Solar panels in a motorhome

We have more and more devices that we think are essential. In the motorhome or caravan, we want to have a refrigerator, coffee machine, TV, computer, and fashionable LED lighting that will brighten every corner of the vehicle. But where to get electricity?

Standard on-board batteries are usually sufficient if we frequently change places of residence. Worse, if we plan a longer stop, away from electricity sources. When preparing for such situations, it is worth considering installing roof solar panels.

What power?

In new motorhomes and caravans, solar panels are increasingly installed on request as an accessory. But the photovoltaic installation can be done at any time.

Currently, the most commonly installed panel set is 100 to 200 W. Less powerful solar batteries can be considered if the power is to be supplied to the radio, small TV, laptop, LED lighting and other small appliances. However, if we want to connect a large TV set, refrigerator and inverter, it is better not to go below 100 W. In case of high demand for electricity, eg due to an electric boiler, 200 W panels will not be an exaggeration.

However, it is important that the power of the solar kit is appropriate in relation to the capacity of the battery. If the battery capacity is 50 Ah, the power of the solar batteries should not exceed 50 W.

The weather matters

The effectiveness of batteries will depend on their type, place of installation, but also on the weather. The power of the panels is given taking into account the solar energy of 1000 Wh / m2 , the flux of which falls on the flat surface of the battery within one hour in the summer. Unfortunately, solar panels are only able to process 15-20% of this stream. In cloudy weather and in winter, this result will be much worse and will amount to only a few percent.

If it is possible to change the place of installation of the batteries, it is best to install them on the roof of the vehicle in summer and on its sides in winter. It is best if the sun's rays fall on the panels at right angles. If we plan to install permanently, the cells are best mounted on the roof .

Changing the position of the panels is possible in the case of flexible structures - such batteries can be mounted even on uneven surfaces. The cheapest panels with a power of 60-70 W, converting solar energy into 12 V electricity, will cost about PLN 500 . It is worth choosing models that are designed to be touring, not stationary.

The assembly of the panels is not difficult

To mount the solar panels, you will need a mounting kit. A necessary element of the equipment is the charging regulator . Its task will be to "ensure" that the battery is not overcharged. Most importantly, however, the regulator converts the voltage of the solar cells into the battery voltage (12 V).

There are also controllers with a separate display that can be installed in the driver's cab. This allows you to personally control the charging of the batteries and control the system.

After the panels are installed, the space between the roof and the solar panels is the most common. This is not a result of wrong assembly, but a correct procedure. The slot is used to cool the panels , which maintains their high efficiency. To prevent unpleasant wheezing, special spoilers adapted to the battery can be installed.

The assembly of the battery itself is simple. You just need to remember to connect the battery clamps to the voltage regulator first , and then connect the panels to the regulator. Reverse order may damage the regulator.