Van Life Solar System Components: How Much Power is Enough?

Introduction: The Power Behind Vanlife Solar Systems

You're the commander in chief when it comes to your van life, and understanding the fundamentals of a solar power system is the key to keeping your off-grid adventures moving in the right direction. 

Don't like your surroundings while working remotely? Find new inspiration just a few miles further or travel to another part of the country.

At the core of this lifestyle is self-sufficiency. Nothing embodies this more than having an electrical system with a solar setup as the source. A solar power system is central to maintaining this form of independence by providing an endless supply of energy harnessed directly from the sun, nature's most abundant resource.

A solar setup will generally consist of panels for capturing the sunlight, charge controllers for managing power flow, batteries for storing power, inverters for converting types of energy, and the wiring to connect all of these components in a highly functional system.

Now that we've illuminated the essential components, let's look at the component often considered the lifeline of any solar system, 'Batteries: Energizing Your Mobile Lifestyle.'

Batteries: Energizing Your Mobile Lifestyle

When determining how much solar power is necessary for your van’s solar power setup, batteries play a crucial role. They store the sun's energy during the day and reliably deliver it whenever required. You have three options when considering the type of batteries for your battery bank: lead acid batteries, AGM batteries, and lithium-ion batteries. Each has unique characteristics:

• Lead Acid Batteries: These batteries have become classics due to their affordability and reliability. They come in two primary forms:

• AGM Batteries: Absorbed glass mat or AGM batteries are designed to deliver a lot of power even when the engine is off. AGM batteries have become very common for automotive, motorcycle, and marine applications due to all the electronics used in vehicles today, e.g., touch screens, backup cameras, warning sensors, satellite radio, WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, etc. All of this technology requires electricity.
  • More than 50% of new vehicles sold after 2019 require an AGM battery because of all their electrical power needs. As of 2022, more than 50 million vehicles on the road utilize them.
  • With AGM batteries, the battery acid is absorbed into fiberglass mats. The mats spread more electrolyte in contact with the lead plates, allowing more lead plates to be fitted inside the battery case. More lead inside the battery means more available power.
  • The sealed design prevents spills making them also ideal for use in fighter jets and submarines. AGM batteries can deliver deep power and still start a vehicle's engine.
  • Water loss can kill conventional batteries, so you need to refill standard batteries with distilled water occasionally. AGM batteries don't need to be maintained the same way. One-way valves keep gases inside the battery, effectively preventing water loss.
  • Go Power! offers GP-AGM-100-12V Sun Cycle deep cycle AGM batteries designed specifically for solar. These batteries are UL (Underwriters Laboratory) listed, feature sealed construction, and are backed by a two-year warranty, one of the longest in the industry. Sun Cycle AGM batteries are maintenance-free, spill-proof and leak-free, weigh 67.5 lbs., and come with integrated carrying handles.

• Lithium Batteries: They have revolutionized van life with their higher energy density, smaller package size, longer lifespan, lighter weight, faster charging capabilities, larger usable capacity, and the ability to withstand deep discharges. Despite a higher upfront cost than their lead-acid or AGM counterparts, they offer efficiency and performance that make them a worthy addition to your battery bank.

Smart Batteries with integrated BMS are the latest trend

Whether traditional lead acid batteries, AGM batteries, or cutting-edge lithium-ion batteries, integrating a battery management system (BMS) is essential. A BMS ensures safe and efficient operation by monitoring charging and discharging processes while preventing overcharging, over-discharging, and overheating. A battery monitor will give you peace of mind, knowing that your solar power source is secure and reliable.

Speaking of BMS, the GP-LIFEP04-250 from Go Power! is a highly efficient, high-performance 250Ah lithium battery with integrated BMS built specifically for mobile applications.

Smart Lithium Batteries

With quick charging, Max Power Capacity it delivers almost double the power of regular batteries, and the built-in Battery Management System ensures safety and long battery life. These lithium batteries also feature short circuit protection.

Installation Tip

If you are building a 12V system using 12V batteries and want to wire multiple batteries together, you must wire your batteries in parallel and NOT in series. Parallel wiring will increase your battery capacity while keeping the overall voltage at 12V.

Let's not stop here. Our journey into understanding the components of solar setups continues as we investigate 'Solar Inverter Types: Unleashing the Potential of Solar Energy'.

