RVs and Solar Power
RV power systems (just like Boats) have a need for simple 12VDC power and
newer systems also require AC power. The lights on most coaches are DC and newer
RVs have fluorescent fixtures and are quite nice. Radios are still usually
12Vdc, but most TVs are 120VAC. The microwave, DSS receiver, DVD player are all
120VAC. All this power equipment needs a good inverter and a strong battery bank
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RV PV Panels |
RVs can use 1, 2 3, 4 or ...10 panels. How many will fit
up on the roof and how many days of no sun do you need to make it through?
On my RV, I have 3 75W Shell panels. I have room for 3 more, if I need
additional power. |
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RV Batteries |
Sam's Club GC-2 (Golf Cart) Batteries. Whereas most small
home systems could start with this cheap learning battery,
the RV can benefit from this 'just right size' battery. Tied in a 2 x 2
configuration, I have a 12 volt bank that gives me 440Ah of storage. Except
for the AC, I can run everything I need for a couple days without sun. The
panels above keep things going and help me avoid the generator. |
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RV Inverters |
When my RV was built, the best inverter at the time was
Heart Interface Freedom 20. This is a 2000W Modified Sine Wave inverter. It
works ok for what I use it for. It has a great battery charger and I
disconnected the normal "converter". |
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RV Charge Controllers |
Same with the CC-20B charge controller. Still works, but
I dream of putting in a MX60 and a MATE... |
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