Install RV Solar Panels in Australia: Step-by-Step Guide

There’s nothing quite like the freedom of hitting Australia’s open roads in your RV, knowing you’ve got everything you need to live comfortably off the grid — and that includes your own power supply. Whether you’re cruising up the Queensland coast, exploring the rugged Outback, or camping under the stars in a remote national park, solar power is a game-changer for Aussie RV travellers.

Installing solar panels on your RV lets you generate electricity from the sun, giving you the ability to stay in free campsites, national parks, and off-grid locations without relying on powered sites or noisy generators. It’s an ideal solution for long-term travellers, Grey Nomads, digital nomads, or anyone who values self-sufficiency on the road.

But for many, the idea of setting up an RV solar system sounds intimidating — all those watts, amps, cables, and fuses! Don’t worry. This guide breaks it all down in simple, practical steps tailored for Australian conditions. You’ll learn how RV solar works, how to calculate your energy needs, which components to choose, and exactly how to install your solar panels from start to finish.

Whether you’re planning a DIY setup or just want to understand your options before hiring a pro, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to power your Aussie RV adventure with the sun.

Understanding Solar Power for RVs in Australia

How RV Solar Systems Work

At its core, an RV solar system captures energy from the sun using solar panels and stores it in a battery so you can run your 12V appliances and charge devices when you’re off-grid. It’s a clean, quiet, and renewable way to power your life on the road — perfect for Australia’s sun-drenched landscapes.

Here’s how the system works:

• Solar panels mounted on your RV roof (or used as portable blankets) absorb sunlight and convert it into DC electricity.

• That electricity flows into a solar charge controller — a device that regulates voltage and current to prevent battery overcharging.

• From there, the power is directed to your battery bank (usually AGM, gel, or lithium batteries), where it’s stored for later use.

• If you want to run 240V household appliances like kettles, laptops, or microwaves, the stored energy goes through an inverter, which converts DC to AC power.

When set up properly, this system charges your batteries during the day and lets you draw power at night, creating a loop of self-sufficiency.

Popular Australian resource for RV solar setups:

https://www.redarc.com.au/solar

Types of Solar Setups

In Australia, RVers typically use one of three solar configurations, depending on lifestyle, rig size, and travel style.

1. Fixed Rooftop Panels
These are mounted permanently to the RV roof and charge batteries as long as the sun is out. Best for convenience and continuous charging while driving or parked. Common sizes: 100W–200W per panel.

2. Portable Solar Blankets or Panels
Foldable and portable, these can be laid out at camp and pointed toward the sun. Perfect for shaded RVs or when parked under trees. Flexible positioning = maximum solar exposure.

3. Hybrid Setup (Roof + Portable)
Many Aussie travellers combine rooftop panels with a portable panel or blanket for extra power or shaded sites. It provides flexibility and backup charging.

Panel Types:

• Rigid panels: Durable, high-efficiency, and commonly mounted on roofs.

• Flexible panels: Lightweight, curve-conforming, ideal for stealth or weight-sensitive builds.

• Blanket panels: Foldable and portable, great for boosting when parked off-grid.

Top supplier for Aussie solar gear:

https://www.caravanrvcamping.com.au/solar-panels

Key Terms You Should Know

Before diving into solar planning, here are some important terms every RV owner should understand:

• Watt (W): Measures total power used or produced. Appliances and panels are rated in watts.

• Amp (A): The flow of electricity. Helps calculate current draw.

• Volt (V): The pressure behind the electrical flow — usually 12V in RVs.

• Amp-Hour (Ah): How much current a battery can deliver over time (e.g., 100Ah = 100 amps for 1 hour).

• Watt-Hour (Wh): Total energy used over time. Wh = V × Ah.

• MPPT Controller: A smart solar charge controller that maximises efficiency and works well with changing sun conditions. Preferred in Aussie climates.

• PWM Controller: A cheaper, less efficient controller suitable for small setups.

