Harbor Freight Still the Best? 100 Watt Show down Harbor Freight VS Renogy

You asked for it, so here it is. One year later does the renogy panel out last the HF. See here and let me know your thoughts #harborfreight #renogy #solar
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[@johnnysweekends]

You asked for it, so here it is. One year later does the renogy panel out last the HF. See here and let me know your thoughts #harborfreight #renogy #solar Items In Video….. EcoFlow power station: amzn.to/42Z5TAW Test Meter amzn.to/3XnPMf7 Load Tester amzn.to/3NlwSRx Renogy 100 Watt solar panel: amzn.to/3NpgmzS Other High Quality 100 watt solar panel: amzn.to/3PmqWud MC4 Connector Kit: amzn.to/42T2V0T Direct Questions for fast response ...asqme.com/@johnnysweekends CHECK OUT MY AMAZON STORE: www.amazon.com/shop/johnnysweekends If you feel I helped you out..Buy me a Coffee 👍🏼🙌🏼👊🏼😀 www.buymeacoffee.com/johnny5120J

[@winterwolf2012]

Bought 2 harbor freight ... years ago & still have them. They did a great job helping my family get thru a hurricane with the loss of power.

[@RamblinBobReviews]

GREAT VIDEO JOHNNYSWEEKENDS !!!!! We do like Renogy products, but in this case, with these harbor freight panels...... These are the BEST "cheapy" panel we have ever bought. For a few HUGE reasons.... 1. You can walk or drive a few miles and buy a panel right now. and have it home it 10-15 minutes (ZERO WAITING OR SHIPPING) 2. You can buy the extended warranty if you want and have exchange/return the panels whenever you want with no questions asked. 3. We pulled 122.5 watts the very first tests (on video) on a cold day with these panels (still pulling as high as 105 watts one year later) (we own 6 of them now) 4. No more busted/shattered solar panels showing up at your door because the companies boxed it like crap, Or the knucklehead delivery person threw it up on your your porch or driveway. (Just uploaded some knucklehead throwing a bluetti battery pack onto the porch this morning) 5. They always go on sale every month (with coupon) for $89.99 to $99.99 EDIT: Johnnysweekend also reminded us about another AWESOME feature that these panels have built into them..... 6. Built in legs set to 45 degrees for EXTREMELY easy portable setup or building a foldable briefcase !!!!! If Harbor Freight / Thunderbolt would only start watching youtube (videos like these) and start making 200, 300, 400, 500 watt panels with the same quality, They would destroy every company out there for quick, cheap, temp solar panels. We really do believe that. Ramblin Bob

[@johnnysweekends]

Good break down Bob. I agree for a quick panel most can grab same day and be up and running. They are great for the solar panel suitcase build because legs are already there. Boom 200 watt suitcase. Yea if you need a 100 watt panel these are hard to beat.

[@RamblinBobReviews]

@@johnnysweekends We also built a quick briefcase 200w foldable solar panel (almost forgot we did that) when we bought our first 2. And forgot all about those built in legs, (AWESOME ADDITION TO THESE PANELS) I will go and edit my comment up there to add that because that was a FANTASTIC feature with these :)

[@johnnysweekends]

Agree the legs is just a added bonus for more versatility 👍🏼

[@buscampers]

Last weekend I went camping for the first time since mounting two 100w HF panels on my bus roof. They did excellent. I was running 2 max air fans and a 12v chest fridge and during the day my 200ah batteries stayed topped off. I woke up the next morning and I only used about 8% of the battery capacity. Usually I was in the 20% range of depletion in similar situations before adding the panels.

[@johnnysweekends]

Like you I hear a lot of positive on these. They just happen to be a great small panel with legs if you need it!

[@A2ZREY]

What fridge?

[@DragonPilot]

Great video! One thing the Renogy has over HF is they sell complete kits. A Renogy kit includes charge controller, extension cords…plug and play outta the box. I think currently their 200w kit is $230. I’d prolly spend more than that if I went with HF, buying ala carte. Whatever works. 😊

[@thistlemoon1]

@@DragonPilot HF sells a complete 100w kit also.

[@tribalncgaming1091]

HF sells single panel kits occasionally i have seen them at 119.99 with 20amp charge controller and cabling.. coupled with a 2nd panel at 89.99 .. is a 200w kit.. no battery of course.. with a 20amp controller, your at 220.00 ish. with much better panels .. I got suckered into a renogy 200amp portable kit.. the panels to this day never pull more then 150w combined. The HF panels just own them for efficiency .. i took the pair i have . attached hinges.. so they can fold up.. and they already come with legs, i bought a carrying case .. to take them out camping .. i would sell off the renogy to some poor noob but i like to sleep well at night, so i just hold on to them as a backup.

