Category: RV Solar/Electrical

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What’s The Deal With RV Solar?

If you’re an avid RV camper, you know how important it is to have a reliable source of power to keep your appliances and devices running while on the road. While traditional RV power sources such as generators and campground hookups are common, many campers are turning to solar power as a more sustainable and cost-effective option. However, selecting the right solar panel for your RV can be a daunting task with so many options available. In this blog post, we’ll explore some important factors to consider when selecting RV solar panels to ensure you choose the right option for your needs.

How Does a Solar System Work?

RV solar panels are designed to convert the energy from the sun into usable electrical power for your RV. The panels are made up of photovoltaic (PV) cells, which are made from silicon and other conductive materials. When sunlight hits the PV cells, it causes a flow of electrons, creating a direct current (DC) of electricity.

This DC power is then sent through wiring to a solar charge controller, which regulates the amount of power flowing into your RV’s battery system. The charge controller ensures that the batteries are not overcharged or undercharged, which can damage them.

The batteries are the powerhouse of your solar system – they collect all the energy from your solar panels and store it for use now or later. The larger the batteries you have, the more energy you are able to store!

Think Of A Rain Barrel

One helpful analogy for understanding the relationship between RV solar panels and batteries is to think of them like a rain barrel. Just as a rain barrel collects and stores rainwater for future use, your RV’s battery system stores the energy produced by your solar panels for later use.

Think of your solar panels as the rain – when the sun is shining, they collect energy and send it to your battery system just as rain fills up a barrel. The larger the solar panel array, the more energy you can collect, just as a larger rain barrel can store more water.

Your batteries, on the other hand, are like the rain barrel itself. Just as the rain barrel stores water until you need it, your battery system stores the energy produced by your solar panels until you need to use it to power your RV’s appliances and devices. The larger your battery bank, the more energy you can store for later use, just as a larger rain barrel can store more water for future use.

By understanding this analogy, you can see how important it is to have the right size solar panel array and battery bank for your RV’s needs. With the right combination, you can ensure that you have a reliable source of power for all your adventures on the road.

Portable vs. permanent

When it comes to RV solar panels, you have two main options: portable or permanently installed panels. Each option has its pros and cons, and choosing the right one for your needs depends on your camping style and energy requirements.

Portable solar panels are easy to transport and set up, making them a great choice for those who like to move around frequently. They can be positioned to capture the maximum amount of sunlight, which can be helpful in areas with limited sun exposure. Portable solar panels are also less expensive than permanent installations and can be easily replaced or upgraded as needed. However, they do require more manual labor to set up and take down, and they take up storage space inside your RV when not in use.

Permanent solar panel installations, on the other hand, are more convenient and efficient in the long run. They are usually mounted on the roof of your RV, so they are always positioned to capture the most sunlight. They require minimal maintenance and do not take up any storage space inside your RV. However, they are more expensive than portable panels and require professional installation, which can be an additional cost.

In summary, portable solar panels are more affordable, flexible, and easy to set up, but require more manual labor and storage space, and they aren’t generating any power until you set them up. Permanent installations are more efficient and convenient in the long run, but require a higher upfront cost and professional installation. Their main benefit is that they are always generating power when there is sunlight. Ultimately, your decision will depend on your budget, camping style, and energy requirements.

Do I Need An Inverter

An RV inverter is an electrical device that converts DC (direct current) power from your RV’s battery bank into AC (alternating current) power that can be used to run your RV’s appliances and devices. Most RVs come with a built-in inverter, but you can also purchase a separate inverter to upgrade your system.

When your RV is connected to shore power or running a generator, your appliances and devices run on AC power. However, when you’re boondocking or using solar power, you need an inverter to convert the DC power from your battery bank into AC power. Inverters come in different sizes and capacities, and it’s important to choose one that can handle the wattage of your appliances and devices.

Some RV inverters also include a built-in charger, which can recharge your RV’s batteries when connected to shore power or a generator. This can be a convenient way to keep your battery bank charged and ready to use.

Overall, an RV inverter is an essential component of any off-grid or solar-powered RV setup. It allows you to use AC power from your battery bank to power your appliances and devices, making it possible to enjoy all the comforts of home while on the road.

We’re Here To Help

If you’re looking to upgrade your RV with a solar panel, battery, or inverter, Edmonton RV Service is here to help. Our team of experienced technicians can guide you through the process of selecting the right components for your specific needs, from choosing the right solar panel size and battery capacity to selecting the right inverter for your appliances and devices. We can also provide professional installation and maintenance to ensure that your RV solar system runs smoothly and efficiently.

At Edmonton RV Service, we’re committed to helping our customers get the most out of their RVs. Whether you’re looking to go off-grid or just want to reduce your reliance on shore power, our team can help you find the right solution for your needs and budget. Contact us today to learn more about our RV solar services and how we can help you enjoy your RV to the fullest.