• Series vs Parallel: Wiring method — series increases voltage; parallel increases current. Parallel is generally better for 12V RV systems.

Solar education tool:
https://www.exploroz.com/Vehicle/Electrics/Solar

Understanding Solar Power for RVs in Australia

How RV Solar Systems Work

At its core, an RV solar system captures energy from the sun using solar panels and stores it in a battery so you can run your 12V appliances and charge devices when you’re off-grid. It’s a clean, quiet, and renewable way to power your life on the road — perfect for Australia’s sun-drenched landscapes.

Here’s how the system works:

• Solar panels mounted on your RV roof (or used as portable blankets) absorb sunlight and convert it into DC electricity.

• That electricity flows into a solar charge controller — a device that regulates voltage and current to prevent battery overcharging.

• From there, the power is directed to your battery bank (usually AGM, gel, or lithium batteries), where it’s stored for later use.

• If you want to run 240V household appliances like kettles, laptops, or microwaves, the stored energy goes through an inverter, which converts DC to AC power.

When set up properly, this system charges your batteries during the day and lets you draw power at night, creating a loop of self-sufficiency.

Helpful guide: https://www.redarc.com.au/solar

Types of Solar Setups

In Australia, RVers typically use one of three solar configurations, depending on lifestyle, rig size, and travel style.

Fixed Rooftop Panels
Mounted permanently on your RV’s roof, these panels provide consistent charging while you’re driving or parked in the sun. Ideal for hands-off travellers. Common sizes: 100W–200W per panel.

Portable Solar Blankets or Panels
Fold-out or stand-up panels you deploy when stationary. Best for flexibility and shaded campsites, since you can chase the sun while parking the van in the shade.

Hybrid Setup
Combining roof panels with a portable panel or blanket gives you maximum flexibility — a popular choice for full-timers and Grey Nomads.

Panel Types

• Rigid panels: High efficiency, durable, great for permanent installs

• Flexible panels: Lighter and bendable — suit curved or stealth builds

• Blanket-style panels: Foldable, ultra-portable, and ideal for backup power

Buy from trusted Aussie supplier: https://www.caravanrvcamping.com.au/solar-panels

Key Terms You Should Know

Understanding a few basic terms will make your planning and installation process much easier:

• Watt (W) – Measures total power consumption or generation

• Volt (V) – Electrical pressure or potential (typically 12V systems)

• Amp (A) – The current or flow rate of electricity

• Amp-Hour (Ah) – Battery capacity; 100Ah = 100 amps for 1 hour

• Watt-Hour (Wh) – Energy usage over time (Wh = volts × amps)

• MPPT Controller – Maximises power output from panels; best for Australia’s sun conditions

• PWM Controller – Basic controller for small/low-budget systems

• Series vs Parallel Wiring – Series increases voltage; parallel maintains voltage and boosts current (better for 12V RV systems)

Learn more with this calculator tool: https://www.exploroz.com/Vehicle/Electrics/Solar

Is Solar Right for Your RV Lifestyle?

Ideal Use Cases

RV solar isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, but for many Aussie travellers, it’s a game-changer. If your travel style leans towards freedom camping, national park stays, or long stints away from powered sites, solar is a no-brainer. Here are the types of RVers who benefit most:

• Grey Nomads and full-time travellers who live on the road and need continuous access to lighting, refrigeration, device charging, and occasional appliance use.

• Off-grid explorers who prefer free camps, remote bushlands, or low-cost national parks with no electrical hook-ups.

• Digital nomads or remote workers using laptops, phones, routers, or Starlink setups in their van or motorhome.

• Weekend warriors who want a battery topped up for lighting, fridge, fans, and maybe a coffee machine without running a generator.

If you’re relying on 12V appliances like fridges, LED lights, phone chargers, and fans — solar makes a lot of sense. It’s quiet, eco-friendly, and lets you stay out longer without paying for powered sites.

