Solar Panels or Generator? Both?

March 27, 2009

If you are a boondocker, should you go with solar panels or a generator to power your RV when not hooked up to shore power? Purists only have solar panels. They are not fond of generators breaking the silence of the remote places they where they want to camp.

On the other hand, RVers who don’t boondock too frequently can do so with a generator at a much lower cost. Solar panels plus inverter can add up to more than $2000.Over time, the money saved by not having to stay in an RV park can pay off. But the infrequent boondocker will find a generator more cost-effective.

Actually we have found that having both is ideal. A certain amount of solar panels will take

care of basic needs if it is sunny. George and I got a generator when we had the satellite Internet dish because that drew more power if we were on the computer for any length of time. And, having a generator came in handy this year in Quartzsite on days when there wasn’t much sun.

Generator courtesy

If you are boondocking and plan to run your generator, please follow these common courtesies:

1. Don’t park close to another RV if at all possible.
2. Respect quiet hours. From 10 pm to 7 am are standard.
3. Run it for the shortest period of time possible, like when you make coffee or are printing something off your computer rather than continuously.
4. Face the generator away from other RVs. If you can put it down in a wash, even better.
5. If you are in a gathering, try to group generators together and let non-generator users have their own area. Everyone will be happier.

Generator and non-generator users can co-exist! The option you choose will depend on your finances and how often and where you plan to boondock.

Jamie is a regular article contributor to RVchurchUSA

Photos- 
Boondocked along the Salmon River, ID
Boomer gathering in Quartzsite, AZ 2009
Boondocked on Mt. Ord, AZ at a Workamping assignment (see solar panels on roof)

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