solar panels

  1. MO

    Running a TV Using Solar Panels

    Are any of you guys running a TV using roof solar panels? I tried running mine but it's now working so well. Seems to be draining the batteries very quickly. The TV is a Samsung 32” T5300 HD HDR Smart TV. Can;t find any info on watts. But it has an energy rating of 'F'. The solar set up is...
  2. CR

    Upgrade of Imagine AIM Solar Power System

    In April of 2024 I purchased a new 2023 Imagine AIM 18BH after having a used Jayco hybrid previously. The new GD came with a Norcold N2175 DC fridge (7.0A std mode, 5.0A nite), a Valterra 200 Watt solar panel, a GO Power 30A solar charge controller (GP-PWM-30-SQ) which per Dometic is able to...
  3. medora

    Solar/lithium power dilemma: not enough bang for our bucks!

    Hi all, I’m hoping you wise folks can advise me on a vexing solar/power related question. I have a 2012 17B which we modified last year because we could no longer deal with our teeny bed. Essentially, we took out the fridge and extended the bed using a lagun table. It works GREAT and we’re...
  4. TO

    battery backup question

    Last week after a couple of cloudy days my battery ran down and the electrical systems shut down. The next morning, I got ready to leave. The sun was shining again, and the solar panel did its job. I thought about buying a generator but might use it less than once a year and would still need...
  5. TE

    Imagine XLS 22MLE solar question

    We just purchased and waiting delivery of a 2024 Imagine XLS 22MLE. Trying to get ahead of the game, and wondering what I can expect with the 165 watt solar and the 12v refrigerator. Last fridge was a 3-way and I am trying to figure if the panel that comes with the trailer will be enough to...
  6. Leo Breydon

    Solar Panel Placement Myths: Debunking "Best Practices"

    For years, we've been bombarded with advice on the "ideal" placement for solar panels: south-facing roofs, specific angles, zero shading – the list goes on. But what if these so-called best practices are outdated or even inaccurate? I recently stumbled upon some information that challenges...
  7. PA

    2018 Escape 17A - $29,500 PNW

    Price reduced to $28,000 ~ Located in Pacific Northwest I have had many enjoyable hours in my 17A trailer. It tows easily and has been problem free. The items that have been updated or replaced are simply things wearing out in a normal manner. This provides the buyer with a “Like New” trailer...
  8. AP

    For Sale - Solar Panels, Charge Controllers, Inverter/Charger

    Hi everyone. My family and I have spent the last four years living in our off-grid skoolie and a year or so before that getting it built out. Over those five years we've gone through a few upgrades, redesigns, and modifications. The results of which have been: 1. I learned a lot. 2. I now...
  9. BE

    Solar Combiner Box Keeps Tripping

    Hello, I have 4, 100 watt solar panels connected to a combiner box. In the middle of the day the breaker in it with trip. We disconnect one solar panel and that keeps it from tripping but then our batteries drain way faster. Not sure how to go about fixing this issue. Any advice or solutions...
  10. TH

    I have two 370 watt panels, what amp system & inverter do I need?

    Hello! I have two 370 watt solar panels, but am completely in the dark when it comes to electrical. Looking for any advice and guidance as to what other components I will need (amp system, charge controller, batteries, etc.). Thank you in advance for any help!
  11. TE

    Slate ... 2020 Sprinter Build

    Slate (our 2020 Sprinter) is now officially on the road. This is a summary of our journey from the purchase of our 144 low roof 4x4 Sprinter in April 2020 to the recently completed build out. First, thanks to this forum for providing valuable insight and helping shape the final product. The...
  12. SU

    For Sale! 1983 Bluebird Converted 40ft Bus Asheville NC $38,500k

    Hello! 40 foot 1983 Bluebird School Bus! Located near Asheville NC. Master bedroom, 2 bedroom areas split in the center area. Couch with storage. Kitchen w sink. Wood burning stove! Toilet inside, outside shower. Water storage tank. AC Solar panels Inverter/converter RV electric Deck...
  13. SH

