Solar Power for Dummies
I’m toying with the idea of installing a solar system on my 33’ Class A RV so I can spend more time boondocking. I’m a full-time RVer and all I’m looking for at this time is the recommendation of a go...
Forum Discussion
Panels are mostly a commodity. Just get the wattage and dimensions that fit your needs.
Controllers are probably the biggest hurdle. Price can range from sub $30 to $600+ depending on features.
The biggest issue is to decide if you will have a 12v system with lower cost PWM (pulse width modulated) controller or a higher voltage system with MPPT (maximum power point tracking) controller. This has been debated endlessly and while not a huge issue (IMO) it does need to be decided before you buy any equipment.
So basically you need to decide the power needed and a system to provide that power. If you undershoot you are back to running the generator, if you overshoot then maybe you spent more than needed but will still be able to keep the generator mostly off in less than perfect conditions.
The hardest part is putting the first hole in your perfectly good roof to mount the panels.
Controllers are probably the biggest hurdle. Price can range from sub $30 to $600+ depending on features.
The biggest issue is to decide if you will have a 12v system with lower cost PWM (pulse width modulated) controller or a higher voltage system with MPPT (maximum power point tracking) controller. This has been debated endlessly and while not a huge issue (IMO) it does need to be decided before you buy any equipment.
So basically you need to decide the power needed and a system to provide that power. If you undershoot you are back to running the generator, if you overshoot then maybe you spent more than needed but will still be able to keep the generator mostly off in less than perfect conditions.
The hardest part is putting the first hole in your perfectly good roof to mount the panels.