Solar Inverter Types: Unleashing the Potential of Solar Energy

Next up in our vanlife solar series, let's jump headfirst into the world of solar inverters. Whether you're considering a Modified Sine Wave Inverter, a Pure Sine Wave Inverter, or an integrated Inverter/Charger, each type has its unique benefits and potential drawbacks. Understanding each can help you unlock the full potential of your solar power setup and keep your camper van running smoothly and efficiently wherever you may roam.

Modified Sine Wave Inverters

On your off-grid adventures, a modified sine wave inverter might just be your go-to gadget, turning the energy derived from your solar panel array into usable power for most of your much-loved appliances, albeit with a potential hiccup or two for more sensitive electronics.

This type of inverter is an affordable option that produces an approximation of a sine wave. It's the basic version, so it doesn't come with all the bells and whistles of other types of inverters. Still, it can certainly handle powering up your coffee machine or charging your camera batteries to capture stunning sunset shots.

The largest of the Go Power!'s Heavy Duty Modified Sine Inverter line, the GP-5000HD provides plenty of power to run a gaggle of appliances at once. With a 5000-watt output, this inverter is the best choice for most large power requirements. You can plug your devices directly into its four AC outlets or wire them into your electrical system using an optional Go Power! Transfer Switch.

While a modified sine wave inverter will cover many of your needs on the road, it may not be ideal for all situations. For instance, if you have high-end audio or delicate medical devices as part of your equipment, you might encounter compatibility issues or decreased performance when using a modified sine wave inverter. You'll need to weigh whether the lower cost is worth any possible compromises on functionality or if you should go with a pure sine wave inverter.

If you're looking for something that offers smoother operation and greater compatibility with all types of electronic devices, a pure sine wave inverter is precisely what you need. 

Pure Sine Wave Inverters

A pure sine wave inverter is the Mercedes-Benz of inverters, offering premium performance that ensures all your electronics run as smoothly as the L.A. Philharmonic Orchestra. This type of inverter contributes to the health and well-functioning of your appliances and devices, ensuring they work harmoniously without any interference or glitches. According to a National Renewable Energy Laboratory study, pure sine wave inverters provide superior power quality and increased efficiency compared to their modified sine wave counterparts.

Whether living on the road full-time or just escaping for weekend adventures, having reliable power is essential for maintaining comfort and convenience. A pure sine wave inverter offers you this peace of mind. It gives you freedom from worrying about potential damage to sensitive equipment like laptops, televisions, or even medical equipment.

Go Power!'s 3000-watt Industrial Pure Sine Wave Inverter is the pick for large loads, capable of powering multiple appliances and electronics. The largest of their pure sine wave inverters, Go Power!'s GP-ISW3000 was designed for increased amp hours. As the professionals’ choice, it can run any tool or appliance within its wattage range.

Ideal for powering a galley full of devices, the Go Power! GP-ISW3000 can also handle electronic equipment like TVs, stereos, and computers, or it can serve as a source of emergency backup power.

A pure sine wave inverter is an investment into your mobile lifestyle that ensures that no matter where your excursions may take you, from sun-drenched deserts to shadowy forests and snowy mountaintops, you'll always have access to clean, stable power, exactly as you'd get from plugging into a standard household outlet back home.

Let's shift gears now and venture further into our exploration of off-grid solar systems with a look at 'Inverter/Chargers'.

Inverter/Chargers

Inverter/chargers are akin to multitasking robots for your camper van, effortlessly converting DC power to AC while at the same time keeping your batteries topped up and ready for action. They consolidate two critical functions into a single unit, simplifying the overall setup of your solar arrangement.

Envision how your solar panels absorb sunlight, converting it to DC electricity, which then gets stored in your batteries. But most appliances need AC power, so it’s Go Power’s Inverter/charger to the rescue! This savvy device transforms stored DC energy into usable AC power for any culinary experiences or John Wick movie marathons that involve off-grid electricity.

The IC Series 3000-watt Inverter Charger from Go Power! offers more power in the same footprint, an inverter, battery charger, and transfer switch in one compact unit. The Go Power! GP-IC-3000 Inverter Charger delivers top-of-the-line features and performance at an economical price. The Inverter Charger saves space and simplifies installation, with fewer components and cables to install.

Twin 50 amp 'legs' set the Inverter/Charger's performance apart from more common 50 amp inverter chargers. This unique configuration allows users to make full use of 100 amp shore power service (240V) by passing through up to 12,000 watts of power. The Inverter Charger is also compatible with all 30 amp services.

The charger component of an inverter/charger isn't just an afterthought, it plays a critical role. When connected to shore power or a generator, it recharges your batteries to keep you powered up even on cloudier days when solar production might wane.