    Solar panels/ Bus contour

    Hi, I am brand new to the site and brand new to skoolie building. My question is in two parts.My 2002 Gmc 5 window has an almost round roof. When installing solar panels, is it ok to follow the contours of the roof? Second question: Has anyone installed flashing around your panels to eliminate lift?
  14. BO

    Maximum solar on chevy G3500 Bluebird short bus (5 window)

    Hi all! I am trying to install the maximum solar capability on my bus. Anyone on here build a similar bus and what was the maximum solar you were able to put on the roof? Where my hatch is on the roof limits me. I also want to install a Max fan. Right now I have 8 feet in front of the hatch...
  15. HI

    Solar - add or replace?

    I have a 2022 Jayflight 212QBW Rocky Mountain that came with a single Go Power 100w (polycrystalline) panel. I want to add at least 1 more panel. The conundrum is do I go with another overpriced & less efficient go power panel that matches the one already installed, or do I get 2 Renogy panels...
  16. LU

    Best roadside assistance plans

    experience with any or any specific ones to avoid? Never used any but had problems with our regular vehicle on a road trip so wondering if we should buy a plan before our longer pull with our camper. I am also planning to buy a portable power station, any good recommendations, my budget is...
  17. emmaabraham

    Mounting solar panels

    please help! how did you mount your panels? we can’t do nuts and bolts because we kept the original ceiling, we’ve been trying rivets but our brackets don’t give enough room to get them straight and not at an angle. what do you guys think? get new brackets to do rivets? try metal self tapping...
  18. DO

    Solar Panels for Sale - 120 Watt - New in Box

    Greetings Forum Members -- and to East Coast Meet Up Attendees -- Not sure if this is appropriate conduct - apologize in advance ! I've mistakenly ordered the wrong solar panel(s) for my van. Here's what I ordered - ACOPOWER 120W Mono Lightweight Portable Solar Panel Kit 2Pcs 60W Solar...
  19. MU

    Any suggestions on reducing solar panel installation costs?

    My house is 1200 sq. ft, and I intend to install solar panels this winter. However, I got stunned by my cousin's installation costs. She has a 2000 sq. ft house, which cost around $11k, a huge amount! Can some experts help me with the installation costs of solar panels in Alaska for a 1200 sq...
  20. AD

    Zamp port and panel wattage

    I believe that the Zamp port on my 2020 21NE is wired into the charge controller, presumably in parallel with my two 190 W roof mounted panels. Therefore, if I wanted to acquire a portable panel, I assume I would be looking to get a panel that is >=190 W, else a smaller wattage might constrain...
  21. TO

    For Sale: 600 watts solar with mppt, inverter and batteries

    Hey, I have a spare solar setup for sale. 3x 200 watt newpowa panels (they do have full output) 30 amp newpowa mppt controller 2x 100 ah batteries (never gone dead) 1x 2000 watt/4000 peak aims pure sine inverter with remote on off switch Everything is around two years old. This setup works...
  22. DA

    Solar Plug on ImagineXLS 18RBE

    My 2019 18RBE has a plug on the outside of the trailer labeled Furrion and solar. Can I just plug a portable solar panel into this and recharge the trailer battery? Is there any special brand of panel or equipment that needs to be used?
  23. JD

    Thor Magnitude 34

    Hi, New to RVs and happy new 2022 Magnitude 34 owner. I’d really like to increase the solar panels/batteries on the RV. Does anyone have any experience or recommendations? Currently have two 6v batteries (lead acid), I was informed I could fit four batteries but lead acid is a bit of an issue...
  24. TC

    Do I really need solar

    Hello all - I'm currently pricing out solar system and am wondering if I can get away without doing solar panels right away. I'm thinking about getting the battery bank setup and installing solar panels later when I have the time/money. My question is... would I be able to charge my battery...
  25. emmaabraham

    Solar Reccomendations

    Hello! I'm looking to hear what your guys' solar recommendations are? I have a 29 passenger, 4 window long short bus. There will be two people living in it and a dog. Any insight or recommendations on what brands you guys like and maybe how much power or how many panels you think we may need...

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