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Common RV Repairs You Should Consider in the Winter

Going Rving around Edmonton is a lot of fun, unless that fun gets interrupted because something went wrong. There are some common types of issues that most RVs will experience at least once by the second year of owning it or for sure by the 8th year.

When you are looking for RV repairs Edmonton, you want to be sure you know what type of problem you are encountering. Since prevention is better than looking for someone to do RV repairs in Edmonton, you want to know what you should look out for in terms of potential issues. Here are some common RV issues that you may encounter that you can have looked at during the winter so as not to ruin your summer fun.

Engine Troubles

You will, at some point, encounter engine issues. Therefore, you want to be sure that you get preventative maintenance checks done regularly. Check things like your coolant, filters, and fuel lines. When getting RV repair Edmonton, you might want to check spark plugs, brake pads, and other cables for any damage.

Batteries

One of the most common issues is the battery dies. While your RV is packed away for the winter, have the battery checked and get a new one if necessary.

Electrical Issues

You get ambitious with your “toys” and end up overloading your power supplies. Therefore, you want to check what works and what doesn’t when it comes to power. The appliances included in your RV are designed for the power your RV has. You need to be careful about extra things like hairdryers and coffee makers.

Exterior Damage

You are going camping around Edmonton with your RV. Therefore, you are surely going to encounter something that will cause damage to the outside of your RV. Have a look around over the winter and fix any exterior damage before camping season starts up again.

Tires

When looking for RV repairs to have done, you want to have your tires checked also. Tires withstand a lot of weight and wear. Therefore, you want to make sure that they are holding strong. Check for cracks, leaks, and wear on the treads. Change out your tires before the camping season begins again so that you aren’t delayed by a blown tire.

Come See Us!

When possible, you want to avoid any issues that could arise with your RV. Therefore, during the winter months, get your RV repairs done. Winter is always a good time to have preventative repairs done so that you can enjoy the summer months without any major issues putting your fun on hold. You want the right people who are knowledgeable about RVs to do your winter repairs. Come down to Edmonton RV, we know what we are doing, and we will make sure your RV is ready to hit the roads when summer comes back.

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RV Parts and Accessories that You Didn’t Know You Needed

So, you think you’re ready to hit the road this summer? You may want to look at your list before you go – here are a few RV parts and accessories you don’t want to leave home without:

Drinking Water Hose

Invest in a good quality hose that is BPA-free and can withstand both hot and cold weather. Most are simple to hook up and can provide you and your family with great tasting, fresh, safe drinking water. When it comes to RV parts and accessories, this needs to be first on your list!

Leveling Blocks

These are essential, and you’ll need to purchase blocks that can withstand the weight of your RV. Make sure they have a solid bottom to prevent them from sinking into the ground. We carry a vast selection of blocks to suit your needs.

Collapsible Kitchen Accessories

Your RV parts and accessories list wouldn’t be complete without some kitchen gadgets! Collapsible kitchen accessories like mixing bowls and colanders will help you make a gourmet meal, and if you’re short on storage space, they don’t take up too much room. We carry a selection of colours and kitchen gadgets you won’t want to be without.

Solar Battery

A solar battery can be a lifesaver if you’re camping where electricity is nowhere to be found. These can help you enjoy the best that nature has to offer, while still giving you the conveniences of home. How cool is that? We carry a variety of solar batteries, panels and chargers that you won’t want to leave home without. You may even get camp off the beaten path!

Table Fan

When the heat and sun get to be too much, you’ll want a fan to help keep things cool, especially if you’re inside cooking. We have just what you need to keep you cool, so add this to your RV parts and accessories treasure chest.

Go ahead, add these to your RV parts and accessories list and you can be sure to have an exciting adventure with family and friends. Take a look at our games, camping chairs, awning lights, and anything else you may need to make your home away from home feel cozy this season! Visit us today for all your RV parts and accessories needs.

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Learn More About RV Solar Off Grid Camping to Find Your New Favourite Spots

Going camping is a lot of fun. You can enjoy a more secluded camping experience when you choose to go RV solar off grid camping. However, you will want to know what you are doing so that you can still live in comfort and enjoy a rustic natural habitat.

Camping Off Grid

Camping off grid is a great way to enjoy nature free from more modern conveniences, while finding new places to camp. You want to be able to take your RV solar off grid camping and still have access to water, and power via solar panels, providing you some of the comforts from home.