[@justintempus7406]

I can't vouch for the HF brand specifically, but my renogy panels are still outputting like new after 6 years in Fairbanks AK. My cheaper panels got hairline cracks and discoloration on the panels after 2 winters with lows down to -40. Their output was rapidly dwindling. Just some info for my fellow cold climate folks.

[@charlessullenbarger4899]

Yeah I've got 8,100 watt Renogy panel's on my roof for 5 years now,still look new and still generating 21 volts constant on a sunny day,even on an overcast day they still produce 16 volts and 18 amps,they have peaked out at 58 amps on a sunny day.very satisfied with the dependability.

[@idk8964]

@@charlessullenbarger4899 harbor freight panels are more expensive than renogy at a whopping $120 per 100 watt panel. Were these the ones that cracked or some cheaper amazon ones?

[@FloryJohann]

I got my Renogy over 6 years and they are still.putting out and there is nothing wrong. After 3 years of operation I tested the output and it was the same as it was first when I installed it.

[@charliefillmore8354]

2 of my panels are going on 6 years old. Those two were mounted flat on my trailer. A microburst in Arizona had nickel sized hail for almost 5 minutes. It destroyed my awning, left big dents in the aluminum sides of the trailer. My neighbor's sunroof was shattered. Those two harbor freight panels are still in great shape. I now run 9 HF panels plus one on my shed and a HF 35watt on my bass boat . Voltage from a Chinese solar panel is remarkably similar to other panels.

[@makodaniel4885]

The harbor freight panels are slightly oversized for 100 watt panels to give them an edge. most 100w panels are around 18"x40"=750, harbor freight is 36.5"x27"=985.5. Size matters.

[@eksine]

You mean area square footage matters

[@joebonomono]

That's significant

[@Heliarc91]

It's also more expensive. At least right now. 2 panels for 159. Vs HF 120 for 1

[@bullbutter9699]

That's what she said

[@karlsoffroad]

I have 21 of these, and love them! I try to buy when the super coupon is available, but I bought the first 6 at full price.

[@johnnysweekends]

People love these things. And they perform great !

[@karlsoffroad]

@@johnnysweekends,I have 36 now! Slowly building up my system.

[@johnnysweekends]

@karlsoffroad8609 wow !! You are going big 😀👍🏼

[@eksine]

​@@karlsoffroadhow old are they and how are they holding up any wear and tear on them? Also if you're going for for the best deals there's sites that sell used solar panels that still have a lot of life left and they're really cheap. I think most of them are from power companies but offloaded to third-party sites

[@FloryJohann]

How old are the oldest panels

[@chrisp308]

I couldn't cross verify my readings but I was getting stupid good numbers from the harbor freight panels I got so far I am extremely happy with mine.

[@johnnysweekends]

I haven’t really heard anyone not satisfied with this panel. If its not performing it’s probably a dud.

[@BuddyandMax]

@@johnnysweekends I've seen my harbor freight panel go as high as 109 watts !

[@tribalncgaming1091]

@@BuddyandMax I have hit 115w with mine..they are great for their price point.

[@karhumt]

These are great comparisons. Out of curiosity: Have you tested how the panels handle partial shading? I.e. covering a part with a piece of fabric and see what happens. Apparently the way the individual cells are bussed together can make a difference in that regard.

[@johnnysweekends]

Great idea …👍🏼

[@DrTofutybeast]

Good question

[@DanHodge-k7b]

Good to see your Harbor Freight panel is still working!!

[@johnnysweekends]

Yea and I have beaten both of them up.

[@stanants8566]

The Voltage is the important reading with a load test reading. Since your loading to a wattage. the formula is P (watts)=E (volts)*I (amps) so as the voltage goes down the amps go up to make the same Watts. In a load test what you are looking for is the voltage to stay above your usabe voltage level as you increase the load (more watts of draw). (40 year Electronics tech) Your test was great and exactly what I was looking for, a long term reliability test. repeat it again in 24 ;)

[@johnnysweekends]

👍🏼😀

[@8632tony]

I bought the Harbor Freight 45 watt kit 10 years ago. Within 2 years, all three panels were dead. Once burnt, twice shy. I do like the controller box that came with the kit and still use it with the Renogy 50 watt panel I replaced the Harbor Freight panels with.

[@forcom5]

Funny thing having watched the first one recently! Thanks for the follow-up!

[@johnnysweekends]

Awesome thanks for stopping by 😀👍🏼

[@arsbadmojo]

I appreciate your methodology! Great video, thank you!

