Is solar the way to go?
Looking for some input from those of you that use solar to charge your battery. What are good kits to buy that are affordable and portable? How long does it take you to charge in all conditions? Is so...
Forum Discussion
We did a solar install quicker than intended due to our RV fridge going Kaput last year, and we installed a residential one saving about $2500 over an RV one and the size and freezing/cooling capacity is wonderful by comparison to the old RV style one.
We picked our own components from research on pricing and products not a kit. 800amp hr (new batteries from Costco), and 1000w solar panels plus the inverter, charger, monitors etc based on suggestions on Jack Mayers website on solar (wonderful dedication on reporting from that gentleman!). Installed Oct last year, just used it out dry camping this past weekend for 4 nights and it was fabulous - kettle and toaster on, microwave worked on it, central vacuum = everything. No Jenny needed so peaceful and quiet on Lake Koocanusa BC/Montana straddle surrounded by great hiking locations. Site cost zero so already starting to pay for itself, but irrespective of that, we love the convenience and not bothering others when at one in nature already, which was our goal more than saving over just CG costs or gasoline for generator.
That's our experience early on thus far for what it's worth. Highly recommend reading Jack Mayer's website write ups - have a lot of respect for that gentleman's comments and write ups.
We picked our own components from research on pricing and products not a kit. 800amp hr (new batteries from Costco), and 1000w solar panels plus the inverter, charger, monitors etc based on suggestions on Jack Mayers website on solar (wonderful dedication on reporting from that gentleman!). Installed Oct last year, just used it out dry camping this past weekend for 4 nights and it was fabulous - kettle and toaster on, microwave worked on it, central vacuum = everything. No Jenny needed so peaceful and quiet on Lake Koocanusa BC/Montana straddle surrounded by great hiking locations. Site cost zero so already starting to pay for itself, but irrespective of that, we love the convenience and not bothering others when at one in nature already, which was our goal more than saving over just CG costs or gasoline for generator.
That's our experience early on thus far for what it's worth. Highly recommend reading Jack Mayer's website write ups - have a lot of respect for that gentleman's comments and write ups.