Additionally, their smart charging capabilities protect battery life by preventing overcharging, a handy feature you'll appreciate over the course of your adventures.

Now that you're fully informed about these dynamic devices called inverter/chargers, let's further explore the depths of our understanding and comprehension in the 'Key Components of a Solar Panel System: The Building Blocks of Energy Independence'.

Key Components of a Solar System: The Building Blocks of Energy Independence

With all this knowledge at hand, are you ready to select solar panels for your camper van? Understanding the key components such as the charge controller, wiring, connectors, mounting systems and the watts of solar panels will put you on the path towards energy independence and enlightenment. Let's explore these building blocks so you can harness the sun's power more effectively during your off-grid adventures.

Solar Panels

Solar panels play a crucial role in your van life escapades, transforming those golden rays of sunshine into usable power for your camper van. When choosing solar panels, it's important to consider the watts of solar panels, power output, efficiency, size, and durability.

When selecting van solar panels, there are a plethora of options to choose from, such as portable solar panels, and fixed solar panels, which then include flexible solar panels, and rigid solar panels, so it's easy to get confused. Determining which ones are best suited is one thing; installing them is another. If you feel uncomfortable installing solar panels, there are guides and tutorials that can help, or specialists who can complete the installation for you. 

So, portable panels, flexible panels, or rigid panels, which solar panels are right for you?

A look at flexible solar panels reveals the Go Power! SolarFlex™ line. These kits vary from 35 to 550-watts, and include all components required for a clean installation.

SolarFlex™ panels are made to mold seamlessly to virtually any surface. At only 3 mm in thickness, installation becomes a straightforward task, allowing for an attractive visual appearance and enhanced aerodynamics compared to conventional rigid solar modules. The downside to these panels? They don't last as long as the ones made from glass and aluminum-frames. 

Rigid solar panels are a popular choice offering higher efficiency and better durability. They often are a more cost-effective option among solar panels. These panels are much thicker than the flex panels and need to be affixed to the vehicle using mounting hardware.

One of the best-selling solar kits on the market is the Go Power! Overlander kit. A 200-watt monocrystalline solar panels is paired with a 30 amp Bluetooth® enabled solar controller, as well as cables and mounting hardware.

Remember, for every 200-watts of solar, it should be paired with 100 amp-hours of Lithium battery, or 200 amp-hours of AGM or Lead-Acid.  

Combined with a Go Power! inverter, it's excellent for running appliances in your camper van, like a kettle or coffee maker. There are tools available to help size your system as well, to make life a little easier. 

Portable Solar may come into play if you don’t have the roof space or are not comfortable with the idea of having solar panels installed on your van. No drilling holes and following potentially complicated installation procedures.

Flexibility is an obvious advantage of a portable system; you can set up the panels whenever you want, putting them into the sun while your vehicle is parked in the shade. You can also easily move them around during the course of the day and optimize the amount of light that hits them.

However, portable systems are usually rather small in terms of energy production compared to fixed systems and they cost more per Watt of energy generated. A great example of a portable solar kit for van life is the Go Power! PSK-200.

Charge Controllers

After choosing the perfect solar panels for your camper van, the next component to consider is a solar charge controller. This device eliminates the risk of overcharging your batteries and diminishing their lifespan, something you want to avoid when living off-grid.

A solar charge controller regulates the power flow from your solar panels to your batteries, ensuring they're optimally charged and protected from any potential damage. In particular, MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) charge controllers are well worth considering among your solar components.

An MPPT charge controller charges the battery with up to 98% efficiency, and often offer more expansion options than PWM controllers. Go Power!'s 30 Amp MPPT Solar Controller can stack up to five in a row, and offers a touchscreen smart remote. 

This solar controller regulates and prevents the solar panel from overcharging the batteries, with Maximum MPPT charging and four battery charging profiles. As one of the most efficient MPPT controllers for vans, it is compatible with all battery types, including lithium. 

The 3" color touchscreen has integrated smart technology that works seamlessly with the Go Power! Connect app to provide wireless monitoring of the controller's parameters and data.

These smart devices are designed to maximize the conversion of solar power into usable energy efficiently and effectively. This means an MPPT charge controller can still get the most out of your panels even on cloudy days with less-than-ideal sunlight conditions.

This controller, the touchscreen as well as a 200-watt black-framed panel are available in the Go Power! Eclipse kit.   

Now that we've powered up our understanding about charge controllers, let's follow the current towards Wiring and Connectors, another key aspect to ensure everything runs smoothly in our off-grid adventure vehicle set-up.

