Do I need solar?

[VegasVanGuy]

This might be a stupid question....So I just bought a 2001 Coachmen Catalina Sport 22ft. (Ford Triton V10 with 43kmi) that is in great shape. It has a OnanMicroLite4000 generator with 250 hours. I'm switching all the lights to LED's. I will charge a 7" tablet and a cell phone every day through a simple inverter from DC power. The biggest issue is the water pump. I shower every 3-4 days but cook regularly and need to wash dishes. Currently there is only one house battery with space for one more which I will add. I will do some boondocking in the city and the country. I plan on using the RV as a base and a motorcycle to explore local areas. Do I need solar?

Also, I will be a snowbird. Not using AC or Heater very often.
Thanks,

Dave

 

[GotSmart]

With your limited use, one 100W panel will serve your needs.  No need to run the generator.

 

[highdesertranger]

I agree with GotSmart. I will add, why run the genny when you don't need to. that v-10 is going to suck enough gas on it's own. besides the batteries should be brought up to 100% as often as possible, which means everyday. do you want to run the genny everyday? I would go with 200 watts because you can never have too much solar. also if you are planning on adding another battery put 2 new ones in. never pair a new battery with an old one. highdesertranger

 

[VegasVanGuy]

I agree with GotSmart.  I will add,  why run the genny when you don't need to.  that v-10 is going to suck enough gas on it's own. besides the batteries should be brought up to 100% as often as possible,  which means everyday.  do you want to run the genny everyday?  I would go with 200 watts because you can never have too much solar.  also if you are planning on adding another battery put 2 new ones in.  never pair a new battery with an old one.  highdesertranger

Thanks, I was wondering about adding a new battery with an old one. With my minimal use I was thinking I would drive/charge the batteries every 3 days. I need to experiment with this. All thoughts are welcome.

 

[highdesertranger]

every 3 days will shorten battery life. the more often you charge the better for the batteries. everyday is best. highdesertranger

 

[VegasVanGuy]

every 3 days will shorten battery life.  the more often you charge the better for the batteries.  everyday is best.   highdesertranger

No it won't if it doesn't get below 50%

 

[highdesertranger]

yes it will. highdesertranger

 

[GotSmart]

A full battery lives a long life. You starve it, and it dies early.

 

[Spaceman Spiff]

Sulfates are created any time a battery is discharging (it is what makes the electric current).  The longer this sulfate is left on the lead plates the harder it is to reintroduce back into solution.  The further a battery is discharged and the longer it is left in that state the more sulfates progress to crystalline form and attach to the lead plates or fall to the bottom of the battery.  This is what causes a reduction in battery capacity.  Crystalline sulfates are very difficult to reintroduce into solution.

http://www.mhnetwork.com/news/the-effect-of-sulfation-on-battery-operation/

 -- Spiff

 

[VegasVanGuy]

I will rely on the common wisdom. Solar panels for me.

 

[Cheli]

I will rely on the common wisdom. Solar panels for me.

I hope you also rely on the common wisdom about charging your batteries more often than every three days.  

 

[GotSmart]

I will rely on the common wisdom. Solar panels for me.

There is not one common person here.  We all are exceptional!   :angel:  (even you!) 

Now comes the question on which brand to use, and how to mount them!  

Let the fun begin!