5 Best Solar Panels for RV Battery Charging

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Last Updated on July 25, 2022 by Ted Mosby

It is essential to find and install the best solar panels for RV battery charging to make sure you can extend and enjoy your camping trip as long as possible.

Even if you have RV batteries and a generator in place, considering an energy-efficient and electricity-free option is always a great move while on the road, especially for extended trips off the grid (dry camping).

Getting the best solar panels for RV batteries will not just save you a huge amount of dollars each year but is also a quiet, environment-friendly, and sustainable option for your power requirements.

Since the solar panel demand is increasing day by day, there is an expansive range of solar panel kits available on the market. You will surely love topped-off batteries without tolerating any noise, pollution, or odor.

However, browsing for the best solar panels for RV may be an arduous task. Especially if you have no clue about this terminology, I’ve done all the hard work and bucketed almost everything you want to know about solar panels for RV battery charging.

By the end of this review guide, you will learn the basics of RV solar panels, how they work, their types and benefits, and how to choose the best solar panel for RV battery charging.

I’ve also created a list of the most reputed brands on the market, along with a detailed review of the best RV solar panels.

Moreover, I’ve also highlighted the main features and pros and cons of each product so that you can easily make a comparison.

So, let’s get started!

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ImageProductFeaturesPrice
Premium Pick
Renogy 200 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Starter Kit
Renogy 200 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Starter Kit
  • Overcharging, overload, short-circuit, and reverse polarity protections
  • Twenty-five years warranty
  • Five years of material and workmanship warranty
  • 4A MPPT charge controller
  • Lightweight
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Best Value
Renogy 100 Watts 12 Volts Monocrystalline Solar Starter Kit
Renogy 100 Watts 12 Volts Monocrystalline Solar Starter Kit
  • 10A waterproof charge controller
  • Robust handle
  • Monocrystalline panels
  • In-built kickstand
  • Ten feet alligator clips cable
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Budget Pick
WindyNation 100 Watt Solar Panel
WindyNation 100 Watt Solar Panel
  • LCD control display
  • Easy to install
  • 40-ft solar extension cable
  • Anodized aluminum Z-brackets
  • Stainless steel fasteners
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ALLPOWERS Solar Flexible Panel ALLPOWERS Solar Flexible Panel
  • Up to 23% efficiency rating
  • Compact size and Flexible
  • Junction box
  • Affordable
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Newpowa 100W Polycrystalline Photovoltaic PV Solar Panel Newpowa 100W Polycrystalline Photovoltaic PV Solar Panel
  • High-performance
  • EVA-Encapsulated cells
  • First-rate low iron tempered glass
  • Heavy-duty anodized aluminum frames
  • Quick installation
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What are the Best Solar Panels for RV Battery Charging

1. Renogy 200 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Starter Kit

Premium Pick
Renogy 200 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Starter Kit

Renogy 200 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Starter Kit

  • Overcharging, overload, short-circuit and reverse polarity protections
  • Twenty-five years warranty
  • Five years of material and workmanship warranty
  • 4A MPPT charge controller
  • Lightweight

Are you looking for incredibly efficient portable solar panels for RV battery charging that come equipped with all the essentials? Look no further than Renogy 200 12V monocrystalline solar panels kit.

The solar kit is an incredibly efficient system featuring monocrystalline panels capable of achieving up to 18.4% efficiency and an MPPT charge controller with up to 97% of peak efficiency.

Though the system is rated 200W, the 40A charge controller enables you to expand it up to 800W using additional panels. The kit comes with two panels and performs remarkably well, even in low conditions.

The system also comes with bypass diodes that reduce the risk of power drop caused by shades.

I’m also pretty impressed with aluminum frames that provide support to solar cells and are corrosion-resistant.

This indicates that the construction of Renogy 200W 12V solar panels is built to last longer, even when used in areas with salty air boosting the corrosion process. RV solar panels come with two 100W panels and weigh 16.5 lbs each with a 42.2″ x 19.6″ x 1.28″ dimension.

Moreover, these solar panels for RV battery charging are rated for a 600V DC system and backed by a 25-year warranty by the manufacturer and five years of material and workmanship warranty.

The kit also includes a 40A MPPT controller charger, weighing 4.5 lbs and offering a maximum battery voltage of up to 32V.

Furthermore, the kit also includes eight feet long charging cables, mounting brackets, and an adaptor kit set. Additionally, the controller that comes with it also features various protections to ensure that the system is entirely safe to use.

These protections include overload, overcharging, short-circuit, reverse polarity, and more.

