COMPLETE YOUR SETUP WITH REDARC SOLAR BLANKET ACCESSORIES
The REDARC range of solar accessories includes cables for easy connection between your REDARC portable solar panels and solar regulators. We’ve also got Anderson cables available for single and multiple solar panel connection in parallel. Choose from various lengths of cable from 1.5m to 10m long.
For super simple monitoring of solar panels, battery and system information, there’s the solar remote monitor, which is compatible with our 10, 20 and 30A Solar Regulator (SRPA range).
For the perfect camping experience and to get the ultimate 4WD and camping setup, check out our battery management systems to see how solar can take you further for longer.
SOLAR ACCESSORY FAQ
WHAT ARE THE ACCESSORIES NEEDED FOR SOLAR?
Solar panels: Choose portable and durable solar panels suitable for camping. Solar blankets are often preferred for easy storage and transport.
Solar charge controller: A charge controller regulates the voltage and current from the solar panels to prevent overcharging of your batteries. Look for a controller suitable for your battery type (AGM, gel, lithium, etc.).
Deep-cycle batteries: Invest in high-quality deep-cycle batteries to store the energy generated by the solar panels. These batteries are designed to handle frequent charging and discharging.
Battery box or enclosure: Protect your batteries from the elements and vibrations by placing them in a secure battery box or enclosure. This will also help keep your camping area organised.
Inverter (optional): If you need to power AC devices, you may require an inverter to convert the DC power stored in the batteries to AC power.
Wiring and cables: Use appropriate gauge wiring to connect the solar panels, charge controller, batteries, and inverter (if used). Ensure the wiring is properly sized to handle the current over the required distance.
Fuse Protection: Install recommended fuse protection in the wiring system to protect your equipment from electrical faults.
Battery monitor: A battery monitor helps you keep track of your battery's state of charge, voltage, and other important metrics.
Cable connectors and adapters: Ensure you have the appropriate connectors and adapters to make secure connections between different components of your solar system.
HOW DO YOU CONNECT A SOLAR BLANKET TO A BATTERY BOX?
- Unfold and position the solar blanket in a location where it will receive maximum sunlight exposure. Ensure there are no shadows or obstructions that could block sunlight from reaching the panels.
- Place the battery box in a secure and accessible location near the solar blanket. Make sure it's protected from the elements and vibrations.
- Identify the connectors on the solar blanket and the corresponding connectors on the battery box or charge controller.
- Connect the solar blanket's output cable to the input port on the battery box or charge controller. Make sure the connectors are securely plugged in.
- Identify the output terminals on the battery box or charge controller that connect to the battery.
- Attach the positive (red) lead from the solar blanket to the positive terminal on the battery box or charge controller.
- Attach the negative (black) lead from the solar blanket to the negative terminal on the battery box or charge controller.
- Ensure all connections are properly tightened and secured.
- Use appropriate cable connectors or adapters if needed to ensure a snug fit between different connectors.
- Power on the battery box or charge controller, following the manufacturer's instructions.
- Monitor the battery voltage and charging status to ensure the solar blanket is effectively charging the battery.
CAN I CONNECT A SOLAR PANEL TO A BATTERY WITHOUT A CHARGE CONTROLLER?
While it is technically possible to connect a solar panel directly to a battery without a charge controller, it is not recommended for several reasons. A charge controller serves an important role in regulating the voltage and current from the solar panel to the battery. Without a charge controller, you risk overcharging and damaging the battery, especially if the solar panel generates more power than the battery can handle.