Limitations of RV Solar Systems

While solar is powerful, it’s not perfect — and understanding its limits will help you design a system that actually works for your setup.

• Weather dependency: Cloudy days, shade, or winter conditions can reduce output significantly. In places like Tasmania or tropical rainforests, you may struggle to recharge fully.

• Limited roof space: Small vans or pop-top campers may not have enough real estate for large panel arrays, especially if there are vents, air conditioners, or antennas.

• High-wattage appliances are tough: Air conditioners, microwaves, toasters, and induction cooktops draw massive power and are not practical for most solar setups unless you’re investing $10,000+ in high-end gear.

• Initial investment: While solar pays off over time, upfront costs (panels, batteries, controller, cabling, etc.) can be steep if you want a robust system.

Ultimately, solar works best when your power expectations are realistic. If you’re willing to manage your energy use and supplement with driving or powered sites occasionally, solar can keep you self-sufficient most of the year.

Planning Your RV Solar Setup

Calculate Your Power Needs

Before buying any panels or batteries, you need to understand how much energy you actually use. This is the foundation of a reliable and efficient RV solar system.

Start by listing all the 12V and 240V appliances you plan to use each day. Then calculate how much power each item consumes using this formula:

Watts × Hours per day = Watt-hours (Wh) per day

Example usage:

• 12V fridge: 45W × 24h = 1,080Wh

• LED lights: 10W × 5h = 50Wh

• Laptop: 60W × 3h = 180Wh

• Phone charging: 15W × 2h = 30Wh

• Water pump: 50W × 0.5h = 25Wh

Total daily need: ~1,365Wh or ~114Ah on a 12V system

Once you have your total watt-hour estimate, you can size your battery and solar system accordingly.

Use this Aussie solar calculator: https://www.bushchookrv.com.au/pages/solar-calculator

Choosing the Right System Size

Here’s a general guide based on daily energy needs:

• Light users (weekenders): 100–200W solar + 100Ah battery

• Moderate users (fridge, lights, devices): 300–400W solar + 150–200Ah battery

• Heavy users (TV, fans, Starlink, laptops): 500–600W+ solar + 200–400Ah lithium battery

Solar Panel Sizing Tips:

• Try to match or slightly exceed your daily power usage in solar generation.

• Allow for cloudy days with at least 25% overhead.

• 1W of solar usually gives 4–5Wh of output per day under full sun (e.g., 400W solar = ~1,600–2,000Wh/day)

Battery Sizing Tips:

• For AGM/lead-acid, only 50% of battery capacity is usable

• Lithium batteries (LiFePO4) allow 80–100% usable capacity

• For 1,200Wh daily needs, you’ll want:

  • ~240Ah AGM battery OR

  • ~120–150Ah lithium battery

Budgeting for Solar

The cost of your solar setup depends on the components you choose, the size of the system, and whether you install it yourself or hire a professional. Here’s a general breakdown:

DIY Setup (Basic to Mid-Range):

• 200–400W solar panels: $300–$600

• MPPT charge controller: $150–$350

• AGM battery (100–200Ah): $250–$500

• Cables, fuses, brackets, sealants: $150–$300

• Total: $800–$1,500

Professional Installation (High-End):

• 400–600W solar panels: $600–$1,000

• Lithium battery (100–200Ah): $700–$1,500

• Charge controller + inverter: $400–$1,000

• Installation labor: $600–$1,000+

• Total: $2,000–$5,000+

If you travel frequently and stay off-grid often, the upfront cost can pay itself back quickly by avoiding powered campsites and reducing generator fuel costs.

Reliable Aussie supplier: https://www.snowys.com.au/solar-power

Tools & Components You’ll Need

Before you start installing solar panels on your RV, it’s crucial to gather all the right components and tools. This ensures your system works efficiently and safely — and prevents unnecessary trips to Bunnings or delays while camping in the bush.

