Equip your motorhome with solar panels - how it works
Equip your motorhome with solar panels - here's how
Do you have a motorhome and want to make it less dependent on external power sources? Installing solar panels on the roof of your motorhome is an excellent way to achieve this. With solar energy, you can not only cover your electricity needs on the road, but also do without external power sources on campsites or in the countryside. In this article, we will show you how you can equip your motorhome with solar panels, which panels are best suited and what you should bear in mind when installing them.
What are solar panels for motorhomes?
Solar modules for motorhomes are essentially photovoltaic systems that convert solar energy into electrical energy. This is done using solar cells that are installed in the modules. When the sun's rays hit these cells, light energy is converted into electrical energy (direct current). This direct current can then be fed into a storage battery via a charge controller. An inverter then converts the direct current into usable alternating current, which you can use to operate electrical devices such as fridges, laptops, lamps and much more.
A solar panel on the motorhome roof makes you less dependent on external power sources. You can generate your own electricity wherever the sun shines. This is a great advantage, especially for camping trips in remote areas or for longer road trips.
Advantages of solar panels on motorhomes:
- Independence: you're not reliant on campsites or other power sources.
- Environmentally friendly: You use renewable energy and reduce your CO2 footprint.
- Long-term cost savings: Even if the initial costs are slightly higher, you'll save in the long term thanks to free solar energy.
- Low maintenance: Solar modules are robust and require minimal maintenance.
The ideal solar modules for retrofitting motorhomes
Choosing the right solar modules for your motorhome depends on several factors: Your energy needs, the available roof space and your budget. Essentially, there are three main types of solar panels that you can retrofit:
1. monocrystalline solar panels
These modules are the most efficient and take up relatively little space on the roof. Their crystal structure is very pure and enables a high energy density. This means they generate more electricity per square meter than other modules. So if you only have limited space on your motorhome roof, monocrystalline modules are a very good choice.
2. polycrystalline solar modules
These modules are slightly less efficient than monocrystalline modules, but also cheaper. They consist of several crystals, which makes them less efficient, but they are still a good option if you have a larger roof area and want to mount the modules flat on the roof.
3. flexible solar modules
Flexible modules are particularly lightweight and can adapt to the shape of the motorhome roof. They are ideal for curved roofs or if you want to minimize the weight on the roof. Flexible modules are often less powerful than rigidly mounted monocrystalline or polycrystalline modules, but offer the advantage that they can be mounted on almost any surface.
In most cases, monocrystalline or flexible modules are recommended for retrofitting a motorhome. These offer a good balance between efficiency, flexibility and cost.
Is it possible to install a solar module independently?
Yes, it is definitely possible to install a solar panel on a motorhome independently. Many campers opt for self-installation for cost reasons. However, it does require some manual skill and technical understanding. With the right instructions and the right tools, installation can be carried out without any problems.
Self-installation has the following advantages:
- Cost savings: You save the installation costs that would be incurred by a specialist company.
- Flexibility: You can install the solar panel and components in the way that best suits your motorhome and your needs.
However, you should ask yourself the following questions before you start the installation:
- Am I technically savvy enough to connect the wiring correctly?
- Do I have the necessary tools available? -
- Am I prepared to invest time in research and planning?
If you can answer "yes" to these questions, nothing stands in the way of self-installation.
Tips and tricks for self-installation
Installing a solar panel on a motorhome is not rocket science, but it does require a certain amount of preparation and planning. Here are some tips to help you with the installation:
- Calculate power requirements: Before you buy a solar panel, you should determine your daily electricity consumption. To do this, make a list of all the electrical devices you use in the motorhome and note their consumption in watt hours (Wh).
- The optimal placement of the solar modules: The right place for the modules is crucial. Make sure that they are positioned so that they are not shaded by aerials, skylights or other structures. Even small shadows can drastically reduce the output of a solar module. To plan the roof area optimally, it makes sense to take a photo with a drone. This will give you a good overview and make it easier to determine the position of the solar modules. Mark out the exact centimetres required to ensure that everything fits perfectly.
