Are solar panels good for motorhome batteries?

Solar panels are a useful automatic fit-and-forget product that can help supply additional charge to your motorhome batteries - but understanding how to get the most out of them is key. Peter Rosenthal explains All solar panels have a label about maximum output – look for the Imp current number. This 50W panel has a maximum summer output of 2.85A

How much solar power does a motorhome battery need?

Around 0.25-0.5A is considered a normal rate of drain for most modern motorhome base vehicle batteries. So in this case, just to keep on top of normal motorhome battery drain, you’d need to use at least 300W of solar to keep pace with the drain during the daytime. And that’s before you’ve switched anything on!

What type of battery do you need for a motorhome?

Most motorhome owners opt for 12V batteries. Lead-acid or lithium-ion (Li-Ion) batteries are the two most common battery types. Lead-acid batteries are an affordable, durable mature technology. However, they require regular maintenance and are significantly less efficient than Li-On batteries.

Are flat solar panels safe for a motorhome?

Overall, flat panels are the safe bet for a motorhome. The benefits of an adjustable mount just aren’t that much that it pays to put up with the hassles they bring unless you are staying in one place for a long time. Solar panels vary in output but it’s proportional to their size.

How many batteries do you need for an RV?

Most RVs come with 100Ah or smaller batteries from the factory. For longer battery life and capacity, it’s recommended to upgrade to two larger 6V batteries and wire them in series. Or use two 12V batteries wired in parallel, which adds up the amp-hour ratings. For example, two 100Ah batteries provide 200Ah total capacity.

How to keep batteries topped up while camping?

Just set up the panels in the sun pointing south and connect them to your batteries’ positive and negative terminals. It’s a simple solution to keep batteries topped up while camping. If you would rather install a solar panel on the roof of your camper, consider buying a solar kit that includes everything you need.