Choosing the Right Solar Generator for RV: What Factors Should You Consider?

RVs are quickly becoming popular, with most people opting to live in one, either as a permanent solution or for a few weeks or months as they travel. Whichever the case, living in an RV is quite the adventure. However, it comes with its own unique set of challenges. For one, you must find a reliable power source to charge your appliances and provide warmth during cold periods.

Most people choose solar since it's more practical, especially if you are always on the move. It's portable, and since it harnesses power from the sun, there are no additional costs apart from the initial cost of installing the solar panels and purchasing the solar generator.

This article should serve as a guide to help you choose the best solar generator, depending on your needs. We will discuss various features you should consider when choosing a solar generator. Hopefully, after you are done reading, you can make an educated decision and get a solar generator that can meet your power requirements.

How to Choose the Right Solar Generator for Your RV

When choosing the best solar generator for your RV, you need to consider certain things, including the size of your RV, how many watts each device will need and the amount of sunlight available in your area. When calculating the amount of power you use in your RV on a typical day, ensure it's on the higher end since you want a solar generator that can serve you on all occasions.

Considering the weather in your area and the time of year is also vital. Using a solar calculator to determine the amount of solar generated at different times of the year. Usually, there is a peak during the summer months when excess power is collected and a limited generation during the winter months. The solar generator you decide to invest in should cater for this. Other factors you need to consider when getting a solar generator include:

High Battery Capacity

The battery capacity is the most crucial factor to consider when getting a solar generator since it will affect the amount of power you can store. Also, a portable solar generator typically runs on its stored energy. The ideal battery capacity for you will vary depending on your circumstance; you need to consider how much power your RV needs and how often you charge it. If you require a lot of energy, especially if you have air conditioning, consider getting a solar generator with a capacity of at least 2000Wh.

The solar generator you pick should ideally pack at least 50% more than your daily requirement. This will leave you with a reserve if something happens to one of your solar panels or if there is little sunlight. It's vital to remember that the higher the battery capacity, the more expensive it will be.

Multiple Charge Cycles

Multiple charge cycles refer to the number of times a solar generator can completely charge and discharge until the battery starts losing storage capacity or failing. An excellent solar generator should have 2000 or more charge cycles to ensure it stays for several years without needing to be replaced.

Watt Inverter

Inverters convert the direct current (DC) from the battery into alternating current (AC) that your electronics can use. You should look for a solar generator with a high-quality pure sine wave inverter, which provides clean and stable energy. It also prevents your appliances from getting damaged from receiving too much voltage.  

Additionally, inverters are usually rated to produce a certain amount of watts of AC power, and there are two ratings; surge and continuous rating. Surge rating refers to the amount of power the surge output of an inverter can deliver within a few seconds. Some appliances like televisions, gaming systems and power tools require a surge of power to start. Conversely, continuous rating refers to the number of watts the inverter can produce for an extended period.

You, therefore, need to consider the type of appliances you have when considering the inverter ratings. The wattage requirement can typically be found in the appliance's instructions manual or stamped on the side of the appliance.

Solar Panels 

Solar panels can recharge most solar generators, but you need to ensure the solar panels you are using are compatible with the solar generator. They should also provide enough power to recharge the generator batteries completely. The Anker 531 Solar Panels are the best to use with solar generators for various reasons. These solar panels have a 3-mode angle adjustability, enabling you to change the position for optimal power.

Another aspect that makes these solar panels ideal for RV life is that they are waterproof and will withstand even the harshest weather. This, paired with the fact that they are foldable and compact, makes them perfect for camping trips and other adventures. Furthermore, the Anker 531 Solar Panel has a 24-month warranty and a long lifespan.

Portability

Portability is vital when investing in a solar generator for an RV due to the nature of RV travel. A portable solar generator provides a flexible and reliable power source that can be easily moved and set up in different locations. The ideal solar generator should be lightweight and easy to handle; having a set of wheels for easy transportation is a bonus.

Quick Recharging

Quick recharging is crucial when investing in a solar generator for an RV because it ensures a consistent and reliable power supply. RV trips often involve using various appliances and devices that deplete power reserves. A solar generator that recharges quickly can replenish its power store during daylight hours, providing ample power for evening and night use. This becomes particularly vital in remote areas without access to grid power. Moreover, a fast-recharging solar generator minimizes downtime and enhances convenience, ensuring you can make the most of your RV experience without worrying about power shortages. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, selecting the right solar generator for your RV involves a careful evaluation of several critical factors. Portability, quick recharging times, the power capacity of the unit, the type and life of the battery, and the efficiency of the inverter all play crucial roles in determining the generator's suitability. Understanding your unique power requirements and the specific conditions of your travel destinations will further guide your choice. Investing in a solar generator not only enables a seamless RV experience but also supports sustainable, renewable energy use. By considering all these factors, you can find a solar generator that provides reliable power, enhances your travel experiences.