An RV Solar Panel Kit is a complete solar power kit for an RV or motorhome. It includes all the components necessary to capture solar energy and generate electrical power. This includes solar panels, a charge controller, a solar battery, and an inverter. Below we cover everything you need to know about RV Solar Panel Kits and how they work.
1: RV Solar Panels
The first part of an RV solar panel kit is the solar panels. The panels are used to capture sunlight and convert it into electrical energy. This is where the magic happens. The solar panels use a technology called ‘photovoltaic cells’ to turn sunlight into DC current. The amount of energy generated depends on their size, positioning, and the amount of sunlight available. This electricity is then used to power the RV electrical system or charge batteries where it can be stored and used at a later time.
2: Charge Controller
The charge controller sits between the solar panels and the battery. It is a critical component of an RV solar panel system. The charge controller, often referred to as a battery charger, is responsible for the safe and effective charging of the battery. It regulates the flow of electricity from the panels to prevent overcharging of the batteries. It also prevents current discharging from the battery back to the panels in conditions of low light.
3: Battery
RV solar panel kits use deep-cycle batteries to store electrical solar energy. Deep-cycle batteries are designed to accommodate deep charges and discharges. In simple terms, they can store a large amount of electrical energy. These batteries store the electrical energy generated by the solar panels for later use. This creates a reservoir of electrical power that can be used in off-grid scenarios.
4: Inverter
The final component of an RV solar panel kit is the inverter. An inverter is used to convert the DC (direct current) electrical power stored in the battery to AC (alternating current). Most electrical appliances found in a camper van require an AC input and cannot be run on DC. For example, TVs, microwaves, and laptops all need AC power.
Additional Components of an RV Solar Panel Kit
What additional components make up a complete solar panel kit? While the four primary components consist of a solar panel, charge control unit, battery, and inverter there are some additional components that may be added to boost performance and ease of operation. Let’s take a look, see below.
Cable Entry Plate
Your cable entry plate is the gland that is used to connect the outside solar panel system with its interior components. The panel is usually positioned on the vehicle roof and is used to pass the electrical cables from the outside in. These cables carry the electrical power from the solar panels to the battery charge control unit. The cable entry plate should be water-tight and vibration-resistant.
AC Battery Charger
This is a speedy backup battery charger. An AC battery charger takes current from a shore power supply when it is available and quickly charges your RV batteries. It converts an AC input to DC current, suitable for battery charging. AC battery chargers are not included in all RV solar panel kits and often involve an additional fee.
Transfer Switch
A transfer switch is an electrical device that automatically switches between solar power, shore power, or generator power to provide a safe and continuous supply of electricity to the RV’s electrical system. It also prevents dangerous AC power back feed that can damage a solar panel kit.
AC Breaker Panel
An AC breaker panel acts as your RV’s power distributor. It is connected to the transfer switch and is used to provide power from either the solar battery bank or the used to select either the shore power system if one is available.
Inverter Remote
An inverter remote is used to control the inverter from a conveniently located switch within the camper. Inverters are usually placed next to the battery, so they are not easily accessed. The inverter needs to be switched off when it is not being used.
Inverters drain batteries even when they are not being used to generate AC power. These remotes can also be used to display battery voltage and power output so you know exactly what’s going on at all times.
Shore Power
Shore power is the grid power you connect up to when you park your RV in a campground or RV park. When you’re hooked up to shore power you don’t need to use your solar power kit system and can conserve battery power for when you’re off-grid. The shore power connects to the van’s Transfer Switch and provides an AC power source.
How Does an RV Solar Panel Kit Work?
RV solar panel kits are used to deliver enough electrical power to recharge small devices such as phones and laptops or to run a small number of kitchen appliances such as a fridge and microwave. But how do they generate power? How does an RV solar panel kit work? It’s simple. Let’s take a look.
1: Solar Panel Captures Light Energy
During the day, when the sun is shining, the RV solar panels collect sunlight and generate DC electricity. These panels are usually positioned on the camper’s roof to optimize their exposure to sunlight. The panels should be positioned so they face the sun and avoid any obstructions that cast a shadow.
2: Solar Panel Converts Light Energy to Electrical Power
The panels contain a special type of cell called a photovoltaic cell that converts sunlight into electricity. These cells use semiconductor materials that release electrons when exposed to sunlight. This release of electrons creates an electrical current and generates DC electricity. This is the key to how a solar panel works – the generation of clean renewable energy by converting sunlight to electrical power.
3: Charge Control Regulates Flow to Battery
The DC electricity generated by the panels is then sent to the battery charger – also known as a charge controller. This unit is responsible for the safe and effective charging of the RV battery. It plays a vital role in the solar panel kit system by managing and regulating the flow of electricity to the battery. The charge controller prevents overcharging and extends the battery’s lifespan.
4: Battery is Charged and Stores Power
Once the DC current reaches the battery, the battery begins to charge and store the electrical power. The battery is a critical component of the solar panel kit system. It provides a reliable off-grid power supply that can be used to charge and run electrical appliances in the vehicle. It acts as a reservoir of DC electrical power.
5: Inverter Converts DC power to AC
Not all devices in an RV use DC power. Many require an AC power supply and this means you’ll need an inverter. An inverter takes the DC power stored in the battery and changes it to AC. Televisions, laptops, and microwave ovens all require an AC power supply. Therefore, all RV solar panel systems should come with a power inverter.
For more, check out our full guide on RV Solar Panel Kits.
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About the Author
Richard Weber
Richard Weber is a renewable energy stalwart who landed here from the UK in the ’90s. With over 20 years in the renewable energy field, Richard boasts expertise in both solar and wind energy.
A sports enthusiast, his loyalty spans continents, following the English Premier League and the NFL – cheering for the Arizona Cardinals. Beyond the field of solar power, his interests include judo, running, and home improvement DIY.
When he’s not optimizing energy solutions, Richard spends quality time with his two kids, balancing work and family life.
