Generator vs Battery/Inverter/Solar
We have just purchased our first truck camper - a used 2007 Lance 845 and have a couple questions that I hope you can help us out with. The camper is still at the dealer and we're considering having a...
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But you said you move everyday. The solar (and truck) charges the batteries while you drive, while you eat lunch, etc.
AGM batteries have better charge acceptance, which makes the larger cable from the truck more valuable. You may want to check that the solar charge controller and the inverter/charger you use has an AGM charge setting (more common these days).
The camper won't use that much more power than the van you had. The biggest consumers are the furnace in a cold climate, lights, and the refrigerator - plus whatever you add in microwave, hairdryer, computer, TV use. (The refrigerator gas solenoid valve consumes a fair amount).
I think the system you outlined in your last post would work well, unless you are constantly under trees and never drive. I have parked in campsites for 3 to 4 days in heavy shade before needing to worry about the batteries. For example Yosemite in winter, nights in the 20s so the furnace was running. That is with two 6V golf cart AGMs (Lifeline brand which are probably the best). We don't go nuts on power use, but we don't put much effort into conserving it either. In a sunny site the batteries are fully charged by mid morning. On a driving day the batteries are fully charged by mid morning. I don't even carry a generator, if I am faced with staying in one place longer than 4 days in the shade or rain, I will just start the truck and idle it for an hour. I think I have had to do that once or twice in 18 years of TC ownership, but not since I put the solar on the roof.
AGM batteries have better charge acceptance, which makes the larger cable from the truck more valuable. You may want to check that the solar charge controller and the inverter/charger you use has an AGM charge setting (more common these days).
The camper won't use that much more power than the van you had. The biggest consumers are the furnace in a cold climate, lights, and the refrigerator - plus whatever you add in microwave, hairdryer, computer, TV use. (The refrigerator gas solenoid valve consumes a fair amount).
I think the system you outlined in your last post would work well, unless you are constantly under trees and never drive. I have parked in campsites for 3 to 4 days in heavy shade before needing to worry about the batteries. For example Yosemite in winter, nights in the 20s so the furnace was running. That is with two 6V golf cart AGMs (Lifeline brand which are probably the best). We don't go nuts on power use, but we don't put much effort into conserving it either. In a sunny site the batteries are fully charged by mid morning. On a driving day the batteries are fully charged by mid morning. I don't even carry a generator, if I am faced with staying in one place longer than 4 days in the shade or rain, I will just start the truck and idle it for an hour. I think I have had to do that once or twice in 18 years of TC ownership, but not since I put the solar on the roof.
