R.V. Solar Kits

Why choose a solar powered system for your R.V.?

Need a little more power for your batteries? Can't find campsites with electrical power when you need it? Maybe you like to camp where there is no electricity. Tired of running noisy generators, or maybe they won't let you run your generator. If you answered yes to any of these questions then solar energy is for you. We have packages available to suit your needs, from small systems that can operate a few lights and a stereo to larger systems that can operate microwave ovens, TVs and toasters. Most systems can be expanded in the future if required. Start with a small system and see how it works for you.

Is solar energy for me?

Solar power is not cheap. Is it worth the cost? It will save you money on generator fuel, maintenance, and hook-up fees. Will it pay for itself? Probably not, unless you do some serious camping and run your generator a lot. But then not everything we buy does pay for itself. These panels will be producing power for thirty years or more and will most likely outlast your RV.

With restrictions on generator usage in many camping areas as well as the inconvenience, noise and air pollution, solar is a viable alternative to the generator. Running a generator in a pristine wilderness area goes against why you are there in the first place. To get away from it all! Another way of making solar pay is to utilize them when camping season is over. Mount them on your garage or shed, with an inverter and your batteries you can make them work year round.

How many Watts do I need?

Most RV's are have limited space at the best of times. You can cover your roof with panels but if you don't have the battery capacity to hold that charge it will go to waste. There is seldom room for lots of batteries on RV's, so size your system for your battery capacity. A good rule of thumb is 75-watts of panel for every 200 amp hr. of battery. Amp hr? What if my batteries say cold cranking amps? Then you are using the wrong batteries. Go to a battery store and get true deep cycle batteries (golf cart batteries work fine). If you regularly draw your batteries down to 12 volts or lower you are likely doing irreparable damage to them.

What about Shade?

Shade will reduce the power output of All panels. Even partial shading! As shade increases on the panel the voltage output decreases and when the output is equal to or less than battery voltage, no charging will take place.

Mounting

Tilt mounts are recommended. Tilting mounts are available and can increase outputs by 10-30% under ideal conditions. However you will have to climb on top of your unit to adjust them and you cannot leave tilting units up while travelling.

Basic RV Power Kit 75 Package

1 - AstroPower AP 75 watt PV module	$525.00
1 - Morningstar SS6 charge controller	$65.00
2 - Automotive type fuse holders	$8.00
25’ heavy duty wire	$25.00
1 - Water tight strain relief	Included
1 - Single flat PV module mount kit	$25.00
Total	$648.00

RV Power Kit Plus Package

2 - AstroPower AP 75 watt PV module	$998.00
1 - Morningstar SS20 charge controller	$125.00
1 - Xantrex Prowatt 1750 watt modified sine wave inverter	$715.00
1 - 200 amp fuse and block	$87.00
2 - Automotive type fuse holders	$10.00
30’ heavy duty wire	$28.50
3 - Water tight strain relief	$15.00
1 - Tilt mount Double AP 75 modules	$149.00
Total	$2127.50