RVs allow you to travel in comfort and enjoy the great outdoors. But all those amenities in your RV require power. While you can rely on campground electrical hookups or a generator, adding solar power gives you even more freedom and sustainability. Solar Exporters specializes in 100W solar panels that are perfect for RVs.
What Can a 100W Solar Panel Power in an RV?
A 100 watt solar panel produces an average of 600 watt hours per day. This is enough to power:
- LED interior and exterior lights
- Water pump
- 12V fan or vent fan
- Laptop and other small devices
- RV battery charger
So while a single 100W panel won’t run your entire RV, it can handle many basic functions. By using efficient appliances and adding more 100W panels, solar can provide a good portion of an RV’s electrical needs.
How Many 100W Solar Panels Does Your RV Need?
The number of 100W solar panels you need depends on your power usage. Here are some guidelines:
- 1-2 panels: Enough for basic lighting, device charging, and battery maintenance. Good starter system.
- 3-4 panels: Can run a portable fridge or freezer in addition to lights and small devices.
- 5+ panels: Can meet 50% or more of RV electrical needs with careful use and battery bank.
To determine your needs, make a list of desired appliances and their wattages. Refer to your RV manual for 12V amp ratings too. Then calculate your total power requirement. As a rule of thumb, have at least 20% more solar wattage than the rating of devices you plan to run.
Pros and Cons of 100W Solar Panels
100W solar panels strike a nice balance of compact size and power output. Here are some of their advantages and downsides:
Pros:
- Compact size takes up less roof space
- Lightweight at under 20 lbs
- Affordable price point
- Easy to install DIY
- Can connect multiple panels for more power
Cons:
- Lower wattage than larger panels
- Require more panels for higher energy usage
- Can experience partial shading issues
So while 100W systems require more panels than say a 400W setup, the smaller size and lower cost make them one of the best values for RV solar.
How to Install 100W Solar Panels on an RV
Installing solar panels on your RV is a straightforward DIY project. Follow these key steps:
- Choose a location on your RV roof with consistent sun exposure and minimal shading. Near the middle is often best.
- Secure panel mounting brackets aligned with roof rafters. 100W panels use two brackets.
- Mount the solar panel flush to the roof using lag bolts secured into roof rafters. Ensure no movement.
- Run wiring through roof ports and connect panels via MC4 connectors.
- Connect to charge controller mounted inside RV near batteries. Program controller settings.
- Connect batteries to distribute power from controller to 12V system.
Using RV-rated mounts, sealants, and wiring maintains safety and weatherproofing. Follow all manufacturer mounting guidelines too.
Solar Exporters offers complete 100W solar kits with panels, mounts, controllers and accessories for DIY installation. Their technical experts can also help with system sizing and setup.
Pairing 100W Solar Panels with an RV Battery Bank
To enable solar power usage overnight or on cloudy days, 100W panels should charge a dedicated battery bank. Recommended options include:
- Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) batteries – Valve regulated lead-acid batteries designed for solar storage. Handle irregular charging well.
- Lithium batteries – More lightweight and efficient than AGMs. Require advanced charge controller.
- Expandable battery bank – Start with one or two batteries and add more over time.
Ideally size your battery bank to hold 2-3 days of power usage. Monitor battery voltages to avoid over-discharging. 100W solar panels can require multiple days to recharge from 50% capacity.
Solar Exporters carries high-quality solar batteries to match your RV energy needs and budget.
Why Choose Solar Exporters for Your 100W RV Solar Panels?
Solar Exporters, a leading solar manufacturer based in China, produces reliable mono and polycrystalline 100W panels perfect for RVs.
Benefits include:
- 12+ years of solar manufacturing experience
- High quality panels with 10-25 year power warranties
- Complete solar kits with all parts for DIY install
- RV mounting brackets and wiring for all panels
- Technical support team to assist with setup
- Wholesale direct pricing, saving you money
- Fast shipping worldwide
Investing in solar helps you gain energy independence on the road while reducing environmental impact. Contact Solar Exporters to find the right 100W panels and RV solar solution for you.