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1L243's avatar
1L243
Explorer II
Mar 23, 2021

Solar Questions

I have completed my 500 watt solar install with 2000 watt PSW Inverter. I have a couple of questions.

If your plugged into shore power at a Park would you

Question:

1. Have both the Converter and Solar Charge Controller maintain batteries at same time?

2. Solar Charge Controller only with Converter breaker off?

3. Shut down Solar completely and let Converter maintain batteries?

Question:

When I turn on my Inverter it will energize all the outlets in my RV. I will have The AC breaker off, Hot water heater is on propane as is the refrigerator BUT I will have 3 tv's a 40" and two 24", a satellite box and a portable satellite dish. None of these will be on but will be plugged in.

Do these devices need to be unplugged before turning on Inverter.

Question:

Do you clean your solar panels, if so what do you use?
  • time2roll's avatar
    time2roll
    Nomad
    Mar 23, 2021
    1) I turned off my converter once the solar was installed. I will only put the converter on if the battery charge is expected to be inadequate. Has not happened yet.

    2) I never unplug anything to turn on the inverter. Microwave, air compressor, tv or what ever just stays plugged in.

    3) Mostly just water and window squeegee. Maybe a drop of dish soap in the water if needed.
  • lane_hog's avatar
    lane_hog
    Explorer II
    Apr 03, 2021
    I've never turned off my solar in 15 years except when I've swapped out a component or moved it between coaches -- the controller is outputting 13.7, same as the converter.

    Never worried about what's on when turning on the inverter, since our old one was a pass-thru had an internal transfer switch and it only served one circuit (all internal 110v outlets). Considering the same on our new trailer by wiring it in after the single breaker we have for internal outlets.

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