Camping solar systems

Electricity thanks to solar radiation

With a camping solar system, you have the possibility to generate electricity for your camper or caravan independently and, above all, sustainably. The big advantage: As a camper you are less or not at all dependent on an external power source and can therefore also make a stopover outside official campsites.

The various types of solar panels differ both in their intended use and in their respective power output. For example, while photovoltaic systems are suitable for independent and self-sufficient power supply, thermal camping solar panels are mainly used to produce hot water, which you will need during your travels for the camping shower or for washing up.

What you should consider before and after buying a camping solar system

If you have decided to equip your caravan or motorhome with a solar panel, there are a few things to consider both beforehand and during commissioning. Below you will find an overview of the most important points:

1. Required power

At least if you select the camping solar system according to its power to be produced, the daily demand for electricity should be determined in advance as a benchmark. Specifically, you check the needs of all devices, batteries, etc., which your future solar system should regularly supply with electricity.

2. Extra battery

Normally, the solar system is simply connected to the respective on-board battery. If you want to increase the capacity even more, it may be worthwhile to buy an additional solar battery.

Note: Before using it, you should make sure that your battery fits to the given solar controller. If you are unsure, we will be happy to advise you by phone.

3. Permissible roof load

If you travel with a camper or caravan, the installation of a camping solar system on the roof can be very practical. However, it is important that the respective roof is also designed for this. In particular, the maximum permissible load of the roof must not be exceeded. You can find this, among other things, in the vehicle registration document.

4. Location

The solar panel for your camper should capture as much sunlight as possible, so that the purchase of a camping solar system is profitable for you in any case. For this purpose, it is best to choose a location that is free of shade for a long time.

5. Cleaning

In order for the solar panel to supply your camper or caravan with energy, the surface of the solar system must be as free of dirt as possible. Therefore, you should not neglect the regular cleaning of the system.

Important: High pressure cleaners, harsh detergents or scouring agents can cause damage to the camping solar system and should therefore never be used for cleaning.

5. Voltage transformer

You will need a voltage converter if your camping solar system is to supply 230 volt devices with energy. This ensures that the 12-volt DC voltage of the battery is converted to 12-volt AC voltage.

6. Flexible or rigid module

Depending on the desired application or the type of mounting, different types of solar modules can be helpful. In general, a distinction is made between rigid and flexible modules.

Flexible solar panels originated in the marine sector, where they were mounted on sailing yachts, for example. Consequently, the modules had to be both flexible and salt water resistant. This means that a flexible solar panel is ideally suited for operation on the roof of a motor home or caravan.

In terms of the respective performance, there is hardly any difference between flexible and rigid modules today. Only in the case of intense heat and extreme angles of incidence is the flexible panel still somewhat inferior to the rigid model. Solar modules generally produce the best power at moderate temperatures and become correspondingly less powerful when it gets hotter.

Rigid solar panels ensure constant air circulation through a gap between the vehicle roof and the panel, and thus constant cooling of the panel, which is not yet possible with flexible modules, on the other hand.

Camping solar system: What types are there?

In general, there are two types of camping solar panels: Crystalline solar cells and CIGS solar cells. The former are made of silicon and are considered the classics among solar cells. The structure of the crystals can vary depending on the model. Monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar cells, among others, have established themselves in solar system construction and are considered very robust.

The abbreviation CIGS stands for the absorber copper indium gallium diselenide, which is unique to this type of solar cell. CIGS solar modules absorb light very well and, at the same time, their absorber means that the modules can be built flat and are therefore comparatively very light. This special design even makes it possible for the solar surfaces to be curved.

The use of CIGS solar cells is particularly advantageous for mobile solar systems, which are used in tents during longer outdoor adventures, for example.

Camping solar system: Our offer

In our store you will find a wide selection of products in the following categories:

• Solar panels for camping
  
• Solar complete systems
• Regulators and accessories

With our product filter you can directly specify various parameters, such as manufacturer, size, weight, etc., during your online search, which will quickly lead you to your desired result.

Any questions? We are happy to help you!

You want to equip your camper or caravan for your next camping adventure with a solar system, but you are still undecided which model is the most suitable?

We will be happy to answer all your questions and uncertainties on the subject of camping solar systems by calling +49 261-13499228 or by sending us a message to [email protected]. We are happy to help you!

FAQs: Camping solar system

How much electricity can a camping solar system produce?

The amount of electricity a camping solar panel can produce is given in the unit of measurement Watt Peak (Wp). Depending on the model, the value is approximately between 50 and 180 Wp.

What is the difference between camping solar panels and traditional rooftop solar panels?

Basically, solar panels for camping have the same functional principle as models for the house roof, but are significantly smaller and more compact. The solar system converts solar energy into electricity. The solar energy flows into the on-board battery, which can now supply all other devices with energy.

How expensive is a camping solar system?

Prices for a camping solar system can vary greatly depending on the brand, size or power. Basically, costs of around 500 to over 3,000 euros are possible for a complete camping solar system. Accessories such as charge controllers or digital displays are usually available for less than 100 euros.