Having RV solar panels are a great accessory (virtually a necessity) for any RV owner. RV solar panels function in the same way that a solar trickle charger does for a car battery.  But the solar panels do even more than that, they power many appliances within the RV.  If you’ve made the decision to buy solar panels for your RV, here are simple instructions on how to install the panels.

How to Install RV Solar Panels

Figure out how much power you’ll need, and the number of solar panels you must install in order to generate it.   It’s always good to plan ahead and get a larger charge controller than you need so you can add more panels if it becomes necessary.  However, like any other roof, there is only so much space on top of your RV to use.

Next, disconnect the coach battery and all other power sources, such as the generator and the shore power cord. You should also cover the face of the solar panel with paper or cardboard while installing it so that it won’t generate a charge.

The third step is to find a good spot on the roof where the rv solar panels will fit. It should be somewhere convenient for running the wiring, such as near a vent or some other means of access. Also make sure the roof at the spot you have selected is strong enough to support the panels.  In addition, the panels should be at least 8 inches away from the edge of the roof.

Now, mark the positions for the rv solar panel mounts. Use a laser sight or similar tool to make sure that they line up precisely.  Drill holes for the mounts and place the mounts in position and secure them with screws. Use a sealant to fill any extra space around the holes.  Next, insert the solar panel into the mounts and tighten it into position.
 
Now on the inside of the RV find a location to place the regulator/terminal.  Cut a hole in the inside panel large enough for the regulator to fit.  Connect the wiring to the solar panel and run it down to the location you have selected for the regulator then connect the wires to the regulator.  Make sure that the polarity is correct.  Connect the battery connection wires from the regulator to the coach battery, again making sure that the polarity is correct.  The positive wire must be connected to the positive battery terminal and the negative wire should be connected to the negative battery terminal.

Finally, reconnect the terminals to the battery and the solar panel should now be generating energy for it.