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

Core Components

Solar Panels
These come in various wattages (e.g., 100W, 150W, 200W). Rigid panels are best for permanent roof mounting, while foldable panels or solar blankets offer portability.

• Brands to consider: Redarc, Victron, Kings, KickAss, Renogy

• Buy from: https://www.caravanrvcamping.com.au/solar-panels or https://www.snowys.com.au

Charge Controller (MPPT recommended)
The charge controller regulates the power from your panels into your batteries. MPPT controllers are more efficient than PWM types — especially important in Australian sun.

• Popular options: Victron SmartSolar, Enerdrive MPPT, Renogy Rover

Deep Cycle or Lithium Battery
This stores the energy from your solar panels. AGM batteries are cheaper, but lithium (LiFePO4) batteries are lighter, more efficient, and last much longer.

• Examples: iTechworld 120X Pro, Enerdrive eLite 200Ah, Kings 110Ah AGM

• Shop: https://itechworld.com.au or https://www.enerdrive.com.au

Inverter (optional)
If you plan to run 240V appliances like a coffee machine, microwave, or laptop charger, you’ll need an inverter to convert DC to AC.

• Pure sine wave inverters are safest for electronics

• Sizes range from 300W to 2,000W+

Installation Hardware

Mounting Brackets or Adhesive Pads
To fix rigid panels to your RV roof.

• Use stainless steel brackets for durability

• Or go drill-free with 3M VHB tape or Z-brackets and Sikaflex-252 adhesive

Cable Entry Gland
Allows cables to pass through your roof while staying sealed and waterproof.

• Look for UV-resistant, weatherproof glands rated for outdoor use

Cabling and Connectors

• Solar cable (4mm² or 6mm²), MC4 connectors, heat-shrink, split tubing

• Correct gauge depends on system size and cable run length

Fuses & Circuit Protection

• Always fuse between panels/controller and controller/battery

• Use inline blade fuses, ANL fuses, or resettable breakers

Battery Monitor (optional but useful)

• Shows real-time voltage, charge status, and power draw

• Popular options: Victron BMV-712, Renogy Battery Monitor

Basic Tools for DIY Installation

• Power drill and bits (for brackets or cable gland holes)

• Screwdrivers, socket wrench

• Crimping tool and wire stripper

• Multimeter (for testing voltage and current)

• Sikaflex-252 or marine-grade sealant for waterproofing

• Zip ties and mounting tape

Pro tip: Take your time with cable routing and sealing — leaks and shorts are the two biggest mistakes made during DIY installs.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Solar Panels on Your RV

Installing solar panels on your RV can feel intimidating, but it’s very doable with basic tools, some careful planning, and attention to safety. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to help you complete your solar install confidently.

Step 1: Choose Panel Placement

First, decide where your panels will go. This depends on the available space, roof layout, and any obstructions like roof vents, antennas, or air conditioners.

Tips:

• Place panels flat and close to the front of the roof to avoid shadows from taller rear components.

• Position panels in a way that minimises cable length between them and the charge controller.

• Aim for symmetry and weight distribution if possible.

If you’re using portable panels, consider where you’ll store and deploy them — and ensure you have the cabling length to reach the controller or battery bank.

Step 2: Mount the Solar Panels

Rooftop Panels:

• If using brackets: Drill pilot holes and screw the brackets into the roof frame or supports.

• Apply Sikaflex-252 or similar sealant under each bracket before fixing them to ensure a waterproof bond.

• After installation, seal all screw heads and bracket bases to prevent leaks.

No-drill method:

• Use industrial-strength adhesive like 3M VHB tape or Sikaflex for lightweight panels on flat surfaces.

• Ensure the roof is cleaned and degreased before applying.

Important: Let adhesive cure fully (usually 24+ hours) before moving the RV.

Step 3: Run the Cables

• Drill a cable entry hole through the roof and install a cable gland (waterproof).

• Feed MC4 solar cables through the gland and into the interior space — often through a cupboard or overhead storage.

