1. Power generation
This is the most important issue when determining the panel that suits your needs. Please remember that the maximum output of solar panel advertising is at its optimal state, so once you calculate the usage, please purchase enough solar panels to generate 25% more energy than your estimate.
2. Solar Panel type
The two common types of rigid panels are single crystal and polycrystalline. The polycrystalline panel has a blue battery made of multiple silicon crystal fragments, while the single crystal battery has a single silicon crystal.
Monocrystalline silicon has higher efficiency but higher price among the two. There are also amorphous panels suitable for low light environments, as well as flexible panels that work well on uneven surfaces.
3. Installation of equipment
If you want to install it yourself, you will need to install the equipment, cables, and alligator clips (for batteries), although some panels include these, others do not. Some kits also come bundled with charging controllers and batteries – two essential items in the solar system.
Frequently asked questions by users
What is the price range of solar panels for RVs?
The price of a single panel mainly depends on the power and type provided by the panel (rigid single crystal, polycrystalline, and flexible). The price of smaller 50 watt panels is approximately $40 to $100, depending on the manufacturer, while the price of 100 watt panels typically ranges from $80 to $160. Polycrystalline panels are often more cost-effective than single crystal or flexible panels.
If you don’t want to mix and match solar devices, bundled packages typically include solar controllers, inverters, and even batteries. When purchasing separately, it is expected to cost approximately $250 (minimum) to purchase a budget friendly system consisting of 100 watt panels, solar controllers, batteries, and hardware.
What other devices are needed to use solar energy in my RV?
Solar controllers: Solar controllers (also known as regulators) maintain flow in one direction to prevent energy loss at night, and they can also prevent the voltage generated by the panel from overcharging or damaging the battery. There are two main types: PWM (more affordable type) and MPPT (efficient but expensive).
PWM controllers (pulse width modulation) are the most cost-effective, simple, and reliable type, but the actual voltage you can use from the panel is much less, so their efficiency is only about 70% (and cannot be used for 24 volt panels).
The MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) controller is a more advanced and efficient system (even in low light conditions) that can utilize maximum panel output. MPPT controllers are compatible with 24 volts, but they are bulkier and more expensive than PWM controllers.
Inverter: The inverter converts direct current into alternating current, so depending on the equipment you plan to use, you may need to purchase an inverter. Lights, water pumps, and fans typically use DC power, while kitchen utensils, large electronic devices, and power sockets typically use AC power.
Battery: A battery is an essential component of a solar power generation system, used to store the energy generated by solar panels. RVers often use deep cycle valve regulated lead-acid batteries (VRLA). These batteries fall into two categories: AGM and gel batteries.
In addition, lithium batteries are becoming increasingly popular and have a longer lifespan than VRLA batteries – but their prices are much higher.
Other equipment: You also need tools, hardware, and depending on the size of the system, you may also need fuses or surge protectors. In addition, a battery monitor is a useful device for monitoring battery usage.
