The
solar panel
for motorhomes
, like the electric cooler, has become an essential piece of equipment in the world of travel. It sits on the roof of the vehicle and literally turns into a miniature power station. It recharges an auxiliary battery of lead, lithium, gel or AGM type. It can work when the motorhome is parked or in motion. It supplies energy to devices in the vehicle that need it, such as a refrigerator, oven and hob. Thanks to its electrical efficiency, a solar panel for motorhomes can last 2 to 3 days in winter and 5 to 7 days for summer holidays.
Designed as an energy supplement, a solar panel for motorhomes makes it possible to be self-sufficient and to save money.
100% ecological equipment, it uses the sun's rays to produce electricity.
The significant power of the solar panel can supply energy-intensive products in any season such as heating, a kettle and a television.
In recent years, photovoltaic and thermal solar panels have become popular in France.
They are now within the reach of all budgets.
They benefit from a simple installation with few electrical connections.
Our selection :
ECO-WORTHY 100 W 12 V monocrystalline solar panel kit
DOKIO 80W Monocrystalline Portable Foldable Solar Panel Kit
Xinpuguang 200W kit 2 pieces 100W 18V photovoltaic solar panel
DOKIO 100 W 12 V monocrystalline solar panel
Antarion 150 W monocrystalline solar panel kit
How does a solar panel for motorhomes work?
A solar panel for motorhomes transforms the sun's rays, known as UV rays, into electricity.
Essential equipment for the motorhome, it uses several electronic components called photovoltaic cells.
The electrical power generated is proportional to the light power.
The energy is first produced in the form of direct current then transformed into alternating current thanks to a photovoltaic inverter.
It recharges an auxiliary battery.
The efficiency of a photovoltaic panel for motorhomes depends mainly on weather conditions.
An exposure in full sun guarantees a better production of electricity.
Conversely, the presence of clouds causes the tension to drop.
A solar panel should never be shaded, otherwise the electrical output will be reduced.
Most kits include a battery.
It allows the photovoltaic panel to be self-sufficient, even in the event of weak sunlight.
Which solar panel power to choose for a motorhome?
The power of a solar panel for motorhomes is determined according to the electricity consumption and the auxiliary battery. To assess the amount of energy required, it is necessary to identify the devices in the vehicle that will benefit from the electricity from the photovoltaic panel and to know their power. Energy consumption can vary considerably depending on the season and region. Winter is generally the most energy-intensive time for heating. It is advisable to slightly tilt the solar panel during this season to evacuate rainwater and obtain better electrical efficiency.
A solar panel for motorhomes offers an average of 100 W of power.
It offers a daily consumption of around 40 Ah in summer, 25 Ah in spring and autumn, and 10 Ah in winter.
For more precision, it suffices to multiply the power of the devices by the number of hours of consumption.
For example, a device with a power of 60 W used for 3 hours consumes 180 W. Several solar panels for motorhomes allow to obtain a better output.
However, care must be taken not to overproduce electricity.
How to clean the solar panels of a motorhome?
A dirty solar panel can reduce electricity production just like a cloudy sky.
The battery recharges more slowly and the autonomy is limited.
A cleaning of the solar panels for motorhomes is required approximately every 6 months.
It maximizes their energy efficiency.
However, it must be done with care not to damage the photovoltaic cells.
It is imperative to never use a water jet or accidentally step on the solar panel.
Here are the steps to follow for cleaning in good condition:
turn off and unplug the solar panel;
secure the regulator and the battery;
check that no electric current is flowing;
use a rotating nylon brush or a soft sponge;
soak the utensil in pure water;
clean the solar panel with small circular movements;
dry with a microfiber cloth.
What are the advantages of a solar panel for motorhomes?
Beyond being an electricity supplement for motorhomes, a solar panel has many advantages that are effective in the long term.
Here are the most important:
Self-sufficiency
:
thanks to the sun's rays, a solar panel can recharge the batteries of a motorhome, whether in use or at a standstill.
Durability
:
Most RV solar panels have an estimated lifespan of 25 years.
Proper maintenance can prolong their life and electrical performance.
Ecology
:
photovoltaic solar energy is 100% renewable unlike fossil fuels such as oil.
A solar panel for motorhome does not reject any waste and allows you to do something for the environment.
Economy
:
thanks to its self-sufficiency, its durability and its ecological aspect, a solar panel for motorhome can save considerable money.
It turns out to be extremely profitable in hot weather.
Versatility
:
the production of electricity generated by a solar panel for motorhomes can power several devices, even the most energy intensive.
Some models are portable and foldable and can be used for various occasions.
How to install a solar panel for motorhome?
You can install a solar panel for motorhomes yourself without going through a professional.
You just need to carefully follow the following steps:
identify a location on the roof of the motorhome at a good distance from the battery;
identify the areas where the electric cables will pass;
identify the location where the solar regulator will be placed;
disconnect all electrical currents from the vehicle;
drill all the places where the electric cables will be placed;
clean and dry the roof of the motorhome;
mark the location of the solar panel;
place and fix the solar panel on the marked location;
slide the cable through the cable gland;
fill the hole in the roof with the cable gland;
slide the cable to the battery;
fix the solar regulator;
connect the wires from the solar panel to the regulator;
connect the wires from the regulator to the battery;
check if the solar panel is working properly.
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