Thinking of adding solar power to coop

[Jusbkauz]

Hi everyone, I just started using supplemental lighting in the coop for eggs. I put a 40w bulb in a clamp fixture with a timer. During freezing weather I usually put a 40w bulb in a cinder block with a pan of water over it to keep it from freezing. I'm thinking of using solar energy instead of having a extension cord running 100ft across the yard.
I'm thinking of using a 50w panel like this https://www.amazon.com/NewPowa-effi...7&sr=1-2-spons&keywords=50w+solar+panel&psc=1 for power and a controller like this https://www.amazon.com/ALLPOWERS-Ch...D=51eOj-zOMXL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=detail . I will use a deep cycle battery but I'm not sure if this setup will run a 40w bulb for the light 3 hours a day and another 40w bulb to keep the water thawed during freezing weather for 24 hours a day. Also would it be better to run a/c or d/c for the lights? The coop light will still be used with a timer but the one for the water would be controlled manually..

Thanks for any advice you may have.

 

[Parront]

Here are some numbers, but it really depends on hours of sun per day. 50 watt panel x 6 hours of sun = 300 watt/hrs. You need a battery to store this amount x 2, for not so sunny days. The inverter might be only 75% efficient, but your 40 watt bulb will draw 120 watts over 3 hours. You would be just breaking even without another bulb running 24/7. The plan is multiply your watts you need, figure out hours of sun, get a big enough panel and battery to put out that much power. Hope this helps!

 

[Jusbkauz]

Ok how would I compare cold cranking amps to watts or am I looking at the wrong type of battery?

 

[Parront]

Ok how would I compare cold cranking amps to watts or am I looking at the wrong type of battery?

You want a golf cart battery, "deep cycle". They are rated in amp hours. Here is an article I like about it: http://www.offthegridnews.com/grid-threats/building-a-battery-bank-for-your-off-grid-energy-needs/
What it boils down to is you need a big golf cart battery. Walmart sells them.
Here is an explanation of converting watts & amps based on 12 volts. https://www.reference.com/technolog...p-2ab83fd02741ea27?qo=contentSimilarQuestions I would skip the inverter and go with only 12 volt heating stuff, and LED lights to save on the size of battery and panel. Hope this gets you started on your solar and electrical education!

 

[Parront]

Getting a house power outlet out by your coop is probably more cost-effecient. Spend the money on good underground cable and an out-door outlet. You will not have the limits and on-going expenses involved with solar. The battery needs replacement, different equipment, etc.

 

[Jusbkauz]

After reading those 2 links you provided that sounds like a good idea. Thanks for the valuable information.

 

[Parront]

I like solar for lots of things, just not heating. Maybe if you only needed light, it would be cost effective. I am interested in Solar for back-up power in outages, which we have often where we live. A small system like you mentioned is perfect for that use, for computers, phone charging, or even small incubators short term. For heat, I got a Mr. Heater and a propane tank, not useful for your water for your chickens. An electric outlet by your coop will find many other uses!

 

[Parront]

Just so you know, I am a former telephone installer and retired computer tech, my husband worked for Seattle City Light for 30 years, we do electricity. I hate outages!

 

[Jusbkauz]

I actually was kind of thinking dual purpose like you mentioned. If we experienced a power outage I was planning on mounting the solar panel in a way that I could easily remove it and bring it to the house for just what you said. I don't know how practical that idea would have been but I was thinking ahead.

 

[Jusbkauz]

So if I were just to use that setup for the coop lighting (about 3hrs a day) it would be fine?