RV Solar Sizing Calculator
Calculate your RV, camper van, or motorhome solar needs in minutes. Perfect for boondockers, van lifers, and anyone planning off-grid adventures.
This free calculator helps you determine how many solar panels, batteries, and charge controller capacity you need based on your daily energy consumption and travel plans. Want to understand the math? Read our solar sizing guide first.
Related Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How much solar do I need for my RV?
The amount of solar you need depends on your daily energy consumption. Most RVers need between 200-800 watts of solar panels. Use our calculator above to enter your appliances and get a personalized recommendation based on your actual usage patterns.
What size battery bank do I need for boondocking?
For comfortable boondocking, we recommend battery capacity that can store 1.5-2 days worth of your energy needs. Lithium (LiFePO4) batteries are ideal as they can be discharged to 80-90% without damage, unlike lead-acid batteries which should only be discharged to 50%.
How many days of autonomy should I plan for?
Most full-time RVers plan for 1-2 days of autonomy. Weekend campers might only need 1 day. If you plan to camp in cloudy areas or during winter, consider 2-3 days of battery capacity to ensure reliable power during consecutive overcast days.
What's the difference between MPPT and PWM charge controllers?
MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) controllers are 20-30% more efficient than PWM controllers, especially in cold weather or when panel voltage is significantly higher than battery voltage. For systems over 200W, MPPT is strongly recommended despite the higher cost.
Can I run my RV air conditioner on solar?
Running AC on solar is possible but requires a substantial system. A typical 13,500 BTU RV air conditioner draws 1,500-2,000 watts. You'd need 600-800W of solar panels and at least 400-600Ah of lithium batteries to run AC for several hours per day. Most RVers use shore power or a generator for AC.
Should I choose lithium or lead-acid batteries?
Lithium (LiFePO4) batteries cost 2-3x more upfront but last 5-10x longer than lead-acid. They're lighter, can be discharged deeper (80-90% vs 50%), charge faster, and perform better in cold weather. For full-time RVers, lithium usually pays for itself within 3-5 years.
How do I calculate my daily energy usage?
List all your 12V appliances and devices, note their wattage (or amps × 12V = watts), and estimate hours of use per day. For example: LED lights (30W × 4 hours = 120Wh), laptop (50W × 3 hours = 150Wh), phone charging (10W × 2 hours = 20Wh). Our calculator makes this easy with a pre-loaded appliance list.
What's the best solar panel type for RVs?
Monocrystalline panels are most efficient and perform better in low-light conditions, making them ideal for RVs where roof space is limited. Flexible panels are popular for curved roofs but typically have shorter lifespans (5-7 years vs 25+ years for rigid panels).
Need Help with Your RV Solar Installation?
Connect with experienced solar installers who specialize in RV and mobile systems.