Wiring and Connectors

Navigating the world of wiring and connectors might appear daunting with many different components to piece together, but it's vital for minimizing power loss, maximizing efficiency and keeping you safe from any potential hazards, preventing overheating or short-circuiting.

Quality Wiring

There are many guides, videos and tutorials on how to build a 12V system for your van. They are available in the form of books, videos and plans that can be obtained online and through various van life authorities. Wiring diagrams are especially useful because they help to visualize how the wiring and each component comes together to form a cohesive system.

If you are operating up to a 2000W inverter, the use of 2/0 AWG wire is recommended. The cables will have to simultaneously support your inverter and the 12V system with amps quickly adding up. 2/0 AWG wiring will keep the system safe from overheating. If you are using a 3,000W inverter, 4/0 cable is recommended.

Make sure to follow the wiring recommendations for the fuse panel you are using, and its amp rating. For the panel installation we observed, 4 AWG wire was used to ensure absolute safety. This wire size and 150A rating is recommended by the manufacturer.

14 AWG red and black wire is the perfect size wire gauge for virtually all standard 12V devices, and it includes a tough outer jacket for additional protection. 14 AWG wire is good for up to at least 20 Amps, or 240W at 12V.

If you are planning on doing lots of long wire runs of over 20 feet, especially to your fridge, you may want to think about upgrading to 12 AWG wire instead to resist any voltage drop.

Marine grade wire is what you want to use in your van. This means that all of the wire and cable used is built to withstand the harshest marine environment. The premium vinyl jacketing material stays flexible while remaining extremely resistant to UV, corrosion, salt water, battery acid, oil, gas, heat and abrasion.

Individually tinned wire strands ensure optimal conductivity. Everything you need from primary wire to battery cable and specialty wire is available from a number of van life specialists. Most will carry all the ABYC recommended colors in a variety of sizes to handle any wiring project.

Labeled, high-quality, marine grade wires encased in a fire-resistant flex sleeve is what you want running throughout your camper van.

Devices you may want to plan for

Secure Connectors

Many components and systems are wired to IPC/WHMA-A-620 Class 2 aerospace industry standards using D38999 series connectors.

If you are building your van solar system by yourself, it will be crucial to understand these conventions as well as the difference between connectors of this caliber and what you will normally find at a local home improvement store.

The connectors and type of wiring described above are designed to provide uninterrupted power, even during extended periods of inclement weather or low solar input, and to ensure smooth energy flow.

Using the proper connectors and wiring will minimize power loss, which is especially important if the weather is not cooperating. Long periods of rain or cloudy conditions aren't optimal for solar power collection, regardless of how big or efficient your solar panels may be.

Whether camping by the lake or journeying through rugged landscapes, having reliable power is essential for brightening your adventures. Take the time to get familiar with these components, as it will pay off in uninterrupted sunsets and cozy evenings in your van. Now let's climb onto the roof, and discuss how to secure your solar panels with robust mounting systems.

A Word on Mounting Systems

A well-placed and installed system is instrumental in making sure that each solar panel works efficiently to transfer every ray of sunshine into valuable energy.

As you design this part of your solar setup, consider both how it fits into the overall aesthetic of your vehicle and how it enhances functionality. Remember to try and keep the edge of your solar panels at least 6" away from the side of your van to reduce wind resistance.

these mounts aren't just about keeping the solar panels in place. They also need to withstand weather conditions and road vibrations while maximizing sun exposure.

Your solar setup needs to be held securely and even the best solar panels will not perform properly if they are not mounted correctly, and the mounting brackets you select are of the utmost importance to avoid possible disconnection or damage. Opting for stainless steel or aluminum brackets are usually the most popular choices. 

Now that we have used the correct mounting brackets for our solar panels, let's switch gears slightly and delve into another consequential aspect of our off-grid power supply: 'Designing an Efficient and Reliable Battery Storage System' for all our van life needs.

Van Life Battery Setup: Designing an Efficient and Reliable Power Storage System

When setting up your van's battery system, it's essential to focus on usable battery capacity and bank size, as well as establishing a reliable system for battery monitoring and maintenance.

It's not just about installing batteries, it's about crafting a power storage system with a battery monitor that delivers peace of mind during your overland adventures.

Battery Bank Size and Capacity

Make a list of your devices needing electricity, so you’re not left without power during your off-grid excursions.

For instance, if you're planning to use a mini-fridge, laptop, and LED lights in your van, you'll need to calculate the total energy consumption of these devices to determine the appropriate battery capacity.

