Solar Power Experiment - Results

OK, it's been two weeks now with my Solar 12V Battery Maintainer and I have to say, I really think it is working.  While I'm not at the point yet were I am supremely confident in the starting power of the battery, it's started consistently and reliably since I installed the device.  And by install, I mean sitting loosely on my dashboard when parked or in the seat next to me while driving.  They provide suction cups to mount the device, but my dash is textured and uneven and my windshield is small enough already I don't think I should block any of it.

My only complaint is that there is no indicator on the device that it is "doing" anything.  When not plugged into the lighter socket, there is an LED that indicates 1) insufficient light - dark, 2) sufficient light - flashing, 3) abundance of light - solid.  Once you plug it in, however, the LED is meaningless.  The instructions state that it could be in any of the three states, but that it means nothing.  I'd like to know that it was sending a trickle charge to the battery, but I guess I have to trust that it is every time the car starts.

BTW, I'm not sure I'd recommend this solution to anyone else, but for now it is working for me.

George

Solar Power Experiment

About a year ago I foolishly ran the battery down in my car.  It's not been a big deal until this winter.  I don't drive much and it seems that the battery isn't holding the charge as well as it once did.  There have been a few times when it took more than one try to get the engine to turn over and the poor starter sounded like The Little Engine That Could approaching the top of the hill.

I was about to bite the bullet and purchase a new battery when I had to stop by Home Depot for something or other.  They had a display at the front of the store for a Solar 12V Battery Maintainer by SunForce Products.  I have always found solar power fascinating and hope to one day supplement my daily electrical power needs through solar or wind power.  (No, I don't have altruistic reasons, I just think it's cool technology and I like the idea of potentially getting a check someday from a utility company...)  Anyhow, the device helps maintain the battery charge when the car is not in use.  It may not work, but if it does, it will hopefully extend the life of my tired battery.

George