Frequently Asked Questions
How do I use the 4WD solar calculator?
Simply enter your solar panel wattage, battery capacity in Ah, how many days you plan to camp, your average inverter load, and expected sun hours. The calculator will estimate your runtime, panels needed, and cost.
What is a good size solar panel for a 4WD?
For most weekend trips running a 40L-60L fridge and some lights, a 160W to 200W solar panel is usually sufficient. If you run an inverter for laptops or coffee machines, you may need 300W or more.
How many sun hours do I get in Australia?
In Australia, you can generally expect between 5 to 7 peak sun hours per day depending on your location and the season. Northern and central Australia get more, while southern states get less in winter.
Do I need a lithium battery for my 4WD?
While AGM batteries work fine, lithium (LiFePO4) batteries are highly recommended. They are lighter, charge faster, and you can safely use nearly 100% of their capacity compared to 50% for AGM.
Can I run a fridge off solar alone?
Yes, but you need a battery to store the power for overnight use. A 200W solar panel paired with a 100Ah battery is a classic setup that can run a 12V fridge indefinitely in good weather.
What is an inverter load?
An inverter converts 12V DC power from your battery into 240V AC power (like a wall socket). The load is how much power (in Watts) the appliances plugged into it draw.
Why is my battery going flat even with solar?
Common reasons include: drawing more power than you generate, poor solar panel positioning (shade), a failing battery, or voltage drop due to thin wiring.
Do I need a DCDC charger if I have solar?
Yes, a DCDC charger is highly recommended. It ensures your auxiliary battery charges fully from your alternator while driving, and many modern DCDC chargers include a built-in MPPT solar regulator.