RV Solar Course For Beginners (Solar 101)
Free Recreational Vehicle Solar Course
Welcome to my free RV solar course for beginners aka solar 101. If you’re looking for information about solar for your recreational vehicle, be it a travel trailer, fifth wheel, motor home, camper, or caravan then you’ve come to the right place. I have installed multiple RV solar energy systems on different RVs, and have helped plan even more. I’m going to list everything in priority order so you walk away knowing the best items to upgrade first. The course is set up this way for those that can’t afford it all at once and want to build a RV solar energy system in stages. Here, you will learn about each system and component before we put it all together. There are many links with more info in each section, so make sure to read those for a complete understanding.
No Sponsorship:
I was not paid or sponsored by ANY recreational vehicle / solar company to create these videos or articles. We purchased, and I installed our RV solar systems on the RV’s we have owned. I am not a professional installer or electrician! I’m just a DIY guy that wanted to share the information I have learned. I have spent tons of hours putting this information together, planning, writing, recording, and editing this content. IF you find this free information helpful then please consider using my affiliate links or codes to purchase your components as a thank you. Affiliate programs do not cost anything extra to the consumer, however I will make a percentage of the purchase.
Current RV Solar System
* Please review before starting the course*
The video above is a complete overview of our current solar system which is NOT shown in the Solar Basics Series below. The solar course was filmed over several months while we still had our small Itasca class c back in 2018/2019. Our current solar system parts are listed in this article, they are also all available in one easy spot here: http://www.imnotlostimrving.com/lazy-daze-rv-solar-system/
On top of this free information we now offer solar consulting
and installation services! All the information is easily found on our solar business
website: https://greatoutdoorssolar.com/
-Thomas
Do You Need Solar & Is It Worth It?
Before you go out and buy some solar for your RV I suggest you watch this first as not everyone will need an RV Solar System.
VIDEO: Do You Need Solar For Your RV?
Beginners Start Here!
How Does A Solar Energy System Work?
Below is a very basic understanding of how solar works:
- The solar panel collects power from the sun and sends it out to the charge controller.
- The charge controller makes sure the power from the panel is the correct voltage for the battery before sending it out to the battery.
- The battery stores the collected power.
It really is that simple. Of course in real life there will be more wires and some fuses as well, but this should give you a simple understanding. We will build more on that foundation later. Just know the battery is essentially the heart of the system as it supplies the power while you are boondocking (dry camping), and the solar panels help fill the battery up when there is sunshine. The charge controller is there to protect the battery. We will be adding to this base knowledge later on.
RV Power Basics
The truth is, if you don’t know how your RV power system already works. Then adding solar will be much harder for you to grasp. Make sure to watch the easy to follow video below. Don’t worry, I made it pretty quick and even tried to put in a few laughs to keep the learning of a boring subject interesting! Enjoy!
VIDEO: RV A/C & D/C Electrical Systems
* Intermediate Level Start Here *
For those of you who are familiar with an RV power system, and have a basic understanding of how solar works, then this is a better starting point.
#1 Energy Audit
Do an energy audit first!! Nobody likes to hear it, but it is the truth. If you don’t take the
time to do an energy audit, then you will either over buy or under buy for your solar system and
potentially waste your time. So the first thing you need to to is an Energy Audit. I recommend
that you don’t buy anything until you plan your entire system. With a plan you can choose to buy
it all at once or as you can afford it, and you’ll be able to better stay on track. I see it
all.. the.. time.. people don’t plan a system and end up with a big headache! So learn from
others and plan, plan, plan, then plan some more!
Not sure how to do a energy audit? Well
I cover it in this video:
VIDEO: Energy Audit “How To Size Your RV Solar System”
#2 Battery Bank Upgrade!
Expanding and/or upgrading your battery bank should be one of the first things you do to improve
your RV. Having a larger battery bank will allow you to enjoy your RV a lot more without having
to be hooked up-to shore power or running the generator all the time (weather dependent of
course because we all need A/C from time to time).
If you are not sure what type of
battery (flooded lead acid, AGM, or lithium), and want some comparisons of each to include
generator fuel cost, then be sure to watch the video below.
VIDEO: RV Solar Battery Bank Info
If you need to know how to wire your battery bank in either series or parallel, or want some other battery options then read the article below.