Mounting solar panels is just the start of your RV solar off grid camping experience. There are many things you want to think about when depending on solar energy. Here are a few of those things:

  • Determine your wattage. Solar comes in 5 different watt sizes, 40, 80, 120, 180 and 200 watts. You want to make sure you get the one you need for the size of RV you have.
  • You also need proper mounting hardware. You want to be sure that when your solar panels are mounted, you can be sure they will stay in place no matter what the weather.
  • Have a proper all weather charge controller to allow you to use your solar energy efficiently.
  • Having a durable and long lasting battery and charging capabilities will make sure you don’t lose power. Make sure you are fitted for what works best for your RV.
  • If you find you don’t have enough power for your RV solar off grid camping and desire more, you can get an expansion kit. It will add more power to increase your rustic camping experience.
  • Another great piece you will want is a cable entry plate. This is a way to be able to keep the wires on the roof of your RV from being exposed to the elements and provide you with peace of mind.

Don’t Hesitate!

When you want to take your camping experience to the next level, be sure to consider your options before you go RV solar off grid camping. When you are ready to take the plunge into a more natural camping experience, head down to Edmonton RV to get fitted for the right solar kit that will make your RV solar off grid camping experience a comfortable one.

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Upgrade your RV with Edmonton RV’s five Favorite Parts and Accessories

Taking time off to explore the countryside in your RV is one of life’s greatest pleasures. However, having an outdated, inefficient or malfunctioning RV part can put a damper on things. Therefore, it’s important that you be on the lookout for better RV Parts and accessories to add to your RV. With the right Edmonton RV Parts, you will not only avoid inconveniences while on the road but also add comfort and safety to your RV experience. Here are the top five RV parts and accessories in Edmonton.

Roof Sealant

Nature can be unforgiving leading to unpleasant leaks, usually on the roof. As such, it necessary that you have a sealant at hand to deal with any leaks that may arise. Leaks can turn your otherwise good trip into a misery not to mention the sustained damage that can result from such leaks. Having a good roof sealant will offer you some assurance and a peace of mind.

Toilet Chemicals

This is probably a must have for every Edmonton RV owner. RV toilet chemicals are typically deodorizers, cleaners and waste digesters that you should use to maintain your black water tank. However, some are also applicable in the gray water tank.

Strip Lighting

As a true road warrior, you understand the importance of efficient lighting. Talking efficiency, flexible LED strips are typically better than a point light source as they offer longer light dispersion. Placing them under the kitchen cabinets or towards the top of the molding area of the kitchen yields admirable results.

Exterior LED Lights

While on the road, safety can be quite a concern. However, by adding LED under-glow lights and LED grille lights to the exterior of your track, you are able to achieve a sense of security on the road. Additionally, brightening the brake, tail and turn lights offers an additional layer of safety as you travel.

Bluetooth Speakers

Bluetooth speakers are an easy way to connect speakers to your RV particularly if your RV does not have external speakers. You can now listen to your favorite music without losing your mind trying to entangle speaker cables.RVs present a unique chance to experience life in Edmonton in its purity. Having the right RV Parts will guarantee that you get the most out of every minute you are on the road. Come on in to Edmonton RV Service for your new rv parts and accessories.

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Miniature Solar Device Chargers and Five Other Must-Have RV Accessories

Miniature Solar Device Chargers and Five Other Must-Have RV Accessories

Are you looking for RV accessories in Edmonton? Part of what makes RVing so appealing is that it allows you to travel while retaining all the comforts of home. Accessorizing is what makes any old trip into your trip. It can turn any RV into your RV. No need to make the family choose, with the proper RV accessories, you can have your way and the highway!

Solar Chargers

Site-based power is usually only found in developed campsites or parks and can be quite costly. These sites are convenient when available, but many Edmonton RVers want to get away from the commotion and noise of campgrounds. Generator power, while great for getting off the grid, has many of the same issues when it comes to noise and cost. The best option is battery power. It is a silent way to run many low voltage loads. A solar charging system works during the day to recharge your battery. This can extend your trips far beyond the initial battery charge and will allow you to run these five must have RV accessories:

1) Coffee Maker: If you’re like me, then you know I’m not exaggerating when I say that a coffee maker is a “must-have accessory” Without coffee, there is no way that I would be able to enjoy a trip.

2) Microwave: There’s nothing better than having a flame-roasted meal over a crackling fire. On the other hand, there’s nothing worse than having to build a whole fire if all you want is a hot snack. Don’t make yourself choose. Get a microwave.

3) Portable Radio or Stereo: A radio or stereo is another must-have RV accessory. The sound of nature is wonderful, but the sound of a party can be even better.

4) Laptops and Other Electronic Devices: Nature is great, but so is a backup plan. As nice as it is to get away from our computers, there are some situations where it is important to stay in touch. Furthermore, sometimes it’s nice to curl up with a portable movie player on a rainy day.

5) Frozen Drink Maker: My favourite RV destination is Margaritaville. Accordingly, my portable frozen drink maker is one of my favourite RV accessories. Nothing says vacation like pina coladas, margaritas, or even some frozen lemonade.

Visit Edmonton RV today for even more RV accessories!