This is something I know nothing about so any help would be appreciated. We just bought a new Momentum 328m TH and was thinking of have a solar charging system added b/f we pick it up. We camp a lot in somewhat boondocking mode but in places with other RV'ers that may now appreciate running the generator all that much.So the solar system would need to help keep 2 to 4 rv batteries charged and run a TV, xbox, or a couple laptops. I have no idea of what I need to do this wattage wise or inverter wise.Can someone point me in the right direction? Or is this even worth the $$$ to do it?Thanks

Grand Design (as far as I know) is still installing a connector for the Furrion Portable Solar Charging System (http://furrion.com/category-electrical/landing-solar/)

Here is a simple flow chart.Budget-->Energy Audit-->Battery bank size-->number of watts-->PWM or MPPT. What ever type of controller is chosen, make sure it has adjustable set points and a temperature probe that is on the battery.If you use solar as a battery charger, one rule of thumb is between 60 and 150 watts of panels per 100 amp-hours of storage. The smaller the battery bank the higher the wattage needed (per 100 amp-hours). Here is a link to the rather special spreadsheet which includes an energy audit, that N8GS has created to help size solar battery charging systems!solar spreadsheet by N8GS If you full time or use an inverter lots, then populate the entire unshaded area of the roof with panels. I'm considering replacing my awning with solar panels.For a nice explanation of solar, try this link:Golden rules of solar

I'd also consider looking at how much space one has on the roof. For a class "B", I'd go with a MPPT controller, just so I can get every watt from the relatively small space available. On a larger rig, it may not matter, so PWM may be the right bang for buck for the job.

Thanks for the responses. the new TH is 36' long so roof space is not an issue. Looks like I have a lot of reading to do.Thanks

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22 Replies

red31
Explorer
Mar 05, 2016
You've mentioned 100w suitcase.

I provided a link to a 400w system that was mentioned, in no way is it intended to be 'portable'.

I'm betting more 'portables' are pieced together non kits ('cept the suitcases).
Almot
Explorer III
Mar 04, 2016
You may call it whatever you like.
There are more "not portable kits" used in a "portable" setup, than "portable kits" used for the same purpose :)

100W suitcase is basically a maintenance charger. Would work for a minimalist and/or for a very short stay when you can let the battery drop a little because will be home tomorrow. But then, adding another 2*6V - that the OP was planning - would accomplish the same.
red31
Explorer
Mar 04, 2016
If it comes with mounting brackets, it is not portable kit. Neither come with sealant.

SkiSmuggs, you are correct about not understanding.
Almot
Explorer III
Mar 04, 2016
SkiSmuggs wrote:

I'm not sure you understand the term "portable."

By definition, anything that is not mounted permanently. These kits, and other similar, is what people use for portable setups. Adding legs and hinges doesn't change much. Kits like those suitcases are less suitable yet for permanent install than those in the link above.
SkiSmuggs
Explorer
Mar 04, 2016
Almot wrote:
Portable kits don't come with "everything needed" for permanent install. They will need a longer cable, different brackets, a rooftop J-box (if PWM), fuses/breakers - to name a few.

In the flow chart by Don the PWM/MPPT selection is the very last step. First they need to decide on the array size.

PWM/MPPT is directly related to array size. IMO, arrays 400W and larger, with cables longer than those usually used in portable setup, are better/easier with MPPT.

I'm not sure you understand the term "portable." I have a portable Renogy 100w suitcase. I take it out of storage, open it, clip to battery bank and place the panels in the sun. That is portable.
On the other hand, I have two 100w panel on the roof, cable down to the controller mounted inside. That is not portable, but a permanent installation.
Portable in not intended for permanent installation.
EsoxLucius
Explorer
Mar 03, 2016
ramgunner wrote:
Grand Design (as far as I know) is still installing a connector for the Furrion Portable Solar Charging System (http://furrion.com/category-electrical/landing-solar/)
I don't think so.
Almot
Explorer III
Mar 03, 2016
Portable kits don't come with "everything needed" for permanent install. They will need a longer cable, different brackets, a rooftop J-box (if PWM), fuses/breakers - to name a few.

In the flow chart by Don the PWM/MPPT selection is the very last step. First they need to decide on the array size.

PWM/MPPT is directly related to array size. IMO, arrays 400W and larger, with cables longer than those usually used in portable setup, are better/easier with MPPT.
SkiSmuggs
Explorer
Mar 03, 2016
Portables typically run 100w plus or minus and mine did come with everything I needed. But the OP is talk about getting solar installed, not portable. That Renogy kit also comes with everything needed and you can get them in 100-400w sizes. They just add more panels and increase the amps of the charge controller. I pieced mine together and anguished over it all. The kit would have just saved me all that.
I don't think the OP is interested in the PMW/MPPT discussion.
Red31, thanks for posting that link for me. My work place blocks that somehow.
red31
Explorer
Mar 03, 2016
SkiSmuggs wrote:

You can get a 200w or 400w kit as well that comes with everything. No need to over think it.

http://www.renogy-store.com/400W-12V-Monocrystalline-Solar-RV-Kit-p/kit-rv400d.htm
Almot
Explorer III
Mar 03, 2016
Unless they want exactly a portable, it is better to buy separate parts with features and quality that you want. Portable kits by Renogy and many others don't include all you need, some parts you will replace and some will add, for permanent install. Besides, 300W is on the smallish size - but still big and bulky to deal with, if you move often.

Btw, OP - you need inverter even if you don't use solar. With inverter you'll run your generator less.

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