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For RV enthusiasts seeking adventure off the beaten path, having a reliable source of power is a top priority. RVs come equipped with 12-volt deep cycle batteries to run lights, water pumps, and other basics. However, these batteries have limited capacity, and constant draining reduces their lifespan. This is where portable solar generators come in very handy!
Portable solar generators are renewable backup power stations that allow you to go off-grid in your RV without sacrificing necessities and comforts. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything RV owners need to know about powering their rigs with portable solar generators.
What is a portable solar generator?
A portable solar generator consists of a lithium battery bank, an inverter to convert battery power into 120-volt AC power, and standard household outlets for connecting appliances and devices. What sets them apart from traditional gas-powered generators is the ability to recharge the batteries through solar energy. The system includes one or more solar panels that feed sunshine-generated electricity back into the battery bank when parked in the sunlight. Many portable solar generators can also recharge from wall outlets and even a 12-volt car charging port. The technology allows endless, clean power as long as you have access to the sun's rays.
Lithium batteries are a game-changer for solar generators. In contrast to outdated lead-acid batteries, lithium batteries are far lighter, more efficient, and retain their charge for much longer. When paired with efficient monocrystalline solar panels, a lithium solar generator gives RV adventurers the freedom and independence to stay comfortable off the grid.
Why do Your RVs need backup power?
Traveling in an RV allows you to explore off-beaten locations away from civilization and power hookups. But spending days off-grid puts a strain on your RV battery, and with unpredictable weather, you can't always rely on solar recharging. Running your battery down repeatedly causes sulfation and shortens its lifespan. This is where a solar generator provides a critical, portable backup power source for boondocking and bad weather days.
Even when camping at sites with electric hookups, power failures happen. Portable solar generators serve as an insurance policy to keep your essentials running during a site-wide outage. Things like interior lighting, water pumps, CPAP machines, and cell phone charging can mean the difference between comfort and misery during a power interruption.
You've invested in your home on wheels to facilitate adventure and freedom. A solar generator keeps you off the grid without sacrificing modern necessities. Their clean, quiet power protects the serenity of the natural locations you seek out. Connect with nature - not an engine humming outside your camper all night!
How much power does a 30-amp RV use?
A 30-amp RV will typically use around 3,600 watts of power. This powers your essential appliances like lights, water pump, furnace, AC, and some kitchen appliances. When hooking up at a 30-amp campsite, the circuit breaker will trip if you exceed 3,600 watts. Keep in mind that appliances like AC units and microwaves have very high start-up wattages, so you have to be careful not to run too many things at once. Knowing your RV's electrical load is key to running it off a portable solar generator.
How much power does a 50-amp RV use?
A 50-amp RV can use up to 12,000 watts of power. 50-amp service gives you a lot more room to operate high-drain appliances like multiple ACs, electric water heaters, washers/dryers, and so on. At a 50-amp RV site, you won't trip the circuit breaker as easily since the electric supply is stronger. But for a portable solar generator, you'd likely want multiple panels and batteries to provide this higher level of power. A 5,000-watt portable solar generator paired with 400 watts of solar panels is a good 50-amp RV setup.
What size portable solar generators do I need for my RVS?
Choosing what size portable solar generator you need depends on the types of appliances and devices you want to run. Here are some typical portable power station sizes to handle different RV electrical loads:
- 1,000 to 1,500 watts: Good for powering basic lights and devices like phones, laptops, and portable fridges.
- 2,000 to 3,000 watts: Suitable for 30-amp RVs to run a roof AC, TV, instant pot, and other small appliances.
- 3,000 to 5,000 watts: Ideal for 50-amp RVs to simultaneously power AC, microwave, coffee maker, and more.
Take an inventory of your must-have appliances and their wattages. Add up the numbers to determine your total wattage needs. Choose a portable solar generator that meets those needs with a comfortable cushion of extra capacity. Aim to get a generator that's at least 20% larger than your calculated wattage. This prevents overload and allows for future electric upgrades.
Will a 3000-watt generator run a 30-amp RV?
Yes, a 3,000-watt portable generator has enough power to run most 30-amp RVs. The key factors are the startup surges and simultaneous loads of your RV appliances. For example, an AC unit may temporarily spike to 2,000+ watts when turning on. This could overload a 3,000-watt unit if other devices are on.
To run a 30-amp RV safely with a 3,000-watt portable generator, you need to be strategic. Keep an eye on your electrical load, and don't run too many high-draw appliances at once. Turn on the AC first before operating anything else. A soft-start RV air conditioner also helps prevent overloading. Get a generator with at least 3,500 watts if you want to operate multiple appliances without closely monitoring the load.
What will a 110-watt solar panel run in an RV?
A standard 100-110 watt solar panel for an RV can produce around 500-600 watt-hours of power per day. This is enough to run:
- LED lights for 5+ hours
- A small 12V refrigerator for 3-4 hours
- Recharge phones, tablets, and laptops
- Power a CPAP machine for 8+ hours
- Run a portable fan for 4-6 hours
So, a single 100-watt solar panel is good for powering basic lights and small devices. To run larger appliances like a microwave or AC, you would need several panels to produce more power. Have an experienced RV technician assess your energy needs and install the right number of solar panels.
How many solar panels do I need to run a 30-amp RV?
To run a 30 amp RV, you will likely need 400-800 watts of solar panels. Here are some solar panel guidelines:
- 400W solar array: Enough to provide light power for a 30 amp RV's lights, pumps, vents, and small appliances. Requires power conservation.
- 600W solar array: Provides adequate power for most daily use of a 30 amp RV, including some AC.
- 800W+ solar array: Provides full power to a 30 amp RV to comfortably run AC, microwave, and multiple appliances.
The number of panels depends on the wattage of each panel. For example, four 100W panels would equal a 400W array. When installing your solar array, make sure other system components like batteries, charge controller, and inverter are also adequately sized. Have your RV inspected by a solar technician for the right solar setup.
How many solar panels do I need to run an RV air conditioner?
Most RV roof-mounted air conditioners draw around 15-20 amps, which equals 1,800-2,400 watts. With losses from system inefficiency, you will need about 800-1000W of solar panels to run an RV AC. Here are some solar panel guidelines for RV air conditioners:
- 600W array: May handle intermittent AC use but risks overload.
- 800W array: Provides enough power for moderate daytime AC use.
- 1,000-1,200W array: Enough power for extended AC use, even in hot conditions.
The number of panels needed depends on the wattage of each panel. For example, four 250W panels would produce a 1,000W array. Make sure to use solar panels and components rated for RVs to handle the significant load. Hire an RV technician to size your system and wire it correctly.
Conclusion
Investing in a quality portable solar generator provides RV owners with reliable, renewable backup power on the go. Take stock of your RV's electrical loads and appliances to determine the right size solar generator and panels. With strategic use and proper installation, solar power allows you to camp off-grid and maintain essential comforts while reducing your fuel costs and environmental impact. Consult RV solar experts to build your ideal portable solar setup for adventures untethered from the electrical grid. The freedom to roam starts with energy independence!
