HOW TO DESIGN A SOLAR ARRAY (For a DIY Camper Electrical System)

This video will give you an "over-the-shoulder" look at how to design a solar array for a DIY camper electrical system.

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful with planning and installing your DIY Camper:

[JeffinTD]

These videos, your calculator, and your package deals are a huge asset to the whole community of RV and van users. I can’t imagine how many hours of work went in to these. Thank you.

[madforit]

I have to give it to you guys, you spend so much time on details. This helps so many, always well explained. If I ever pull off getting a van next year. I know I can start from beginning to end, watching your tutorials. Once again, It's a big thanks from me

[chrisplatten]

Another clear and simple tutorial. One other aspect, is the physical size rather than the electrical 'size'. I am not sure how relevant this is in the US with the RAM Promaster, but in Europe with the Ducato/Relay, there is an expensive, but nice roof rack made by Fiamma. It has the advantage that their awnings fit onto it without extra mounts. It also has a disadvantage, in that the space between the rails is 132cm. This makes it just too narrow to get 2 (100w or 120w) panels between the rails with their long axis along the length of the van. Larger panels can be too wide as singles. Now putting the panel above the rails would sort that, but I want them slightly below (not enough for shading to be an issue) to allow canoes to be transported more easily. Most conbinations I have looked at come out at 134-136cm wide. Nobody seems to make either a long/narrow panel that would work as a pair, or a higher capacity squarer panel that would work as a single. Still, i am sure there is a compromise somewhere. I seem to remember you did a video about fitting in the max possible area, even with odd sizes, so something on unusual panel shapes might be helpful/interesting. I can't be the only one with an odd roof geometry requirement.

[stewartperry]

Excellent as usual. You’re a huge asset in the community.

[shannond]

Well, I used a complete electric solar system design that you did for an Air Stream trailer some time ago. I did a little downsizing (600 watts solar down to 400 watts so a smaller charge controller and 400 amps of Battleborns.) but otherwise used your system plan as is. The system has been in use for a little over a year now and has been fantastic. Thanks Nate!

[GirdHerd]

Wow, Nate, that was extremely helpful. I've used your worksheets before and this helped explain how to create different wiring options to maximize efficiency and minimize costs.

[stephencantbewrong]

Thank you for adding and discussing our desired configuration to the list. You also confirmed the same information I am hearing elsewhere about sizing and having a solar array that is a hair over the solar charge controller max (1460 watt array versus 1450 watts max). I continue to learn and understand more every week! Keep up the great work!

[CountryBoyMoto]

I fall into the “boarder line” area of charge controllers. I’m well under the voltage and only a few amps over for the 150/50. Since I have it already I will just stick with it but it’s good to know that I won’t ruin it by exceeding the amps on one of those super cold days scenario. Thanks for the info, you really are very helpful.

[EXPLORISTlife]

If there were other links/resources I promised that I didn't put here, let me know... I lost my list...

[reloadnorth]

I restified a 1973 single axle camper (8x15). All I need is power to run a very small fridge, approx 2 square feet. Its very frustrating when clowns try to convince you that you need excessive wattage (1000 to 3000) for that small unit. I have no plans to expand any electrical usage in the old camper. One fellow is persistent that I buy a 310 watt solar panel and a 3000 watt inverter from him.

[steven-adamski]

Thanks for the specific and real world examples!

[mbgvyt]

Excellent stuff. This video and using your Solar Charge Controller Calculator has answered all my questions after some weeks of fumbling around. So you know your great work is not for nought. I have locked this in on my design and my order for your 1200W Solar Charging Wiring Kit (6x 200W | 12V Battery Bank) will come when I get to that stage of my box van build out.

[freddyboy]

Got to say you have done a superb job with all your videos, calculators and kits.

[DjPsYcOtIc]

Excellent, Thank you very much for your time and efforts.

[pinoiryder]

Thank you for the very informative information. I do overlanding and transforming my truck little by little..

[Drew]

I really love the way you explain things ...thank you

[tommay]

very usefull, especially your comment about borderline amps and the controller and solar output under perfect conditions.

[robertvass]

Hi Nate! You mentioned that if you go over the maximum charging power of the MPPT unit it regulates it down, but not demage the product... How much you can go over? I've planned a 700W-800W system wich will provide a charging power above 50Amps. My problem is, that my beloved uncle wanted to help me out and brought me a 150/35 controller. I know the planned array gonna go over in charging capacity AT OPTIMAL conditions, but -40 will not happen here. Do you think I can use it safely, or should I replace it? or just go lower in array size to 500w?

[berthaduniverse]

Great work Nate. Repetition is key to learning. Have you any links/videos/recommendations to shore power/generator voltage protection and Automatic Transfer Switching for your systems?

[brianevans]

Thanks nate I live in my dodge grand caravan I have a 180 watt bouge rv 12 volt solar panel on the roof with a 1500 watt pure sin inverter by windy nation and 100ah chins life po 4 battery and everything works great except I need a bigger battery bank like 1 more chins battery will probably be all I need. Everything is so much better since I switched to the life po 4. So much better than flooded lead acid