I found a couple of old threads where people were interested to use Solar Panels to charge batteries for their backup power.
http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/sho...ht=solar+power
http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/sho...ht=solar+power
What I want however is to provide continuous power for powering equipment for a small 5-10 gallon water pond on my balcony (South and West facing). The equipment will be a small powerhead (Minijet), maybe an air pump, and a small heater. The pond will contain cold water fish like comets or white clouds. Therefore, the heater only has to prevent the water from freezing in the winter so it'll be set to a low temp. I don't want to extend power cords to the water pond. So I think a solar panel and a power pack is what I need. Does anyone have experience with this? How do I calculate the size of the panel that I need and the size of the power pack? I don't know where is the best place to buy these things but Canadian Tire seems to have a few to choose from.
Canadian Tire Solar Power
I'm wondering if a 2.2W panel and a Motomaster Eliminator 300A PowerBox will do the job of providing continuous power for a pump and heater? Anyone with experience?