Solar panels on a class C
Ok Iam new here but I have camped most of my life.I just bought a used 1989 Togoa Arrow.It had a deep cycle batter that is charged by the alternater.My question is this,if I add say a 120V solar panie...
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Solar panels are typically rated in watts. Also they ahve a 12 volt "Nominal" output, that is actually 21 volts with nothing hooked up to it, and in full sun, while they drop to about 14 volts under full load (that is connected to a battery).
I would be looking for a 100 - 150 watt solar panel (larger size is difficult to find a location to mount it on the roof).
PWM Controller, much less expensive than the MPPT type, you can get a PWM 30 amp controller for about $20 - $25. MPPT in the 30 amp range cost well over $150, and IMHO not worth the extra 1 amp you might get when the battery is almost fully charged.
Cut some 2" angle aluminum to 6" long to make roof mounts.
Yes you can connect the solar panel to the single battery under the hood for coach battery. It will greatly extend the life of that battery. You might want to consider an additional battery, but by having a solar panel, it will mean that you will not use any power from the battery during the day, only at night, and it should recharge fairly quickly during the day.
Good luck,
Fred.
I would be looking for a 100 - 150 watt solar panel (larger size is difficult to find a location to mount it on the roof).
PWM Controller, much less expensive than the MPPT type, you can get a PWM 30 amp controller for about $20 - $25. MPPT in the 30 amp range cost well over $150, and IMHO not worth the extra 1 amp you might get when the battery is almost fully charged.
Cut some 2" angle aluminum to 6" long to make roof mounts.
Yes you can connect the solar panel to the single battery under the hood for coach battery. It will greatly extend the life of that battery. You might want to consider an additional battery, but by having a solar panel, it will mean that you will not use any power from the battery during the day, only at night, and it should recharge fairly quickly during the day.
Good luck,
Fred.