Go Power! has a handy calculator that makes this process so much easier which you can use for free HERE.

This calculation is not as complex as it sounds. Simply take each device's wattage, the amount of energy it uses per hour, and multiply it by the number of hours you plan on using that appliance or device each day. This will give you an estimation of how much power you'll be using daily.

1. Mini fridge: A typical mini fridge uses about 70 watts per hour, so if it's operating for 24 hours a day, that's approximately 1.68 kilowatt-hours (kWh).
2. Laptop: If a laptop uses around 60 watts per hour and is used for six hours a day, this sums up to roughly 0.36 kWh.
3. LED Lights: Four LED lights consuming around five watts each for five hours would equal about 0.10 kWh.

Adding these totals together, you'll get an estimate of your total daily power usage, which would be around 2.14 kWh. This value should guide your choice of battery capacity. 

Go Power! has a great calculator on their website, that helps you determine the size of your system. You can enter all your devices and the calculator will spit out the power used and the capacity needed.

Battery Monitoring and Maintenance

Keeping a close eye on the health of your battery bank isn't just smart; it's vital for the long haul of your journey. In the off-grid world of van life, your battery bank is essentially your lifeline, powering everything from lights to refrigerator. Regular monitoring can help you avoid unpleasant surprises, such as waking up in the middle of nowhere without power.

Implement a routine that includes periodic inspections, ensuring components are free from corrosion, and checking voltage levels. Advanced battery monitoring systems or smart controllers can be a great help. You can view your battery’s performance with the new Go Power! Battery Manager Kit. It's an easy way to upgrade an old battery bank and review your power consumption from your mobile device. The kit comes with all installation materials, and works with all types of batteries providing real-time data and easy-to-understand statistics.

If you are living life on the road, you will appreciate the importance of good battery management. It's what separates beautiful sunsets and unforgettable memories from spoiled food and getting stuck in the hinterlands.

Let's head towards wrapping up our discussion by exploring how 'Choosing A Solar Battery Charging Kit' can empower your van solar journey.

Choosing A Solar & Inverter Kit

By now you understand how it's essential to choose the right solar components, and to know how much electricity you'll need. Some vendors offer charging kits that take the guesswork out of which components will work well together. One excellent choice is The PowerTrak-400 Solar and Inverter System. This robust system pairs two solar panels and MPPT controller to charge onboard auxiliary batteries whenever there's light outside, even while driving. It also features an inverter charger to let you run appliances and charge your batteries faster when plugged in.

Reducing Complexity with a Smart Control System

The latest technology in van solar includes centralized smart systems. Having a display or controller for each component is no longer necessary. 

The PowerTrak system eliminates the need for multiple devices by integrating all system functions into a single touch-screen display. It uses RV-C and Bluetooth wireless connectivity to optimize solar battery charging and power system performance. PowerTrak effectively leaves system complexities in the past and reduces the time and cost spent on installation.

Pairing this 400-watt smart mobile power system with a 300 amp-hour Advanced Lithium Battery is a solid backbone to start your off-grid journeys. 

Conclusion: Empower Your Van Life Journey with the Right Solar System Components

With the right solar system components powering your van, you're truly free to carve out your own way, living an adventurous, sustainable life on your terms.

A reliable, efficient, and virtually maintenance-free power solution allows you to go off grid and immerse yourself in nature without worrying about your power supply. You can enjoy the serenity of remote landscapes, cook a warm meal anytime, and energize your devices whenever needed, all thanks to solar energy.

As part of your van life journey:

• Do your research and compare components and systems: Understand every component of a solar kit and how it functions in your vehicle. 
• Answer the question: “How much power do I need?”
• Choose quality over quantity when selecting components for longevity and efficiency.
• Trust and invest in products and materials that will get you to your destination and back again.
• Choose components that work together seamlessly. Once installed, it is hard to change a system setup.
• Seek professional advice: Consult experts whenever needed to ensure optimal installation and maintenance. Roof space is at a premium on most vans, and your layout needs to be efficient.
• Invest in good battery monitoring systems: This will help maintain battery health and prolong its lifespan.
• Optimize regularly: Regular check-ups of your solar setup ensure continuous efficiency.

By harnessing clean, renewable energy for your nomadic lifestyle, you're doing your part in preserving our planet while experiencing unforgettable adventures. Empower yourself with knowledge and start creating memories with your self-sufficient home on wheels.

Are You Ready To Power Your Vanlife?