How to install
When installing off-grid power systems for boats, motorhomes, camper vans or other off-grid living arrangements, it’s important to plan your installation carefully to ensure the power source is installed safely and works reliably. Here at Onboard Energy, we have a team of experienced technicians to make installation a breeze, find out more about booking an installation.
Boat installation | Motorhome & installation | Off Grid installation
Boat installation guide
Installing off-grid power to your narrowboat or canal boat gives you much more freedom to explore the waterways. You’ll be able to moor up in a quiet area without worrying about having enough power to make that well-earned cup of tea or keep the fridge running overnight.
How to Install Boat Solar Panels
Each individual solar panel installation instructions will vary slightly, but generally, solar panel installation will consist of:
-
Choose mounting locations: Select a flat area on your boat's roof or deck for mounting the panels. Avoid shading from masts, antennas, or other equipment.
-
Attach mounting brackets: Attach the mounting brackets or racks to the chosen locations. Ensure they are securely fastened using stainless steel hardware.
-
Attach Solar Panels: Place the solar panels onto the mounting brackets and secure them according to the manufacturer's instructions. Use appropriate hardware to prevent panels from shifting during movement.
-
Wiring the Solar Panels: Connect the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals of the solar panels in series or parallel to one another, depending on the system voltage and configuration.
-
Install the charge controller: Install the charge controller in a suitable location, where it’s dry and close to the battery bank.
-
Weatherproofing: Seal with heavy duty sealant or adhesive around the mounting brackets, wiring points and any drilled holes in the boat to prevent any water from seeping into the boat.
Shop Solar Panels
How to install Boat Batteries
There are a number of different types of batteries that can be used on a canal boat, including deep cycle and lithium-ion. While some installations will vary, they usually consist of:
-
Choosing the battery locations: Choose a well ventilated and dry area of your narrowboat to install the battery, such as a designated battery compartment.
-
Secure the battery: Secure the battery by using a battery box or tray to prevent movement during travel.
-
Wire the battery: Determine the appropriate wiring configuration based on the number of batteries and their voltage (e.g., 12V, 24V). Then use battery cables of the appropriate gauge to connect the batteries in series or parallel as needed. Connect the positive terminal of one battery to the negative terminal of the next to create the desired voltage and capacity.
-
Terminal Connections: Attach battery terminal connectors to the battery terminals. Ensure tight and secure connections to prevent accidental disconnection. Connect positive (+) and negative (-) terminals to their respective cables.
-
Battery Isolation: Install a battery isolator or disconnect switch between the batteries and the boat's electrical system. This allows you to disconnect the batteries when not in use, preventing discharge and ensuring safety.
-
Fusing and Protection: Install appropriate fuses or circuit breakers in-line with the positive battery cables to protect against overcurrent situations.
Shop Batteries
How to install Boat Inverters
An inverter allows your canal boat to convert DC power from your batteries to AC power, which is required to run household appliances. Installation may vary depending on the specific inverter but installation generally will include:
-
Choose the location: Select a location that provides adequate ventilation and is close to the battery bank.
-
Mount the inverter: Mount the inverter securely using the provided mounting brackets or other suitable methods.
-
Connect to the battery: Connect the positive (+) and negative (-) battery cables to the appropriate terminals on the inverter
-
Install overcurrent protection: Install a fuse or circuit breaker in line with the positive cable connecting the battery to the inverter.
-
Connect AC Wiring: If your inverter doesn’t have built in outlets, install AC outlets near the inverter and connect the inverter’s AC output terminals to the AC wiring.
Shop inverters
Motorhome and Camper van installation guide
Installing an off-grid power system can give you more independence when camping so you can camp in remote or scenic locations without sacrificing access to power.
How to Install Camper van and Motorhome Solar Panels
Each individual solar panel installation for campervans and motorhomes will vary slightly, but generally, solar panel installation will consist of:
-
Choose the panel location: Choose the optimal location for your solar panel, on the roof of your motorhome, considering the curvature of the roof and available space.
-
Mount the solar panels: Mount the solar panels using the mounting brackets, feet or adhesive pads and install them according to the manufacturer's instructions.
-
Wiring and connections: Route the solar panel cables from the panels to a central panel on the roof of the vehicle and connect to the charge controllers' input terminals.
-
Install the solar charge controller: Install the solar charge controller in a suitable location inside the camper van or motorhome, close to the battery bank. Connect the solar charge controller's output terminals to the battery bank's terminals using appropriate wiring and fuses for protection.
-
Cable Management and Protection: Securely fasten and route all cables to prevent movement, chafing, or exposure to the elements. Use cable management accessories like clips, ties, or conduits to keep the wiring organised and protected.
