Build an RV solar panel

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A Recreational Vehicle (RV) gives you independence from hotel bookings and allows you to change your journey at will. In theory you can go anywhere the mood takes you, but often you are limited to where to park for the night because you need a source of electricity. Even if you use your batteries to power on-board appliances they will need recharging from time to time – usually more often than is convenient! And beware, regularly flattening a battery will shorten its life considerably. But there is an option available that will give you true flexibility to go where you want, and you can make it yourself easily and cheaply.

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

Mobile solar panels can be easily stored if foldable, and they are usually quite light and easy to move. A single 4ft x 2 ft solar panel will generate about 75 to 100 watts, which is about the same as a pair of golf cart batteries. This would probably be enough for the average mid-size RV but it would depend, of course, on your own power needs. Most RVs use no more than 400 watts. Perhaps start with a couple of solar panels, and add more as and when you feel they are necessary. You can get more information about this here.

If you plan to use your RV regularly in hot weather, you will have one or two other things to consider. You will need a solar-powered battery charger with battery temperature compensation to prevent overcharging of, and damage to, your batteries. Also, roof-mounted solar panels can get very warm, which can lower their efficiency and can lead to a drop in voltage. Ensure that your solar panels have a rating of at least 17 volts to ofset this loss. These are just some things to keep in mind.

There are many solar panel kits on the market for RVs, but they can be quite expensive. We thoroughly recommend making your own. You will find it very easy, a lot of fun, and literally anybody can do it. And much cheaper than buying a kit. What you will need, however, is expert advice before you start to build a solar panel, otherwise you could end up with a system that does not work properly or even at all. This is not a problem, because we can recommend a good source of expertise with good step-by-step instructions for only a few dollars. We know this will be a good investment.

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