Key Features

  • Overcharging, overload, short-circuit, and reverse polarity protections.
  • Twenty-five years warranty.
  • Five years of material and workmanship warranty.
  • Light in weight.
  • 4A MPPT charge controller.
Pros
  • The 40A MPPT charge controller is included in the package and achieves up to 97% of peak efficiency.
  • Thanks to the charge controller, you can expand the system up to 800W.
  • It is equipped with bypass diodes to reduce the risk of power drop in low-lighting conditions.
  • The frames are incredibly corrosion-resistant.
Related Post:  5 Best Deep Cycle Battery for RV
Cons
  • The construction material of the panels is subpar as compared to other solar panels.

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2. Renogy 100 Watts 12 Volts Monocrystalline Solar Starter Kit

Best Value
Renogy 100 Watts 12 Volts Monocrystalline Solar Starter Kit

Renogy 100 Watts 12 Volts Monocrystalline Solar Starter Kit

  • 10A waterproof charge controller
  • Robust handle
  • Monocrystalline panels
  • In-built kickstand
  • Ten feet alligator clips cable

If you’re looking for a remarkably reliable and durable 12V solar panel for RV battery charging, Renogy 100W surely deserves a closer look.

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Generally, I see this solar kit being incorporated in a flexible solar panel review considering its usefulness and satisfaction rating.

It is an outstanding pick, mainly if you want to get a reliable RV solar panel. This is because it can easily supply an impressive 100W power.

Thanks to its 12V battery charging, such an amount of power is adequate to simultaneously run a few appliances.

One of its benefits is that it can supply additional charging because you can wire it into a series to add additional solar panels.

It is designed very smartly, making it withstand the wind, snow, and other harsh elements.

Another fact about this solar starter kit is that the panel comprises strong and sturdy materials and high-conversion efficiency modules.

Moreover, I also noted that the solar panels include high transparency and anti-reflective glass to improve their stiffness.

Key Features

  • 10A waterproof charge controller.
  • Robust handle.
  • Monocrystalline panels.
  • In-built kickstand.
  • Ten feet alligator clips cable.
Pros
  • The solar starter kit can generate up to 100W power.
  • You can run multiple devices simultaneously.
  • If you want to generate more charging, you can connect more panels through the wire.
  • It is incredibly resistant to harsh elements, such as snow, wind, etc.
  • The panel is constructed from high-quality and high-conversion materials.
Cons
  • The solar starter kit is a bit heavier as compared to other solar panels.

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3. WindyNation 100 Watt Solar Panel

Budget Pick
WindyNation 100 Watt Solar Panel

WindyNation 100 Watt Solar Panel

  • LCD control display
  • Easy to install
  • 40-ft solar extension cable
  • Anodized aluminum Z-brackets
  • Stainless steel fasteners

If you are searching for solar panels for RV battery charging that come equipped with an LCD to allow you to track usage details, then WindyNation 100W solar panel is what you need.

The LCD that comes with this solar kit will display essential information, such as amperage, temperature, voltage, and other details.

It also makes it simpler to switch between system modes and change settings using its handy arrow keys.

The solar panel is also equipped with plenty of protection to make it safe to use. It includes overload, overcharging, reverse polarity, and short-circuit protection.

Moreover, the solar system is also among those few systems that come armed with battery temperature sensors.

This system makes sure that your vehicle batteries are not overheating when you connect them to the panels. While it is possible to use the WindyNation panel on the ground, it would give you the best possible results when mounted on the roof of your RV.

Furthermore, the system also includes anodized aluminum Z-brackets and stainless steel fasteners to make the installation process a walk in the park.

All the components of this RV solar panel are incredibly corrosion-resistant. They are made to last longer and can withstand any weather conditions.

The charge controller with this solar kit can easily handle additional panels, making it possible to expand the system if you want.

The system is rated to generate 400W-hours hour or 33 amps hours of charge per day when exposed to direct sunlight.

What’s more, the panels in this kit are also capable of working exceptionally well in low conditions.

It is a high operating temperature solar kit and comes with a pair of solar connectors. These connectors are waterproof and provide a safe connection between the solar connector and solar extension cable.

The solar kit also features 40 feet of solar extension cable, making it easier to select a roof location and easily connect it to your RV’s 12V battery.

