RV Solar Systems

 


🔎 Which Solar System Is Right For You?



Start Here:

👉 Do you primarily camp with hookups?

Yes → You likely only need the 600W System for battery support and light off-grid capability.

No → Continue below.


👉 How important is running your air conditioner while off-grid?

Not important
You mainly want lights, charging, fans, TV, and basic appliances.
600W System is likely sufficient.

Occasional A/C for short periods
You want flexibility but not full-day cooling.
1000W System is your best value balance.

Important – We camp in hot climates
You expect meaningful off-grid A/C runtime.
1600W System is recommended.


👉 How long do you boondock at a time?

1–2 nights at a time
✔ 600W or 1000W

3–5 days regularly
✔ 1000W

Extended stays (a week or more)
✔ 1600W


👉 Do you use high-draw appliances daily?

Examples:

  • Induction cooktop

  • Residential refrigerator

  • Coffee maker + microwave daily

  • Hair dryer daily

Rarely → 600W
Moderately → 1000W
Frequently → 1600W


Simple Recommendation Summary

Your Priority Recommended System
Light off-grid support 600W
Balanced comfort & independence 1000W
Maximum capability on a 30' Airstream 1600W

❄️ Air Conditioning Runtime: What to Realistically Expect

 


The Reality of Running A/C on Solar

Air conditioners are the single largest electrical load in an RV.

A typical 13.5k–15k BTU unit draws:

  • 1,400–1,700 watts while running

  • Higher surge without a soft start

Even large battery banks can be depleted quickly if A/C runs continuously.


Approximate Continuous Runtime (No Sun)

System Estimated A/C Runtime
600W 1.5–2 hours
1000W 3–4 hours
1600W 6–7 hours

With strong sun, runtime can extend — but solar rarely fully offsets A/C draw in hot weather.


What Solar Can and Cannot Do

Solar Can:

✔ Extend A/C runtime
✔ Reduce generator use
✔ Allow cooling during peak heat for limited periods
✔ Maintain comfort in shoulder seasons

Solar Cannot:

✘ Guarantee all-day A/C in 95°+ temperatures
✘ Replace a generator for unlimited cooling
✘ Overcome heavy shade or poor sun exposure


Why Soft Starts Matter

A soft start device reduces compressor startup surge, making it possible to:

  • Run A/C from inverter power

  • Reduce strain on batteries

  • Improve overall system stability

Soft starts are optional in our systems because some RVs may already have them installed.


Important Performance Disclaimer 

Solar production and battery runtime depend on weather, sun angle, shading, temperature, and energy consumption habits.
Air conditioning runtime estimates are approximate and cannot be guaranteed in all climates or conditions.