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BillyandKris's avatar
BillyandKris
Explorer
Feb 16, 2014

Solar Panel question

We will be ordering a new 33' fifth wheel. We want a solar panel with 2-6 volt batteries. We own a small Honda generator. Basically we just want to charge the batteries and run some lights, charge camera and computer, etc. so we don't have to run the generator daily. We do a lot of dry camping, but also go to RV parks. We are not full-time, but travel a lot. We will pick up the camper far from home and then do some traveling. My husband is very handy, but it would not be handy to be trying to install a solar panel on the road. We are thinking of having the factory install it and then if some problem, it would be on them. They offer a 60W and a 100W. We would go 100W. Would go larger, if they offered it.

Just asking opinions here. Do you think 100W is large enough for our purposes?

Thanks and we enjoy this forum.
Seeking Advice
  • time2roll's avatar
    time2roll
    Nomad
    Feb 16, 2014
    100w would be minimum IMO. Since DH is handy I would recommend a self install for about $2 to $4 per watt for materials. This might be difficult on the road so maybe do some study during the trip and install upon return. Generator should get you through fine on the maiden voyage.

    Here are some installs to look at:

    > Forum Members Solar Installations With Pics
  • 2oldman's avatar
    2oldman
    Explorer II
    Feb 16, 2014
    BillyandKris wrote:
    we just want to charge the batteries and run some lights, charge camera and computer, etc... think 100W is large enough for our purposes?
    For those purposes, yes. There may be other things going on such as running the refrigerator board, water pump and various sensors which can add to your consumption, but they don't add much.

    100w is probably ok, as long as your usage is kept to those limits and you stay in the sun. For all practical purposes that's a 6 amp charger running 5 hours/day,

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