Not all solar panels are made equal.
Van solar panels.
There s basically 3 types of solar panels.
Given excellent conditions a.
The panels themselves are easy to install and the entire guide to installing solar panels can be found on renogy s website.
These panels are both an excellent choice for your campervan solar installation.
Our solar panels are low profile and durable quietly converting sunlight to energy for decades to come.
The solar panel measure 1476mm x 670mm so is small enough to be mounted onto the roof of the van more than one could fit if this is necessary for your set up.
Van solar panels came in a variety of wattages but most vanlifers use multiple 100w panels for their systems.
Integrated hardware and simple design achieve this by securing the panels close to your roof and to each other for a minimal aesthetic.
I ll talk more about how to determine how much solar power to have in the next section.
To have a complete solar setup you need solar panels for your van.
Without solar panels your van s system will be useless.
My solar panels are made by bend based zamp solar the same company that made the solar panels on my first sprinter van.
Select solar charging system.
Solar is a great van power option if you plan to be off the grid often and want to be able to sustain your day to day without needing to fuel up a generator or plug in.
Once installed they provide clean quiet energy you can use anytime the sun is out.
But there are a few key differences between the two types of solar panels that you should first be aware of before making your final decision.
With a solid alternator charging system and frequent driving you shouldn t need more than two 90w panels on a van our most popular configuration includes two panels on a 20a charge controller that gives you room for adding one more panel.
Types of camper van solar panels.
The solar panels harness the power from the sun and then a wire runs to the batteries where the power is stored.
Thin film aka amorphous.
A solar panel for van is not that different from the solar energy systems we see in other settings such as commercial establishments local homes and industries.
Opting for a solar power system is a more eco friendly option but it does have a heftier initial investment.
But before going into buying panels and batteries and components you should consider the best type of solar panel for you.
The main difference is that a van solar system is mobile literally.
This solar panel would be ideal for full time usage with items such as a 12v fridge t v.