Whether you're new to the world of RVing or you've been RVing your whole life, you may have heard about switching your unit over to solar power while on the road. Are you interested in how this setup works but don't know where to start? We have you covered! Check out our advice and tips for starting your solar power journey!
Solar Power 101
Let's break solar power down a bit to really understand what it does for your RV and the tools you need to get it working perfectly. Solar power allows you to take your unit away from all power sources with the ability to still use any and all things electric, like your lights, your refrigerator and any other appliance you could think of! The solar panels attached to the top of your unit use special silicon cells to gather and convert the energy from the suns rays into electricity which will also charge your RV's battery bank. It is important to have a battery bank while using solar power as it gives you a back-up of energy in case anything goes wrong while on the road. Most solar panels come with a solar controller that allows you to maintain your battery's lifespan by preventing it from overcharging from the sun's rays. The next tool you need would be a battery converter or battery charger that allows you to hookup to manual campsite electricity and convert it into the solar energy voltage levels on those days when you need a quick full-charge.
Why Make the Switch?
The number one reason people consider making the change to solar power is that it is good for the environment and saves on the gas costs a typical generator would create. Ultimately, solar power is cost effective (after the initial cost of the panels and solar setup), environmentally friendly and requires little to no maintenance for many, many years if taken care of properly. Solar power is the fastest-growing energy source in the world right now, and it offers RV users a limitless supply of clean, safe and renewable energy. Switching to solar also gives your RV batteries an extra-long lifespan as the slow and steady charge it gets from the sun is so much better for them than a fast charge from manually plugging your unit in at the campground. Solar power is also much quieter than using a generator and it doesn't burn off your gas tank overnight. Hence why solar power is so good for our planet; it doesn't burn off fuels or put out waste and fumes when in use. If you're concerned with the potential for lack of sun and charging your unit up on those cloudy days, do not fear! Even during the cloudiest days and the coldest seasons there will still be enough sunlight peeking through to charge up your unit. You can also purchase portable solar units so that you can move them into direct sunlight without moving your unit from your favourite shaded area.
Solar Tips
Switching your RV to solar power is definitely an investment at first but the benefits will save you more money in the long run. Plus, it'll bring you one step closer to being a clean, off-grid living camper! When starting your solar journey it is important to start off small and to research your energy use habits. Make sure to really consider how often you use and charge your electronics daily. If you're powering just the basics and prefer to spend most of your time outdoors you may only ned one or two panels depending on the size of your unit. But, if you're charging up multiple electronics (keeping the frige cold and streaming your favourite series on Netflix all day), you may need to expand your array of solar panels. Another thing to consider is the shape of your solar panels. Do you want curved or flat panels? Curved panels are more aerodynamic for on-the-road travel, lighter, a bit more expensive and can't be redirected once placed on your unit while flat panels can be tilted to face the sun, are extra durable and are less costly.
When starting your solar journey, you may also want to consider upgrading your units batteries. A good battery creates the strength behind your whole solar system and gives you a great backup supply for when you can't get enough sunlight to charge your unit fully. If you like to play it safe, you can opt for a battery that is strong enough for you to live off of for several days on a full charge, or if you plan on doing a combination of solar and traditional energy you can opt for a smaller battery pack. Our number one tip to get you started with solar power is to make sure all of your appliances are compatible with solar power before making the leap to a greener lifestyle. You may have to purchase a power inverter for your standard appliances depending on voltage differences.
At the end of the day, solar power is the perfect investment for those who enjoy camping off-grid and away from the hustle and bustle of a campsite. It gives those who love adventure the opportunity to go camping anywhere, not just in a park. Although it seems costly at first, the amount you'll save on campsite fees and electricity will make up for it! Come on in and talk to our Parts Representatives to find out how you can start your solar journey today! We are open Monday - Saturday from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.