DIY Solar Generator For Your RV

A Recreational Vehicle (RV) gives you independence from hotel bookings and allows you to change your journey at will.  In theory you can drive anywhere you want, but often you are limited to where to park for the night because you need somewhere to recharge your batteries.  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 be warned, regularly draining a battery will shorten its life dramatically. But there is an option available that will give you the freedom of the road, and you can make it yourself easily and cheaply.

RVs can be fitted with gas generators, but these tend to be noisy and smelly.  Nowadays 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 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 outdoor party!

Mobile solar panels can be made foldable for easy storage, and they are usually quite light and easy to move. A single 4ft x 2 ft solar panel will produce about 75 to 100 watts, which is about equal to a pair of golf cart batteries.  A typical 24 ft RV would probably manage on this 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 these portable solar generators here.

There are some additional things you will need if you will be driving regularly in hot climates.  You will need a solar-powered battery charger with battery temperature compensation to reduce the danger of damaging your batteries.  Also, roof-mounted solar panels can get very hot, which can affect their efficiency and can lead to voltage drops. Ensure that your solar panels have a rating of at least 17 volts to overcome this potential problem.  Just keep these thoughts in mind when planning your RV’s solar panel system.

There is a good range of RV solar panel kits on the market but these tend to be very pricey.  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 believe this is a good investment.