RV Solar Panels

How Do RV Solar Panels Work, Exactly?

RV solar panels convert sunlight into electricity to charge your RV's batteries. They convert sunlight into DC. This direct current (DC) is transformed into alternating current (AC) by a device called an inverter, which powers your RV appliances. And the electricity stored charges your RV battery bank for later use. An RV solar system typically includes solar panels, a charge controller, an inverter, and batteries. These components work together to create a renewable power source, making your off-grid camping possible.

Best RV Solar Panels

We continually update our RV solar panel collections. We have also developed extremely portable Paso CIGS solar panels for RVs, flexible RV solar panels, and rigid Monocrystalline solar panels to power your RV.

Portable Solar Panels for RVs

BougeRV's Paso foldable solar panels, built with CIGS solar cells, are our most portable panels for off-grid RV use. These lightweight and easy-to-carry solar panels are the optimal choice for powering your essential portable electronics.

Best Monocrystalline Solar Panels for RVs

Delivering the highest efficiency in direct sunlight, BougeRV's mono-facial and bifacial Monocrystalline solar panels are excellent rooftop solar panels offering permanent and semi-permanent solutions for your RV.

Why RV Solar Panels from BougeRV？

BougeRV offers a range of high-efficiency, lightweight RV solar panels. Designed with advanced technology, our robust and versatile panels can efficiently power your RV and RV appliances.

★ 100% Reliable

Waterproof;
-40℉～+185℉

★ For All RV Styles

All-black or classic design

★ 12-Year Product Warranty

Quality design

★ Up to 25 Years

We stand by our solar panels

Power Any Type of Your RV

BougeRV's off-grid RV solar panels are crafted for:

• Class A RV, Class B RV, Class C RV
• RV campers, RV trailers/travel trailers
• Motorhomes, campervans, fifth-wheel trailers
• Popup campers, truck campers, etc.

Power Your RV Appliances

The following RV appliances can be powered by our solar panels:

• RV refrigerator
• RV air conditioner
• Charge a generator for an RV, ect.

Solar Panels Comparison

Flexible vs. Rigid Solar Panels for RVs

Flexible solar panels for RVs are lightweight, flexible, and easy to mount to fit curved surfaces. They're perfect for those who have limited space. Made with crack-resistant CIGS solar cells, our flexible solar panels can even bend up to 360°, allowing them to withstand the rough conditions of your RV's terrain. On the other hand, rigid solar panels are typically more efficient. With strong frames and protective glass, they last longer. They are also better suited for high heat conditions.

Monocrystalline vs. Polycrystalline Solar Panels for RVs

Monocrystalline solar panels are more efficient than Polycrystalline panels, as they convert more sunlight into power. This makes them ideal for RVs with limited roof space. However, they come with a higher initial cost. On the other hand, Polycrystalline panels are a more budget-friendly option but offer lower efficiency. Hence, if your primary focus is efficiency, you may prefer Monocrystalline panels instead of Polycrystalline ones.

Generator vs. Solar Panels for RVs

Generators provide reliable power, but they can be noisy, reliant on fuel, and aren't the most eco-friendly option. Alternatively, solar panels for RVs present a quiet, sustainable energy solution that's free once installed. They need little maintenance and work well in sunny locations, though their efficiency might decrease on cloudy days. While the upfront expense for solar panels can be high, they could end up saving you money in the long run.

How Many Watt Solar Panels Do I Need for My RV？

An RV typically uses less than 200 kWh per month. Let's say your RV consumes 180kWh monthly and gets 5 peak sun hours daily; you would need six 200W solar panels or another combination that meets the energy need. For cloudy days, we suggest opting for a higher-efficiency solar array.

To determine the number of solar panels required for your RV, you can also easily figure out the solar panels' wattage using our online RV solar panel size calculator.

Tips on Mounting Solar Panels on RV

How to Hook up Solar Panels to RV Batteries?

Here are the steps for connecting your solar panels to your batteries:

1. Install your solar panels on your RV roof and wire them up.
2. Install your charge controller inside the RV as close to your batteries as possible.
3. Run your wiring from the solar panels into the RV and over to the charge controller. (You can run the wiring through a refrigerator vent or through the holes where the plumbing enters the RV. Or, drill a hole in your RV’s roof to run the wires.) You should install a circuit breaker on the wires for this run.
4. Attach the wires from a charge controller to your battery bank.
5. Connect the solar panels to the charge controller. Before connecting, check all wiring to ensure the positive and negative polarities are correct. Once confident, you can attach the solar panels to the charge controller.
6. Install an inverter inside your RV if you want to use 120V AC appliances. (This step is optional)

Note:
• The safest way to charge an RV’s battery is by connecting the battery and solar panels to a solar charge controller. Alternatively, the solar panels directly connected to the battery can be inefficient and could even damage the battery.
• If you are wiring your solar panels/controller directly to your battery bank, there is no need to disconnect the existing converter in your RV.

FAQs