-
Sealing and waterproofing: Apply a high-quality sealant or adhesive around the mounting brackets and any holes drilled into the roof to prevent leaks and water damage.
Shop Solar Panels
How to install Camper van and Motorhome Batteries
There are several battery options suitable for motorhomes and campervans, including deep cycle and lithium-ion batteries. While specific setups may vary, the general installation process typically involves the following steps:
-
Selecting Battery Locations: Choose a well-ventilated area within your motorhome or campervan to install the batteries. This could be a designated battery compartment or an appropriate storage space.
-
Securing the Batteries: Secure the batteries using battery boxes or trays to prevent movement during travel. This ensures the safety of both the batteries and the occupants.
-
Wiring the Batteries: Determine the appropriate wiring configuration based on the battery voltage and capacity needed for your setup (e.g., 12V, 24V). Use battery cables of the suitable gauge to connect the batteries in series or parallel as required. Connect the positive terminal of one battery to the negative terminal of the next to achieve the desired voltage and capacity.
-
Terminal Connections: Attach battery terminal connectors to the battery terminals. Ensure tight and secure connections to prevent accidental disconnection. Connect positive (+) and negative (-) terminals to their respective cables.
-
Battery Isolation: Install a battery isolator or disconnect switch between the batteries and the motorhome's or campervan's electrical system. This allows you to easily disconnect the batteries when they are not in use, preventing discharge and enhancing safety.
-
Fusing and Protection: Install appropriate fuses or circuit breakers in-line with the positive battery cables. This provides essential protection against overcurrent situations and helps safeguard the wiring and components.
Shop Batteries
How to install Camper van and Motorhome Inverters
An inverter is a crucial component for motorhomes and campervans, allowing you to covert DC power from your batteries into AC, to power household appliances. The installation process may vary somewhat based on the particular model, but the general steps include:
-
Choosing the Installation Location: Select a well-ventilated area near the battery bank inside your motorhome or campervan. Adequate ventilation helps dissipate any heat generated by the inverter.
-
Mounting the Inverter: Securely mount the inverter using the provided mounting brackets or other suitable methods. Ensure that the mounting location is stable and accessible for maintenance.
-
Connecting to the Battery: Connect the positive (+) and negative (-) battery cables to the appropriate terminals on the inverter. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper cable connection.
-
Installing Overcurrent Protection: Install a fuse or circuit breaker in-line with the positive cable that connects the battery to the inverter. This protection prevents overcurrent situations that could potentially damage the inverter or wiring.
-
Connecting AC Wiring: If your inverter doesn't have built-in outlets, consider installing AC outlets near the inverter's location for easy access. Connect the inverter's AC output terminals to the AC wiring leading to the outlets or other loads you intend to power.
Shop inverters
Off Grid installation guide
Whatever your off-grid requirement, such as a self-sufficient off grid home, these steps will help you achieve energy independence.
How to Install Off Grid Solar Panels
-
Installing solar panels for off-grid power follows a general process: Selecting Panel Locations: Choose spots with optimal sunlight exposure.
-
Mounting the Solar Panels: Secure panels using appropriate mounting hardware, brackets, or adhesive pads.
-
Wiring and Connections: Route solar panel cables to a central point, then connect to a solar charge controller.
-
Installing Solar Charge Controller: Place it near the battery bank and connect its output to the batteries.
-
Cable Management: Organise and secure cables using clips, ties, or conduits.
-
Sealing and Protection: Apply sealant around mounting areas to prevent water leaks.
Shop Solar Panels
How to install Off Grid Batteries
Installation of batteries for off-grid power could involve the following steps:
-
Choosing Battery Locations: Pick well-ventilated, secure spaces within your vehicle or vessel.
-
Securing the Batteries: Prevent battery movement using battery boxes or trays.
-
Wiring the Batteries: Wire batteries in series or parallel using appropriate cables.
-
Terminal Connections: Attach battery terminal connectors securely.
-
Battery Isolation: Install a battery isolator or disconnect switch for convenience and safety.
-
Fusing and Protection: Add fuses or circuit breakers to safeguard the system.
Shop Batteries
How to install Off Grid Inverters
Installing an off-grid inverter follows these general steps:
-
Choosing the Location: Opt for a well-ventilated area close to the battery bank.
-
Mounting the Inverter: Securely mount the inverter using provided brackets or suitable methods.
-
Battery Connection: Attach positive and negative battery cables to inverter terminals.
-
Overcurrent Protection: Install a fuse or circuit breaker for safety.
-
AC Wiring: If your inverter lacks built-in outlets, add AC outlets and connect the inverter's AC output terminals.
Shop inverters
