【Beginner Guide】How To Install Solar Panels on Your RV
Solar panels are not just for houses or commercial buildings, but can also be installed on RVs. RVers can benefit from the convenience and financial savings of having solar panels on their vehicles. Not only does it provide independence from electrical hookups, but it is also environmentally friendly. In this article, we will guide you on the essential things to consider before installing solar panels on your RV and the steps to properly install them.
How Does The RV Off-Grid System Work
Recreational vehicle (RV) off-grid systems use solar panels, batteries, and converters to generate electricity and provide power to appliances and devices when there is no access to shore power or a generator. Solar panels mounted on the roof of the RV collect energy from the sun and convert it to direct current (DC) electricity. This electricity is then stored in batteries, typically deep cycle batteries, which are designed to discharge and recharge repeatedly.
A converter then changes the DC electricity from the batteries into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is used to power appliances and devices in the RV. Some RVs may also use an inverter, which converts DC electricity directly from the solar panels into AC electricity.
During periods of low sunlight or high power usage, the RV may need to use a generator or plug into shore power to recharge the batteries and provide additional power.
Off-grid solar power systems consist of solar panels, batteries, and system integration for balance.
- Solar Panels: Photovoltaic (PV) panels capture solar energy.
- Batteries: Energy is stored for use.
- System Integration: Balance of System (BOS) includes all components other than the PV modules, such as power controllers, inverters, wires, fuses, breakers, etc. Some systems may have some of these devices built in, like inverters.
Knowing about Solar Panels Before Installing
Solar panels are a crucial and noticeable component of any solar power array as they collect sunlight and transmit it to the solar controller via wires. The two primary types of solar panels available in the market are monocrystalline and polycrystalline.
While both types are efficient at capturing solar energy, there are significant differences between them. One of the distinctive differences is their appearance, where monocrystalline panels have a uniform black color, and polycrystalline panels have a blue, speckled finish.
Furthermore, the efficiency rate of monocrystalline panels is higher than polycrystalline panels due to its creation using a single, pure silicon crystal that minimizes energy loss. In contrast, polycrystalline panels are made of multiple silicon crystals, leading to energy loss and lower efficiency rates.
Lastly, there is a difference in cost, with monocrystalline panels being more expensive than polycrystalline panels. However, investing in monocrystalline panels may prove to be a better long-term choice considering their overall performance and efficiency.
Step by Step Guide on How to Install Solar Panels on RV
Step 1: Attaching Panels with Screws or Adhesives
Before starting the installation process, ensure that you have identified the exact location for the panels on the RV roof and made all necessary measurements. In the USA, it is recommended to face solar panels south at an angle between 30 and 45 degrees for optimal energy production. Avoid overshadowing the panels.
The method of attaching solar panels to the RV roof depends on your personal preference, as well as the type of panels, shape and material of the RV roof.
Flexible thin-film panels are usually attached using an adhesive. However, it's advisable to leave a 6-inch space between the panel and the roof. Panels tend to heat up under the sun, causing a decrease in their efficiency and raising the temperature inside the RV during summer. Adequate space for air circulation beneath the panels helps to regulate temperature.
Rigid polycrystalline or monocrystalline panels are mounted using brackets, which require drilling. Here are some popular options:
Z-Brackets
Features:
- One of the more affordable solutions would be to purchase a set of four brackets for only $10.
- Typically, drilling is necessary for installation, although adhesive application may also be possible.
- Please note that Z-brackets do not offer the option to adjust the angle of your panels.
Adjustable Mounting Brackets or Frames
Features:
- These options typically cost between $30 -$50
- Installation generally requires drilling, but the benefits outweigh the effort.
- With these brackets or frames, you can simply adjust the angle of your panels without difficulty.
Corner Brackets
Features:
- A single panel will require a set of four brackets, priced between $20-$40
- Installation does not require any drilling, making it a hassle-free process.However, please note that these brackets do not offer the option to adjust the angle of your panels.
- They can be used for any panels with an aluminium frame.
In addition, you can also find detachable types such as LiTime portable solar panels, which have a foldable design and portable carrying case. They do not require installation and are easy to set up.
If you plan to connect multiple solar panels, there are two ways to do it: series or parallel connection.
Series Connection: Connect the positive terminal of the first panel to the negative terminal of the second panel. This type of connection will increase the voltage.
Parallel Connection: Connect the positive cable of one panel to the positive cable of another panel. Perform the same operation for negative cables. If you want to increase the current value, it is best to use a parallel connection.
Learn more about LiFePO4 lithium batteries series and parallel connection.
