Solar energy is becoming increasingly more popular among people with campers and motorhomes.
Camper with solar panels.
Unfortunately rvs require a lot of power.
Camper van builds are popular in the van life movement and typically have small electrical requirements.
A solar power system starts with a solar panel which goes to an amp controller which then goes to the battery.
Here you ll be introduced to six top rv solar kits that provide silent low cost non polluting power wherever your travels take you.
A 300 amp hour camper battery for instance would need around 300 watts of solar power.
Prices have gotten a bit more reasonable in recent years however it can still get pretty pricey if you want a good rv solar power setup.
A charge controller helps to keep the battery from overcharging.
Camper van solar panels and electrical systems can often scare people away because they seem like something that is very high tech.
That panel is rated at 100 watts at peak efficiency meaning on a 78 degree cloudless day at solar noon on the equator during the equinox.
Solar electric power is one of the best things to happen to the rv world.
The cost of rv solar power.
Weekender sw complete solar kit at a glance.
With a solar system you are more assured of reliable power while you re adventuring off grid and all you need is daylight.
The amp controller can also go by the name charge controller.
Go boondocking and only use your rv battery ies as your power source.
In reality it s easier than you think can save you loads of money and make your life much easier while on the road.
If you re looking for a suitable travel trailer for your trekking and camping adventures perhaps you might want to consider one that is pre wired and or already equipped with solar panels.
Solar panels are sold in varying sizes but a 100 watt panel is a commonly found size particularly for rvs.
Also keep in mind that solar panels experience a 75 90 drop in efficiency on cloudy days so it s good to have slightly more than you need when it comes to solar power about a 20 cushion if possible to account for less than ideal conditions.
Expect to pay about 1 15 to 2 50 per watt for kits that include one or more photovoltaic panels plus cables and a charge controller.
Use solar panels on small camper vans or diy conversions.
A few 100 watt panels can add up fast then add on some deep cycle solar batteries to store power a charge controller to keep them from.
For this reason many van lifers choose to power their entire camper using solar power alone.
Monocrystalline panel max 160w 8 6a 18 6 v.
Here s how we determined the amount of solar power we needed for our rv boondocking trips and recommend you do the same.