• Use split tubing or conduit to protect the cables on the roof and inside.

• Secure all wires with zip ties or cable clips to avoid chafing or vibration damage.

Step 4: Connect to the Charge Controller

• Connect the solar panel cables (positive and negative) to the solar input terminals of your MPPT or PWM controller.

• Most controllers accept MC4 plugs or bare wire connections.

• Insert a fuse between the solar panel and the controller’s positive input to protect from surges (check your controller manual for rating).

• Mount the controller close to the battery but in a ventilated location — avoid tight cabinets that may overheat.

Step 5: Wire to Your Battery Bank

• Use correct gauge wiring to run from the controller’s battery output to your battery terminals (positive and negative).

• Always fuse the positive wire close to the battery terminal.

• If you’re using lithium batteries, make sure your controller is lithium-compatible.

• Optionally, install a battery monitor (like a Victron shunt) in the negative line to track usage and health.

Important: Never connect the panels to the controller before the battery — always connect battery first, then solar.

Step 6: Test the System

Once everything is wired, it’s time to power up and test:

• Use a multimeter to check the voltage of your battery before and after connecting solar.

• Observe the charge controller screen — it should show current from the panels, charging status, and voltage levels.

• If using Bluetooth (like with Victron SmartSolar), install the app to monitor live performance.

Download the VictronConnect App: https://www.victronenergy.com/live/victronconnect:start

Common checks:

• Are you getting charging current when in sunlight?

• Is the battery voltage slowly rising during the day?

• Are any error lights or messages appearing on your controller?

If anything seems off, double-check your polarity, fuses, and wiring connections.

7. Optional Add-Ons & Upgrades

Once your basic solar system is up and running, you might want to enhance its performance, efficiency, or monitoring features. These add-ons aren’t mandatory — but they can improve your system’s usability and flexibility, especially for full-time or off-grid travellers across Australia.

Bluetooth Monitoring Systems

Modern charge controllers like Victron SmartSolar or Renogy Rover Elite offer Bluetooth functionality. With an app like VictronConnect, you can:

• Track solar input, battery status, and charging stats in real time

• Receive error notifications

• Monitor trends over days or weeks

This feature is particularly useful if your controller is tucked away in a cupboard or hard-to-reach spot.

App link: https://www.victronenergy.com/live/victronconnect:start

Battery Monitor/Shunt

A shunt-style battery monitor (like the Victron BMV-712) gives you highly accurate, real-time insights into:

• Current battery percentage

• Power draw (amps and watts)

• Charging and discharging history

• Time remaining at current usage

If you’re relying on your batteries day after day, this tool is a game-changer.

DC-DC Charger Integration

If you’re regularly driving between campsites, a DC-DC charger lets you charge your house battery from your vehicle’s alternator. This is especially important if:

• You’re running a lithium battery (which alternators can’t charge properly without it)

• You want backup charging during cloudy weather or winter travel

Popular brands: Redarc, Enerdrive, Victron

Solar Panel Expansion

Need more power? Add extra panels to your setup by:

• Wiring new panels in parallel to maintain 12V and increase amperage

• Ensuring your charge controller has enough capacity to handle extra input

• Considering a portable panel or blanket as a flexible add-on (perfect for shaded campsites)

Pro tip: Check your MPPT controller’s max input specs before adding panels — exceeding the input voltage or current can cause failure.

Portable Solar Blankets for Boosting

A solar blanket is lightweight, foldable, and ideal for boosting your system during long stays. Just plug into a parallel input and move it with the sun throughout the day. Great options from KickAss, Redarc, and Kings are designed for Aussie travellers.

Roof Tilt Brackets

Fixed panels typically lie flat — but tilting them can significantly increase efficiency, especially during winter. Adding tilt brackets lets you:

• Angle panels toward the sun in the mornings/evenings

• Boost output by 10–40%, depending on location and time of year

Just remember: you’ll need to manually adjust them and secure for travel.

