Leisure battery solar panel - help

Adrian Allaway
Adrian Allaway Forum Participant Posts: 28
edited August 2020 in Parts & Accessories #1

we have a panel van Devon Aztec and so far have only used electric pitches. we would like to consider occasional short weekend trips to CL's and try out the leisure battery but have no idea how long it would last. It would be mainly lights and maybe the fridge if we can't switch it to gas operating. Can you tell how much charge is left in a leisure battery and what options are there for solar panels. Wouldn't want anything too expensive or heavy duty that needs to be permanently fitted as we would mainly be sticking to electric pitches but I have no idea what solar panels/battery top ups are available. Any general advice on leisure battery use and solar panels for the occasional user would be greatly appreciated.Ad

Thanks Adrian & Judith

Comments

  • Johnny57
    Johnny57 Club Member Posts: 369 ✭✭✭
    100 Comments
    edited August 2020 #2

    Hi Adrian & Judith
    If you would like to ask the question in the Facebbok Group - Caravan & Motorhome Off-Grid Group (CAMOGG) I am sure you will gets lots of help & guidance 
    https://www.facebook.com/groups/CAMOGG/

  • Merve
    Merve Forum Participant Posts: 2,333
    1000 Comments
    edited August 2020 #3

    Hi Adrian, Electric Hook ups are old hat- with the new techs like Solar panels and lithium batteries there is absolutely no reason you should need to hook up again- I haven’t for seven years. The great thing about Off Grid is that you can go as far as you like. From a Lead Acid Battery and a 100w panel for pumps and lights right up to a large solar array and lithium batteries with Inverter and be able to use microwave, toaster etc. Safefill or a refillable gas system should be looked at seriously  as it is part of the power you will need. My advice- fit as much Solar as you can physically fit or afford- whichever comes first. You’ll never regret fitting too much but you will regret not fitting enough! Join CAMOGG and be with people who are on the cutting edge of this new  surge in interest in Off Grid camping and save yourself a small fortune into the bargain!

  • Adrian Allaway
    Adrian Allaway Forum Participant Posts: 28
    edited August 2020 #4

    Thanks both. I will look at the facebook group you suggest and review with interest. We plan to use electric and battery

     

  • SeasideBill
    SeasideBill Forum Participant Posts: 2,112
    1000 Comments
    edited August 2020 #5

    As mentioned above refillable gas system in conjunction with solar makes off-grid living fairly easy. One thing to note though is sourcing LPG on garage forecourts is becoming increasingly difficult and you’ll  need gas to run your fridge. Situation isn’t critical at the moment, but it’s getting progressively more difficult. 

  • cyberyacht
    cyberyacht Forum Participant Posts: 10,218
    1000 Comments
    edited August 2020 #6

    If all you want is a quick and simple solution that isn't too expensive, a folding suitcase solar panel connected to your leisure battery with quick release clips. Can't beat a proper solar installation and refillable gas though.

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