Best 3 Solar Battery Chargers for Trailers [2024 Updated]

Trailers have no built-in power system and often need an additional power source to keep the appliances running, irrespective of where you travel. It removes the need to hook up with the chargers in campsites and gives the freedom to camp and roam wherever you want while still having the power in your trailer. Amongst the traditional power sources, solar battery chargers for trailers are the best option. Using solar power means cost savings over time, is safe and efficient, and makes one entirely self-sufficient.

If you’re planning to invest in solar battery chargers for your trailer, you've already taken the first step toward achieving efficiency. Jackery Solar Generators are among the most highly rated ones out there due to their efficiency, safety, reliability, and durability. Now, read through the detailed guide to choose the right solar battery charger alongside a few valuable maintenance tips.

How Solar Battery Chargers Work for Trailer

A solar battery charger for a trailer uses renewable solar energy to power the available appliances for hours without interruption. Jackery is one of the well-known brands whose solar generators combine foldable solar panels and portable power stations to convert sunlight into usable energy and charge appliances anywhere.

As the sun’s rays fall on the solar panels, the cells absorb and convert them into DC electricity. The electricity is then passed onto a charge controller that regulates the voltage before the pure sine wave inverter in the portable power station converts it into usable AC electricity.

The Jackery Solar Generators are durable and weatherproof, making them a viable companion for long trailer journeys. Unlike traditional gasoline or fossil fuel generators, they don’t make any noise or emit harmful gases while operating, so you can install them inside your trailer.

Plus, you won’t need any technical knowledge, and installing the solar generator takes hardly a few seconds. Plug the solar panel’s DC power cable into the DC input of the Jackery Portable Power Station, matching the polarity to start the electricity generation and storage process.

Once the solar generator setup is complete, plug your trailer appliances into the AC outlets on the power station, and the appliances will start working.

What Size Solar Charger for Your Trailer?

Although the right generator size for a travel trailer depends on its physical size and electrical output, it’s typically 2,000 to 7,500 watts. Below is the list of basics:  

• Small Travel Trailer (under 20 feet): Small travel trailers generally equip a 30-ampere electrical system with essential appliances like a television, router, mini fridge, smartphone, etc., and require a 2,000-3,000 watt generator.
• Mid-size Travel Trailer or Dump Trailer (20-30 feet): The capacity of a solar battery charger for dump trailersor mid-size trailers must be between 3,000 and 4,000 watts.
• Large Travel Trailer (>30 feet): A large travel trailer is meant for long road trips and has more living space than a tent. It will need a 5,000-7,500-watt standard generator. Such battery capacity is enough to power most electrical appliances for hours.

To calculate how big a generator you need for a camper, use the formula: Wattage = Voltage × Current. For example, a 25-amp travel trailer runs on 120V and 25A, so Wattage = 120V × 25A = 3,000W. So, you need a 3,000W generator to power your 25-amp travel trailer.

Best Solar Chargers for Trailer

Depending on the trailer size and the number of appliances you use, you’ll find a fitting solar generator in the Jackery store. As trailers have no built-in power system, you probably need to depend solely on solar generators. So, just add the power consumption of each appliance in your trailer and get a solar generator accordingly. For example, if you need around 2500 watts of electricity, a Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro or a Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus Kit (4kWh) should suffice. Here’s a list of some large-capacity generators Jackery has to offer:

Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro

Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro has enough battery capacity to run heavy-duty appliances like portable air conditioners, refrigerators, 120V water pumps, or basic appliances like televisions, laptops, smartphones, and drones. While operating, it doesn’t produce any emissions or noise, and its pull rods and wheel setup let you carry it anywhere and power the available appliances.

Appliances Running Time:

• Coffee Maker (550W): 4.7H
• Portable Air Conditioner (1150W): 2.2H
• Smartphone (29W): 88.6H
• Laptop (100W): 25.7H
• Outdoor Electric Grill (1700W): 1.5H
• Microwave (1050W): 2.4H

Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus

If the previous generator seems like an overdo for your small trailer with basic and a few heavy-duty appliances, then you can invest in Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus. Some devices it can charge include coffee makers, laptops, kettles, and angle grinders. And it’s expandable, so it won’t be an issue if you plan to add more appliances. With pull rods and wheels, you can carry the generator anywhere and power the appliances in a location without access to electricity.