Professional Installation vs DIY in Australia

Not all RV owners are confident working with electrical systems — and that’s okay. Whether you install your solar system yourself or hire a professional depends on your confidence, system complexity, and travel needs.

When to Go DIY

Installing solar yourself is entirely possible — and many Aussie RVers successfully complete their own systems with basic tools, some research, and patience.

DIY is suitable if you:

• Are using a relatively simple setup (1–2 panels, MPPT controller, AGM battery)

• Understand basic electrical safety (fuses, polarity, insulation)

• Have access to tools and are comfortable drilling into the RV roof

• Want to save money on labour (often $500–$1,000+)

Advantages:

• Cost-effective

• Full control over the setup

• You understand your system inside and out for future troubleshooting

Risks:

• Roof leaks if not sealed correctly

• Incorrect fuse sizing or wire gauge

• Voiding insurance if unsafe wiring is done without proper compliance

When to Hire a Pro

Professional installation is recommended if you’re planning:

• A lithium battery system (with BMS integration)

• Dual power sources (solar + alternator or 240V charging)

• A large multi-panel array, inverter, and 240V output

• Integration with existing DC systems, grey tank monitors, or Starlink power

Benefits of hiring a qualified installer:

• Clean, efficient wiring

• Load and cable balancing for safety and longevity

• Compliance with AS/NZS electrical standards (especially important for insurance)

• Peace of mind — particularly for full-time travellers or expensive rigs

Note: In most states, 240V work must be done by a licensed electrician.

Where to Find Solar Installers in Australia

If you choose to go pro, here are ways to find trustworthy installers:

• CMCA Business Directory – The Campervan & Motorhome Club of Australia lists mobile and local RV service providers

  https://www.cmca.net.au

• Mobile auto-electricians – Many offer on-site solar setup, especially near popular RV hubs like Hervey Bay, Alice Springs, or Adelaide Hills

• Facebook Groups – Try:

  • Aussie RV Solar & Lithium Setup Group

  • DIY Van Builds Australia

  • Grey Nomads Australia

Tip: Always ask for before/after photos, customer reviews, and ensure they use marine-grade cabling and fused isolators.

Legal & Safety Considerations in Australia

While RV solar installs are relatively low voltage and considered safe for DIY, there are still legal and safety aspects you must understand — especially if you’re adding complex components like inverters or 240V AC circuits.

Do You Need an Electrician?

• 12V DC systems (solar panels, charge controllers, 12V batteries) can legally be installed by the RV owner in most parts of Australia.

• 240V AC systems (mains outlets, high-power inverters, breakers) must be installed by a licensed electrician under Australian law.

• If you’re connecting solar into a system that also receives shore power or generator power, hire a professional to ensure compliance with AS/NZS 3001.2:2022 wiring rules.

Why it matters:
Illegal or poorly installed 240V circuits can void insurance, cause fires, or harm you or others. Even for 12V systems, incorrect fuse placement or wire gauge can lead to dangerous heat buildup.

Fusing & Cable Protection

For safety, your system must include:

• Fuses between the solar panels and controller, and between the controller and battery

• Correct gauge wiring (undersized wires = risk of overheating)

• Circuit breakers or isolators for easy disconnection and maintenance

• Secure cable routing — avoid dangling wires that could wear through and short

Use this fuse sizing guide for reference: https://www.exploroz.com/Vehicle/Electrics/Solar

Roof Integrity & Sealing

Drilling into your RV’s roof introduces the risk of leaks. To protect your investment:

• Only drill where structural support is confirmed

• Use marine-grade sealant like Sikaflex-252 or Sikaflex 291i

• Apply sealant over and around all bolt heads and mounting brackets

• Check for leaks after installation — and again after your first rain

Insurance Implications

Some RV insurance providers may ask if your system was:

• Installed by a certified technician

• Compliant with Australian electrical standards

• Properly fused and isolated

If you DIY, document everything: take photos of each step, label components, keep invoices and manuals, and record fuse/wire specs. This helps with claims and future servicing.

