In this video, I review a 170-watt solar panel from a company called BougeRV. First, I check over the build quality and inform you of the dimensions, weight, and rated output voltage and amperage. We also have a quick look at the shipping packaging.
Next, I set up a testbed using one of my Lion Energy 105 amp-hour lithium batteries and my Bogart SC2030 PWM 30 amp solar charge controller. I set up the panels in optimum sunlight 90 degrees to the sun and first test the short circuit current.
Then I test the two panels paralleled together and charging the battery. Finally, I do the same test with the panels lying flat on the ground.
Disclaimer: I received the products in this video free of charge for review from BougeRV
BougeRV 170W Solar Panel Review Video
Here are the results:
- Short circuit amperage – 9.26 amps and 9.32 amps
- Charging amperage perfectly aligned with the sun – 18.28 amps
- Charging amperage with panels flat on the ground – 14.29 amps
- Charging amperage on a cloudy day – 4.6 amps
- Total power to the battery via my PWM charger – 18.57A X 13.47V = 269 watts (Note: power may be increased 10-30% using an MPPT type controller)
In my tests, the BougeRV 170 watt panel performed quite well and met its rated specifications. In my opinion, build quality is just OK, not bad, but not great. About what I’d expect given its price.
The panel is economically priced and has free shipping, a good thing to have on a large 24 lb item. Also, it’s a nice size and may be useful for some people’s solar builds where dimensions are critical.
A significant negative for me is the short warranty period of 1 year. Panels like the competition Renogy 160 watt have a 5-year warranty material warranty and 25 years output warranty. But in fairness, the Renogy is lower power and higher priced.
Product links:
- BougeRV website
- Amazon USA – https://amzn.to/34LExlq
- Amazon Canada – https://amzn.to/2XLU5UP
