PV Gap

Franklin Said:

can you use solar powered batteries in recharge battery appliences?

We Answered:

If the item you are putting it into uses the same type of battery- namely if your yellow battery were a NiCad, it can go into a device that was designed for a NiCad.

the same with a NiMH type.

While there is some interchangeability possible, there are too many variables that get too involved for this space.

The good news is neither item will blow up. The bad news if you can call it that, is a NiMH battery will not charge in a solar outdoor light made for NiCads. A Nicad might overcharge and have a shorter life span if put in a solar charger made for a NiMH battery.

Leo Said:

Can a solar powered battery maintainer (1.44 W, or 120 mA at 12V DC) overcharge a car battery?

We Answered:

I keep one in my car (also in MN) and have never had a problem with overcharging.

Anita Said:

Why hasn't anyone invented Solar Powered Batteries?

We Answered:

Get your entire house wired for solar with just one connectup at the breaker for incoming and sending back to the grid.
Then plug in your battery charger, it will work.
Is it for the same reason that the hybrid and electric cars don't have solar panels built right into the roof or hood?
We found that some electric patents for enhancers for alternative power had been bought by the major big companies and they were definitly holding back.
Our green picture could be greener if the Govt got in the picture and made them more affordable.
It is like laptop prices, if they lowered the price a bit they might sell more and make more $$ as a rsult.

George Said:

Has anyone ever changed the batteries in solar powered lawn lights?

We Answered:

I bought some batteries that specified they were for solar lights. So far. . .and I've only changed batteries in one. . .it doesn't charge in the light. I paid an arm and a leg for these batteries at Home Depot. I no longer buy expensive solar lights so I can just throw them away. But I have some really pretty ones that I'd like to get going again. I also find that the solar panel clouds up. I don't think they are very well made. . .the expensive ones or the cheap ones. I've also bought some of the cheap ones at Walmart and the first two only lasted about six months. The second set of lights has been going for quite a while longer. If you find a cheap place to buy these batteries. . .please let me know. I have a tip about a local place that sell the batteries. I'm going to check it out shortly. I sure like having those lights out in back because we have critters afoot and I sure don't want to step on something that bites back.