[@jdtexas2048]

I have tested HF panels against Eco-Worthy and Northern Tool - HF always produced more watts

[@johnnysweekends]

I have 3 of them still and they still perform well.

[@FloryJohann]

Anything is better than the Ecoworthy panel. I ordered a ecoworthy just so I can test the output against the Renogy and the HQST and the ecoworthy was not even near the rated output and it was way smaller. I gave the ecoworyhy panel away.

[@johnnysweekends]

@FloryJohann most eco worthy stuff seems like garbage lol.

[@HandySolution]

I have 3 HF panels to a 1500 Jackery and I’m getting 95w per panel! I have them mounted on top of my van. HF is killing it on the 100w panels! Big power out of a small panel. They need to make a 200w panel

[@johnnysweekends]

Would be cool to see. These do perform well. 👍🏼

[@markchidester6239]

Wouldn't they be twice as big and cost twice as much? If you have a roof full and damage happens to one, it would cost half to replace.

[@neoskater420]

​@@markchidester6239yes but some need 400w to charge efficiently for solar generators especially the ones over 2000. 2 200w panels is what I need for my setup. Looking at jackery 3000pro for my needs and will be needing a solar panel. I have a power station but it was a cheap amazon brand called Topshak 2200 things was a beast but it is now discharging fast even with a cooler fridge had it for 2 years now got its use but need a better brand to keep up and faster charge times in the jackery compared to 10hours to charge on ac and get this 14 hours on solar so yea an upgrade is needed. So I am torn between getting a solar generator or a dirt bike to save gas driving to work???? Hmm 🤔

[@Jasonoid]

Interesting test these panels using battery load testers. There are so many ways to pull a max load from a panel, thanks for showing us another way! I wonder why the load tester would shutoff once going over the max power. Shouldn't it just hold the previous max load, it's not like the panel is stopping the power output?

[@plkracer]

These testers increase the current draw to match the desired load, you can watch the actual wattage in red below the volts and amps. As the amperage increases near max power, the voltage drops rapidly, thus the wattage drops, so it continues to increase the current draw, down to near zero volts. MPPT charge controllers sense this rapid voltage drop, and let up on the current draw to match the peak output.

[@johnnysweekends]

Exactly it’s like a manual mppt controller, finding max draw before the cut off. Although these load testers will just drop off. So Imagine a manual mppt and you set it for max and well, that’s what you get..👍🏼😀

[@WizzRacing]

The charge controller is what protects the system.. It's designed to keep voltage stable.. If it didn't you would get rapid voltage drop and high amperage.. Which could melt or damage the wiring. As the wire is sized to the panel.. Why you should always fuse the panels to the wire size or less...And make sure you hookup the battery to the charge controller before you turn on the solar panel..

[@dansw0rkshop]

I'm guessing the charge controller tests the panel to see where its drop off voltage is, and acts accordingly, which is why the manual test so closely matched the actual charge wattages.

[@johnnysweekends]

@dansw0rkshop exactly like a manual solar charge controller 👍🏼

[@livinMicro]

the voltage needed for the MPPT needed the panel to be above 16v regadless of amps. This is why the harbor freight panel stayed afloat longer. If you had a charger that could do MPPT all the way down to 15v they would both have shown acceptable numbers within variance for 100w panels. the charger and MPPT circuit needing to be at 16v is kinda silly when a lead acid battery is 13.6 on float and 12.9 when full... there are chargers that work in different voltages and they vary from make and model...

[@yisdisaissue]

Hf panels must have vastly improved. My HF panels gave out after 3 years while my renos are still running after two moves

[@johnnysweekends]

Did you buy the older non mono panels. Those original ones were junk

[@wam7484]

A few months later now. Harbor Freight costs $120 and Renogy costs $78. That means HF is 58% more expensive while providing 10% more power. If buying with a HF coupon the break-even is $86 should they ever get that low.

[@johnnysweekends]

If you get the Hf with the super coupon it’s a good buy, especially if you are looking for something with built in kickstands. But under its normal price it’s definitely not a great deal. But a good performing panel for sure.

[@cadizwilmo9687]

Hurricane Helene brought me here. Thanks for your video. Really considering buy HF solar panels for my Bluetti A180.

[@johnnysweekends]

They are not bad and still do well. But look around because residential panels are pretty cheap. Might be able to source locally. The renogy ones are good as well and even the Ecoflow hundred watt. Renogy also has this two pack going for $155!! amzn.to/3BAz7yf Affiliate link

[@texasgrillchef8581]

The problem I have with some panels, that has to be considered when looking at for panels is physical dimensions. Some are short and wide, others are tall and narrow. I had a one application where one panel from one company just wouldn’t fit, but from another company would. I have another application where I wish I could find an extremely long but extremely narrow panel. But can’t. (I want to put it on a storage box on the top of my vehicle.) so besides all the other issues one looks at when considering a panel. The physical dimension matter as well sometimes.

