Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Portable Solar Panel For Rv

Portable Solar Panel For Rv Buyers Guide

Connecting a Suitcase Solar Kit to a RV – Portable RV Solar Charging Video 2

Choosing the perfect portable solar panels isnt as hard as it seems. Understanding certain factors will make this task much easier than you anticipated. Im going to discuss these factors in detail to ensure you can make a smart and responsible choice.

Usage

The first factor to concern yourself with is usage. In other words, you need to decide what your portable solar panel kits will be used for during your trips. What you intend to use them for could change your search parameters significantly.

For instance, the RV portable solar panels usually have around 100 watts. Installing these products shouldnt be much of a problem. It will consist of setting up a few wires. However, portable solar panels are also generally connected to lead-acid batteries that will recharge over an extended period.

This attachment will require rig owners to pick out the proper charge controller and battery pack, as well. These products will be necessary to meet your off-grid power needs and fully charge the energy storage devices.

As a result, people looking to charge their rig batteries using portable solar panels might want to buy solar panel kits with these devices included. It would make your life much easier and reduce the need for any additional product research.

Weight

A portable solar panels weight is another vital factor for rig owners. Id suggest getting something light for easier storage and comfortability. This aspect comes into play much more for people looking to do some hiking.

Can Easily Connect To A Solar Generator For A Compact Power Station

A common use of portable solar panels is to connect them directly to a compact solar generator , forgoing the need to deal with batteries and a charge controller. Many folks who travel in vans that are self-built RVs buy a solar generator and some portable solar panels instead of installing an entire electrical system.

A solar generator can be useful for charging many devices and appliances. Depending on the capacity of the solar generator, it can power laptop computers, small gaming devices, lights, a television, a CPAP machine, and/or a small 12V refrigerator.

There are larger solar generators that are capable of running more power-hungry appliances like hair dryers, microwave ovens, and other larger appliances.

Best Portable Solar Panel Reviews

We narrowed down the many choices in solar power to show only the best portable solar panels.

Zamp is an industry leader in portable solar power. They are a natural choice for inclusion.

They produce an awesome product and a wide variety of panel sizes. However, they have the most expensive portable RV solar panel kits.

Renogy offers a much more limited selection of portable solar panels. Still, they have more affordable solar power kit options.

Finally, if you don’t want to spend much to get portable RV solar panels, look at our best on a budget solar panel kit. It isn’t the best quality, but it will do the job.

Also Check: How To Connect Sole Treadmill Bluetooth

Do You Need Solar Panels For An Rv Or Campervan

When it comes to RV camping and van-living, there are typically two major camps, if you will the campground electrical hook-up-ers and the off-grid adventurers. Naturally, both can benefit from using solar power, but the need looks a bit different for each.

If your ideal RV trip is to a campground with an electrical outlet, then you dont necessarily need solar energy for your camper. But if you would rather take an eco-friendly approach to camp, then an RV solar panel kit is the way to go. Plus, you wont be out of luck if you get to your favorite campsite only to find that all the electrical hookups are taken.

Whereas those who frequent the campgrounds often have access to electricity, our boondocking folks take a more rugged approach by living off the land or whatever they can fit in their van. That means limited or no access to electrical hookups.

Our off-grid RVers or van-lifers will likely get more out of a solar panel system because it could be used as their only energy source. Instead of relying solely on batteries and propane to power their equipment, off-grid folks can use solar energy.

With Charge Controller: Zamp Solar Legacy Series Usp1002 Solar Panel For Rv

Top 5 Best Portable Solar Panels for RV [2021 Review]

If youre looking for a single RV portable solar panel thats compact and easy to deploy, the Zamp Solar Legacy Series monocrystalline panel is an excellent choice.

This solar panel is also a great choice for smaller RVs or camper vans, as it includes just a single 140-watt panel but it comes with everything you need for quick setup.

The portable solar panels for camping itself has a 5-stage, 10-amp charge controller built right into it. This controller helps to protect your battery from overcharging and the panel is best suited to RVs with 12-volt batteries.

The controller is also equipped with a large digital display that helps you track your power usage and the efficiency of the panel.

When you need to make a move to a new spot, the entire paddle folds up and packs into a padded carrying case.

So this solar setup is ideal for ground installation, but it can also be securely placed on top of a small camper van as long as no high winds are expected.

The panel itself weighs 32.75 pounds and the entire package has closed dimensions of 32.4 by 21.5 by 3.1.

The solar cells in the panel are made of high-grade monocrystalline and theyre treated with anti-reflective coating.

This treatment process happens by hand at Zamps headquarters in Bend, Oregon and it helps to maximize the panels light absorption.

All in all, this panel is capable of generating a total of 7.8 amps and has extendable legs that help you set it up at an optimal angle for maximum sun exposure.

Don’t Miss: When To Add Solid Food For Baby

How Many Rv Solar Panels Do You Need

To determine this, first you need to find out how much power your electronics use. We built a camper van solar calculator to help you size your system.