ARTICLE: RV House Battery Info
Article Link: http://www.imnotlostimrving.com/battery-info/
Our Solar Battery Bank
First let me start by saying we are not Battleborn reps, or affiliates, or whatever you
want to call it. We bought our entire RV solar system ourselves, including our
batteries. When I was looking for a lithium battery, I looked at tons of options out there.
Honestly, I actually wanted something other than Battleborns simply because I wanted to offer
consumers another option, and to try something different. Ultimately, they were the best at the
time we purchased. If you want more info on why we choose Battle Born Batteries or you want to
see other battery brands we would recommend, then check out the article below.
Battery
Info Article: http://www.imnotlostimrving.com/battery-info/
We purchased four Battle Born 100 Ah LiFePO4 12 volt deep cycle batteries and wired them in series parallel due to having a 24 volt battery bank. So essentially we have 4800 watt hours of battery bank, ours happen to be 200ah at 24 volts which is the same as 400ah at 12 volts.
Battle Born 100ah 12v via Continuous Resources: https://www.continuousresources.com/collections/lithium
Battle
Born 100ah 12v via Amazon:
https://amzn.to/3fi1Hok
Battery Monitor & Bus Bars
To monitor your battery levels you will want to add a nice battery monitor. The ones built into
most RVs are terrible and often only give you a voltage reading. If you turn something on in the
RV, that voltage could drop and give you false reading. Since you are swapping out your
batteries or upgrading them, adding a battery monitor & bus bars is a no brainer. I
recommend buying your batteries, battery monitor, & bus bars at the same time. This monitor
will give you a reading of how full your batteries are, and it is a nice easy percentage similar
to what your cell phone battery monitor shows you.
If you’re not aware, a bus bar is
basically a metal bar with some terminals (like a battery has) to connect multiple devices with
wires. They make life so much easier to add components to your DC system later. So since you
will be working in the battery area, I suggest you go ahead and buy at least one for the
negative and one for the positive side of your DC system. This will help when you go to add an
inverter, or solar, or even some USB plugs as you will already have a spot to tie them into the
battery bank and battery monitor. Shunts are typically measured in the amps they can withstand
so when you do your audit and learn what your power needs are it should give you an idea of what
size bus bars you will need.
Battery Monitor & Bus Bar Install Basics
There are several battery monitors available on the market, and all of them basically work the same via the negative side and a shunt. Basically the shunt is a device that reads the power going in and out of the battery bank and has a little plug (looks like a phone cord) for the actual monitor to plug into. The “battery” side of the shunt should be connected to the negative side of the battery bank, and the “load” side of the shunt will go to the negative loads. Don’t worry… they come with directions. I just want you to know where it ties into a system. Make sure ALL the negatives go through the shunt before they go to battery, otherwise, anything connected to the negative battery terminal directly won’t be read by the shunt and the battery monitor will not read correctly.
Our Battery Monitor Choice
I prefer the Victron BMV-712 because I want to be able to view, connect, and adjust settings via bluetooth with the free app on my phone. I also like to know the temperature of the battery bank. Since Victron componets network, the Victron charge controller is able to connect with the BMV-712 and use the battery temperature for more efficient charging.
Victron BMV-712 via Continuous Resources: https://www.continuousresources.com/BMV-712
Victron
BMV-712 via Amazon:
https://amzn.to/2zQQpHk
Our Bus Bar / Fuse Holder Choice
Victron Lynx Distributor via Continuous Resources: https://www.continuousresources.com/lynx
Victron
Lynx Distributor via Amazon:
https://amzn.to/2yj3ucl
Our System Networking Choice
Victron Energy Color Control GX Monitor via Continuous
Resources:
https://www.continuousresources.com/color-control-gx
Victron
Energy Color Control GX Monitor via Amazon:
https://amzn.to/3fmNlmx
#3 Inverter Install!
Now that you have increased your battery bank let’s talk about powering some A/C appliances and outlets by inverting some of that D/C battery bank power!
A/C? D/C?
If your got lost when I mentioned A/C & D/C then be sure to watch the video under the “Beginners Start Here” section above. Just in case here it is again: https://youtube/AC&DC
Inverter? Converter? What?!?
If you have no idea what an inverter, converter, or an inverter charger is or what they do then be sure to check out this video:
VIDEO: Inverter & Converter Basics
ARTICLE: Inverters / Converters & Recommendations
Article Link: http://www.imnotlostimrving.com/converters-inverters-transfer-switches/
Okay, now that you understand the basics of an RV power system, and you know what inverters, are
we can dive a little deeper.
