There’s something very American about a do-it-yourself (DIY) project. But a DIY RV solar system project can seem daunting. Even so, don’t overlook the benefits. Beyond proving your rugged individualism, one of the great things about installing your own RV solar system is that you will know it well. And should something go wrong while you are boondocking, you’ll have the tools as well as the skills to fix it.
Back in 2011, when we did a full renovation of our vintage camper, we started with zero knowledge of how to do any of it — much less DIY an RV solar system install. But, with some patience, resourcefulness, and time, we did 99 percent of it ourselves. Over the past 12 years, we’ve had the opportunity to teach thousands of RVers how to install their own solar powered system — both in person and online.
Curious whether your up to the challenge of a DIY RV solar system? Take this short quiz to determine if you have what it takes to DIY.
The DIY Quiz to Assess DIY RV Solar System Ability
1. Do I have the free time to do this?
While we know that everyone who wants to learn how to install solar can do it themselves, it’s important to be completely honest with yourself about your schedule. If you are new to solar, these projects can often take three times longer than you think. Consider doing part of it by yourself and hiring a professional to do the rest. Weigh the cost-benefit of both options and be sure to be realistic.
2. Do I have the space to work on my rig?
It’s one thing to be able to store your camper in your driveway, but do your community regulations allow you to work on it there as well?Not every neighborhood allows RVs to be parked long term and/or be under construction.
3. Am I able-bodied enough?
Some of this work requires getting up on top of the roof of your RV, while other parts require laying down on the ground underneath it, as well as wiggling into some tight spaces. If you are able-bodied enough to deep clean your house or do yard work, then you are probably able-bodied enough to DIY your own system.
4. Do I want to spend the time on the research?
There’s a lot of information out there – some great, some…well…not so much. Sifting through it all can be time consuming and frustrating for newbies. We’ve compiled a list of great DIY resources in addition to making our own resources easy to follow and understand for the beginner.
5. Do I own the right tools?
You don’t need expensive power tools to install solar, just some basic hand tools. We have everything we need in a toolbox in our truck. If you are a handy homeowner or do basic work on your car, you probably already own these or can borrow them from a friend.
6. Do I have a friend or relative with handyman/mechanical skills?
None of us get by without a helpful, handy friend. Make a list of everyone you know that works on their car, RV, or house. For the price of dinner and a 6-pack, you can often enlist their help. And, remember, we can be that friend for you as well as we offer free solar coaching.
7. Can I still do middle school math?
To calculate the size of your solar powered system to meet your energy demands, you need to determine your average daily watt hours based on the appliances you use in your RV or van. While this is just basic middle school math, this solar system sizing worksheet will do most of the hard work for you.
8. Can I identify the difference between AC and DC wires?
RV’s and vans have both AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current) electrical systems that run various appliances. It’s important to understand what each system does and how to identify and size the wires* within each system as they can differ depending on whether they run standard household appliances (AC) or fans, slideouts, water pumps, etc (DC). *See pages 37-38.
9. Can I follow a recipe?
If you can bake a cake or prepare a holiday dinner, you can probably follow a wiring diagram. Take it step-by-step and be sure to read all the instructions before diving into the installation of any new components. Check out this video series to watch a full installation… then decide for yourself!
Got Your Results?! Here’s What’s Next
If you answered mostly YES to these questions, you are eager and ready to DIY your own system! If mostly NO, it’s important to listen to that realistic voice in your head and hire a professional to do part OR all of the installation for you. We wish you the best of luck and reach out if you need assistance!
In our next installment, we’ll walk you through a self-assessment to determine if you have what it takes to DIY your own RV solar powered system…or hire a professional installer?
What to Look for in a Solar-Ready RV (Part 1)
5 Solar Components Every RVer Should Know (Part 2)
RV Solar Explained … with Middle School Math (Part 3)
Does a DIY RV Solar System Install Make Sense for Me? (Part 4)
Choosing the Right Solar Powered System for My RV (Part 5, Coming Soon)
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