How to Set Up Solar Panels for Caravan

Which Caravan Solar Panel is Best?

The answer to this question really does depend on what you're looking for in your solar panels. Both mounted and flexible solar panels come with benefits and downfalls. Mounted solar panels are fixed to the roof of your caravan or RV. After they are installed, they are not easily removed. However, that keeps them safe from thieves and extreme weather. But, mounting these solar panels does often need profession installation. Initially, these are usually more expensive than portable systems. However, once they are set up and installed, they constantly operate. This system allows you to run your solar panels without having to think about it! If your van is often parked in the sun, then the fixed solar panels provide a some protection and insulation from the midday sun.

The other option is flexible solar panels. This system is often popular with regular travellers as they are more portable and easy to move. They are also usually less expensive than fixed panels. But, they do need space to be stored with their wiring inside the caravan. Unlike the fixed option, these panels are more prone to damage in weather conditions. They are also more likely to be stolen and need to be set up and packed down each time you use them. However, these nifty units can be placed in the sunlight wherever you are, meaning you can park in the shade. They also have the potential to generate slightly more power than their counterpart. This is because they can be moved to track the sun. With fixed units, you may also need to move your caravan throughout the day to generate enough energy.

Flexibility is not the only thing to consider when choosing your solar panels. The material is also important to think about. Most caravan solar panels are either monocrystalline or polycrystalline.

Monocrystalline solar panels are slightly more efficient than their counterpart. However, that is reflected in their higher cost due to the complicated manufacturing. These panels also face the possibility of losing power when interfered by shadows. When a section of the panel is in the shade, the circuit can be broken, stopping it from generating power . This type of panel usually has the longest life expectancy in this area. It also operates much better in low-light conditions compared to its counterpart .

• Higher cost
• Higher efficiency in low light
• Can't deal with interfering shadow

Polycrystalline solar panels are much more cost effective . The lower price is shown in their efficiency, as they are slightly less efficient . They also need a much bigger size to generate the same amount of power as their counterpart. This varies depending on the weather and quality of panels.

• Cheaper
• Need larger size panel for same power output
• Bulkier, takes up more space

According to Outdoria , the monocrystalline system is the most common for road travellers . This is due to their compact size, which can maximise the limited room of a caravan or RV. This solar panel needs extra care to keep it out of the shade, unlike the polycrystalline system. When choosing your panels, it's important to note your preferences. Would you rather flexibility or efficiency for your system?

Why I Need a Solar Regulator

Now that you've had time to think about what solar panels are best for your caravan, it's time to look at the logistics. Running the system is a lot more than choosing the right panels and understanding how they work. The next question we will look at is, why do you need a solar regulator? But, before we ask that, we'll take a look at what a solar regulator is.

A solar regulator is a small box that  is placed between the solar panel and a battery. The regulator stops batteries from being overcharged and ensures they don't get damaged. It does this by regulating the amount of charge coming in from the panels. Regulators can also provide direct connection to appliances while simultaneously recharging the battery. These regulators are essential if you want off-grid power for your caravan or RV.

If you want your power to be completely off-grid, there are two types of controllers to consider. These are Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) and Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) controllers.

How to Set Up Solar Panels for Caravan

Source: https://www.allbrandcs.com.au/a-beginners-guide-to-choosing-the-right-caravan-solar-panels/

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