Solar Power Recommendations For Running A 12V Fridge

Updated 06/21/2021 | Published 06/18/2021

Question:

I have a 2021 Alpha Wolf 26RL-L travel trailer It came with a 50 watt solar panel My 12volt refrigerator want last one day without being plug into power I.e generator I was told buy a RV dealer I could get a larger solar panel and run it directly to my battery and that would keep my refrigerator and freezer working properly for at least 4 days without plugged in power. I was wonder what would be the best solution for my issue. This is my first RV trailer so I’m really new to this Thank you for your help

asked by: Mike

Helpful Expert Reply:

There are many factors to take into account for how much power your fridge will draw but in general a fridge will draw 1 amps to 6 amps an hour with a standard average being 2.5 amps. A misconception about solar power is that you can directly power appliances but in actuality the appliances run off of the battery and the solar power recharges the battery.

The Go Power Portable Solar Panel with Digital Solar Controller - 200 Watt Solar Panel # 34282610 has a max output of 11.43 amps in peak conditions. The general rule of thumb is that you'll only receive peak conditions for about 6 hours per day so that would put you at approximately 68 amps recharged for the day. If you're fridge is averaging 2.5 amps you'd be using 60 amps per day so you would be fine.

I recommend adding a second battery if you have the room to increase your available power for longer trips and in case of uncooperative weather. I've attached a video of the # 34282610 that goes over additional information and shows it in use. I've also attached a few of our help guides/articles to offer you some additional information on solar power.

expert reply by: Kevin C