Solar Panel Kit Compatibility Whether Roof Mounted or Portable

Updated 09/28/2020 | Published 09/25/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Go Power Solar Flex Charging System with Digital Solar Controller - 100 Watt Solar Panel

(9)

$433.28

Replacement Mounting Hardware for Go Power Rigid Solar Panels

(21)

$17.33

Question:

I am looking for a solar panel kit for my off-road tear camper. I would like to know a recommended wattage probable 2 batteries and I would like one where I can have the option to install it on the roof, or remove it and use it as portable if needed...maybe to move it into the sun. Is there a panel kit capable of doing that?

asked by: Michael W

Expert Reply:

The solar panel you want will be dependent not on the battery number, but more on the amp hours used by the battery bank and how long you want to use the bank without using any other charging system. I've attached a couple articles to assist.

Although there isn't a system that is designed for both rooftop and ground use, they will utilize the exact same panels so the connections to the roof would be the biggest issue. The power wire connections on the roof could match the connections you find for instance on the side of the trailer.

The Go Power Portable Solar System with Digital Solar Controller - 200 Watt Solar Panel # 34282610 for example can be installed on a roof as well as portable application utilizing mounts like the Replacement Mounting Hardware for Go Power Rigid Solar Panels # 34272708 but is designed to be portable with the integrated controller and longer power wires. It is best to have a portable system and a rooftop system as a separate option and many people wanting both options will use two separate systems. This also increases your input power.

expert reply by: Jason S