Step 2:Connect Solar Panels to Charge Controller
The charge controller is a safety measure for your home battery, but it can also allow you to monitor the status of your RV solar panel installation. It should be placed near the battery, but also in a visible location—it needs to be periodically checked.
In the market, you can find two types of charge controllers: MPPT and PWM. PWM is an outdated technology that is less efficient compared to MPPT, which is a newer, more sophisticated technology. Even though MPPT controllers come with a higher initial cost, they boast greater processing power, allowing them to optimize the output voltage and store maximum amperage in the batteries for later use.
Therefore, an MPPT solar charge controller is recommended.
To connect solar panels to a charge controller, you'll need suitable cables of the appropriate length.
Solar panels frequently come with brief wire lengths that originate from the junction box affixed to the back. These cables end in connectors that are specially designed for solar panels, with MC4 connectors being the most prevalent choice, produced by Multi-Contact.
It is crucial to use superior quality, abrasion and UV-resistant cables for outdoor wiring, and PV cable is an optimal choice purposely created for this purpose, consisting of two insulation layers, including a sturdy external sheath.
Step 3: Connect Solar Charge Controller to Batteries
Connecting the controller and battery together is a straightforward process that can be summarized into three steps:
- Use multi-strand copper wire to connect the two components.
- Connect the black wire from the negative terminal of the battery to the negative terminal of the controller. The red wire should connect the two positive terminals. If the wires are the same color, use red electrical tape to mark the positive wire.
- Turn on the charging controller. It should now be able to measure the battery's load.
Types of RV Batteries and Why LiFePO4 is the best
There are various types of RV batteries available on the market, each with its advantages and disadvantages.
Lead-Acid Batteries: These are the traditional RV batteries, which are relatively inexpensive but heavy and less efficient. They require regular maintenance to ensure proper charging and long lifespan.
AGM Batteries: These batteries use Absorbent Glass Mat technology, providing a deep cycle and longer lifespan than lead-acid batteries. However, they are still quite heavy and require regular maintenance.
Gel Batteries: These batteries use gel electrolytes, which provide a longer lifespan, are maintenance-free, and less prone to leaking than AGM batteries. However, they are still relatively heavy and less efficient than LiFePO4 batteries.
Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) Batteries: These batteries are the newest technology for RV batteries, offering many advantages over traditional lead-acid or AGM batteries. LiFePO4 batteries are lightweight, highly efficient, and require little to no maintenance. They provide a deep cycle and a longer lifespan than other batteries, making them a great investment for RVers.
Additionally, LiFePO4 batteries can withstand overcharging and excessive discharge, making them the safest battery option on the market because of the protection of BMS (battery management system). While LiFePO4 batteries are more expensive than traditional batteries, the long-term cost benefits of increased lifespan and efficiency outweigh the upfront cost. Overall, we recommend LiFePO4 batteries as the best option for RVers looking to optimize their power needs.
What to Avoid When Installing Solar Panels
When installing solar panels on an RV, there are a few things you should avoid to optimize performance.
Roof Obstacles: Avoid placing panels too close to the roof edge to reduce the risk of accidental damage. Keep panels unobstructed by other items installed on top of the RV roof.
Improper Tilt Angle: Adjust the tilt angle to get the most direct sunlight. Ideally, the installation slope should be over 10 degrees to avoid dust accumulation and build-up.
Wiring Hazards: Avoid accidentally drilling into any wires while installing panels, which can cause electrical shock and fire.
Avoid Insulation Material for RV Installation: While many people recommend using insulating tape as a sealant to attach solar panels to the roof, we recommend against this. Insulation tape does not prevent water intrusion.
Gluing batteries together can reduce the efficiency of the panels to some extent, and over time, this will eventually consume your power.
Additionally, attempting to remove harmful objects from the panels may tear the insulation layer.
If you use adhesive to install flexible solar panels, make sure its strength is sufficient to withstand all types of weather. Adhesives should bond well in both hot and cold conditions, and even if condensation forms on the metal surface. Your panels must be properly affixed to prevent them from moving or flying off when driving on rough roads.
Do not use too much adhesive, as it will clog ventilation points. Too much adhesive will limit airflow that affects temperature and may result in the panels overheating or becoming too cold, thereby shortening their lifespan.
Conclusion
To buld your own RV solar system is not a easy thing, hope this guide can help you to deal with how to install the solar panels to your RV.
LiTime is the ultimate one-stop solution of Solar Energy. We provide LiFePO4 batteries, chargers, portable power stations and solar panels. If you have any questions, please contact service@litime.com, we'll always by your side.