[@keithdarwin5786]

So the 30% larger HF panel gives 15% more power output.

[@borisperovic5336]

HF sources panels from various manufacturers .. not all are quality. i think u got lucky with this panel. get another indentical panel it being a couple years later its probably from a different manufacturer I bet itll have different performance readouts and different construction details

[@johnnysweekends]

I agree they don’t make them and source them bullet me know what you think of this ..👍🏼 Harbor Freight Solar Quality Control Problems - What You Need to Know kzbin.info/www/bejne/qoG0pnqcYpl6e68

[@J0HN_3_16]

Harbor Freight has various companies making the same item manufactured in different factories. As a result, quality varies tremendously.

[@johnnysweekends]

Out of the 8 panels I have tested all have performed much like this one in the video providing better than expected results. One was slightly lower by about 5 watts. I even have a video where I tested 4 or 5 of them.

[@johnnysweekends]

Harbor Freight Solar Quality Control Problems - What You Need to Know kzbin.info/www/bejne/qoG0pnqcYpl6e68

[@The0Advent]

at the time of writing this. the renogy panel is cheaper at $97 vs 120. also the harbor freight panel has more surface area. 985.5 sqr inches vs 873.62. so i think we can see where the "extra power" is coming from. i couldnt find anything on the effiencency of the HF panel but the renogy one is 22%

[@johnnysweekends]

Efficiency is about the same at 22 or 23% and the harbor freight panel does go on sale for $89 with a coupon sometimes

[@jackm6307]

Both this and the last video were very helpful. I've been going with Renogy, but when I add on, that will be changing. Looks like Renogy will need to step it up a notch... competition, great for the consumer.

[@johnnysweekends]

Renogy does have a lot of new stuff out now though verses HF still the same

[@hosocat1410]

Would be cool if people sent pics or videos of their systems and you showed them and commented.

[@TheBlanco951]

I live in the high desert and would like to get me some panels. anyone know how these two panels handle under the sun during the summer?

[@kansasadventure1831]

80 is kinda hot for solar pannels. The Canadian solar panels I have are labeled with a much cooler opporating temp. When I contacted Canadian Solar about how poorly the pannels opporated (under 83 percent) they said 78f was way too hot and I'm getting above what they would rate the pannels for in 78f weather. What a joke. My renogy and other 100 watt pannels I have in an array produce more than their rated numbers many times a year, which is super cool and useful.

[@johnnysweekends]

80 May be hot for a test if using standard test conditions but they are all tested at 77f degrees. And in real world conditions Solar panels can reach temps of 140 or more. They all have a temp correction. When a panel is colder it will put out more power, when hotter then power. Just like any appliance if it’s cool out it will use less power then when it’s hot out.

[@michaelmawhinney5218]

I’m still going to get the renogy because I believe the consistency and service will be better. Renogy guarantees output up to 25 years not sure about HF. Also HF can change suppliers at any time w no knowledge to consumer. Lastly, renogy is cheaper at the moment.

[@johnnysweekends]

Yea they have dropped a decent amount

[@pullbackbaby]

I have 8 hf and 4 ren160s in one flat cluster. I have 600ah bank sealed lead. All that and 3 controllers can barely keep up with a single 5k btu on a sunny day in late june @ high noon 😢. Still very impressed. Want AC? Buy 40 imo. How are those new waterproof black panels holding up?

[@johnnysweekends]

These are doing really well. I’m surprised your setup isn’t doing a little better I wonder if the batteries are worn or if something isn’t performing as it should

[@kevkev5935]

This was great. These are the HF Thunderbolt 100 watt monos, right?

[@johnnysweekends]

Yes!! 👍🏼

[@johnnysweekends]

And thank you 😀👍🏼

[@Texacate]

How many square inches are those two panels? Just eyeballing it, the HF panel seems to have more area.

[@johnnysweekends]

Yes the HF has more surface area. And really is more of a 105 panel. But its based on advertised unit and price.

[@nyplantings2420]

Good job buddy really like the vid. Thanks

[@johnnysweekends]

Thanks 👍🏼👊🏼😀

[@sejac1232]

I went to Harbor Freights site and what they show for solar panels is THUNDERBOLT SOLAR 100 Watt Monocrystalline Solar Panel with a J-Plug connector and not the MC4. Is this the same solar panel that you used for your test or is this a newer one?

[@dmatz1999]

In the very first video he made with these panels, he had switched the SAE connections to MC4.