Use the calculator to input each of your electronic devices. It will then give you an estimate of your solar system size, battery requirements, inverter size and charge controller size.

You might find that your solar panel needs are too big or too expensive once you run the numbers. This is much better to know in the planning stage than when youre on the road! You can make adjustments to your expectations or usage until it fits within your goals.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Using Portable Rv Solar Panels

Before buying a portable solar panel, itd be wise to understand the benefits and disadvantages these products offer users. Ill discuss both sides to ensure anyone reading our article will know whether buying one is a good option for them.

Advantages

  • Unlimited Energy

The most apparent benefit of portable solar panels is that these products run on solar power. Its a power resource, which is renewable and endless. As a result, youll never have to worry about running out of energy supply because the sun isnt going away anytime soon.

Many solar system users love using these panels because it saves them money in the long run. After all, they dont have to worry about spending money on extra gas for their RV. You can instead allow your panel to soak in the sunlight, and there will be enough electricity for a couple of hours.

  • Reliable Power Source

As any RVer knows, camping in new places doesnt always guarantee that youll have a reliable power source. A portable solar panel ensures you dont have to worry about this problem. It will be usable wherever, as long as theres sunlight.

Off-the-grid campers love using solar panels because they dont have to rely on the local electrical grid. Instead, these rig owners can use their panels to generate the power needs for their RV and onboard devices. Its an effective way to ensure boondocking or off-the-grid living isnt a complete hassle.

Disadvantages

  • Only Usable During the Day

You May Like: Solar Panel Installers San Diego

Best With Portable Suitcase: Acopower 120w 12v Portable Solar Suitcase For Rv

The ACOPOWER portable RV solar suitcase is the ideal setup for cab-over campers and camper vans because its one of the most portable and compact solar kits on the market.

When packed up, the entire kit weighs less than nine pounds and the panels themselves pack into a suitcase-style case that makes them super easy to move around.

The monocrystalline solar cells used in this panel are made by SUNPOWER, which is the highest conversion efficiency module provider in the world.

Thats why these panels can achieve a maximum conversion efficiency of up to 25%.

This kit works best with 12-volt RV batteries, but it comes with alligator clips to connect to your battery with ease and immediately begin charging.

As someone who dreams about having a lightweight solar setup for an on-the-go lifestyle, I love the fact that this is arguably the easiest kit on our list to setup.

It can be ready to go in about one minute and it includes stands that velcro to the back of the panels to help you position them with optimal sun exposure.

With dimensions of 22 by 17.5 by 1.2, this is also one of the most compact kits on the market.

When youre ready to move, the panels fold together and include a handle for easy carrying.

Theres also a pocket on the panel for holding its accessories, which includes removable MC4 connector cables, alligator clamps, and the user manual.

The fabric and cell surface of the RV solar suitcase is also weatherproof for more durability when used outdoors.

Best Flexible Solar Panels For A Camper

Go Power 120w Portable Solar Panel

There are a number of brands that make flexible solar panels specifically for campers. Commonly, these panels can bend up to 30 degrees making them a good choice for curved surfaces like teardrop trailers or boats.

They are also lightweight and are much easier to install than rigid panels.

For the best flexible panels, we recommend ALLPOWERS, Renogy and Suaoki brands. They share many of the same features including a decent warranty, high efficiency, and resistance to extreme weather.

Renogy
Check Price

Read Also: What Time Was The Solar Eclipse

How To Find The Best Rv Portable Solar Panel And Kits

But how do you decide exactly which solar panel kit is correct for your RV? Well, its important to understand more about the different types of panels and how each works.

Youll also want to know more about the specific features and specifications of these panels so you can more accurately compare them. Well cover all of that in this Buying Guide.

Portable Solar Panels & Solar Suitcases

Portable solar panels are used as either standalone units or a portable solar briefcase that you store in your vehicle and then pull out while youre at camp.

These are an excellent choice if your are looking to get a small amount of power like charging phones or a laptop at a campsite.

Pros of Portable Panels:

  • Portable Solar SuitcaseEasier and cheaper for those who dont have the means to do more custom work.
  • Can position to get the best lighting, opening up options for where you park your van as well.
  • Less evidence of living in your vehicle when they are put away
  • Easier for a wide range of vehicles
  • Can harvest sun while your vehicle is parked in the shade

Cons of Portable Panels:

  • Need to set up each time youre at camp
  • Takes up space inside the van when traveling, especially anything above 200W
  • Wont be able to charge with solar when running errands
  • Not great for city dwelling

Cons of Portable Panels:

  • Need to set up each time youre at camp
  • Takes up space inside the van when traveling, especially anything above 200W
  • Wont be able to charge with solar when running errands
  • Not great for city dwelling

Also Check: How Many Kwh Should My Solar Panels Generate

Monocrystalline Vs Polycrystalline Solar Panel

When it comes to portable RV solar panels, you will likely see ones that are either monocrystalline panels or polycrystalline panels.

