Solar panels may harness the free energy from the sun, but they aren’t free themselves. This is why many people are reluctant to buy an RV solar panel. Let’s look at the 7 reasons why RVers should use solar power.
1. Greater Freedom
One benefit of owning an RV solar panel or several is that you enjoy greater overall freedom. If you arrive at a campsite and find that they don’t have any powered sites available, you don’t have to leave. Simply park in the sun and let the solar panel recharge your house batteries. You can boondock or dry camp longer too, without having to give up your amenities.
2. Improved Safety
Solar panels can improve your family’s safety over the alternatives. For example, solar panels don’t generate the toxic fumes generators do. There is no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning when you rely on solar power. Nor is there a fire hazard with solar panels, either, beyond the electrical risk you take with any array of batteries and wires. You’ll avoid the toxic hazard that comes with a gas spill. Nor will you need to worry about the risk of a portable wind turbine falling down and hurting someone.
3. Potential Cost Savings
Solar panels as a source of electricity could save you money over the long run. For example, you won’t have to pay a premium for campsites with power connections. You may save money on fuel too, since you only need gas for the RV. You’ll certainly avoid price gouging because the RV park charges a premium for a gallon of gas. The ability to recharge your house batteries and electronics often can prevent the total discharge that causes many of them to need replacing sooner than expected.
4. The Improved Ecological Footprint
Solar power is a form of renewable energy. When you rely on solar power instead of a gas-powered generator to recharge your batteries or power your RV, you’ll have less of an impact on the environment.
5. Improved Versatility
Solar panels are versatile. You can use them to generate power while you camp off the grid or power the essentials though you have access to the grid. The greatest benefit of solar panels is the fact that they work almost anywhere. You don’t have to worry about parking right next to the electric outlets at the campsite. You may want to make sure you aren’t in the shade, but you aren’t left powerless because the tall buildings around you block the wind. They’ll work almost anywhere, whether you’re in a cold climate or a hot one, though solar panels will need to have the snow removed from them before they’ll work.
6. The Labor Savings
Solar panels can save you time and effort. For example, there’s no need to haul natural gas canisters or fuel cans to and from the RV to keep the lights on. Solar panels are typically easy to set up once you’re stopped, assuming they aren’t permanently and properly mounted on the top of the RV. You won’t have to fight with a pull cord to start a gas generator, and you won’t need to dispose of empty natural gas canisters.
7. Peace of Mind
Solar panels can provide peace of mind. For example, solar panels mounted to the top of the RV aren’t prone to theft. Thieves will go to the next parking space over and steal their generator. Another point in favor of solar panels is the silence. You will be able to enjoy the sounds of nature instead of the roaring of an engine.
Suppose you do rely on a generator for most of your energy needs. A small solar panel can give you extra peace of mind by knowing you can recharge a cell phone used to call for help even if you run out of fuel.
Conclusion
Every RVer should consider owning solar panels. Whether you want them as a backup source of power or main source of electricity, they are an invaluable asset you should have on hand for when you take personal or business trips.
