Solar info
I'm intending to add solar to our rig when I get it figured out. Looking to do more than trickle charge my chassis battery. Looking to go off grid completely (and off generator too) for boondocking. A...
Forum Discussion
Hi Bigdave,
What sort of RV are we working with?
Start with an energy audit.
If you wish to eliminate generator use then plan on at least 3 days of battery capacity. I'd lean towards 150 watts (or more) of solar per 100 amp-hours (@ 12 volts) of storage.
To be able to "saturation charge", equalization, and desulfation, I'd design for two equally sized banks with inexpensive individual perko switches so that one bank can be charged while the other one is in use. For heavy draws such as the water heater, both switches can be in the on position. Mine double as a disconnect switches to the inverter.
Plan on a quality inverter large enough to power the combined loads plus 25%.
It may be wise to consider twin 24 volt banks. That way a 4000 watt inverter could be used.
After doing an assessment of the roof for suitable shade free locations, consider adding a fold down solar "wing" on the side opposite the awning. With proper design that will allow for tilting the major portion of the solar panels, while providing shade to the RV's wall. I'd use hinges on each panel with a locking mechanism at the bottom with "tilt sticks" for support when they are deployed.
What sort of RV are we working with?
Start with an energy audit.
If you wish to eliminate generator use then plan on at least 3 days of battery capacity. I'd lean towards 150 watts (or more) of solar per 100 amp-hours (@ 12 volts) of storage.
To be able to "saturation charge", equalization, and desulfation, I'd design for two equally sized banks with inexpensive individual perko switches so that one bank can be charged while the other one is in use. For heavy draws such as the water heater, both switches can be in the on position. Mine double as a disconnect switches to the inverter.
Plan on a quality inverter large enough to power the combined loads plus 25%.
It may be wise to consider twin 24 volt banks. That way a 4000 watt inverter could be used.
After doing an assessment of the roof for suitable shade free locations, consider adding a fold down solar "wing" on the side opposite the awning. With proper design that will allow for tilting the major portion of the solar panels, while providing shade to the RV's wall. I'd use hinges on each panel with a locking mechanism at the bottom with "tilt sticks" for support when they are deployed.