Key Features

  • LCD control display.
  • Easy to install.
  • 40-ft solar extension cable.
  • Anodized aluminum Z-brackets.
  • Stainless steel fasteners.
  • Multiple protections.
Pros
  • Since the solar kit is equipped with an LCD, you will get essential information like voltage, amperage, etc.
  • If you desire to generate more charge, you can expand the system by connecting the controller for more wattage.
  • The kit comes with all the essentials, making it easy for you to mount the system to your RV’s roof.
  • It is also armed with a battery temperature sensor, which is great to know if your battery is overheating.
Related Post:  5 Best RV Battery Chargers Reviewed
Cons
  • If you want to power appliances and outlets, you will need to have an inverter.

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4. ALLPOWERS Solar Flexible Panel

Our Top Pick
ALLPOWERS Solar Flexible Panel

ALLPOWERS Solar Flexible Panel

  • Up to 23% efficiency rating
  • Compact size and Flexible
  • Junction box
  • Affordable

ALLPOWERS solar flexible panel is one of the best solar panels for RV battery charging if you want to trickle charge your batteries.

If you’re on a strict budget plan, it is one of the budget-friendly solar panels that you can consider.

The solar kit is incredibly light in weight but extremely durable as well. The solar panel itself is water-resistant and made from flexible materials to ensure its durability.

It provides excellent efficiency and a conversion percentage of as high as 23%.

This is great considering the panel size and the fact that other panels with larger sizes come with an efficiency rating between 17 to 19%.

The solar kit provides efficient energy to a 12V RV battery and has excellent applications on curved roofs, all thanks to its flexibility.

You can also curve the panel itself to an arc if you desire to install it on your RV roof.

The solar panel is also frameless and features four metal-reinforced mounting holes to make the installation process a breeze.

Moreover, thanks to its flexibility, it is a good option for smaller RVs and vans that do not have much roof space to work with. You can also flex the panel to fit it to your desired location.

The junction box attached to the panel features protections against surges and short circuits.

Key Features

  • Junction box.
  • Safety features.
  • Flexible.
  • Up to 23% efficiency rating.
  • Compact size.
  • Affordable.
  • Light in weight.
Pros
  • It is among the most affordable solar panels for RV battery charging.
  • The solar kit is water-resistant and incredibly durable than traditional aluminum-framed solar panels.
  • It is also among the most lightweight solar panel kits.
  • You can curve the panel to a maximum of 30 degrees of arc.
Cons
  • The power rating of the solar panel is low – 50W maximum.
  • The junction box is not adequately secured.

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5. Newpowa 100W Polycrystalline Photovoltaic PV Solar Panel

Our Top Pick
Newpowa 100W Polycrystalline Photovoltaic PV Solar Panel

Newpowa 100W Polycrystalline Photovoltaic PV Solar Panel

  • High-performance
  • EVA-Encapsulated cells
  • First-rate low iron tempered glass
  • Heavy-duty anodized aluminum frames
  • Quick installation

I’m glad to introduce Newpowa 2-piece 100W polycrystalline solar panel in my best solar panels for RV battery charging review. The reason is its remarkable performance. The kit makes use of top-performance cells encapsulated in EVA.

Another factor about this solar panel kit that impressed me the most is its tremendous durability. I think it is because the kit is armed with heavy-duty anodized aluminum.

It ensures that you enjoy exceptional rigidity.

The solar panel kit is available in full-size, which means it can handle heavy applications with ease. The process to install the kit in your recreational vehicle is also easy and a walk in the park.

The panel works efficiently by keeping your batteries charged for extended periods, so you can enjoy your outdoors without worrying about power.

Key Features

  • High-performance.
  • EVA-Encapsulated cells.
  • First-rate low iron tempered glass.
  • Impressive efficiency rating.
  • Heavy-duty anodized aluminum frames.
  • Quick installation.
Pros
  • The solar panel is light in weight but features strong frames.
  • It utilizes high-performance cells that help to improve its performance.
  • The solar kit is incredibly durable and heavy-duty.
  • You can use heavy applications without any worries.
  • The installation process is easy and quick.
Cons
  • The junction box quality is subpar.

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What is an RV Solar Panel?

A solar panel is referred to as a device responsible for converting sunlight into electricity.

It is an incredibly useful investment for RV owners since they provide electricity (solar power) wherever they are. Though the solar panel installation process is time-consuming, it is extremely beneficial in the long run because it can provide free power and energy.

If you love dry camping or going off the grid, then making sure that you have a solar panel with you can help you a lot.

It also reduces energy consumption, that too, without requiring much on your part. All that’s required to make panels work is sunlight. You can run all of your onboard appliances without anything but the sun’s rays.

