Yes, you can absolutely power a TV using RV solar panels. If you are planning an off-grid adventure and want to take your TV with you – you’re in luck! You can power your TV using sunlight and an RV solar power setup. Great news for TV lovers. With some careful planning, you can enjoy your favorite shows in remote locations without the need for an external power source.
Can You Run a TV on Solar Power?
Did you know you can power a TV using an RV solar power system? It’s true. By harnessing the energy of natural sunlight you can run a television even when you’re off grid. No more having to rely on campsite hookups and electrical generators. With a properly installed solar energy set-up, you’re free to travel wherever the road takes you AND watch TV at your leisure.
Here’s How to Power a TV Using RV Solar Panels
Powering a TV using solar panels is easy. There are a few things you need to consider, but nothing overly technical or complicated. To ensure you generate sufficient electrical power you need to consider five things: the power consumption of the TV, solar panel output, battery capacity, inverter capacity, and the availability of sunlight.
1: Power Consumption of the TV
What’s the power consumption of your TV? This is critical. You need to ensure your solar panel set-up generates enough power to run the television. Take a look at the wattage of the device. This tells you how much power you’re going to need to power the unit.
You’ll find the wattage printed on the TV’s label on the rear of the device, or in the user manual. Top tip, for a TV running on solar power, choose a TV with a low energy rating.
2: Solar Panel System Capacity
Once you know your TV’s power consumption, you’ll need to check your solar panel system capacity. This is usually measured in watts, just like the TV. Make sure your RV solar panel setup has the capacity to meet the TV’s demand.
Take a look at the wattage of your solar panels and their combined output. This number must be greater or equal to the wattage of the TV. If it’s lower, consider upgrading your solar panels or adding additional units.
3: Battery Capacity
Next up, take a look at your battery capacity. RV solar panels are used to charge a leisure battery. And, these batteries are then used to power your motorhome’s electrical appliances – such as a TV. You’ll need to make sure your battery has enough power to run the TV.
You should be using a deep-cycle battery in an RV solar power system. These batteries are designed to receive deep charges while the sun is shining and release plenty of power when the battery is charged. If your existing battery doesn’t provide the power you need to run a TV, it’s time to upgrade.
4: Inverter Capacity
Solar panels generate DC (direct current) electricity. And, your TV runs on AC (alternate current). You’ll need to use an inverter to change the DC to AC to power your TV. Check the capacity rating of the inverter and make sure it has sufficient capacity to meet the power requirements of the television. Pure sine wave inverters work best for running TVs.
5: Sunlight Availability
You’re going to need sunlight. An RV solar power only works if it receives sunlight. And, the more the better. Make sure you park up in an area that avoids shade and make sure your solar panels are angled towards the sun. You need to make sure you’re catching as much sunlight as possible. This maximizes the power output of the solar panels and ensures your TV runs smoothly.
What Size Solar Panel Do You Need to Run a TV?
The size and power output of the solar panel needed will depend on the size and power requirement of your TV. In general, smaller TVs have lower power requirements compared to larger TVs. Our advice is to aim for a smaller TV or one that has a low power rating.
In general, a 36” inch TV requires at least 45 Watts of electricity per hour. To power this TV you should use a solar power panel that provides 80-90 Watts of power per hour. This will provide enough power to charge your leisure battery and deliver enough electricity to effectively run the TV off-grid.
How Much Power Does a TV Need?
The amount of power a TV needs depends on several factors, the size of the TV, the type of technology it uses, and the energy rating of the device. In general smaller TVs require less power compared to larger units. And, LED televisions are more efficient than OLED, LCD, or CRT devices. Let’s take a look at the typical power ratings for a standard LED TV, see below.
- 36” inch TV 45 Watts
- 40” inch TV 50 Watts
- 50” inch TV 75 Watts
- 60” inch TV 90 Watts
If you already have a TV in your camper van or motor home, take a look at the wattage information provided by the manufacturer. This can be found on a sticker on the rear of the device or in the user manual. Once you establish how many Watts of power you need you can begin designing a solar power set-up that will take care of your needs.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Rosa Montero
- B.S. Environmental Science
- Avid Explorer & Globe Trotter
Rosa is a graduate of the University of Arizona, where she delved into the world of green energy and environmental science. Originally from sunny Fresno, California, she moved to Arizona to study. Rosa is the proud owner of a vintage VW camper van. Her trusty companion on countless adventures.
She has a deep passion for clean energy and a love for protecting our planet. Rosa immerses herself in nature through long hikes in Arizona’s famous parks. Grand Canyon National Park and Sedona Red Rock Country are two of her favorites.
When not exploring on foot, she enjoys cycling. Rosa’s enthusiasm for fighting climate change and safeguarding Mother Earth shines through in her work for RV Solar Power Hub.
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Of course they can run TV. I’ve been using solar panels to run TV for many years. Every RV needs a TV for basic entertainment.
🙂
You can use a regular rv solar power kit to run a tv, no problem people.