Hey everyone! My wife recently purchased a 33-foot travel trailer that's prewired for solar, and I want to add a solar system to it. However, I'm really new to this whole solar setup thing. Instead of flooding the forum with a bunch of beginner questions, I'm hoping to get some recommendations for books or websites that can help me learn the ropes. I've already made a couple of newbie mistakes, like buying several mismatched solar panels without realizing I should focus on compatibility. I did get lucky with a few 100W panels that have the same voltage and amperage, but I'm confused about other details like short and open values. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated!
2 Answers
Being "prewired for solar" can mean different things across RVs. Make sure to check what your setup actually includes. My first RV just came with basic wiring but no charge controller. My current one has a single panel that helps with the fridge but doesn’t cover much else, especially when needing AC power. Instead of adding fixed panels that might be shaded, I invested in portable ones that I can position for maximum sunlight. If your trailer only has wiring without a controller, you’ll need to get one. For my family of five, just running a few appliances caused a significant power drain, so plan accordingly with your battery choices and inverter needs. Be cautious about the load; some setups may require multiple controllers if you have varying panel types.
First off, it’s crucial to understand Ohm's Law, as it connects the three main components of electricity: watts (power) = voltage x current (amps). Start by calculating your total expected load and make sure you round it up a bit. Based on that load, you'll choose a battery voltage—most commonly 12V, 24V, or 48V. Remember, the lower your battery voltage, the higher the amperage required, which means thicker cables. On the flip side, lower amperage means you can use thinner wires. Your charge controller also depends on your battery choice, so pick one that matches your setup. As for panels, aim for a total wattage that’s roughly a quarter of your battery power to keep them charged effectively each day. Definitely check out Will Prowse’s YouTube videos; they’re super informative for beginners.
I agree with this! I’m still learning myself, but those videos are a lifesaver. Also, being aware of the specifics of your trailer’s wiring and setup really helps.
That’s really good advice! I have a similar situation and felt overwhelmed initially too. I'm thinking about going with portable panels later on as well.