Is there a best name brand for portable solar panels?

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Members are seeking recommendations for reliable portable solar panel brands compatible with an RV’s SAE port, specifically to maintain battery charge during winter storage when roof panels are covered. The original poster asks if a portable panel (up to 150 watts) will suffice and whether there’s a standout brand.

Consensus emerges around Renogy as a solid choice, with multiple RVers reporting good experiences, especially when purchased on sale. However, it’s noted that Renogy’s higher...
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anon125

Senior Member
Joined
Feb 12, 2006
Posts
201
winnebago says ...The port is rated for solar panels up to 150 watts. The panel will also need to have an SAE style plug to connect with the port.
the RV has a socket on the side to plug in a portable solar panel.
SAE sounds like the standards people.
will it keep our batteries at least partly charged over winter? the roof panels will be covered as it is in an open fronted shed.
thanks all
 
winnebago says ...The port is rated for solar panels up to 150 watts. The panel will also need to have an SAE style plug to connect with the port.
the RV has a socket on the side to plug in a portable solar panel.
SAE sounds like the standards people.
will it keep our batteries at least partly charged over winter? the roof panels will be covered as it is in an open fronted shed.
thanks all
I have used four or five different brands of portable solar panels. I found the Renogy brand works best but not enough to justify a much higher cost, so if you get them, get them on sale. As for connectors, there are converter connectors for all types of plugs. Just make sure the polarity is correct. I am a member of the below FB group. I recommend you join a solar group and search or ask there. LOTS of information and help on them. Log into Facebook
 
I have used four or five different brands of portable solar panels. I found the Renogy brand works best but not enough to justify a much higher cost, so if you get them, get them on sale. As for connectors, there are converter connectors for all types of plugs. Just make sure the polarity is correct. I am a member of the below FB group. I recommend you join a solar group and search or ask there. LOTS of information and help on them. Log into Facebook
I have a Renogy panel I bought on sale, 50W for $30 shipped. It served me well on my last 4 week trip.
 
I’d say a 150W panel should be a good starting point for maintaining an RV battery during winter storage, especially when the roof panels are covered. The important thing is to make sure the panel and charge controller are compatible with the RV’s SAE port and battery setup.

Renogy is certainly a well-known option, but I don’t think you necessarily have to spend more just for the brand. Off Grid Stores also offers portable solar panels and other off-grid solar equipment, so it may be worth comparing their options based on wattage, connector type, and compatibility rather than brand alone.

I’d also double-check the polarity before connecting anything. If the plugs don’t match, there are adapters available, but I’d make sure the adapter is appropriate for the specific setup. For winter storage, I’d focus on getting a reliable panel and the right controller/connection rather than simply buying the most expensive option.
 

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