First Impressions of Moultrie 12V Ranch Series Solar Panel
The Moultrie 12V Ranch Series Solar Panel promises a reliable and eco-friendly way to keep your Ranch Series feeders running. It’s a 2-watt solar panel designed to extend battery life, compatible with Moultrie Ranch Series auger and broadcast feeders. The included varmint-resistant conduit is a welcome addition.
I’ve spent years trekking through the woods, setting up and maintaining feeders for wildlife management on my family’s property. Regular battery replacements are a pain, especially in remote areas, and the cost adds up quickly. I was looking for a solution to keep my feeders running consistently without the hassle and expense of constantly swapping batteries.
Upon unboxing, the Moultrie 12V Ranch Series Solar Panel feels solid and well-made. The metal wire conduit offers a good measure of protection, and the panel itself is compact and doesn’t feel flimsy. Compared to some cheaper, generic solar panels I’ve tried, this one has a more robust feel, giving me confidence it can withstand the elements.
Generic solar panels are cheaper, but often lack the integrated varmint protection. Higher-end solar solutions exist, but they are significantly more expensive and have more power than is needed for my relatively small feeders. The Moultrie 12V Ranch Series Solar Panel seemed like a balanced solution.
I was cautiously optimistic about the Moultrie 12V Ranch Series Solar Panel. The design seems practical, but the real test would be its performance in the field, charging a 12V battery consistently through varying weather conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Moultrie 12V Ranch Series Solar Panel to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Moultrie 12V Ranch Series Solar Panel at my deer lease in central Texas. I connected it to a Moultrie Ranch Series broadcast feeder using a standard 12V rechargeable battery. The area experiences a variety of weather, from intense sun to heavy rain and occasional freezes.
The panel worked flawlessly from the get-go, even on partly cloudy days. Connecting the panel was straightforward using the standard insulated slide connectors. After a week, the battery remained fully charged, even with the feeder running twice daily.
There were no initial issues, but I was concerned about the long-term durability of the conduit in areas with high deer activity. Also, I needed to ensure the panel remained securely mounted through heavy winds.
Extended Use & Reliability
After six months of continuous use, the Moultrie 12V Ranch Series Solar Panel has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear on the panel itself, and the metal conduit has successfully deterred varmints from chewing on the wires. The panel has survived multiple storms and extreme temperature fluctuations without any performance issues.
Regularly checking the connections is key, but otherwise, maintenance is minimal. I brushed off some accumulated dust and leaves every few weeks. This ensures maximum sunlight exposure.
Compared to my previous battery-dependent setup, the Moultrie 12V Ranch Series Solar Panel is a game-changer. It completely eliminated the need for constant battery replacements. This saves both time and money and ensures the feeders consistently operate, attracting more wildlife.
Breaking Down the Features of Moultrie 12V Ranch Series Solar Panel
Specifications
The Moultrie 12V Ranch Series Solar Panel boasts a 12-volt, 2-watt output. It uses F1 connectors for easy integration with 12V batteries. These specifications are crucial for compatibility with standard feeder systems and ensuring sufficient charging power.
It measures 7.25″ L x 6.25″ W x 2.25″ H, making it compact and easy to mount. The 7.5-foot cable offers flexible placement options. The compact size ensures that it does not take up a lot of space.
The panel includes a 6-foot metal wire conduit for varmint protection. This protects the wiring and prevents costly damage. It also comes with standard insulated slide connectors for easy battery connection. The ease of connection allows for quick and simple setup.
Performance & Functionality
The Moultrie 12V Ranch Series Solar Panel efficiently maintains a 12V battery’s charge. It keeps my Ranch Series broadcast feeder consistently operational. It even handles periods of prolonged cloud cover without completely draining the battery.
Its main strength is its reliability. It keeps feeders running without intervention. A minor weakness is the 2-watt output. This might not be enough to fully charge a heavily depleted battery quickly.
The product more than meets expectations. It provides a consistent and reliable power source for remote feeders. This reduces maintenance and ensures consistent wildlife attraction.
Design & Ergonomics
The Moultrie 12V Ranch Series Solar Panel‘s design prioritizes functionality and durability. The materials are rugged and weather-resistant. The compact size and lightweight design make it easy to handle and install.
The slide connectors simplify setup. Mounting is straightforward using the included metal collets. There is virtually no learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
With its robust construction and varmint-resistant conduit, the Moultrie 12V Ranch Series Solar Panel is built to last. It stands up well to harsh outdoor conditions. Maintaining involves only occasional cleaning to ensure sunlight exposure.
Repairing would involve replacing the entire unit in most cases. Fortunately, the solid construction suggests a long lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Moultrie 12V Ranch Series Solar Panel comes with a cable with metal conduit and 2 metal collets for installation. It doesn’t require additional accessories for basic operation. However, you might need a longer mounting pole for optimal sun exposure in heavily wooded areas.
The Moultrie solar panel is designed for 12V batteries. This ensures compatibility with numerous feeder systems. Aftermarket mounting brackets may offer increased flexibility.
Pros and Cons of Moultrie 12V Ranch Series Solar Panel
Pros
- Reliable Power Source: Eliminates the need for frequent battery changes, saving time and money.
- Varmint Resistant: The metal conduit effectively protects wires from chewing rodents, extending the lifespan of the panel.
- Easy to Install: Simple connection with standard insulated slide connectors makes setup a breeze.
- Compact Design: The small size allows for flexible placement without being obtrusive.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand harsh weather conditions for long-term performance.
Cons
- 2-Watt Output: Might not be sufficient for rapidly recharging deeply discharged batteries.
- Panel Angle: Requires adjustment to optimize sunlight exposure based on seasonal changes.
Who Should Buy Moultrie 12V Ranch Series Solar Panel?
The Moultrie 12V Ranch Series Solar Panel is perfect for hunters and wildlife enthusiasts. It is ideal for those who manage remote feeding stations. It is especially beneficial for users of Moultrie Ranch Series Auger and Broadcast Feeders.
Those needing higher power output or compatibility with 6V systems should skip this product. Also, those seeking trail camera power solutions should choose a different product, as this is Not compatible with Moultrie’s 12V trail cameras, 6V trail cameras, or 6V feeders. A longer mounting pole might be a must-have accessory for optimal sunlight exposure in heavily wooded areas.
Conclusion on Moultrie 12V Ranch Series Solar Panel
The Moultrie 12V Ranch Series Solar Panel delivers on its promise of providing a reliable and sustainable power source for your feeder. It’s a well-built, easy-to-install solution that effectively eliminates the hassle of frequent battery replacements. The varmint-resistant conduit is a significant plus, ensuring long-term durability in the field.
At $59.99, the price is justified, considering the time and money saved on batteries. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about maintaining consistent feeding schedules for wildlife.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Moultrie 12V Ranch Series Solar Panel to anyone seeking a dependable and eco-friendly power solution for their Ranch Series feeders. Ditch the batteries and embrace the sun; your wildlife (and your wallet) will thank you!