With solar panel(s) and RV unit stored uncovered we are wired to bring solar to the front where starting battery and two of six solar charged batteries are. A simple wire with alligator clips attached to each end connect 12-volt solar output to the starting battery, so (for awhile) making a total of seven solar charged batteries. The Inverter/Charger need not be powered up. With the RV plugged to shore power, the effect is the same as without external power. The solar will trickle charge the start battery, and any other connected batteries, during daylight hours. This is an advantage of having rooftop solar installed, one may walk away and rely on nature to keep your rig energized, whenever needed, all the time. Plugged in or not, it is always ready, and with AC available throughout when the Inverter is switched on.