PV Gap

Peter Said:

What does a trickle solar charger do?

We Answered:

You'd need a vanload of solar panels to power a hair dryer.

It's impractical to use solar energy for intense heating tasks like hair dryers, electric stoves, clothes dryers, microwaves, etc.

Georgia Said:

Do solar trickle chargers (for cars) work?

We Answered:

The lighter outlet allows 2 way power flow, so yes a trickle charger would work- except for the fact that the key has to be in the "ACC" or "ON" position to be connected to the battery. You probably don't want to leave your car keys in the car overnight. Besides, when in "ACC" or "ON" the car's accessories will draw more than the trickle charger can produce. You often see Ni-Cad batteries or jumper cables that plug into the outlet, but they can supply much more power than the trickle charger can. So attach the charger to the battery directly, or install a fused cord from the battery to a separate connector left near the radiator grille to attach the trickle charger.

Ramon Said:

Solar power for car battery?

We Answered:

Yes, they are available, and are less expensive than a tow truck call.

You need to do some serious comparison shopping, as they are pricey.

I know that Harbor Freight Tools (in Western U.S.) sells them. I don't know the quality, though. Most of their stuff is imported from the lowest cost suppliers.

http://www.harborfreight.com/

Julio Said:

where can i buy i solar powered trickle charger?

We Answered:

Northern Tool also has some.
http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/s…
http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/s…

Ernest Said:

I want to make a solar powered air heater?

We Answered:

It will be very difficult and expensive for you to heat that room with solar electricity. The better way is with solar thermal, using the heat from the sun to heat it. There are lots of homebrew options you can look at on this site, http://www.builditsolar.com/Projects/Spa…