- Cardboard templates: First cut out the solar modules as cardboard templates and move them back and forth on the roof to find the best placement. This saves time and helps to determine the perfect position before you start with the actual mounting, gluing and fastening.
- Pay attention to cleaning and access: Make sure that you can still clean the roof later and climb up with a ladder. It is important not to block access for maintenance work.
- Mounting rails or adhesive systems: There are various ways to attach the solar modules to the roof. You can either use special mounting rails that you screw into place or use adhesive systems, which are particularly suitable for flexible modules. Make sure that all drill holes are well sealed to prevent water ingress.
- Wiring and electrics: Solar modules generate direct current (DC), while most devices require alternating current (AC). This is where the inverter comes into play, which converts the electricity. Make sure that all electrical connections are well insulated and waterproof. The cables should be securely fastened and protected from the weather.
- Maintenance of the solar modules: Solar modules are low-maintenance, but should be cleaned regularly. Dust, leaves or bird droppings can reduce the performance of the modules. Regular inspection and cleaning extends the service life and ensures a consistently high energy yield.
Optimal MPPT development
Once the solar modules have been correctly installed, you can continue with the development of the appropriate MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracker) charge controllers. These optimize the energy yield of your system and ensure that the maximum power is used. You can develop the ideal MPPT charge controllers for your system in our configurator.
Selecting the storage battery
The battery is the heart of your solar system, as it stores the electricity generated during the day so that you can also use it at night or in bad weather. There are different types of batteries that are suitable for use in motorhomes:
Lead-acid batteries
These batteries are inexpensive, but heavy and have a limited service life. They are suitable for occasional campers who only need solar power from time to time.
AGM batteries (Absorbent Glass Mat)
These batteries are maintenance-free and more robust than lead-acid batteries. They offer a good balance between price and performance and are suitable for regular use.
Lithium-ion batteries
Lithium-ion batteries are lightweight, have a high capacity and a long service life. They are the most expensive, but also the most efficient option. For long-term campers or those who often rely on solar power, lithium-ion batteries are the best choice.
When choosing a battery, make sure it has enough capacity to meet your power needs. A battery that is too small can result in you not storing enough energy, while a battery that is too large will result in unnecessary costs.
Do the motorhome solar panels need to be registered?
As a rule, solar panels on motorhomes do not have to be registered in the vehicle documents, as they do not represent any safety-relevant modifications to the vehicle. Nevertheless, you should find out about the regulations in your country. In Germany, registration is generally not necessary, but it may be advisable to have the modules checked by a specialist company to ensure that they are installed safely and correctly.
Questions and answers about installing solar modules
Which solar modules are best suited for motorhomes?
Monocrystalline modules are the most suitable due to their high efficiency and space-saving design. Flexible modules are a good alternative if you want to save weight or use curved surfaces.
How much does it cost to retrofit a motorhome with solar modules?
The cost depends on the size and type of solar panel and battery. Including the inverter and accessories, you can expect to pay between 500 and 2000 euros. Larger systems with lithium-ion batteries can be more expensive.
How long does it take to install solar panels on a motorhome?
Installation can take between 4 and 8 hours, depending on how many panels you are installing and whether you are experienced in the trade.
What tools and materials are needed for the installation?
The tools required include
- Drill
- Screwdriver
- Sealing material (e.g. Sikaflex)
- Solar cable
- inverter
- Mounting rails or adhesive brackets
How can I maximize the performance of my solar modules?
You can maximize performance by cleaning the modules regularly and ensuring that they are not exposed to shading. Also pay attention to the optimum angle of inclination towards the sun.
Conclusion
Installing a solar panel on your motorhome is an investment in independence and sustainability. Whether you are an experienced craftsman or an occasional hobbyist - with the right preparation and the right components, you can turn your motorhome into a small, self-sufficient power station. Use free solar energy and enjoy the freedom of having electricity available wherever you are.
Whether you do it yourself or leave the work to a professional, switching to solar energy pays off in the long term. Not only will you save money, but you'll also be doing something good for the environment. Good luck with your solar project!