We really like the idea of solar power on an RV. Who doesn’t? We tried once before getting solar installed on our Dutch Star, but the system was far too small to handle a residential refrigerator. This time we decided to do it right and use a company that specializes in installing solar for RVs. After much research on RV forums, one name kept popping up: AM Solar out of Springfield, OR. They’ve installed solar on every type of RV imaginable, and systems far larger and more complex than even we want.
We chose AM Solar based on recommendations
We scheduled an appointment with AM Solar back in May for an early October install date (which was the first available). We arrived around 9 AM and met with Cody, who performed our intake and walked us though the process. He started by looking at the batteries and where the 6 gauge solar prep wire terminates (in the cargo bay adjacent to the batteries). He then asked us to remove everything from that bay so technicians could install equipment in there. Since we have a motorhome with new AGM batteries and a 3000 watt inverter, our install is a little easier than replacing all those components on an older RV. But AM Solar sells & installs everything, including the latest and greatest Lithium Ion batteries.
AM Solar’s building and property has no signage. They have two bays.
Our RV in the shop
We had scheduled to have up to 1440 watts of solar panels installed, but until they lay eyes on the roof it’s impossible to say how much will fit. They started by using pre-cut cardboard pieces in the same dimensions of the 3 solar panels they sell (100, 160 and 180 watts). They try various layouts using the cardboard to figure out the maximum number of panels that will fit. We ended with (5) 180 watt and (5) 100 watt panels for a total of 1400 watts.
Diagram of our solar array
The next hurdle was dealing with the Newmar installed 6 gauge solar pre wire. In theory this saves time, but running 1400 watts of solar at its native voltage (18 volts) would result in poor efficiency with only 6 gauge wire. Cody mentioned 2 gauge is what the manufacturers should install for pre-wire, but none do. But running new wires through a motorhome with multiple slide outs is not fun, so they came up with a solution: run the solar panels in a series-parallel configuration (meaning the voltage is increased to approximately 90 volts across two sets of 5 panels) which greatly reduces efficiency losses due to a thin wire. This costs more time, which means more money, but still less time than running a new wire.
The front half of the RV’s roof holds two 180 watt panels and two 100 watt panels
The back half of the roof fit three 180 watt panels and three 100 watt panels
That takes care of the roof. At the other end of the 6 gauge solar pre wire they added a Victron 100 amp MPPT solar charge controller, which in turn is connected to the existing house battery bank. In very simple terms, a charge controller manages power going into the battery bank from the solar panels. It’s main job is to not overcharge the batteries during the day while ensuring the power doesn’t run backwards to the solar panels during the night. An attached Bluetooth dongle provides detailed information on a smartphone without the need to run wires into the coach for a hardwire display.
High level diagram of our solar system
Diagram of the battery hook-up end of the system
Working on the install in the battery bay
Victron 100 Amp Charge Controller
Battery Monitor for the solar system
We were very impressed by both the technical knowledge and professional attitude of all employees at AM Solar. Their installation facility was well organized and spotlessly clean — a great sign that they take pride in their work. Our installation took about 2.5 days and they offer a comfortable waiting room with fast wifi. We highly recommend them for all solar, battery and/or inverter needs. If your goal is to camp far away from society for days on end, this is the place to call.
As a sidenote, while getting ready to leave we ran into another customer (coincidentally also in an Essex) who had AM Solar install the next level of off-grid performance beyond ours: a large lithium-ion battery bank that can run high draw loads for hours, such as a multiple AC units. With 1200 Ah of usable battery (we only have 400 Ah usable) and two 3000 watt inverters (we have one), he can run pretty much anything. I’m already itching to schedule a return for this next upgrade.