[@netwrench6570]

Bird is the word and bird has chosen. Though now I might consider H.F. electronics again. I bought a solar security light and a voltmeter, and were such poor quality they didn't last, so I decided to be selective about the tools, but never buy electronics. Sub because you followed up.

[@johnnysweekends]

👍🏼😀👊🏼

[@curve5746]

Harbor freight is hit and miss.

[@jeffstewart3978]

At 8:17 it shows you were running both cooling fans under the Harbor Freight panel. Seems unfair for a precise comparison if a cooler panel operates better and more efficient at a lower temperature.

[@mdunbar04]

Wow nice test. 👍👍👍

[@johnnysweekends]

Thank you 😀👍🏼

[@GeorgiaRidgerunner]

Hey there feller ive got a question im planning on building a small camper. 7x14 for my fiance and myself im planning on a non electric stove propane refigerator diesel heater 700 watt microwave 4 12 volt lights not led and the smallest 12 volt tv ican find im thinking 3 700 cranking amp lead acid automotive batterys obviously the microwave and invertor would be the biggest draw followed by the tv this camper wouldnt be for full / extended time living time living just weekend getaways and possibly a week long vacation once a year also the fiance and i dont plan to spend all of our vacation time in the camper we plan to be out doing things during the day How many watts of solar charging do you think would enough that we wouldnt have to be worried about draining batterys also running the microwave on a small generator isnt out of the question if a generator would be more cost efficient as opposed to a solar set up any information you car to share would be greatly appreciated and seriously considered

[@sunshine3914]

What do you recommend washing them with?

[@johnnysweekends]

Honestly you can use most anything. A light detergent or car wash soap. Glass cleaner. Just give them a good rinse and a Terry cloth and that’s it. Most homes never gets washed except when it rains for home solar systems 👍🏼

[@montanaplease]

I am new to solar but want to make sure I buy good solar panels. Warranties and customer support Especially mean a lot to me and of course performance. What’s considered the gold standard these days and what brand is just barely below that brand ? I really want to do everything right the first time

[@mrkrause3]

@@montanaplease I’m new to solar too. Haven’t bought my first panel yet. After the research I’ve been doing, I’m not sure there is a “best” panel out there yet. Reality is that solar is too new on the consumer market. The panels are being tested, refined and even reinvented in real time these days. We as the consumers are spending our money and time for their research and development. Otherwise anything we invest in solar panels at this point in time is speculative. Jumping in the solar panel venture at this time a person needs to understand that are no guarantees on the return on investment. Although there are so called experts in the industry that will say otherwise. I intend to move forward toward building a solar panel system, but only with expendable funds….and not like I can disconnect from grid and be as comfortable and save money.

[@johnnysweekends]

@mrkrause3 sorry definitely pays for it self in time. If you build it correctly. Or you have it for the ability to have back up power and even load shed to at least save on bills. Everything is a work in development from cars, to phones and more. And as tech gets better so does everything else. I remember when I first started doing solar in 2002, the panels were 275 watts. And that was crazy. Panels have gotten so cheap and there is one for every type of build out there. But with new tariffs coming it could be as much as 50% more. Most home installs are 4.5-7 year payback. If you finance well that’s adds a little time. Lots of variables

[@michaelbosshart5397]

What controller do you like for charging 2 flooded batteries on my RV?

[@johnnysweekends]

If you want basic and tried and true this entry level charger from renogy still is impressive. It’s an older style technology using PWM but still kills it in price and longevity for something that just works. amzn.to/3V0K56a

[@relikvija]

It's not fair, HB was closer to the Sun...

[@johnnysweekends]

lol that’s awesome!

[@amyd6182]

Completely new to solar and electric specs and safety- If I wanted to use HF 100 w panel to run 14" radiator exhaust fan for outside horses and thwarting flies, what wiring gauge, type of wiring, max length of wiring, what connectors and would it need a fuse? In high fire area and no electricity near the horses. In the desert but do get random tstorm and big winds. Where are you located to help me understand the 1 yr environment there vs where I am? TIA! Wish I had local person to be my Solar Mentor.❤

[@johnnysweekends]

That’s allot of info that can’t be answered just in one question. All depends on set up and more, distance and such. Plus you need a controller that will handle the amount of solar you want to feed.

[@narutobroken]

Harbor freight is way better. I get 10-20 more watts than the Renogy

[@chrisp308]

I have had great results from these panels as well

[@johnnysweekends]

Im still surprised at how well they are doing. But like most say I think its under rated slightly. Like a 105 panel

[@pl747]

One bad thing about the HF panels is they use sae connectors.

