solar battery needs/ requirements
plan to get a solar set up for our camper, enjoy dry camping. while I am still investigating what I will install have a battery ? are deep cycle batteries a must? plan to probably use 2, as only ne...
Forum Discussion
HI,
I have a e-meter on my motorhome that carefully tracks my battery useage. It shows that I consume 35 amp hours daily just to run the CO meter, propane detector and refrigerator. So don't think that because you do not run any lights at night that you will not need a large battery.
It takes a 120 watt solar panel to make up the 35 AH daily in my RV. Then lights and furnace will require more power.
I installed a 90 watt solar system on a small class C - 1985 without the power hungry CO and propane detectors. Also the refrigerator did not use 12 volt power, or have that front display that is so easy to use. After upgrading to a Bounder RV, I found I needed a 75 watt panel. Later I installed a pair of 120 watt panels.
I liked to watch a lot of TV and satellite TV. I have 4 golf cart batteries, 440 AH capacity. I could use 120 AH overnight and still fill the battery by sunset.
I would recommend at least a 120 watt panel, then upgrade if you like from there. A 140 watt was for sale at this place for $229 a few weeks ago.
SunElec.com
For mounts, I cut off 6" long 2" angle aluminum with 3 holes into the roof and 5/16" hole for a bolt into the solar panel frame.
For wiring, I bought #10 UV rated grey romex from Home Depot. I ran mine down the refrigerator roof vent, to the controller, and to the battery.
Good luck,
Fred.
I have a e-meter on my motorhome that carefully tracks my battery useage. It shows that I consume 35 amp hours daily just to run the CO meter, propane detector and refrigerator. So don't think that because you do not run any lights at night that you will not need a large battery.
It takes a 120 watt solar panel to make up the 35 AH daily in my RV. Then lights and furnace will require more power.
I installed a 90 watt solar system on a small class C - 1985 without the power hungry CO and propane detectors. Also the refrigerator did not use 12 volt power, or have that front display that is so easy to use. After upgrading to a Bounder RV, I found I needed a 75 watt panel. Later I installed a pair of 120 watt panels.
I liked to watch a lot of TV and satellite TV. I have 4 golf cart batteries, 440 AH capacity. I could use 120 AH overnight and still fill the battery by sunset.
I would recommend at least a 120 watt panel, then upgrade if you like from there. A 140 watt was for sale at this place for $229 a few weeks ago.
SunElec.com
For mounts, I cut off 6" long 2" angle aluminum with 3 holes into the roof and 5/16" hole for a bolt into the solar panel frame.
For wiring, I bought #10 UV rated grey romex from Home Depot. I ran mine down the refrigerator roof vent, to the controller, and to the battery.
Good luck,
Fred.
