Buying New And Used Marine Solar PanelsMarine solar panels are identical to other solar panels in their function, but the conditions they must endure are far harsher than those experienced by panels mounted on a home roof or camper van. Aside from continual exposure to sun, wind and rain, marine panels must be able to cope with occasional immersion in salt water as well as salt build up. 
As anyone who has either lived near the beach or lived in colder areas where salt is put on the road, exposing metals to salt and salt water will cause rapid corrosion in almost all metals, even aluminium.New Marine PanelsWhen you're looking at buying new marine solar gear, the quality of the casing and the waterproofing of the wiring and attached equipment must be high. While these may not be obvious to the eye, one good indicator is the length and type of warranty that comes with the panels. A retailer who offers a 10 year warranty with new for old replacement if the gear breaks down is likely to be selling quality equipment. On the other hand, if it's a 12 month limited warranty and cheap, you can bet you'll be replacing the panel sooner rather than later. Remember, you get what you pay for. Second Hand Marine PanelsThe most likely reason someone is selling a used solar panel from their boat is that it is no longer functioning properly. It is definitely worth asking what applications the panel has been used for, and what its performance is like. The panel may have been cleaned and have had any rust scraped off, but if this has been done there should be scratches on the panel's metal frame. If you are at all uncertain about the panel's condition, don't buy it. If you have the skills to test the electrical output of the panel or have a friend that can help do that, you will be able to make an informed decision. On the whole though, used marine panels should be avoided. Return from Marine Solar Panels to Cheap Solar Panels or return to the Green Planet home page for more Solar Power Facts.
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