Solar power has become one of the most popular and accessible upgrades for RV owners of all experience levels.
This technology has transformed the camping experience, particularly for those who enjoy boondocking or camping without hookups.
With the right equipment and knowledge, you can harness the power of the sun to keep your RV batteries charged and your appliances running, no matter how far you are from the nearest electrical hookup.
In this comprehensive guide, I'll walk you through the process of hooking up solar panels to your RV batteries, from understanding the basic components to completing the installation. I'll share product recommendations based on years of experience in the RV industry and provide step-by-step instructions that even beginners can follow with confidence.
Before diving into the technical details, let's consider why solar power has become such a game-changer for RV owners:
When I first started in the RV industry over 20 years ago, solar power was considered a luxury or a complex modification for the technically inclined.
Today, it's become much more accessible, with plug-and-play systems that even novice RVers can install. I've helped countless customers design and install solar systems, and the joy they experience when they realize they can run their essential appliances without a generator or hookups is always rewarding.
When solar was just getting started in the RV industry, manufacturers kept it a big mystery.
With it being such a great way to keep your RV batteries topped up when not using the camper or boondocking without hookups, it has been easier than ever to add to your RV.
Let's demystify the basic components and concepts:
Pro tip: I always recommend investing in quality components, especially for the charge controller. I once helped a customer who had damaged his batteries by using an inadequate charge controller that couldn't properly regulate the incoming power. The money he saved on the controller ended up costing him much more in replacement batteries.
To plan your solar system effectively, you need to understand a few basic electrical terms:
A simple formula to remember: Watts = Volts × Amps
Before selecting components, assess your power requirements:
For example, if you determine you need 100Ah of battery capacity daily, and you have a 12V battery system, you'll need approximately:
100Ah × 12V = 1,200Wh (or 1.2kWh) of energy daily
Considering that solar panels typically produce their rated wattage for only 4-6 hours of peak sunlight per day, you'd need:
1,200Wh ÷ 5 hours = 240W of solar panels (minimum)
However, I typically recommend at least doubling this minimum calculation to account for cloudy days, panel inefficiencies, and system losses.
A quick story: I once helped a couple who had calculated their needs perfectly on paper but forgot to account for real-world conditions. They installed a 200W system for their estimated 180W needs, only to find themselves with insufficient power on partly cloudy days. We ended up adding another 200W panel, and they've been happily boondocking ever since. The lesson? Always build in more capacity than you think you'll need.
When it comes to setting up a solar power system for your RV, there are two main approaches: portable solar kits and permanent roof-mounted panels.
Each has its advantages depending on your travel style, power needs, and willingness to install equipment.
For RVers who prefer flexibility, portable solar panels are a great choice. These folding kits can be positioned in direct sunlight even if your RV is parked in the shade, and they don’t require permanent installation. They're especially handy for part-time boondockers or those new to solar.
Many kits, such as the Go Power 82729 80W Portable Folding Solar Kit, include a built-in charge controller and pack neatly into a carrying case. They're lightweight, easy to set up, and ideal for topping off your batteries during short off-grid stays.
For RVers with greater power demands, there are higher-wattage options like the Zamp Solar USP1016 190W Portable Kit, which offer more charging capacity but come with added size and weight.
Portable panels are great if:
Keep in mind that portable panels must be stored when not in use and set up each time you arrive at a new site.
If you’re a full-time RVer or boondock frequently, permanently mounted roof panels may be the better long-term solution. These systems are always working whenever the sun is out—no daily setup required.
An all-in-one kit like the Zamp Solar KIT1021 95W Deluxe Solar Kit provides everything you need to get started, including a high-efficiency panel, digital charge controller, wiring, and mounting hardware.
While 95 watts is ideal for basic needs (like lights, charging devices, or running a vent fan), many systems are expandable, allowing you to add more panels later.
When installing panels permanently, don’t overlook the importance of a quality mounting kit, such as the Go Power 77579 Solar Panel Mounting Kit.
