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Powering your RV with solar panels

December 2009 RV Accessories by Rich Howard

Using solar power to power your RV electrical system may be easier than you think. In addition to avoiding the noise associated with traditional generators, the sun is an environmentally sound and surprisingly affordable option for many.

According to writer Richard Chapo on NewRVer.com, "Unlike homes, RVs run on direct current electricity. This makes them perfect for solar electricity since solar systems produce direct current electricity instead of alternating current. Put another way, there is no need for bulky converters to flip the electricity from direct to alternating. Instead, you can use the sun to power up your batteries directly."

Using the sun to power your batteries is also a good option for boondockers or anyone who uses their RV without access to electrical hook-ups. RVersOnline.org estimates that a good solar panel system can deliver about three amps of power during the daylight hours, or about six hours of general electrical use.

RV solar systems are widely available online and are relatively easy to use. They are kept on the roof of the vehicle or in another place where the sun hits them during the day.

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Powering your RV with solar panels

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