Solar

Terrybeckley, unfortunately the electric/solar nerds here will likely just start arguing about stuff that is not helpful to you annd quite possibly causing you more confusion than you already have. Apologies in advance, for them.

But tuna gave you a decent starting spot. Know how much power you need and then size the power supply (batteries) to that. Then size the solar charging to accommodate as much or all of the charging, that you can.

CA Traveler wrote:
List: Why a measly 24V battery when 48V is King?

48 volt is great--but would four fit in a Minnie Winni?

List: Why a measly 24V battery when 48V is King?

This guys has an interesting set of videos about Solar Panels.
It will give you an idea of what's what.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7reC9QlPHlA&ab_channel=DIYSolarPowerwithWillProwse

I can add to the list: A fat bank account

terrybeckley1,

Here is what I would want

as much solar as will fit on the roof

a hybrid inverter/charger that does "load support"

an MPPT charge controller that is adequate to the needs of the panels, one with diversion load capabilities, so that excess solar capacity may be used for water heating

a dc to DC charger to protect the alternator

a dc "hot rod" for the water heater

consider a 24 volt battery bank

use a heat pump instead of roof air they are more efficient.

let's see how many folks can add to this short list?

terrybeckley1 wrote:
Hello! I am getting my Mini Winnie ready for full-time RV life, and need some help figuring out how much solar wattage I need, and also how to integrate the solar / BB / alternator / shore power / inverter etc!? Thank you!

Start with an energy audit. Then size the battery bank. Next size the solar to your needs.

Find an audit spreadsheet here:

https://freecampsites.net/adding-solar/

In order for items to "play well together" it is worth considering having all the tech from one company such as Victron.

As mentioned by CA, solar panels and an appropriate controller are only part of the issue. You need to size a battery bank for your needs. Batteries are heavy, take up a lot of space, are expensive and most need to be replaced every few years.

You really need to do an energy audit based on your expected and desired needs. You will quickly find that controlling utilization can greatly reduce your need for a major solar system and expenses. In my case, I do not use the microwave, electric coffee maker or similar appliances. I have a melitta coffee maker system that makes great coffee from water I heat on the stove. Anyway, you should be able to find online RV electrical calculators to estimate your system needs.

Solar is usually a standalone system with a controller that wires directly into your battery bank. You RV should already be configured for shore power, alternator and addition of a generator. It may also be pre-wired for solar. In any case, since you are asking very basic questions, you should leave the installation to the vendor.

Estimate your energy needs/usage and that becomes a guide for solar, batteries and gen. Search for a online calculator. Set all chargers for the battery type, connected in parallel and they will all charge as needed. Inverters are an energy usage and not a source but it is also connected in parallel to the battery.

One guide is 150W of solar for every 100AH of battery. Most likely you will want GC deep cycle batteries.