How Many Amps Of Solar Do I Need To Keep Batteries Charged On Diesel Pusher?

by Jim Coyle
(CAMLACHIE)

Question: I have a diesel pusher and just want to keep my batteries charged while it is in storage. How many amp solar panel would accomplish this and could I place the solar panel on the dash when charging it?

Regards,
Jim

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Robbie: This is a question I am asked often and there is more than one answer. I understand the problem with the bigger diesel pushers is there is still a small amp draw from the batteries when the disconnects are used. Rotary switches that disconnect completely are the best way to insure the batteries remain charged when in storage. These are found on a lot of Monaco and Holiday Rambler units.

RV Solar is great if you’re not parking under a garage or cover. All you would need is one, 80 watt or larger panel on the roof with a charge monitor on the wall inside your unit. The panel would be connected to your house batteries and a jumper to the starting batteries with a anode in line allowing voltage to go to the starting battery but, not allowing them to discharge if the house batteries loose charge.

You can’t place the solar panel on your dash when charging. Dash chargers are made for small cars. I have never seen a dash solar panel large enough to charge your RV’s batteries.

Hope this helps,
Robbie