Monocrystalline solar cells are cut from a single source of silicon, making them more efficient than polycrystalline. Polycrystalline solar cells are a blend of multiple silicon sources, making them a bit less efficient.

How Do I Know How Charged My Rv Battery Is Percentage

Top 5 Best Portable Solar Panels for RV [2021 Review]

Manufacturers really do a crappy job when it comes to helping you monitor your RV battery.

The high-end brands are starting to get better, but most trailers come with a 0 25 50 100% monitoring screen. Push a button, and we will let you know. The problem is that this value isnt accurate at all.

Some solar charge controllers have a screen with features and on some models, it will tell you the battery voltage. Unfortunately, these arent 100% correct either.

The best way to know the state of charge of your battery is with a battery monitoring system. Its done with a shunt hardwired to the battery. A popular option is the Victron BMV-700 Battery Monitor.

The monitor can be put in your RV and once youve set how big your battery bank is in total amp hours, it will give you a percentage. It will also tell you the current voltage and how many amps youre consuming at the moment.

If you do know the voltage and believe its somewhat accurate, here are some general guidelines for a 12V AGM and wet cell battery based on voltages and their corresponding state of charge percentage.

As always with general info, this is a general guideline and you should always read the manual or contact your battery manufacturer to know what is best for your specific 12V battery.

Don’t Miss: Decorative Solar Lights For Garden

How Should I Determine The Size Of A Solar Panel For My Rv

You can determine the size of your solar panel based on the appliances you will power inside your RV, and the form of current they operate in. The machines that support only Alternating Current require more power. Plus, you will need to determine how long the solar panel should power your devices.Other determining factors are the size of your RV and the efficiency of a particular solar panel.

Which Is Better For The Money: Rv Solar Panels Or Generators

A generator is always cheaper upfront, but then you have to stop to refuel it, plus you get constant noise and the smell of diesel. RV solar panels are more expensive upfront, but once you clear the bill they keep giving as the power source is 100% free. In addition, youll rarely have to do anything about them, while the generators need regular maintenance.

Also Check: What To Ask When Buying Solar Panels

Solar Panel Installation Wiring Diagrams

Weve put together a few solar panel wiring diagrams to help you get started with your system. Use these wiring diagrams for reference on how to lay out each component.

Check Price

Renogy panels are designed specifically for RVs and boats. They are lightweight and have pre-drilled holes for mounting.

These panels have a sturdy aluminum base that allows you to use them as either portable panels, or mounted on the roof.

One of the benefits of the aluminum framing is that it keeps the solar cells themselves raised off the roof just enough to get a proper air flow. This will keep the panels cooler and increase both their efficiency and lifespan.

All of the components that come with these panels from the junction box to the MC4 connectors are waterproof. That means you can travel in all weather conditions without fear of system failure.

Renogy sells panels in a variety of sizes so you can find a configuration that fits best with your roof. Monocrystalline panels have a smaller footprint than polycrystalline panels.

Best Portable Solar Panels For Rvs And Camping

Roof Installed Solar -vs- Portable Solar Panels For Your RV? Pros And Cons

Theres nothing better than taking a break from the stress of everyday life and trading computer screens for scenic views. But that doesnt necessarily mean you want to be totally off-grid. Typically, the solution for this is to use a loud gas-guzzling generator with smelly fumes that can bring you right back to city life.

The good news is, there is a fossil-free alternative for campers and RV owners who want to make the most of a serene outdoor trip: portable solar panels. Portable solar panels connect to mobile battery packs, or in some cases directly to devices, in order to charge them with clean energy so you can unwind without having to unplug completely.

Weve compiled everything you need to know about portable solar panels, from what to look for, to our picks for the best portable solar panels on the market.

*Note: This is an unbiased review: we have no financial ties with any of the companies mentioned, nor do we earn money from affiliate advertising. The content of this blog is based on research and information available at the time of writing.

Don’t Miss: How To Start A Solar Farm In Florida

Renogy Solar 200 Watts 12 Volts Monocrystalline Foldable Solar Suitcase

Best: Overall

Price: $379.99 Buy Now

Renogys 200 W foldable solar suitcase is our pick for the best overall portable solar panel. Image source: Renogy

What we like about it: Renogys 200-watt foldable solar suitcase comes at a reasonable price and has great performance specifications.

With 22% cell efficiency, these panels are actually comparable to premium home solar panel brands. The foldable design and included carrying case make storage easy. It also comes with a charge controller and alligator clips to charge 12-volt batteries.

Plus, Renogy is a trustworthy brand that offers a 3-year manufacturer warranty – which is much longer than the standard one year warranty offered by other portable solar brands.

What we dont like about it: Its been noted that the legs on the Renogy 200 can be a bit flimsy, and being that theres no bar that locks the two sides of the foldable panel, it can be a bit awkward to set up.

Popular Articles
Related news