Solar On the Go – Camping with Solar Panels
If you enjoy camping, but don’t want to sacrifice the comforts of home, consider using solar power to supply your energy needs. Solar panels can provide enough power to run small appliances like lights and a radio, and can even recharge your cell phone or laptop.
We Guide You Through:
The Ultimate Checklist for Camping with Solar Energy
There are a few things to keep in mind when using solar power while camping. First, make sure you have enough solar panels to meet your energy needs. A 200 Watts solar panel kit will do for an average camping adventure and you can be fully charged for days.
It’s also a good idea to have a backup power source, like a generator, in case the sun isn’t shining. Finally, be sure to keep your batteries charged and avoid using too much power at once, which can overload the system.
Here’s everything you need to make sure you have covered before heading out into the great outdoors with your portable solar panel setup:
Solar panel (or panels)
Solar charger
Batteries
LED lights
Portable power source (battery pack, generator, etc.)
Cables and connectors
Extension cords
Tools (screwdrivers, pliers, etc.)
Now that you have your “Solar on the go” gear, it’s time to start packing everything else you need for your camping trip! This comprehensive checklist will help make sure you don’t forget anything important.
Tent
Sleeping bag
Pillow
Flashlight or headlamp
Duct tape
Mat or cot for sleeping
Camping chairs
Cooler
Food and drinks
Water
Cooking supplies
Salt
Coffee
Pocket knife
Rope
Firewood
Tablecloth or picnic blanket
Bug spray
Sunscreen
First aid kit
Hiking shoes or boots
Clothes for all weather conditions
Hat or bandana
Sunglasses
Camera!
What Can go Wrong With Your Portable Solar Panel?
PID Effect
PID effect is one thing that can go wrong while camping with a solar panel.
The PID effect is when the sunlight degrades the silicon in the solar panel, making it less efficient at converting sunlight into electricity. This can be prevented by storing the solar panel in a cool, dark place during the day.
Fall Damage
Another thing that can go wrong is if the solar panel is not properly secured and it falls and breaks. Make sure to secure your solar panel so that it does not become a safety hazard.
Poop, Leaves, Other Blockage
Bird poop, leaves, and snow can all block the sun from reaching the solar panel, which means that the panel won’t be able to generate as much power. If you’re camping in an area with a lot of trees, you might want to consider using a portable solar generator instead.
Dirt and Dust
Dirt and dust – if the solar panel is not kept clean, it will eventually become less efficient at converting sunlight into electricity.
A simple wipe down with a damp cloth should do the trick.
Battery Discharge
Then be aware that the battery will slowly discharge over time even when not in use. Be sure to keep an eye on the battery level and recharge it as needed.
Some of the best power stations hold their charge very well but these are normally more expensive options.
Overheating
Another thing that can happen is that the solar panel can get too hot. If it gets too hot, it can stop working altogether.
Water Damage
Is your solar panel water resistant? If your solar panel is not water resistant, then rain, snow, and even dew can damage it.
How to Secure Portable Solar Panel to Stand Firmly in Windy Conditions?
Use Guy Lines
Run a length of cord or rope from each corner of the solar panel frame to a stake in the ground. The farther out you place the stakes, the more support your panel will have.
Add Weight to the Base
This will help keep your panel from tipping over in high winds. You can use sandbags, bricks, or any other heavy objects that will fit securely on the base of your panel.
Use Tie-Downs
If you have the opportunity to secure your panel to a solid object, this is always the best option. Same goes if you make a DIY portable solar panel stand.
You can use rope, cord, or straps to tie down your panel. Make sure the tie-downs are snug, but not so tight that they damage the panel.
Use a Windbreak
If you can’t secure your panel to anything, you can try to create a windbreak. Place the panel behind a fence, wall, or other object that will block some of the wind. This won’t completely prevent the panel from moving, but it will help.
Practice Caution
Even if you take all of these precautions, there is still a chance that your panel could be damaged in high winds. If at all possible, try to avoid putting your panel in a situation where it could be exposed to strong winds.
FAQ
How do I clean my solar panel?
A simple wipe down with a damp cloth should do the trick. You can also use soapy water to clean your solar panel, but be sure to rinse it off afterwards. Do not use any harsh chemicals or cleaners on your solar panel.
What do I do if my solar panel gets wet?
If your solar panel gets wet, you will need to dry it off as soon as possible. Use a soft cloth to remove any water from the surface of the panel. Do not use any harsh chemicals or cleaners on your solar panel.
How do I store my solar panel when not in use?
When not in use, you should store your solar panel in a cool, dry place. Be sure to keep it away from any sources of heat or moisture.
How do I know if my solar panel is working?
If your solar panel is working, you should see a light on the controller box. The light will be green if the panel is charging the battery and red if it is not. You can also check the voltage of the battery to see if it is being charged.
Why is my solar panel not working?
There are a few reasons why your solar panel might not be working. The most common reason is that the solar panel is not getting enough sunlight. If the panel is in the shade or if there is cloudy weather, the power output will be reduced. Another reason could be that the battery is not properly connected. Be sure to check the connections before troubleshooting further.
How much power will my solar panel generate?
The amount of power that your solar panel generates depends on a few factors. The most important factor is the amount of sunlight that the panel is exposed to. Other factors include the size of the panel, the efficiency of the panel, and the angle at which the panel is mounted.