I'm working on a gutted RV renovation and I want to set it up with a built-in minisplit. My goal is to ensure I have hot water when I need it, along with power for a minisplit (27 seer, 1.1a-5.1a usage, running continuously), a TV, a router, chargers, a few LED lights, and an energy-efficient fridge (150w-200w constantly). Sometimes I'll be boondocking, but I also want to have the option of using shore power when available. I'll have a propane stove and furnace for backup. I've read that typically, I can expect about 950kwh of usable solar power for every 1000kwh of panels. I'm trying to figure out the costs and determine the right size for batteries and the whole solar setup. I'm leaning toward a 48v system for everything, but I'm not sure about the specifics like how long a certain Ah rating would run my appliances. I won't be using the RV in winter because I'm only planning to use it during the other three seasons. I'd like to have safety shutoffs, monitoring shunts, and a sine wave inverter, plus a way to convert back to 12v. I'd appreciate any good resources or advice to help me start formulating a solid plan!
1 Answer
It sounds like you're off to a great start! In my RV, I run a combo of 48v and 12v systems. I have a DC-DC converter to keep my 12v system powered. With a solar setup of about 3240 watts, my 48v system stays charged pretty well. I recommend considering a DC heating element for your water heater to cut down on propane use. The minisplit is definitely worth it—way more efficient compared to the standard ACs. Just keep in mind you'll need a sunny spot to get the most out of your solar panels since shade can really hurt your power collection. Plan for how much power you'll need at night or during cloudy days, which will help you figure out your battery needs. Getting a small generator might also be a good backup option, and a shore power charger is essential for when you're plugged in, so don't forget that!