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If you’re thinking of converting your RV with solar panels, there’s a lot you need to know. While you can study up on this topic for months, there are some key things to consider, before you know if a solar-equipped RV is right for you. Here’s a list of topics to consider.

What are Solar RV panels?

Solar RV Panels are solar panels that convert the sun’s light in to electricity for you to run your RV. Sunlight hits the solar panels which creates an electric current. Solar RV’s are equipped with a charge controller which regulates how much current goes through the battery. Then the power goes through a solar inverter to change the power from DC to AC power. You need different kinds of power for different things, like AC power runs things like phone chargers, toasters, laptops, etc. Essentially the solar panels supply energy to a large battery, that you use to power your RV.

What are the benefits of going solar?

There are many benefits of going solar, but it’s not for everyone. If you’re looking to get off the grid, or want to be greener in your energy approach, solar may be perfect for you. You can take your RV practically anywhere, as long as you have sunlight to charge your battery. This allows you to explore more places, rather than always being tied to an RV campground with hookups. Outfitting your RV with solar panels can also save money. They do require an initial start up money, outfitting your RV isn’t free. But once you’ve paid to convert your RV the maintenance is relatively cheap.

How many panels do you need for your RV?

This is a trickier question. You should talk to your local renewable energy supplier, like AM Solar, to see how many panels or what sort of set up that they recommend for you and your RV. You need to figure out what panels you want, and what you’ll need them for. If you’re going to use a lot of power when you use your RV, you may need to consider different solar panels, or budget more time spent collecting power. Solar power can be limiting in that you can’t watch TV, cook dinner and take a shower with minimal energy collected. You have to budget your time with energy or look at different solar RV kits.

If you’re looking to get off the grid, or reduce your carbon footprint, solar is the way to go. You will still have to make some lifestyle changes, and get used to using solar panels, but it’s an easy and cost-effective way to go.