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
I'm also a 2-7 night camper and would not be without solar. In the last few years I've never used a generator for battery charging purposes.
I generally have plenty of battery capacity for three or four nights + of use if the sun didn't shine at all. If the rig is parked in the sun in most months the batteries are very close to full by lunchtime. If it is in winter with lots of furnace time, the batteries could be full by late afternoon, or not completely full when the sun sets. But again there's enough battery capacity to ride it out for quite a few days. When you're through with the camper, just park it and let the solar panels complete the charge.
I have 300 amp hours of AGM batteries and 300 watts of solar. LED lights and low consumption electronics. 3.5 amp furnace during the on cycle. The consumption end is important too. I use propane for all cooking and heating purposes.
One popular RV feature which goes hand in hand with solar is Fantastic Fan. You can park in the sun but ventilate the RV in a way that you're comfy inside in moderate temperatures.
I generally have plenty of battery capacity for three or four nights + of use if the sun didn't shine at all. If the rig is parked in the sun in most months the batteries are very close to full by lunchtime. If it is in winter with lots of furnace time, the batteries could be full by late afternoon, or not completely full when the sun sets. But again there's enough battery capacity to ride it out for quite a few days. When you're through with the camper, just park it and let the solar panels complete the charge.
I have 300 amp hours of AGM batteries and 300 watts of solar. LED lights and low consumption electronics. 3.5 amp furnace during the on cycle. The consumption end is important too. I use propane for all cooking and heating purposes.
One popular RV feature which goes hand in hand with solar is Fantastic Fan. You can park in the sun but ventilate the RV in a way that you're comfy inside in moderate temperatures.
