Are you looking for the best portable solar panels for RV to pair with your solar generator? After all, solar energy is one of the safest and cleanest energy sources available. While you’re on the road in your RV, you don’t want your solar generator to run out of power. It’s unlikely, but it’s always good to be prepared, especially for longer trips. Having extra solar panels on hand to charge up your RV is one of the best ways to make sure you don’t get stranded.
Usually, your solar generator will come with the minimum number of solar panels needed to perform properly. However, you can always connect more for optimal performance. Here are some guidelines for finding the best portable solar panels for RV.
What to Look for in Portable RV Solar Panels
Be sure to consider the following factors when shopping for solar panels to charge your RV’s solar generator:
Material
You will notice portable solar panels for RVs are either made of monocrystalline or polycrystalline. Monocrystalline solar panels are made of single silicon crystals and have black-colored cells. This material is highly efficient, but these panels are the more expensive option.
Meanwhile, polycrystalline solar panels utilize multiple silicon crystals melted together to create their cells, which are colored blue. Although polycrystalline solar panels are the more affordable option, they are not as efficient as their monocrystalline counterparts.
In addition, each material has a unique temperature coefficient. Mono solar panels have a lower temperature coefficient, making them more effective as the temperature changes and suitable for trips with unpredictable weather changes. Poly solar panels have a higher temperature coefficient. They are less effective when the temperature rises. However, if you live in a colder climate, this may not be an issue for you!
Overall, both materials tend to last about the same amount of time, so some RV owners will simply choose one or the other by their color preferences.
Wattage
Your solar panel has to produce enough power for your entire RV. They come in different sizes, with the larger ones generally producing more power than smaller devices. When choosing portable solar panels according to their wattage, make sure to take into account how much energy you use.
Assess your power needs by checking the power ratings of your RV’s devices and appliances. Either look at the stickers on the appliance, bring out the manual, or look up the devices’ specifications online.
When you know how much power your RV’s appliances use, you can adjust accordingly and purchase solar panels that produce enough power. Normally, you’ll find products that offer between one and two hundred watts.
For example, 12V light bulbs usually need 6 watts to work. Suppose you only use these lights for an hour a day, perhaps during the nighttime. In this case, solar panels that offer closer to 100 watts should be enough to power your needs.
However, it’s different if you plan to extend your light usage, especially if you’re traveling at night and need light while on the road. Calculate your average usage and plan accordingly.
Portability
Finally, consider how portable the solar panels are before buying them. Ideally, you want something lightweight and easy to carry that still provides enough power. Checking the product’s dimensions and weight is the best way to know if the solar panels are portable.
Many of the best portable solar panels for RV have larger dimensions. Expect to see products between 40x20x2 inches and 55x26x5 inches. While they may not immediately seem easy to carry around, products of these sizes are best because they provide the standard wattage needed for an RV.
Speaking of carrying your panels around in your RV, consider having a carrying case to protect the cells. Also, be sure to check their weight to avoid dropping them and causing more damage if carrying heavy objects is a problem for you. Flexible solar panels for RVs tend to be the lighter option.
Portability also involves the outside or when you bring the panels outside your RV when you’re camping. Perhaps you want to charge them while the sun is out so you can collect enough energy for the next day. However, you might want to park your RV in the shade, away from direct sunlight. In this case, be sure to get solar panels with cords long enough to provide distance from your vehicle.
Benefits of Using Portable Solar Panels for RV
While you’ve already made up your mind to adopt a clean energy lifestyle, here are more reasons to proceed:
Convenient: Portable solar panels are easy-to-carry devices that ensure you will have enough power for the duration of your next camping trip. You can take them anywhere and can charge them wherever you have good sunlight.
Ecological: Solar power is green energy. Portable solar panels are the solution for environmentally conscious travelers who want to limit their carbon footprint as much as possible.
Affordable: Compared to traditional power sources, portable solar panels for RV are economical options. Plus, they only get more affordable as technology improves.
Get Started on Your Renewable Energy Journey With Atlasta Solar
Power your RV’s solar generator with solar panels! With the right devices to keep your power source charged, you can rest assured that your entire vehicle will stay powered throughout your journey. Whether you have a big trip coming up or spend most of your days on the road, it is necessary to bring the appropriate portable solar panels for your RV. Be sure to assess the solar panel’s features before you intend to buy it. You want your panels to be portable without compromising quality. Be sure to review how much energy you consume and how much extra weight your RV can carry. For more information about renewable energy and how it suits your RV, get in touch with our solar energy specialists at Atlasta Solar Center!