The Radar Site

Recreational Vehicles (RVs) are designed to give you the freedom of the open road.  In theory you can drive anywhere you want, but often you are restricted to available camp sites because you need somewhere to recharge your batteries.  Even if you only use your on-board appliances a little, your batteries will need recharging from time to time – usually more often than you had planned! And beware, regularly draining a battery will shorten its life dramatically. But there is now an attractive option that will give you true flexibility to go where you want, and you can make it yourself easily and cheaply.

Many RVs have gas generators on-board, but these tend to be noisy, smelly and gas-guzzlers.  These days solar panels are often fitted to provide all or most of your electrical requirements without hammering your battery, and these panels are very easy to make at home, even for the total novice.  Your gas generator, if you have one, can then become a backup – much less harmful for the ears and pocket. Keep it for powering the lights at your next backyard party!

Solar panels for RVs can be made foldable for easy storage, and they are usually quite light and easy to move. One 4ft x 2 ft solar panel will generate about 75 to 100 watts, which is about equal to a pair of golf cart batteries.  This would probably be sufficient for a typical 24ft RV but it would depend, of course, on your personal electrical requirements. Most RVs use no more than 400 watts.  Perhaps start with a couple of solar panels, and fit some more as needed. We have some more information about these portable solar generators here.

If you plan to use your RV regularly in hot weather, you will have one or two other things to consider.  You should instal a solar-powered battery charger with battery temperature compensation to prevent overcharging of, and damage to, your batteries.  Also, solar panels on the roof of an RV can get very warm, which can lower their efficiency and can lead to voltage drops. Your solar panels will need to be rated at about 17 volts or higher to to stop this becoming a problem.  Just keep these thoughts in mind when planning your RV’s solar panel system.

You will see a range of kits for RV solar panels on the market, but note how costly they are.  We thoroughly recommend the make-it-yourself route. You will find it very easy, a lot of fun, and literally anybody can do it.  And you will save a packet compared with the bought variety.  It is very sensible, however, to get professional advice and guidance as you plan and build your solar panel, otherwise you could end up with a system that does not work properly or even at all.  Don’t worry, professional advice and step-by-step instructions are readily available if you know the right source, and only cost a few bucks.  We know this will be a good investment.