RV Solar Panels: The Different Types and Sizing Your System

Solar systems are a popular upgrade for RVers who want to spend time in remote camping spots without a mains hookup. The reason for their popularity is because they allow you to run devices and fixtures that make your RV feel like a real home no matter where you are, without the smell, noise and expenses of running generators. All you need is favourable weather and a spot where your RV solar panels will be exposed to direct sunlight for a decent amount throughout the day. However, many people haven't implemented solar systems on their RVs, simply because they think doing so is complicated and expensive. And while that can be partially true, as long as you equip yourself with the knowledge, you'll have an easy time deciding which solar system, and what type of solar panels, in particular, are best for you.

But first, let's discuss what RV solar panels are, and what they're used for. Solar panels convert sunlight into power by harvesting the sun's energy, turning it into an electric current which is then fed into a charge controller that controls how much of the current goes through the battery. The batteries produce direct current, and an inverter changes it into alternating current, which is the type of power that appliances and devices need to run. For most RVers, there are two main reasons to install solar panels.

• To charge the house batteries, since solar power provides a steady, slow charge to the batteries. This is the ideal way for batteries to be charged in order to maximise their longevity
• To provide electrical power no matter where you are

  

So what makes portable solar panels worth it? While they definitely aren't a necessity, and many RVers prefer to venture off the grid without any power whatsoever, they sure are convenient to have. Solar panels provide a cost-effective means of power that's inexhaustible, and they can provide power even on cloudy days. Plus, the power they provide is clean, quiet and doesn't put off smells or waste. Most RV solar systems are maintenance-free. There are no moving parts, so there's nothing to break. Once you set up the RV solar system, you're set for many years - there are no running costs. Even if you decide to expand the solar system in the future to produce more power, you can do so easily without having to revamp the entire system. 

If you're convinced about installing a solar system on your RV, you're probably wondering how many panels you need. Obviously, it will depend on the size of your RV and how many electronic devices you're going to need to power. A modest RV that draws 30A and doesn't have many appliances won't need as many panels as a 12 metre diesel pusher, for instance. Regardless, worth noting is that solar power may not be enough to generate the amount of power needed to run an HVAC system, for example. Further, RV solar systems are different than residential setups in that you can't sell the extra power to the utility company. So your panels are only going to charge your battery. That being said, you're going to want the least amount of watts possible to get the job done, as the panels can be both heavy and costly. 

The number of panels you need on your RV will depend on how much you use the electricity you're generating. Generally speaking, most RVers will find that 1 to 3 100-watt panels are enough, as they can generate about 6 amps per hour on average, amounting for about 30 amp-hours daily. The best way to decide the appropriate wattage of the panels is to use an online sizing calculator to determine average use. Make a list of all the devices that will be powered at the same time, and round it up to the nearest higher number of solar panel watts.

Lastly, it's important to know that there are a few different types of RV solar panels, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. RV panels are also available in flexible and rigid (stiff) versions, which is another factor you'll have to consider. The three main types of solar panels are monocrystalline, polycrystalline and amorphous. Monocrystalline panels are made up of a single silicon crystal, whereas polycrystalline panels contain several smaller crystals. Amorphous panels are also known as film panels, where the cells are made of a thin layer of silicon. Monocrystalline panels are the most efficient ones, and they produce more power even in low-light conditions. Polycrystalline panels are the most popular, as they're more affordable, yet only slightly less efficient than their monocrystalline counterparts. Amorphous are the most affordable out of the three types, but they are the least efficient. The best type for you will depend on how much roof space your RV has, your power demands and your budget.