Solar, 12volt questions - Event Date: 20 Jan 2017 - 25 Jan 2017

We just bought an R-pod 172 with the solar hookup. It states on the sticker "20 amp". (1) Is this the maximum solar panel that we can hook up? (2) Does this just trickle charge the battery?                          Our previous trailer has a cigarette lighter port that we could plug in a small inverter to when boondocking, and charge our phones and camera batteries. The pod doesn't have this.. So, I am wondering how can I use the 12volt sources to charge small amperage electronics? The solar and 12 volt stuff is so confusing

Thank you for the reply:) So, did you install the 12v outlet by yourself? I know there are 12v wires running all through the pod, but I am not sure how to access them. Is there a wiring schematic somewhere??

the other posts have answered your 12 volt receptacle questions.

The solar question is different.  I'm not sure what the 20 watt designation is referring to. It certainly is not the size of the solar panel.   Most of us use solar panels that are rated between 100-200 watts to generate the power that goes into the charge controller.  the charge controller is  the brains of the system and determines the actual amount of charge pushed on to the batteries to keep them fully charged. the controllers are generally rated between 20-50 amps.

Personally, I use a 100 watt Renogy suitcase panel system.  It is portable and has two 50 watt panels that fold together suitcase style.  It works very well to keep my two 6 volt golf cart batteries fully charged with about 5 hours of daily sun.

Use the "search" feature at the top of the page and you will find multiple posts about solar systems being used in the R Pods.  They are a very effective tool for boondocking. there is also a wealth of informatin on the internet about RV solar systems.  The size and types of systems are numerous and the technology is becoming cheaper and more efficient. It is a great way to have power if you are not plugged in to an electric source.
Vann

Thank you for the link! I just ordered these items, and will check around with my "geek" friends for some professional help!

Originally posted by Pod People the other posts have answered your 12 volt receptacle questions. ...I'm not sure what the 20 watt designation is referring to.