[@johnnysweekends]

Change them out

[@theheathkitshop2424]

do you have a link to the solar isolation meter you used?

[@johnnysweekends]

Are you meaning these ? amzn.to/3rGa6wm

[@theheathkitshop2424]

@@johnnysweekends no… the meter you used to determine the amount of solar from the sun. Placed on top of the solar panel.

[@johnnysweekends]

Ahh that would be this one. It’s not bad there are better and worse. amzn.to/3Kbw2pF

[@brucekempf4648]

I was hoping to see a new (2024) harbor freight compared against a new Renoge to see if the quality has not changed. Maybe you got a lucky panel or maybe Renogy quality has increased. Need some statistics.

[@EPortillo5000]

Not an expert at all so consider or discard my comment. The HF is bigger, a larger area so is no surprise to me that performs better against the renogy. Actually HF panels gives you more than the 100w that they are rated, maybe we need more data to know what percentage of the max watts that the panel can produce make them shut off.

[@afdgxzghzgfhgfzhazghzdfhxf]

What is the area and weight of the two?

[@dianegray7760]

I rent so can't have solar on my roof. I have a good idea on how to stack these along a sunny fence in my backyard. How many would it take to power an entire home? Duke Energy here in Florida is killing me.

[@johnnysweekends]

That’s a loaded question and not enough info.

[@dianegray7760]

Didn't mean to present a loaded question.... Just so wanting to get out of the tyranny of Duke Energy.... 3/2 1500ft. Super sunny back yard most of the time.... I believe I could put together a 3 tier scaffold. Was just hoping for a bit of guidance as to how many panels I would need to purchase, that's all. 😁

[@johnnysweekends]

@dianegray7760 best way to know is to do a energy audit this will give a better idea

[@ray32825]

@@dianegray7760 Apart from solar, tint your windows, use solar screens, reflective blinds, and install an attic fan - you will be surprised at how much you will save on your power bill.

[@FaithwalkerTodd]

I never see any of the Solar KZbinrs Choosing harbor freight Solar Panels.

[@johnnysweekends]

There are many who like this 100 watt panel who have reviewed it. Others review larger panels as well just like I have. Some don’t review it because they didn’t get paid to review it. I bought both of these with my own money. I also buy several items with my own money. Some are paid most are not.

[@FaithwalkerTodd]

@@johnnysweekends I'm not talking about the reviews. I'm talking about the use. What are they using personally, that's what I want to know.

[@johnnysweekends]

@FaithwalkerTodd ahh, several Have replied using on sheds, like 2-300 watts for a small mancave or tool shed and they power up a couple lights and charge all of the power tools and other items. Some put a couple on vans or RVs… or on the ground for when rving. Or in the yard and more to charge up small back up batteries and more. They have legs already on them and when using a super coupon they are $89…and still perform very well. I was surprised they have held up so good. And I trash them on purpose just to see.

[@FaithwalkerTodd]

@@johnnysweekends I guess I just haven’t seen it. I watch a ton of RVers on KZbin and of the channels I watch none of them use Harbor freight for their solar panels.

[@johnnysweekends]

@FaithwalkerTodd I have seen one small little rv with HF panels but like I tell most people is go with the largest panels you can fit and the most you can get. So 200s or 250s or anything in between are more popular as it’s less to install. There are a few KZbinrs who did a whole garage and more using nothing but 100 watt HF panels. But again it’s all in the build you are doing and what works for you.

[@johndoe-eg7le]

HF aka Thunderbolt is still the king!

[@johnnysweekends]

Crazy right !

[@johndoe-eg7le]

@@johnnysweekends I have 8 of these and put out lots of watts!

[@johnnysweekends]

I have one I bet up on purpose. Been drop flat several times. I drag it around. Just seeing what it will do. But the numbers haven’t changed 😂

[@microbiologycory10]

I have a John Deere Gator EV 48V with 45”x45” bed that I’d like to fill with solar panels. It looks like due to dimensions I could fit two Renogy panels vs. only one Harbor Freight…this would make more sense, right? Would I only need 1 “boost” controller that could handle 12 amps?

[@johnnysweekends]

You need one controller at least. Maybe look into one 250 larger panel like a 275 or 300.

[@microbiologycory10]

@@johnnysweekendsMy space limitation of 45x45” prohibits anything over 150-200 depending on length.

[@johnnysweekends]

Ahh got ya

[@michaeltichonuk2176]

Am I missing something here? I want amps for storage, the batteries are all 12 v but capacity is rates by amps, the mass electricity is the energy, volts just push and wattage is a means to measure amps more accurately...?? So wouldn't I want a higher amp producing panel? I have a pair HF, no complaints, and bought a pair of Renogy to go with the rest of the Renogy system installed, dc-dc controller, hybrid gel batteries. It'll be interesting to see if I can detect a performance difference. Viewed the first video back when but when I saw 2 - 100 watt panels for 135 I jumped on them.

