Posted by Spin-Cast Wildlife Feeders on 17th Feb 2026

What Size Solar Panel Do I Need for a 6-Volt Deer Feeder?

Choosing the right solar panel for a 6-volt deer feeder is one of the easiest ways to prevent feeder failures and dead batteries.

Most 6V feeders do not need a large panel — but they do need a properly sized panel based on feeding schedule, sun exposure, and battery condition.

Quick Answer

For most 6-volt deer feeders, the best solar panel size is:

  • 6V 2W to 6V 3W

  • Approximately 350mA to 500mA

Common 6-Volt Deer Feeder Solar Panel Sizes

Most feeder solar panels are sold in these sizes:

  • 6V 1.5W

  • 6V 2W

  • 6V 3W

A 2W–3W panel is ideal for most feeders running a standard schedule.

Recommended Solar Panel Size by Feeding Schedule

Light Use

  • 1 feeding per day

  • 5–10 seconds per feeding

Recommended panel: 6V 1.5W–2W

Normal Use (Most Common)

  • 2 feedings per day

  • 5–15 seconds per feeding

Recommended panel: 6V 2W–3W

Heavy Use

  • 3+ feedings per day

  • 15–30 seconds per feeding

Recommended panel: 6V 3W–5W

Solar Panel Output (mA Guide)

Some solar panels are labeled by current output instead of watts.

Typical ranges:

  • 250mA: Light use only

  • 350mA: Good general-purpose

  • 500mA: Best for most feeders

  • 700mA+: Heavy use or shaded locations

How Many Volts Should a 6V Solar Panel Produce?

A 6-volt solar panel will often read higher than 6 volts.

In direct sunlight, it may show:

  • 7.0V to 10.5V

This is normal and required for charging a 6V battery.

Why a 6V Deer Feeder Battery Can Still Go Dead

Even with a solar panel installed, feeder batteries may die due to:

  • Shade or poor sunlight

  • Incorrect panel angle

  • Old or failing battery

  • Dirty solar panel surface

Best Solar Panel Mounting Tips

For best performance:

  • Face the panel south

  • Tilt the panel 30–45 degrees

  • Avoid tree shade whenever possible

  • Keep the panel clean

FAQ: 6-Volt Deer Feeder Solar Panels

Is a 1.5W solar panel enough for a 6V deer feeder?
Yes for light use, but 2W–3W is more reliable for twice-daily feeding.

Is a 3W solar panel too much for a 6V feeder?
No. A 3W panel is ideal for most setups and helps in cloudy weather.

Why does my 6V solar panel show 9–10 volts?
That is normal. Solar panels output higher voltage than the battery to allow charging.

Can a solar panel charge a dead 6V battery?
Sometimes, but if the battery is old or sulfated it may not recover.

Final Recommendation

For most hunters and feeder owners:

✅ Use a 6V 3-watt solar panel
It provides the best balance of charging power and reliability.