The Power of Solar

By Tracey Hendley

Solar power is a great source of quiet, clean energy with no cost other than the initial purchase. With so many parks and recreation sites becoming intolerant to the noise and smell of generators we are finding that the consumers are looking for an alternative that will work for them.

There are many different options when it comes to adding solar power to your RV. If you are the type of person that likes to go off grid and are mostly concerned about keeping your batteries maintained so you can run your lights, furnace, water pump and other DC appliances, a basic solar kit is the way to go. Our number one seller is Go Power, by Carmanah. We have an installed price of $995.00 for the 160-watt kit, which includes the regulator, wiring and fuse. The cash and carry price for that kit is $745.00.

If you would like to enjoy the comforts of home with your A/C electronics and appliances, you can simply add an inverter and transfer switch to your system and you are all set.

The size of solar and inverter system that you require is determined by what type of things you would like your solar system to do for you. Carmanah has a solar calculator on their website site that is a great tool to help RV’ers decide what system is going to suit their needs. www.gpelectric.com

There is always the option of going with a portable solar kit as well. This is a handy, lightweight system that you can take anywhere and has multiple uses.

A generator will certainly provide you with the power you require but only during the times that you are allowed to use it. A solar panel is recharging your batteries anytime the sun is shining and you will never have to deal with the noise.

No more breaking your back carrying a heavy generator and gas can around, no more listening to complaints about the noise or smell of exhaust, just the comfortable peace and quiet while your solar system does all the work for you!

Tracey Hendley is the Parts manager at O'Connor RV in Chilliwack, BC www.oconnorrv.com