Local Rules and Resources

Electrical rules vary slightly by state and territory. For official safety info:

• WorkSafe QLD: https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au

• Energy Safe Victoria: https://www.esv.vic.gov.au

• NSW Fair Trading – Electrical: https://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au

Even if you’re working on 12V, the safer and cleaner your install is, the more reliable and legal your setup will be on the road.

10. Maintenance & Troubleshooting Tips

A well-installed RV solar system can run for years with minimal fuss — but like any equipment exposed to the elements, it benefits from regular inspection and care. These maintenance and troubleshooting tips will help you keep your system running safely and efficiently throughout your Aussie road adventures.

Cleaning Your Solar Panels

Dirt, dust, leaves, and even bird droppings can reduce your panels’ efficiency. In Australia’s dusty Outback or coastal regions, this buildup is common.

Cleaning tips:

• Wipe panels with a soft cloth or sponge and mild soapy water

• Avoid abrasive scrubbers or high-pressure hoses that may scratch or damage the surface

• Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft cloth

• Clean panels every 4–6 weeks during dry seasons or more often when parked under trees

Checking Cables and Connections

Inspect your wiring and connectors every few months or after rough travel:

• Look for frayed or exposed wires, especially where they pass through grommets or holes

• Ensure all MC4 connectors are firmly clicked in and show no signs of corrosion

• Check that zip ties are still holding cables securely — vibration can loosen or wear them down

• Examine the cable entry gland on your roof for cracks or sealant gaps

Battery Health Checks

Whether you’re using AGM or lithium, battery health is key to overall system performance.

For AGM/lead-acid batteries:

• Check voltage regularly; avoid letting batteries drop below 12.0V

• Keep terminals clean and dry — use a light coating of dielectric grease to prevent corrosion

• Charge fully at least once every 2 weeks, even when in storage

For lithium batteries (LiFePO4):

• Monitor using a Bluetooth app or battery monitor

• Avoid letting voltage drop below 11.8V or rise above 14.6V

• Ensure the Battery Management System (BMS) hasn’t shut off charge or discharge due to heat or low voltage

Common Solar System Issues & Fixes

Problem: Battery not charging

• Check if the solar controller is getting input from the panels

• Inspect fuses and ensure polarity is correct

• Look for shade, dirt, or disconnected MC4 plugs

Problem: Controller shows error

• Refer to the manual or manufacturer’s website

• Reset the system by disconnecting and reconnecting the battery (if safe)

• Update firmware if using a smart controller like Victron

Problem: System works intermittently

• Check all fuses, breakers, and grounding points

• Test each panel individually with a multimeter

• Look for temperature-triggered shutdowns in lithium BMS systems

Regular maintenance isn’t difficult — but it can prevent system failures at the worst times, like when you’re camping off-grid in remote parts of WA or the NT. By staying proactive, you’ll keep your RV powered, safe, and ready for whatever the road brings.

Conclusion

Installing solar panels on your RV is one of the smartest investments you can make for long-term travel in Australia. Whether you’re a full-time nomad, a seasonal explorer, or a weekend adventurer, solar gives you the freedom to roam without relying on powered sites, noisy generators, or expensive fuel.

While the idea of wiring and mounting might feel overwhelming at first, thousands of Aussie travellers have successfully installed their own solar setups — often starting with a simple panel and expanding as they go. With careful planning, the right components, and a methodical installation process, you can create a safe, efficient, and self-sufficient energy system tailored to your RV lifestyle.

From sun-drenched beach camps in Queensland to remote bush camps in the Red Centre, your solar system becomes your quiet, clean companion — always ready to keep the fridge cold, the lights on, and your journey rolling.

So whether you DIY or go pro, start small or go all-in, take the leap. The sun is free, and your freedom begins with just one panel.