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How to Install an RV Solar Panel?!! |
04/14/2010 |
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Solar panels can be a great addition to your RV, allowing you greater flexibility about where to park and reducing your need to rely on a generator. It can be a bit complicated to install a solar RV panel, but it can be done without a huge amount of fuss. Things you will need:1.Solar panel 2.Panel mounts 3.Mounting screws 4.Drill 5.Sealant 6.Solar regulator, terminal or junction box 7.Laser sight 8.Connecting wires
Step1
Determine how much power you will need, and the number of solar panels you must install in order to generate it. Like the roofs in stationary homes, there is only so much space on top of your RV to use. Make sure that your needs can be met within a reasonable amount of space.
Step2
Disconnect the coach battery and all other sources of power, such as the generator and the shore power cord. You should also cover the face of the solar panel with paper or cardboard while you are installing it, to keep it from generating a charge.
Step3
Find a good spot on the RV roof where the solar panel will fit. It should be somewhere convenient for running wiring, such as near a vent or some other means of access. The roof at that location should be strong enough to support the array, and the panels should be at least 8 inches away from the edge of the roof.
Step4
Mark the positions for the solar panel mounts. Make sure that they line up precisely using a laser sight or similar tool.
Step5
Drill holes for the mounts. Use a drill bit specific to the size of the holes you need and take care that you are not drilling into any interior wiring.
Step6
Place the mounts in position and secure them with screws. Use the sealant to fill the space around the holes.
Step7
Insert the solar panel into the mounts and tighten it into position. The exact means will vary depending upon the kind of solar panel you have purchased.
Step8
Find a suitable location in the RV interior to place the regulator/terminal.
Step9
Cut a hole in the interior panel large enough for the regulator (or just its control panel) to fit.
Step10
Connect the wiring to the solar panel and run it down to the location you have selected for the regulator. Connect the wires to the regulator, making sure that the polarity is correct.
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