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Gonzo42's avatar
Gonzo42
Explorer
Jan 30, 2014

Recommendations regarding Solar Power

We are new to RVing and considering roof-mount Solar system both to keep the batteries topped off but also to run the A/C or uWave.

I'm thinking about a 200 Watt system. I am concerned about where to route the wiring. I understand it usually goes within the walls, but I don't know where it would be safe. It appears the controller can be mounted above the reefer.

27 Replies

  • Yes, uWave means microwave. In engineering jargon the omicron (u) meens micro. I was concerned 200W would be insufficient for the rooftop A/C. Thanx for confirming it. Will eventually opt for portable generator, then. Still want solar to keep batteries topped off. Might go for two smaller (100W?), one for starting battery, one for house.
  • For comparison... we have a single 130W panel, and I've never really had a need to add onto it, but we're also pretty frugal with our power. We run the fridge on propane, use bottled water instead of the pump, and don't really indulge in TV all that much. In winter when we've needed to run the furnace at night, it's always been enough for us.

    That same panel has kept our coach batteries topped off year round for almost 10 years now.
  • You will need 2000+ watts solar to run the air conditioner. Lots of battery too as the sun goes down. Maybe you meant power small A/C items like a laptop, much easier.

    Not sure what a uWave is. Microwave needs an 1800+ watt inverter to run off the battery(s) for a few minutes. The 200w solar would then be recharging all day.

    Here are some solar installs to look at:
    Forum Members Solar Installations With Pics

    12 Volt Side of Life

    Usually the wire goes down the fridge vent or waste tank vent. Controller should be close to the battery for best results.
  • Welcome,
    Please be aware that there are many different boards on this forum, You are asking in FORUM technical support. I have asked the moderator to move it to the correct location for you.
    Now to answer the question. 200 watts is a good start. There is no way you can pack enough batteries on a trailer to run an AC unit or any other high amperage draw appliance for that matter. Just does not work.
    There are tons of posts on solar on the forums. I suggest you start by searching the 12volt side of life on the internet, then using the search function above put in words like solar and start reading.