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cliffy49's avatar
cliffy49
Explorer II
Jun 23, 2026

Solar needed?

Moderators, not sure if thhis is the correct location so please move if needed. This is also posted in various locations(online forums)

I am curious as to whether or not any one inn central Kentucky has added solar to the rv. I am thinking about put a small(200 watt) setup on the roof of my toy hauler. I'm thinking that 200 watts should be enough to keep the battery fully charged while in storage and possibly be enough for an overnight wtop when traveling, We dont do any boondocking since I have not really found anyplace in Ky. to do so. Most if not all stays are at camp grounds that at the very least have electric but we are usually on full hookups.

So, my question is,would this be a waste of money or should I keep my cash for something that would really be needed. Thanks for all you help.

8 Replies

  • cliffy49's avatar
    cliffy49
    Explorer II
    Jun 23, 2026

    I have a 2018 Catalinia Trail Blazer 26TH. I am currently using a 100amp lifepo4 battery witha monitor and shunt. The unit was never pre-wired for solar  nor did it have a battery shut off but does now.

     

    • way2roll's avatar
      way2roll
      Trailblazer
      Jun 23, 2026

      You can get a combo kit with 100 w panel and controller for pretty cheap. Just get something decent like renology or victron. Mounting the panels and running the wires will require drilling into the roof and chasing the wires. think about where you'll mount the controller in close proximity to the batteries. Many times it's easy to tuck in the back of a cabinet. Just use the proper sealants like dicor to seal up the holes in the roof. I am sure Stir crazy will be on here shortly to provide better details at mounting and using solar. 

  • way2roll's avatar
    way2roll
    Trailblazer
    Jun 23, 2026

    You didn't say what kind of Rv you have, how many batteries or what kind. Most new Rvs come with 100W solar panel (if not more) and a solar controller to keep the batteries charged in storage. Rvs in the past 20 years already have a battery cutoff switch which will also help with parasitic drains. All you really need is a 100w set up and a controller to float charge. If you have a motorhome you can also wire it to the chassis battery, but you may need a smart controller in case the batteries are different. A travel trailer with 1 battery is super simple. 

  • cliffy49's avatar
    cliffy49
    Explorer II
    Jun 23, 2026

    I have a 100 amp hour lifepo4 battery. I replaced 2 6 volt golf cart batteries when they went bad to save weight.

  • bid_time's avatar
    bid_time
    Nomad III
    Jun 23, 2026

    A cutoff switch at the battery will keep the battery charged while in storage and only cost about $20.

  • Lwiddis's avatar
    Lwiddis
    Nomad III
    Jun 23, 2026

    25 to 30 solar watts is enough to maintain lead acid batteries. Not sure any solar is needed for Lithium batteries. 

    • way2roll's avatar
      way2roll
      Trailblazer
      Jun 23, 2026

      20-30 watt panel is only going to produce about 6-12 amp hours a day under average conditions. For the small difference in price, 100w will produce 30-40 and better suited for LIPO.

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