Trickle charge solar panel

[Grumpy Grampa]

When I hook up my solar panel connection to the positive battery port, do I need to worry about the inverter. It’s just one small panel to trickle charge my four batteries?

Thanks

[Chateau_Nomad]

How "small" of a panel?

A solar panel connects to a "solar charge controller" FIRST - which regulates (adjusts) the voltage - otherwise you could damage (possibly explode) your batteries. Unregulated solar panels do not produce 12volts - it's usually much more, and varies with the amount of available solar energy from the sun.

There are output terminals on the solar charge controller which are then connected to the positive/negative battery posts.

Also, there are fuses between those connections. And no... if wired properly the inverter is not a concern.

[Grumpy Grampa]

1 panel at 100 watt

[Grumpy Grampa]

Thanks one more question. Where is a good place to install the controller, and is it ok to run the solar panel wire under a motor from the front battery box to the rear of the coach, zip tie .

Thanks

[paulwadley]

My solar controller is mounted inside a small cabinet above my refrigerator on the wall. I have seen some mounted by the entrance door near the steps on the inside of the coach.



Paul

[Chateau_Nomad]

Originally Posted by smithgarnat@aol.com

1 panel at 100 watt

If your plan is just using that single 100 panel as a "trickle charger" to keep batteries topped, like when in storage - get a 10amp PWM charge controller. They aren't as expensive as the MPPT controllers.

Then - follow the MANY internet/YouTube/forum guides showing exactly how to connect everything up and keep your batteries healthy!

Good luck - and safe travels!

[Grumpy Grampa]

Thanks.

[Chateau_Nomad]

My controller is (like Paul said) in the entry step well.

Rule of thumb is you want the charge controller as close to the batteries as physically possible - which prevents current loss. The length of cable from the panels to the controller isn't as critical.

You can run the panel cable pretty much anywhere you would any electrical wire/cable. Things to be aware of are heat and damage from rocks/road debris. Obviously keep the cable away from the exhaust system!

The cable is water proof, but could be easily damaged if exposed to road hazards. Keep it tucked up tight to the bottom of your coach; preferably use "wire loom" and run it along/beside a frame rail - tightly zip tied in place.