installing solar panel on trailer questions..
I am looking to install solar panel on my airstream and was looking at some 195 watt 24 volts units. They are a bit larger than the 100 to 130 watt 12v version and i was wondering if the size would b...
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I have been to jacks site along with handy bobs blog and read everything several times. Right now the RV is fitted with 2-12v 100 AH? batteries, not sure the exact type as we have not picked up the trailer from PO yet.
I do want to use 6v golf cart batteries the 225 AH t-105s or equivalent, and looking at the tristar 30 -45 amp MPPT model and an upgrade to the 50amp inverter on a 2005 airstream at some point.
the file show I was not able to open for some reason.
I do want to use 6v golf cart batteries the 225 AH t-105s or equivalent, and looking at the tristar 30 -45 amp MPPT model and an upgrade to the 50amp inverter on a 2005 airstream at some point.
the file show I was not able to open for some reason.
westend wrote:
The first consideration when thinking of solar power and and an RV is your daily use. You should do an energy audit and also assess any future use.
Here is a special calculator that will help define your power use.
Another consideration is the size of your battery bank. The amount of wattage will be influenced by that.
About tilting: Ask yourself how often you will be willing to get onto the roof of your RV to tilt and then untilt your modules for transportation. It is often easier to just add another module to reclaim the difference in harvest.
About mounting, hardware, and wiring: Solar modules do best when allowed at least 1 1/2" of clearance on the underside to dissipate heat. There are mounting holes, typically, formed in the frame. Using a piece of angle material mounted into those holes and another angle piece mounted to the RV is a good solution as it provides the clearance and makes installation/deinstallation much easier.
Wire size shouldn't be a consideration. Use the largest possible size available since cost is insignificant and you will reap the benefit of larger wire for the life of the installation.
You haven't mentioned controllers, yet. It is an important part of the system and budget. What type of module you choose, will dictate the type and size of the controller.
There are many active solar users in the Tech Issues section of the Forum. Answers and help are readily available there.
Here is a good link to help educate yourself about solar and RV's: Golden Rules of Solar