[@johnnysweekends]

Your mppt solar controller with convert those volts and push the correct amount of amps needed for your batteries 👍🏼

[@pocketchange1951]

👍👌❤️🇨🇦, thanks for the update

[@johnnysweekends]

Your welcome …😀👍🏼

[@CaceresHoracio]

it stops because voltaje is going down to 16v?

[@jsauerii]

Not at all for its price. $129.99 for 100W. I am using HQST and JJN 9BB 100W solar panels which are exactly the same panels as each other except for the JJN has a black frame and HQST silver. JJN is $68,99 each and HQST $73.99 so you can buy nearly 2 of either of those for 1 Harbor Freight panel. Yes they have legs but they have the basic non weather proof SAE connectors and non UV wire. You cannot find out most of the specs to tune and maximize a system for the HF panels. The HQST 5B are a little cheaper as are other 5B panels. I actually got some specs from them and they are very limited, they cannot seem to come up with most of the specs. The specs they did have were: (So they have no idea what they are) Voltage 18.0 Open-Circuit Voltage 23.98v Short Circuit Current. 6.0A

[@johnnysweekends]

Most times you can grab the Hf for 89.99 And all you need is the voltage and amps to build the system. Not that you would string this to 500 or 1000v anyway. This is for the basic small systems that need small panels. If you need a bigger system buy larger watt panels. Way cheaper in the long run and less install time

[@es1951]

@@johnnysweekends ok where can i get the HF panel for $89? it currently is $15 off at $109

[@johnnysweekends]

Just wait for the super saver coupons. They are out like once a month or heck it seems every other weekend

[@MagentaRV]

Would love to see the data entered into a spreadsheet (from both tests, this year and last) and compare the curves to see how much degradation there is in the first year.

[@johnnysweekends]

I thought about doing that, but the conditions would have to be almost identical or the conditions could skew results. Weather,angle of panel, temp, haze in the ski. I guess if I bought a brand new set and compared on those to the old set, then that data could be used

[@briannewhouser154]

What about in less than ideal conditions? A lot of times the conditions are less than perfect. Thank you for doing these tests.

[@johnnysweekends]

Even when the clouds came and went and hazy days, the HF just does better. It also has more surface area

[@briannewhouser154]

@@johnnysweekends thank you, keep up the great videos.

[@johnnysweekends]

You’re welcome and thank you 😀👍🏼

[@alfredo8431]

Is the Renogy for $80 a good deal?

[@johnnysweekends]

Sure, renogy still makes good stuff but the HF just happens to be a nice panel for the price

[@ThorD4602]

Now you can get renogy 9bb for $80 or less, so its a much better deal than this 5bb HF one.

[@johnnysweekends]

The price is decent but 9bb doesn’t mean anything. But the HF can be had for $89 with a coupon. And will still put it more power more than likely. But I’m sure the renogy 9bb is decent.

[@ThorD4602]

@@johnnysweekends actually 9bb does mean a lot. I'm not sure where you got your idea about that. Good luck to you.

[@johnnysweekends]

I have tested 9bb and 10bb they help over all. But when compared to other panels like 200 99bb bougerv against renogy 200 watt. The 9bb didn’t help. 10bb EcoFlow verses HF still didn’t do it.

[@gamersplaygroundliquidm3th526]

if its lower voltage same watts u would have more amperage and more heat

[@xFD2x]

It seems you are ignoring the fact that the Harbor Freight is also at least 10% bigger.

[@johnnysweekends]

It’s mentioned

[@picayunebill6614]

And it seems you are ignoring that both panels are supposed to put out 100 watts. Regardless of size. To insinuate that the test of two 100 watt solar panels is skewed because one is bigger than the other seems to me to be disingenuous.

[@To-Pursue-Happiness]

That isn't a real test. Put them on a solar controller, MPPT, and run them for a day. Check the watts hours numbers. The volts matter on an MPPT controller because volts * amps = watts. Different voltage and amps means it's producing different wants. Not a realistic comparison of the panels.

[@tomdodds8091]

Lower voltage will always require higher amperage to produce equal wattage. That's the formula. AxV=W Pretty sure it was an incorrect impression, but you sounded mildly impressed that the Renogy was putting out higher amperage. Don't want viewers to get the wrong impression.

