I've been considering installing solar panels on my stationary RV, a 1986 silver streak trailer, for over a year now. I often feel overwhelmed whenever I start looking into options. I'm using this trailer as an office and art studio, and I want to avoid reliance on an extension cord from the exterior outlet as it's becoming cumbersome. I live in sunny New Mexico and want to keep it simple and manageable. I won't need to power anything major—maybe a small AC in the summer, a space heater in winter, a light, and occasionally charge my computer. Can anyone help me break this down into simple steps?
3 Answers
Check out Will Prowse's videos—they're a great resource! Just like someone mentioned, AC and heating are power-hungry. I have a mini-split system powered by 230W panels, but it does pull extra from the grid on hotter days. You'll want to figure out your overall power consumption, especially since heating and cooling take a lot of juice.
A portable power station might be the simplest option for you. It's straightforward and usually cheaper than buying all the parts separately. Brands like Bluetti and Jackery are well-known. Just keep in mind—any device that heats or cools, like your AC or heater, can require more energy than you’d expect! Make sure to check the wattage of your devices before deciding on your solar setup.
Installing solar on your RV can be a bit of a challenge, especially with the AC and heating needs. You might not get enough power from just roof panels, so you could consider adding a ground-mounted array to make sure you have enough energy. You'll also need a decent-sized battery to cover times when the sun isn't shining. It can be a bigger job than it seems, but it's definitely doable! Until then, tethering to a building is a solid temporary solution.
Totally agree on the power station! It gives you flexibility while you learn more about solar. Plus, once you’re comfortable, you can start expanding your system to suit your needs.