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This is a question we get asked all the time at consumer shows when their batteries are getting low and there’s no mains hookup. People are worried the fridge is going to stop and the milk, bacon and perhaps more crucially the beer & wine 😊 are getting warm.
When considering solar power for your caravan / camper van or motorhome, one common question is whether a 100w or 200W solar panel can run a fridge. The answer depends on several factors, including the fridge's power consumption, the general temperature outside and the amount of sunlight available.
If we look at the numbers it’s a bit easier to understand. For example if you integrate a very efficient solar panel with a poor performance charge controller and substandard wiring and connections, it completely defeats the object.
With many solar installations the energy production can be relatively low, so the more efficient the installed components are, the overall installation performance will be much more useful, and therefore it should/will work!
So, in conclusion, it will be a huge benefit if the solar panel part of the system is as efficient as possible.
Understanding Power Consumption
Most compressor fridges use about 40 to 60 watts per hour depending on the size of them. To determine the daily power consumption, you can use this simple calculation:
- Daily power consumption: 40 watts x 12 hours = 480 watt-hours (Wh)
- Daily power consumption: 60 watts x 12 hours = 720 watt-hours (Wh)
Solar Panel Output
A 200W solar panel, under ideal conditions in the UK (late spring to early autumn), can produce around 1000-1200 watt-hours per day. This means you would easily cover off the 720 Wh needed to generate enough power to run the 60w fridge for one day with plenty of energy left over.
For a smaller panel you would need a smaller power fridge. For example, a 100w solar panel is generally the minimum size we would recommend for a 40w fridge.
Factors to Consider
Several factors can affect the efficiency of your solar panel and will have a large impact on the power generated:
- Weather Conditions: Cloudy or rainy days can reduce the amount of sunlight your panels receive, thus affecting their output.
- Panel Angle: The angle at which your panels are installed can impact their efficiency. Ensuring they are positioned to receive maximum sunlight is best.
- Shading: Any shading from trees, buildings, or other obstacles can significantly reduce the output of your solar panels sometimes by over 50%.
Our Conclusion
A 200W solar panel can run a fridge! Its efficiency depends on various factors, including the fridge's power consumption, sunlight availability / time of year, and proper panel installation. Having a large battery storage system can enhance reliability too.
Taking these aspects into consideration, you can ensure that your solar power setup meets your needs and keeps your caravan, motorhome or camper van powered up for your many future adventures.
For more information, you might want to read our blog on sizing a solar system Sizing an Off-Grid System
Sean