set up. Not like a car where they are all the same.
I am guessing flexible panels will be about .5 metre square so probably about 20 watts each or 1 amp. It is mot likely that any controller will manage a lot more current than that. So you might be fairly safe to double the size (area) of soalr panels without concern. Either by replacemnt or by adding in parallel.
As said far better to find the controller get a model number and track down it's capability. ol'will