[@JoshsGadgetsandMore]

The bird picked his winner 💩

[@johnnysweekends]

lol right 😂👍🏼

[@dyslectische]

So i have 3x100watts but its really 3x80watts correct ? Well the mppt have the max of 260watt in put so i'm fine with it Total means i have 240watt on that mppt controller. Good balance

[@johnnysweekends]

Your wattage could depend on a lot of factors. Angle of panels, time of year, clarity of the ski and more. But yea most solar panels give about 85% to 90% of output

[@dyslectische]

@@johnnysweekends a lot are test in the dessert so that it works thare. And thare you sunlight is stronger. So its how the solar panels are test or what rating it have . You can look for Germany/ eu test . Test name is . Photon test

[@davidpotter9462]

I've got 1600 watts of panels on a controller that maxes at 1040 watts.

[@johnnysweekends]

Again a lot of factors contribute to your max wattage.

[@davidpotter9462]

@@johnnysweekends here in Oklahoma the Saharan dust, and Canadian smoke are affecting output.

[@ThomasNowicki-m5s]

why you show here 8 year old solar tech? 5BB solar cells are 8 years old, 3-4 years ago serious company swicht to 9BB mono Perc solar cells and 2 years ago company offer topcon/HJT cells with 12BB+ in 100 watt panels for ~100$ whar is the deal to show here stuff what is technical totally outdated?

[@torentmonkey]

How are these pannels so expensive. I got 100w pannels for 40$ and it does put out what it says etc.

[@bluedistortions]

Where? That's cheap!

[@lauradoyle1111]

Yep. I wanna know too!

[@willarddevoe5893]

Chubby is easier and cheaper to ship and mount. Tall and skinny is unnecessary .

[@robroy289]

Why don't you call out the specific brand from Harbor Freight? They could switch the brand and we could end up buying something different than what you tested. Not everything sold by HF is an HF brand.

[@johnnysweekends]

That’s the problem is I cant find the HF thunderbolt equal. I have looked and when it comes to generators like the 3500 predator that’s easy but i cant find this equal….wish I could 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@FloryJohann]

Haborfreight usually got cheap quality stuff that does not last, so I do not trust them I can get Renogy panels for cheap and HQST panels for about $75 per 100 watt panel which both the panels look like that theyvare made atvthe same manufacturing plant , even the rating is exactly the same.

[@pilot3016]

Black surface panels are more efficient "Mono Crystal". Bluish surface panels are "Poly Crystal" and less efficient. Why does everyone keep this a secret. Yes, one is more expensive, but REALLY? Over how many years?

[@johnnysweekends]

They are both mono, nothing in this video is about cell type? Strictly two popular brands rated at 100 watts and around the same price. Well used to be but prices change. But correct older poly cells were blue.

[@johnstark4723]

And bifacial are even better if mounted so they get reflection on the back of the panel. Also, half cut mono is better in shaded areas as they still allow current flow through shaded areas of the panel. So there are tons of variables to consider with solar panels and inverters.

[@dus10dnd]

This isn't a great test. You need to run the tests with many of each panel. Every single panel is going to have variation. There is going to be a degree of QA tolerance that will allow for different voltages and amperage.

[@johnnysweekends]

This is true, now would it mean anything if I tested 8 harbor freight panel and all have tested better then several others. No granted I only tested two renogy 100 watt. And Hf still put out more. Again you have to consider the sq inches. But advertised as a 100 watt

[@DrewOdell-vv4gt]

With four 100 watt panels non Harbor Freight# I run my 50 inch tv and 15 cubic foot refrigerator for 6 hours straight daily.i also have three 100AH Lipo4 batteries in series for 300AH battery and after 6 hours I'm still sitting at 13.3 volts and only lose 1 volt from high if 14.3

[@RepublicofDebauchery]

Great video man, you are upping the game. I love to see it. Hope to see you at Vid Summit this year.

[@johnnysweekends]

Thank you, appreciate it. And I plan to be there 👍🏼😀

[@FOTRUMPERS]

OK so??? Renorgy takes longer to charge?? Is that it? I just bought a renorgy bundle from KZbin video.....then maker of video did another with mppt controller. Well I bought mppt controller 10 more amp now I'm scared to buy battery from what original video showed. Ummm??? HELP ME MAKE THE RIGHT BUY....IM NOT RICH, I DONT HAVE FREE BATTERIES...DIG?

[@johnnysweekends]

What are you trying to accomplish ? That’s the biggest thing. I don’t know what your building so this could go many directions

[@curve5746]

Google redodo they sell the cheapest and best batteries for the money

[@johnstark4723]

There are many variables to consider. To help it would require a lot of information. What are you trying to power? What's your end goal? Where are you? Do you have clear view of the sky and sun year round? And a whole host of other things to consider.