Solar VS Generator? My take on it.

[chasd60]

As my sig shows, I have added solar power to my camper. This usually draws some debate and discussion as to which is better, solar power or a generator?
 
I am happy to say I have not been disappointed with the solar power output and my 220AH of battery capacity. To add something to the equation, I just put a 1000W inverter in my camper and I am powering the television and vcr in my bedroom in the house, from the camper. I am going to add the lights if the draw isn't too much for the system.
 
I figured if the camper will be sitting on my lawn all winter, I may as well use the power from the panels instead of allowing them to be non-productive.
 
I now firmly believe I made the right choice when I spent the $900 the solar panels, charge controller and batteries cost. I did spend an additional ~$135 for the inverter which has "load sense" to minimize power draw when nothing is on.

[tlhdoc]

Charlie let me know when you can run the AC off of your solar panels.

[chasd60]

Charlie let me know when you can run the AC off of your solar panels.

I can get by pretty well with just a fan when I am drycamping but if you must have AC then you will need a generator.
 
Let me know when your generator produces power without gasoline:yikes:. I have never spilled any sunshine while filling my system.
My solar system is working right now and powering my bedroom and we are expecting a fresh free load of fuel for it tomorrow.

[Harhir]

I prefer the solar solution as well. Solar panels don't make noise.
I have a 90W panel on the roof of my camper and I am happy with it.

O.k. you can't run the AC off a solar panel but if it is getting so hot that you need an AC, than it is too hot for most outdoor activities anyhow.
We live in Texas and in the last 3.5 years since we bought our camper we did probably use the A/C for less than 10 hours altogether.
This year I did not use it at all.

All other small appliances (furnace, lights, camera chargers, ....) can be easily run of the battery which is getting recharged every day from above (for free!!!).

Don't get me wrong but generators should be outlawed on National Forest and National Park Campgrounds.
Especially these non noise reduced contractor size ones which you hear for miles.