What You Should Know About RV Solar Panels

It can become overwhelming trying to sort through all the information out there on solar panels. If you are trying to decide whether or not to install them on your RV, it can become frustrating trying to sort through all that information. Below is an explanation of how solar panels work for your RV and how you will benefit from their installation. This information will answer your questions and help you with your decision on installing solar panels on your RV.

Why You Should Install Solar Panels on Your RV

The first place to start is helping you understand the benefits of installing solar panels on your RV. These panels are going to convert sunlight into a power source for your vehicle. This power source replaces your need for electricity and opens up endless possibilities for where you can park.
Without the need for an electric hook-up, you can camp and park in more remote areas and enjoy Mother Nature at its best. It gives you the freedom to choose where you want to travel and also relieves your worries about power outages. These are some of the benefits you’ll have by installing an rv solar energy kit:

• Solar energy panels extend the life of your battery.
• The solar panels are maintenance free as there are no moving parts.
• It is an inexhaustible source of energy, even in winter climates.
• Once the initial installation is complete, solar panels provide a free source of power.
• Solar panels provide a quiet and clean source of energy. They are also environmentally safe.

How Solar Panels Work

When the sun hits your solar panels, it creates an electric current. This current goes into a charge controller to determine the amount of current that can flow through your battery. When charged, your batteries create DC power which is then changed into AC power by an inverter. The AC power will then allow you to use your appliances and devices just as if you were plugged into an electric hookup.

Starter Kits

If you are new to solar power and using it to replace your current electric need for energy, you may find starter kits perfect for your use. These kits are great for charging batteries and can be expanded to include a battery and inverter.
These kits include panels ranging from 50W up to 400W. They also come with a 20-foot adaptor kit, a PWM charge controller and the equipment needed for mounting the unit to your RV or van.

Off-Grid or On-Grid Kits

If you choose to install an off-grid system, it will make you independent from needing any other source of power. These kits work great for cabins, travel to isolated areas, boats, RVs, and cameras. The panels will create power from the energy they collect from the sun as it runs the energy into a controller to regulate it. The power is then stored in a battery where a converter will change into energy you need to meet all your powering needs.
Choosing to install an on-grid system means you will be integrated with an electricity provider so you can power larger appliances and electronics. These systems are great for powering homes and businesses.

Solar panels do come in various sizes, and you can also add additional ones if you decide you require more power at a later date. It will depend on the size of your RV and the amount of energy you will need when choosing how many you will be able to install. One last important fact about solar panels is they do require cleaning. Keeping them clean will impact the power they will provide for you.