So I've just finished installing three panels on the roof of my Ram Promaster which I'm in the process of converting to a camper van. I have 1 200 watt panel and 2 50 watt panels - wired in parallel. I've done the math to figure out that will give me 280 watts total. I'll be wiring these panels to 3 100ah Battle Born Lithium batteries. The system, when it's completed will also include a 3000VA victron inverter/charger. I'll be wiring up a shore power input and the ability to charge from the alternator.
I've got room to put in another 200 watt panel but I'm trying to leave room on the roof for a deck. I'm at the point now where I'm about build the deck. On the one hand I'm thinking I can always add another panel down the road if I find that I'm not able to charge as much from solar as I would like. On the other hand, it would be simpler to add another panel now than have to undo the work on the deck and wire another panel later.
We'll be cooking on propane in the van, and most of our draws on the system will be DC, we'll only have to turn on the inverter occasionally for the 2-gallon hot water heater, the small microwave and to charge 2 laptops.
Let me know if I've left out any pertinent information, and thanks in advance for any advice.
I've got room to put in another 200 watt panel but I'm trying to leave room on the roof for a deck. I'm at the point now where I'm about build the deck. On the one hand I'm thinking I can always add another panel down the road if I find that I'm not able to charge as much from solar as I would like. On the other hand, it would be simpler to add another panel now than have to undo the work on the deck and wire another panel later.
We'll be cooking on propane in the van, and most of our draws on the system will be DC, we'll only have to turn on the inverter occasionally for the 2-gallon hot water heater, the small microwave and to charge 2 laptops.
Let me know if I've left out any pertinent information, and thanks in advance for any advice.