Frequently Asked Questions

What are the differences between the gLeaf, seaLeaf and dropLeaf??

gLeaf (General use)

This is our general (g=general) panel. These panels are manufactured without any clamps, hardware, or kickstands. It is a general panel made for mounting to a fixed surface. Examples; RV roof, motorboat roof, sailboat sunshades, metal structures, etc... Anywhere you want a fixed panel. In order to facilitate unique mounting options we have also created various "fit-kits".

DropLeaf (Trailer usage)

The dropLeaf has a unique anchoring system specifically designed for campers. It comes with a kickstand (or two depending on size). This allows campers to detach the panel from their trailer and place it in the sun. Often campers like to park in shaded areas and fixed panels don't work for them. The deployability of the dropLeaf has made these panels very desirable.

SeaLeaf (Marine usage) 
The seaLeaf (even though it looks the same as the gLeaf) is significantly different. The seaLeaf has hard point foam inserts, and much more reinforcing in the lamination schedule. The seaLeaf is reinforced so that it can support itself by two cantilever clamps. These clamps are manufactured for mounting on rails for easy installation, as well as, easily change the angle of the panel so that it better faces the sun for optimum charge. These clamps come in three different diameters 7/8", 1" and 1.25". These sizes were chosen as they fit the railing system around most sailing yachts. 

What can a 110W panel power?

The possibilities are endless. A single 110W solar panel can produce approximately 600 W-hrs of electricity during a single, central North-American, sunny day. It can produce the power required for a small trailer, including lighting, device charging, a compression-style refrigerator, and miscellaneous loads. However, it would not be enough to operate air-conditioning, or heaters for a long period of time.

In addition, it could charge a 1 kWh portable power station in approximately 1.5 days from fully discharged.

Should the panels be wired in series or in parallel?

Our panels can be connected either in series or parallel. Either method has their pros and cons dependent on the mounting location and the application. It is not easy to make a blanket statement to indicate which is the best. We strongly recommend connecting each individual panel to a high quality MPPT solar charge controller with boost function.

Does it come with/do I need a controller?

Our panels do not come with controllers, but an MPPT solar charge controller is required. These protect and efficiently charge your battery system. The solar panel should never be connected directly to a 12V battery.

Do I get a dropLeaf from my trailer company or from LightLeaf?

We are partnered with many trailer manufacturers who provide LightLeaf Solar panels as an option. Contact them first, as they will have your trailer's exact measurements and specifications. Follow the link here to see a list of trailer manufacturers we work with. Alternatively, we supply a standard model - the standard dropLeaf - with a generalized curvature that fits many trailers.

Why are LightLeaf Solar panels built with a curve?

The curve is a unique defining feature of LightLeaf Solar panels. The curve adds strength and rigidity to the panel. Panels without any curve tend to overheat and become inefficient because there is no cooling underneath. In addition, pasting flat panels to a flat surface can become a major challenge if they need to be replaced and/or maintained. However, there can be some variance with the amount of curve. Typically, they are installed with the curve on flat surfaces. Flat panels may be custom-ordered.

Aside from rigidity, is there a power generation performance advantage to the curved panels?

There is no power advantage or disadvantage with the amount of curve we use.

Can the panels be walked on occasionally?

We don't build them to be walked on. Some customers have done this but we don't encourage it. These panels can comfortably support 80lbs.

How well do the panels resist surface scratches / hazing?

Our polycarbonate front sheet is very durable and resistant. Under this layer of polycarbonate we use Sabic HP12W, a proven UV treated sheet which will prevent hazing. One of our trailer partners use our panels as a window rock guard, which is a testament to the durability of the panel's surface.

How does the performance per square metre compare to other panels on the market?

These panels are the best on the market at 24.9% efficient. The most efficient cells available are SunPower Maxeon monocrystalline cells and that is what we use. Cheaper panels are about ~21% efficient.

How does shading affect performance as compared to other panels on the market?

The performance is largely influenced by the wiring configuration. Typically, an array of cells is wired in series. This means if one cell is shaded, the entire array's performance is affected similarly. Unlike other panels, our junction boxes incorporate 2 Schottky bypass diodes, effectively dividing these cells into 3 separate arrays, meaning if one cell is shaded, it will only affect 1 of 3 arrays, instead of the entire panel. This setup enhances both charging efficiency and circuit protection.

Additionally, our panels are exceptionally lightweight and include a convenient kickstand for easy adjustment. In shaded conditions, simply detach the panel and position it in direct sunlight for optimal performance.

Do the panels have any way of preventing dust accumulation?

The curve really helps with preventing dust accumulation. It also allows for the panels to get a great clean and rinse in rain.

What's the cost for a set of custom application panels? How many panels would you suggest? What would be the total capacity in watts?

Basic calculations for example; if we were to customize a panel that would be 108" x 48". that would be 36 sq ft. and give us about 575W. A custom project with that much wattage would cost about $7,000.

Have the panels been tested for impact strength?

Many of our panels are being used as a rock guard. This is a testament to the strength but we cannot give a specific value.

How do I test my panel to see if it's working correctly?

You can test the functionality of your solar panel with a basic multimeter by measuring two parameters – open circuit voltage (Voc) and short-circuit current (Isc).

For these tests, you need to place the panel pointing towards the sun on a sunny afternoon.

To measure Voc, set your multimeter to "DC volts" (50V range) and connect the leads to the output cable from the panel. It should match the specifications listed in the serial number label on the back of the panel.

To measure Isc, set the multimeter to "DC amps" (10A range). Again, connect leads to the output. The current should match the specification.

Because of variability in the sun, these readings can vary from the values listed, but should be within 20%.