It includes Z-brackets, sealant, and all necessary hardware to ensure a secure, leak-free install. Always use a generous amount of sealant around any roof penetrations—I've seen water damage caused by poor sealing that cost far more to fix than the solar system itself.
Roof-mounted panels are ideal if:
Pro tip: No matter which system you choose, make sure your charge controller is properly sized for your panel output and battery type. A digital controller with battery status monitoring can save you a lot of guesswork.
Now that we've covered the basics and recommended products, let's walk through the installation process for both portable and permanent solar systems:
Portable systems offer the easiest entry point into RV solar power, requiring minimal technical knowledge and no permanent modifications to your RV.
A word of caution: I've seen many RVers place their portable panels in partial shade, not realizing that even 10% shading can reduce output by up to 50%. Take the time to find a spot with unobstructed sunlight for maximum efficiency.
For kits with alligator clips:
For kits with SAE or other connectors:
Permanent installations provide continuous charging without daily setup but require more technical skill and comfort with modifying your RV.
Pro tip: When drilling into your RV roof, always use a drill stop or wrap tape around your drill bit to prevent drilling too deep and damaging interior components. I've helped several customers repair damage from overzealous drilling, and it's an easily avoidable mistake.
Most RVers start with a basic solar setup and expand as their needs grow. When planning for expansion:
A quick story: I started with a single 100W panel on my own RV, thinking it would be sufficient for my minimal needs. Within a year, I had expanded to 400W as I discovered how liberating it was to have abundant power while boondocking. Planning for expansion from the beginning saved me from having to replace my charge controller and wiring.
Your battery bank is as important as your solar panels:
1. Match battery capacity to solar capacity: A general rule is 100Ah of battery capacity for every 100W of solar panels
2. Consider upgrading to lithium batteries: Though more expensive initially, they offer:
3. Battery monitoring: Install a battery monitor like the Victron BMV-712 for accurate information about your battery state
If you plan to run AC appliances:
Even well-installed solar systems can encounter problems. Here are solutions to common issues:
Possible causes and solutions:
Pro tip: I always recommend carrying a multimeter in your RV toolkit. It's invaluable for troubleshooting solar issues by allowing you to check voltages at different points in the system. I once helped a customer diagnose a faulty connection simply by measuring voltage at each junction point until we found where the power was being lost.
To keep your solar system performing optimally:
A word of caution: When cleaning roof-mounted panels, always prioritize safety. I've known several RVers who have fallen while maintaining their solar systems. If your roof is slippery or steeply pitched, consider using a long-handled brush from the ground or having the panels cleaned professionally.
Adding solar power to your RV is one of the most rewarding upgrades you can make, providing energy independence and extending your camping capabilities. Whether you choose a simple portable system like the Go Power 80W Folding Kit or a more robust permanent installation with the Zamp 190W system, the process is more accessible than ever.
Remember that your solar journey doesn't have to begin with a massive investment. Many RVers start with a single panel and basic controller, then expand their system as their needs and budget allow. The modular nature of solar power is one of its greatest advantages.
By following the steps outlined in this guide and choosing quality components from reputable manufacturers, you'll be well on your way to enjoying the benefits of solar power on your next RV adventure. The freedom to camp wherever you want without worrying about power hookups opens up a whole new world of possibilities for your RV lifestyle.
For more specific advice about your particular RV or solar needs, don't hesitate to reach out to us at RV Upgrade Store. We're always happy to help fellow RVers harness the power of the sun!
I’m Bill Rowell, the founder of RVupgrades.com. In 2002, I launched the business to help fellow RV enthusiasts find unique and hard-to-find products. Over the years, it’s grown to offer more than 15,000 items, with a warehouse in Eastlake, Ohio. Having owned and repaired nearly every type of RV, I bring over two decades of hands-on experience to the table. For me, this isn’t just a business—it’s a passion and a way of life that I love sharing with the RV community.
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