Appliances Running Time:

• Smartphone (29W): 59.8H
• Microwave (1050W): 1.6H
• Coffee Maker (550W): 3.1H
• Outdoor Electric Grill (1700W): 1H
• Portable Air Conditioner (1150W): 1.5H
• Toaster (800W): 2.1H

Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus Kit (4kWh)

With its massive power output, the Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus Kit (4kWh) can be the best solar battery charger for dump trailers and mid or large-sized travel trailers. It can elevate your off-grid living experience and keep 99% of your appliances powered up for hours. The solar generator comes in handy if you want to relax with a portable air conditioner, cook in a microwave, or an electrical grill. Also, it’s rechargeable with solar charging, a car battery, and even a wall outlet. This makes it a more versatile and convenient option than any gasoline or portable generators running on fossil fuels.

Appliances Running Time:

• Coffee Maker (550W): 6.3H
• Portable Refrigerator (500W): 6.9H
• Outdoor Electric Grill (1700W): 2.0H
• Portable Air Conditioner (1150W): 3.0H
• Laptop (100W): 34.7H
• Toaster (800W): 4.3H

Installation and Maintenance Tips

As trailers don’t have built-in power backup, RV generators are a great way to ensure a comfortable off-grid living experience. Jackery Solar Generators, although durable enough to withstand any weather conditions and guaranteed to last long, require occasional maintenance and care.

Jackery Solar Generators combine solar panels and portable power stations, so you must follow a distinct maintenance routine. For example, it’s crucial to keep the solar panels away from any corrosive substance during storage and always clean them with a clean cloth. Here are a few tips to use, store, and clean Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels:

Use Environment: Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels must avoid contact with fire and heat sources, corrosive substances, and sharp objects. These substances can compromise the panels' integrity, resulting in malfunction or complete failure.

Storage Environment: Although Jackery SolarSaga Solar panels are constructed with fully toughened glass, you must keep the solar panels away from contact with fire and heat sources, corrosive and sharp substances.

Cleaning the Panels: The foldable solar panels are waterproof and resistant to elements, which adds to their resilience against environmental factors. However, they must be cleaned regularly (depending on the climate and outdoor use process) to maintain efficiency. You must make it a habit to conduct routine inspections to identify any accumulation of dust or debris.

Now, when it comes to maintaining portable power generators, you can consider the following helpful tips:

Use and Storage Environment: You must not keep or use the solar charger for dump trailers or other types in direct sunlight or a car on a hot day. Doing that will overheat the battery and may catch fire. So, you must store the portable power station in a cool and dry place to maintain its optimal temperature and avoid sharp objects and corrosive substances.

Use of Proper Cleaning Tools: Like solar panels, you must use the right tools to clean your solar generator and keep it in optimal working condition. For example, use a sponge or soft brush and mild detergent to remove water from the power station.

FAQs

What is the best way to charge a trailer battery?

Solar generators are the best way to charge a trailer battery, and Jackery Solar Generators are one of the best due to their portability, safety, efficiency, and versatility.

Can I charge my RV battery with solar?

Yes, you can charge your RV battery with solar energy. Just plug in the battery to the DC output of your solar generator and keep it running for hours.

What size solar panel do I need to keep the RV battery charged?

The size of solar panels to charge your RV battery depends on size and capacity. Note down or calculate the battery's input capacity and make investments accordingly.

Do solar batteries need a special charger?

Yes, solar batteries need a special charger or charge controller to ensure they’re charged efficiently and safely.

Conclusion

One must choose the right solar battery charger for trailers as it directly impacts their ability to power essential appliances like smartphones, televisions, portable air conditioners, GPS, and others while outdoors. A smaller-sized battery backup falls short of your power needs, while a large one might be expensive to buy and maintain.

So, you must calculate your energy needs, conduct proper research, and make a smart investment decision. Jackery Solar Generators, compared to other alternatives, are more efficient, reliable, and durable. The best part is that they require minimal maintenance and function optimally for years.

If you’ve invested in solar chargers for your trailer and experienced the benefits of solar energy when on the road, you can share any tips and stories you have. Your insights might help other travelers who are considering making a switch. Also, if you have any questions about choosing the right generators, you can ask them in the comments below.