Van Build Post #25 – First Time Running Solar Panels

I have to wait for some specific fuses to be delivered to finish up the electrical board. While waiting for that, I went ahead and connected the solar panels to the solar controller, fuse and the 3 lithium LifePO batteries as the manual says to charge the batteries up before using them for the first time.

One picture shows just the solar related items temporarily running to charge the batteries up by solar panels. The other image is the main electrical layout of the box. Everything is just laying out for now while I get everything set in place. Everything will be screwed to the board and then installed in the electrical box in the van, which is where all the main electrical will be managed. I’ll be putting a gaming computer fan on the electrical box to help ventilation.

I’m running fuses/breakers on all relevant locations and installing a 7″ touch screen to manage everything (solar, batteries, water tanks, etc ). I can also use an app to manage the solar now (as well as other devices being setup).

I’m using marine grade wiring for almost all appliances and outlets. I anticipate on having all the outlets, appliances and other electrical completed this week. This past week took a little longer than I hoped for, but I wanted to make sure I had a good understanding of the electrical system.

I’m happy the solar panels are charging the batteries and everything is running well. The other items on the board will allow shore power, alternator charging (if needed) and more monitoring & safety devices. I have just over 3 weeks left to reach my goal so I’ve working on the van whenever I can get some free time in (sunrise and early evening and until closer to bedtime). Feeling good about things regardless.