You’ll have peace of mind as you no longer required running the generator, which produces a lot of noise. Aside from being noiseless, it is also environment-friendly. However, it costs you a significant amount to set up your RV solar panel.

How Does RV Solar Panel Work?

An RV solar panel is responsible for providing solar power. You need to invest in a few of them to efficiently run the electric appliances in your recreational vehicle through solar power. The first step is to mount the solar panel on your recreational vehicle’s roof.

Related Post:  5 Best RV House Battery

The number of RV solar panels you need entirely depends on your power requirements. Once installed, the solar panel will start working by transforming the sunlight into power/electricity.

The power they generate will then go to the wires that link all the solar panels together.

The power will then be transmitted down to your vehicle. However, before feeding your vehicle with solar power, the entire process has to make some stops. The first stop is the charge controller.

It is a device responsible for transmitting the power created by the panels to your RV’s battery system.

With the charge controller’s help, it is easy to regulate the power received by your vehicle batteries, which helps prevent overcharging. It also helps to preserve the functionality and longevity of your batteries.

Once the created power is transmitted into the charge controller or battery charger, it is ready for use.

However, remember that the power already stored in your vehicle’s battery bank is still the DC power.

Types of RV Solar Panels

Before you invest in an RV solar panel available on the market today, make sure to know about their types and how each one work.

Below, I have bucketed different types of solar panels for RV battery charging and some details about each one:

1. Polycrystalline Solar Panels

Polycrystalline solar panels contain small solar crystals taken from numerous blocks of silicon. These types of solar panels are incredibly popular among RV owners.

Though the energy these panels generate is less than what monocrystalline panels produce, they are still a good pick as the loss of power is easier to neglect.

2. Monocrystalline Solar Panels

These solar panels contain a single large silicon crystal. Most people consider these the most effective solar panels because they yield a high charge output.

They can also produce and supply a greater amount of power when being used in low conditions.

3. Amorphous (Thin-Film Solar Panels)

These types of solar panels are constructed by laying silicon on a large bed. The good thing about these solar panels for RV is they are cost-effective to make. However, amorphous solar panels generate the lowest amount of power out of all three.

Moreover, while these solar panels work well, they need more roof space than the other two solar panels to provide the same energy.

Benefits of Solar Panels for RV Battery Charging

For RV owners, solar panels are cost-effective and provide consistent energy when traveling off the grid. Here are the advantages that you will enjoy if you installed the RV solar panels in your vehicle:

1. Effective in Charging House Batteries

One advantage of solar energy generated by solar panels is they supply a slow and steady charge to your battery bank.

It is a useful and natural way to keep your batteries charged while also extending your battery’s life.

2. They Provide Electrical Power

Having solar panels installed in your RV ensures that you get an uninterrupted and consistent electric power supply.

It is possible, regardless of how remote your present location is. Moreover, it also enables you to lessen your worries when enjoying breathtaking views in a new location.

They are essential to have because they provide power in emergency circumstances.

3. Noise-Free and Environment Friendly

Another benefit of solar panels for RV batteries is they are clean, do not cause air pollution, and are noise-free. It makes them easy and safe to use.

They do not need any fuel and do not emit waste as well. With that, you’ve got the assurance that the solar panels are clean and safe for the environment.

Furthermore, RV solar panels don’t have any moving parts, so they do not produce any mechanical noise. They are easy to use, and you just need to place your vehicle under the sun to create power.

4. Extends the Life of Your RV Batteries

Solar panels for RV batteries are also great for extending the lifespan of your vehicle batteries.

It is because they create pure DC power when exposed to sunlight. This is what your vehicle batteries want. Moreover, they also help you reduce the threat of deep discharge by steadily and slowly providing power to your batteries.

Wrapping Up

There you go – top 5 best solar panels for RV battery charging. By installing the best solar panels for RV battery charging, you will be able to enjoy a free and abundant power source.

They are great, especially if you like dry camping or traveling off the grid.

If you need more info on RV Battery then check this article on the best travel trailer battery.

I would like to thank you for reading this review guide.

Got any queries? Post a comment below

FAQ

What are the benefits of solar panels for RV battery charging?

Solar panels for RV battery charging are great. They are noiseless, environment-friendly, keep your batteries charged, and are a free source of power.

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About Ted Mosby

I am Ted Mosby from Cleveland, Ohio. I am a Freelance Architect. I live in New Jersey, USA right now and I take my RV every alternate weekend. I own a Forest River Berkshire XLT Diesel 45A Class A Motorhome. As I am a Freelancer I can work anywhere so most of my work is done inside my camper remotely.