Before you buy an inverter you will need to know how you
plan to use it, which includes whether you plan to tie it directly into your RV A/C electrical
system (breaker box) or if you are going to just put a basic inverter in and plug things into
the actual inverter.
If you have no idea what the differences between 30 amp and 50 amp
RVs are then be sure to watch the below video, which will even cover the schematics.
30 amp VS 50 amp RV Electrical Systems
A 30 amp RV typically is a single phase (one leg) 120 volt system capable of handling 3,600 watts (and/or 30 amps maximum). What that means is, it has ONE “hot” wire that goes to a single 30 amp “main” breaker before the power is distributed to the rest of the breakers. These breakers in turn feed the corresponding outlets & appliances.
A 50 amp RV typically is a dual phase (two leg) 120/240 volt system capable of handling 12,000 watts (and/or 50 amps maximum). What that means is, there are TWO “hot” wires coming in. Each “hot” 120 volt wire goes to it’s own separate 50 amp breaker before the power is distributed amongst the smaller breakers to the left or right of that main breaker. In the schematic below, HOT 1 (red) goes to the left 50 amp main, and HOT 2 (black) goes to the right 50 amp main. After the power hits the main breakers, the power is distributed to the corresponding smaller breakers before going to the outlets or appliances.
If you skipped the “30 VS 50” video above and you’re still not sure what the difference is then be sure to watch the video as it breaks it down for you. Just in case here’s the video link from above: https://youtube/30vs50
Our Inverter Choice
We purchased and I installed our Victron Multiplus 3000 watt hybrid inverter charger. Since we wanted our dream RV solar system in our newly renovated RV, we went with the best. I love how customizable the Victron Energy hybrid inverters are and I love how the entire RV solar system has a network. I really love the hybrid power boost technology for when we are driveway surfing with friends or family.
Victron Energy MultiPlus 24/3000 via Continuous
Resources:
https://www.continuousresources.com/MultiPlus24/3000
Victron
Energy MultiPlus 24/3000 via Amazon:
https://amzn.to/3c5COKq
Other Inverter Options
I put together an article on inverters and gave some recommendations for several types of inverter systems in the article below.
Article Link: http://www.imnotlostimrving.com/converters-inverters-transfer-switches/
#4 Adding Solar
You might be thinking to yourself, “Why are solar panels at the end?” Well, there are a few reasons. First, if you increase your battery bank then you can boondock longer. Period. The next thing you want to accomplish is to have all your plugs working, which makes life so much nicer right? That is where the inverter comes into play. Since the battery bank and the inverter can be pricey, it helps that the actual solar panels are usually the cheapest part of the solar system. Many people have generators on their RV already, and only want to boondock for a few days. For them the actual solar panels might not be needed.
Step 1: How Many Panels?
Well if you did an energy audit then you should already know! Here are some tips for those of you that still may be guessing. A general rule of thumb is 200 watts for every 100 ah of battery. The truth is when it comes to RV solar systems we are typically limited by the amount roof space available. If you have a smaller RV like us then you are limited a lot more on what you can do with a system. If you have a large Class A or fifth-wheel you could possibly power an air conditioner or two.
Want more solar panel info? Then check out this video:
VIDEO: Mono VS Poly VS Flexible & Solar Charge Controllers
ARTICLE: Solar Panels: Mono vs Poly vs Flexible & PWM vs MPPT
Solar Panel Article: http://www.imnotlostimrving.com/solar-panels-charge-controllers/
Our Solar Panels:
Due to our roof layout and space available, we purchased four Hightec Solar Inc monocrystalline solar panels from Continuous Resources.
Hightec 200W 12V Solar Panel via Continuous Resources:
https://www.continuousresources.com/200wSolarPanel
This main
article barely scratches the surface of solar panels, so be sure to check out this article for
some great panel information, tips, and options!
Article Link: http://www.imnotlostimrving.com/solar-panels-charge-controllers/
Step 2: Which Solar Charge Controller? PWM or MPPT?
Now that you know how many solar panels you can fit on the roof of your RV, and how many you will actually need, you need to purchase a charge controller. You will need to know the correct size charge controller for the amount of panels you will have. I recommend that you go with a good quality MPPT charge controller. These will typically give you the ability to purchase larger and higher voltage panels, which means less wiring, less panels to mount (aka less holes in the roof), and you can wire them in series (something you can’t do with PWM).
