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coachellacanuck's avatar
coachellacanuck
Explorer
Aug 06, 2020

Portable solar installation has me stumped

My little vintage Kustom Koach (affectionately named Gertie) serves as my studio. The previous owner gutted it and fitted it out as basically a bedroom on wheels. I, in turn, took out the bed platform and added bookcases and an IKEA table for sewing, and a desk for computer workspace.

The electrical system plugs into the seasonal campground power box, and I also plug it into our larger TT, using an adapter to plug into an external outlet. A distribution box inside Gertie runs power to several outlets on the four walls. There is no battery.

That’s the rub. I have a 100W portable solar panel kit that includes an 8.5A charge controller, voltage tester, 8 ft (2.4 m) extension cable, battery clamps and stand.

Now, I know I need a battery and I have identified a good deal on a 12v deep cycle battery.

What I am sure of is how do I get power from the battery into the trailer? As I said, as of now, there is no battery connected to the trailer’s electrical system.

Could someone help me with my continuing education in all things solar? TIA
  • CA_Traveler's avatar
    CA_Traveler
    Explorer III
    Aug 07, 2020
    coachellacanuck wrote:
    And your battery is wired into the trailer, right? That’s the problem. No battery wired into the trailer anymore.
    Bingo! You've identified one problem. RV Solar is based on a battery for numerous reasons.

    As posted: Panels to Controller to Battery.
  • coachellacanuck's avatar
    coachellacanuck
    Explorer
    Aug 07, 2020
    CA Traveler wrote:
    coachellacanuck wrote:
    And your battery is wired into the trailer, right? That’s the problem. No battery wired into the trailer anymore.
    Bingo! You've identified one problem. RV Solar is based on a battery for numerous reasons.

    As posted: Panels to Controller to Battery.


    Panels>Controller>Battery>???????
  • CA_Traveler's avatar
    CA_Traveler
    Explorer III
    Aug 07, 2020
    The battery is connected to whatever 12V house loads you have - lights etc. It's all one giant circuit with branches and the amps go where needed. Some have found it convient to connect the controller to say the charger output, hopefully they verify adequate wiring.

    BTW Solar amps go to the house loads and if any are left they go to the battery. ie If the solar is producing 15A and the house is using 10A then there are 5A to charge the battery. If the house is using 21A then 6A comes from the battery.
  • valhalla360's avatar
    valhalla360
    Navigator
    Aug 07, 2020
    coachellacanuck wrote:
    pianotuna wrote:
    valhalla360 wrote:
    What are you trying to accomplish with the solar system?

    If you are already connected to the grid and it's providing the power you need, there really is no purpose to adding solar in most cases.


    Perhaps trying to lower the bill for power?


    To connect the KK to the larger trailer, I string the power cord across the campsite and with an adapter I plug into an exterior outlet near the front door. It’s a tripping hazard.

    I want her to be self sufficient. So I guess it’s more a case of want versus need. I want it.


    Assuming you are moving around, most parks include power, so savings will be non-existent.

    If you are stationary at one park, dig a little trench and bury it to eliminate the tripping issue. Or connect to the 20amp outlet on the pedestal and with a long cord, run it around the outside of the site out of the way.

    Again other than having a neat new technology, I'm not seeing what the goal is. RV solar is typically used where the unit will be unable get shore power. It's kind of like buying a jacked up jeep with giant tires but only using it for commuting on paved roads in good weather...

    So I'm still back to why?
  • CA_Traveler's avatar
    CA_Traveler
    Explorer III
    Aug 07, 2020
    valhalla360 wrote:
    RV solar is typically used where the unit will be unable get shore power.
    Good point - but I'd argue that the most common use is bragging rights.

    My rig is stored under cover with no power so I can't even use the solar. BUT I have 750W which supplies ALL of my power. Want to know more - Don't need to ask because I'll tell you anyway... :W
  • Grit_dog's avatar
    Grit_dog
    Navigator
    Aug 07, 2020
    coachellacanuck wrote:
    Don’t know what a converter is


    Start here.
    Converter "converts" AC power to DC. It's a battery "charger".
    An inverter converts DC power to AC (inefficiently compared to a dedicated AC power source).
    Unless I misunderstand your wants/needs here, just keep your little camper plugged in to shore power for AC power needs.
    Or better explain what you're trying to accomplish with solar charging.

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