Hey everyone! I'm looking to set up a solar power system for my 28ft RV since I plan to do some boondocking and I need some help. I want enough power to run an AC unit, especially since I'll be in the hot Phoenix area. Right now, I'm using a generator for the AC, but I'm eager to transition to solar.
I found some used Trina 250w panels for just $20 each and I'm considering how many to get. I have a budget of about $900 right now, and I'm hoping to total around $1,300 after my tax refund. I've also got one 12v 115AH flooded lead acid battery, but I'm eyeing a switch to a LiFePo4 battery bank if the price is right.
If I buy 10 or 12 panels, will I be able to afford a charge controller that can handle that many amps and enough batteries to possibly create a 24/36/48v system? I've tried learning, but it seems every answer raises new questions!
1 Answer
For your budget, it might be a tight fit for what you want. Personally, I recommend having multiple power generation methods: solar, wind, and even thermal. You’ll also need a solid battery for storage, along with a charge controller and battery management system that can deal with different input sources. When it comes to solar panels, the bigger, the better! Get as many as you can fit on the RV roof, and think about foldable options to double your capacity when parked.
I can fit at least 8 panels on my roof! I even have a window awning setup with 2 panels that fold down while driving. So if I go for 10 or 12 panels, I’d have another $700 right now and $400 later. Would that still give me a usable setup, even if I need to store some of the panels until I get more cash?