Just because you want to be off the grid for a long time doesn't mean you want to give up all your conveniences. With your RV or RV, you don't have to have a campsite or park with hookups, but it does mean you have to use batteries or a limited supply of gas if you want the fridge and toaster to work. Staying powered with peace of mind requires an easily renewable source of energy, and the best option is to put your home on wheels with RV solar panels.
Along with solar generators, solar panels are a quiet alternative to power your equipment without having to carry spare gas cylinders or stop at gas stations to start your traditional generator. RV solar panels come in a variety of sizes and wattages to suit different needs, and you can even buy ones that can be adjusted to shrink or expand to suit your ride.
what to consider
materials and construction
The two most common materials for solar panels are monocrystalline and polycrystalline. Monocrystalline modules use a single silicon crystal to capture solar energy, while polycrystalline modules are based on many pieces of silicon crystals. The monocrystalline is more efficient, so we only recommend this type.
Solar panels come in rigid and flexible models. This is important when deciding where to use your panels and if you plan to permanently attach them to your RV or camper. Flexible panels are ideal when installing on a curved or irregular surface, but if your RV is flat on top, rigid panels will work just fine.
Decide if you want to install your panels or go the portable route. Pre-assembled panels come with hardware and do-it-yourself instructions, like our overall best picks from Renogy. RV solar panels are more durable than portable panels, waterproof, and windproof, so they're always outside to brave the elements.
Portable solar panels fold up for compact storage and are designed to be easy to set up and take down from one location to another. They are scratch resistant and can take a light shower, but they should not be left outdoors permanently or they will get damaged. Some portable selectors come with features like built-in stands and handles to position them at the optimal angle for the smoothest adjustment possible, wherever you are.
performance and efficiency
Most RVs and RVs require 100 to 500 watts of solar power, depending on the need. 100 watts will power a small fridge with a toaster and coffee maker, but if you have a full electrical circuit, a fridge and some appliances you will need more power.
We recommend starting small and increasing power as needed, as multiple panels can be connected together for more power. Remember that under optimal conditions (sunny day, no shade, no clouds), product descriptions state watts and generally use less. Efficiency ratings are a better indication that the solar panel is performing well: the best value is 23% or higher.
as we have decided
To select the best RV solar panels, we draw on our experience testing and recommending solar generators along with reviews from other travel companies like Treehugger and SolarReviews . We discuss the various uses of RV solar panels and finally present a variety of options to meet the different electrical needs of RVs. After collecting the best products, we review user reviews to ensure that the quality and efficiency of these solar panels lives up to the performance promised by the manufacturer. Here's a selection of the best RV solar panels to keep you powered up on the go.
popular mechanics; Come on power!
