The solar panel size you need for your RV depends on a few factors: how much power your RV needs, your budget, the size and shape of the RV, how you plan to use the solar panel, and how much sunlight you get where you’re parked. You also need to know the wattage of your RV. This is the power your RV draws when all appliances are running.
Your panels should be tilted towards the sun for optimum performance. The wire size you need for your RV solar panel will depend on the wattage of your solar panels and the amount of current your RV can handle. Most RV users recommend using 10-gauge wire for up to 150 watts of solar power, and 8-gage wire for up to 300 watts.
Boondocking, or camping without hookups, requires a reliable way to keep your batteries charged, and solar panels are an excellent solution. However, selecting the right size solar panel for your RV battery is crucial to ensure you have enough power for your daily needs.
Proper system sizing is critical to use solar energy to power your RV. It entails calculating the quantity of power required and determining the number of solar panels needed to provide that power. The size of your car, the number of appliances you use, and your travel habits, choose the best solar system for you.
Choose the size closest to your solar panel set up. Each has a complete list of the components needed. Choose your solar panels. There’s a number of different types and you can read more about them in our camper solar panels post. Once you’ve selected the type of panel, measure the available space on the roof so you know what sizes to buy.
The ideal solar panel configuration depends on the size of your campervan and your power needs. For small campervans with limited roof space and minimal power requirements, consider using one or two 100-150 watt monocrystalline or polycrystalline solar panels.