If you know nothing about solar charge controllers, like what is MPPT?, then I suggest you check out the solar panel video / solar charge controller above. Just in case here it is again:
VIDEO: Solar Panels & Charge Controllers: https://youtube/solarpanels
Solar Panel & Charge Controller Article Link: http://www.imnotlostimrving.com/solar-panels-charge-controllers/
Our Solar Charge Controller
We purchased a Victron Energy 100/30 MPPT solar charge controller with built-in bluetooth. It is
capable of handling up to 100 volts/30 amps. It can take up to 440 watts on a 12 volt system or
880 watts on a 24 volt system.
Victron 100/30 Charge Controller via Continuous Resources: https://www.continuousresources.com/Victron100/30
Victron
100/30 Charge Controller via Amazon:
https://amzn.to/2YB9sjp
Our Actual Solar System Parts List
Hopefully this free information helped! We purchased our entire RV solar system from Continuous Resources and recommend them highly. They have excellent customer service and can even handle warranty issues! Give them a call or send them an email and don’t forget to use our code LOST5 to save some yourself some cash & to let them know we sent you! It’s a win win because you’ll receive a discount and we’ll receive a small commission on any purchase at no additional cost to you as a thank you for providing this free content.
Continuous Resources Discount Code: LOST5
System Monitor & Networking:
Victron Energy Color Control GX Monitor
via Continuous Resources: https://www.continuousresources.com/ControlGX
via Amazon: https://amzn.to/3fnK9XV
Bus Bar / Fuse Holder:
Victron Lynx Distributor
via Continuous Resources: https://www.continuousresources.com/lynx
via Amazon: https://amzn.to/2yj3ucl
Step Down Converter:
Battery Bank:
Four Battleborn 100Ah 12v batteries wired to be 200Ah @ 24v
Via Continuous
Resources: https://www.continuousresources.com/ithium
Via Amazon: https://amzn.to/3fi1Hok
Battery Monitor:
One Victron BMV-712 with temperature sensor
via Continuous Resources: https://www.continuousresources.com/BMV-712
via Amazon: https://amzn.to/2zQQpHk
Victron Energy Orion 24/12-70 High Power DC-DC Converter
via Continuous
Resources: https://www.continuousresources.com/Orion
via Amazon: https://amzn.to/2xBDB70
Inverter:
Victron Energy MultiPlus 24/3000 Hybrid Inverter Charger
via Continuous
Resources: https://www.continuousresources.com/MultiPlus
via Amazon: https://amzn.to/3c5COKq
Solar Panels:
Hightec 200W 12V Solar Panel
via Continuous Resources: https://www.continuousresources.com/Solar
Solar Charge Controller:
Victron Energy 100/30 Charge Controller
via Continuous Resources:
https://www.continuousresources.com/mppt
via Amazon: https://amzn.to/2YB9sjp
Continuous Resource Contact Info:
Continuous Resources Discount Code: LOST5
Contact Info Link: https://www.continuousresources.com//contact-us?aff=14
Affiliate Link To Home Page: https://www.continuousresources.com/?aff=14
General Information: [email protected]
Sales / Support: [email protected]
Toll Free Number: +1 (855) 385-6419
Local Number: +1 (435) 227-3301 (This number can receive text messages)
Need Help?
We started a mobile RV solar business and offer both consulting (yes even for DIYers) and we do complete installations as well! For more info check out our solar business website: https://greatoutdoorssolar.com/
Other Help Resources:
Continuous Resources: http://www.continuousresources.com?aff=14
DIY
RV Solar Systems Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/diyrvsolar
Disclaimers
- Although I do try to keep up with the current options, and I will keep updating this page over time, you are responsible for verifying any information as it may change.
- The links to products are affiliate links, therefore we will receive a commission. You are welcome to use them as a thank you for the free information, but it definitely isn’t required.
- WE ACCEPT NO LIABILITY! I know I have said it in lots of the videos, but just in case. YOU AND YOU ALONE ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR SYSTEM AND/OR INSTALL! IF YOU DON’T FEEL CONFIDENT ENOUGH TO TAKE YOUR OWN LIABILITY INTO YOUR OWN HANDS…. THEN HIRE A PROFESSIONAL!