solar panel chargers

[carthorse]

Has anyone tried this for 12v batteries.
I thought I would try one on my electric fencing as in the summer I use the fence at night and it could charge in the day and the battery in my lorry only works the water and cool box so thought one might keep that going.
Anyone tried them?

 

[merlinsquest]

No but have just asked ebayer if they can be left in the field in rain etc!!! Might buy one as cant manage to lug the battery up the field every week

 

[sherbet]

Not used one myself, but lady at yard runs her elec fence battery from a panel.
Seems to charge enough to run the fence for about 12 hours a day even in this weather!!
She keeps the battery and panel under a waterproof plastic box, panel taped to inside of box side of box showing towards the sun - hope that makes sense!!!
From what i have seen good idea

 

[TheEngineer]

The solarmate charger and lighting unit is quite good, sold by Wolseley, comes with a panel, wiring and a special energy saving bulb and holder. You can run a light for your field shelter or just use the panel to charge a fencer battery.

 

[spaniel]

They trickle charge very well. You need to start with a full battery to get the best out of the solar charger, they wont recharge a flat battery.

I have one for the same use as you, for fencing thats used during the night in the summer. Works very well.

Also useful in the car/lorry if you have something that stands idle for long periods.