Discount Code for Orion Van Products

[Steve Biegler]

For anyone interested in any Orion Roof Rack Products if you use this link https://orionvangear.com/GHOSTVAN and this discount code GHOSTVAN you save $59 on any purchase over $1,200.

I highly recommend Orion. Made in the USA (Oregon)and they will do a CAD layout for free of your rack build. GREAT company to work with and the rack quality is amazing! They were instrumental in making sure every component fit perfectly. And yes, everything bolts up to the factory threaded mounts perfectly.

 

[Steve Biegler]

 

[GeorgeRad]

What is the airflow to cool solar panels from the bottom?, it seems as this is a well seal roof.

 

[Steve Biegler]

What is the airflow to cool solar panels from the bottom?, it seems as this is a well seal roof.

Panels are mounted flush to Orion roof deck panels which are raised above the actual van roof. Maxeon Sunpower walkable panels are designed to be flush surface mounted. The Orion deck panels are powder coated aluminum and their system creates a very flush, aerodynamic walkable deck with airflow under the entire system.

 

[GeorgeRad]

Having good airflow under the entire system is good, I just don't see openings to allow this airflow on pictures, perhaps I am missing it.

 

[Steve Biegler]

Having good airflow under the entire system is good, I just don't see openings to allow this airflow on pictures, perhaps I am missing it.

The Roof Hatch and Maxxair fan are mounted to the actual van roof, if you notice the roof deck is pretty much flush with the top of them. Air can flow between the actual roof and the bottom of the rack deck plates. About 4 inches or so air gap. That being said those panels do not need any air gap underneath as they are designed to be flush mounted to the decks of boats, etc..

 

[GeorgeRad]

Thank you for the explanation, all silicon based photovoltaic devices efficiency is directly linked to their temperature, just physics.

Solar Panel Efficiency vs. Temperature (2026) | 8MSolar

Explore how temperature affects solar panel efficiency and learn tips to maximize performance in different climates.

8msolar.com

"The extent of efficiency loss due to temperature varies depending on the specific type of solar panel and its temperature coefficient. To give a general idea:

• A typical crystalline silicon solar panel might lose 0.3% to 0.5% of its efficiency for every 1°C increase in temperature above 25°C.
• On a hot summer day where panel temperatures might reach 60°C (140°F), this could translate to a 10-15% decrease in power output compared to the panel’s rated efficiency.
• In very cold conditions, solar panels can actually perform above their rated efficiency. For example, at 0°C (32°F), a panel might produce 5-7% more power than its rated output.

It’s worth noting that while efficiency decreases with temperature, the total energy output might still be higher on a hot, sunny day compared to a cool, cloudy day, simply due to the increased solar irradiance."

 

[Steve Biegler]

 

[Steve Biegler]

Van Roof Layout Mistakes to Avoid for Solar, Fans, Hatch, and AC