Watts Up With Your RV? Solar, Batteries, and More With Chris Reed From Why Not RV

When it comes to RV life, power is everything. From running a CPAP overnight to keeping your fridge cold and your laptop charged, understanding your RV’s power system can make or break your travels. In this week’s episode, Jenn sits down with Chris Reed of Why Not RV to break down solar, batteries, inverters, and the myths that so many RVers hear when they start exploring off-grid setups.

Chris isn’t just a part-time RVer. He’s also a catastrophe insurance adjuster who uses his RV for months at a time while on the job. He’s lived the hotel shuffle and knows the value of having your own bed, your own kitchen, and your own power wherever work takes you. He also takes his nephews and cousins on coming-of-age trips after graduation, letting the next generation pick the destination and experience RVing firsthand.

The Power Trio: Solar, Batteries, and Inverters

Chris explains that your RV’s electrical system revolves around three main components:

• Solar panels generate DC power.
• Batteries store that energy.
• Inverters convert DC power into usable AC power for things like microwaves, laptops, and air conditioning units.

While you don’t have to have solar to make things work, batteries are essential, and inverters make modern comforts possible.

Lithium vs. AGM: Which is Best?

A few years ago, the answer might have been different. But in 2025, Chris says there’s no contest:

• Lithium batteries are lighter, last longer, and can use 100% of their capacity.
• AGM batteries still serve a purpose, like engine starting, but they’re no longer the smart choice for house batteries.
• With lithium battery prices dropping, the cost is nearly the same as AGM batteries

Common Solar Myths Debunked

💡 Myth 1: I have solar, so I can run everything.
Not quite. Your battery bank, not just your solar panels, determines how long you can power appliances.

💡 Myth 2: More solar means unlimited power.
False. Solar recharges your batteries. If your battery bank isn’t big enough, extra panels won’t help overnight.

💡 Myth 3: RV solar is plug-and-play.
Some portable systems are, but most setups require proper installation and programming.

💡 Myth 4: Solar is too expensive.
Not anymore. With more affordable prices and options like suitcase solar panels or refurbished EV batteries, solar is more accessible than ever.

 Budget-Friendly Advice

If you’re just getting started and money is tight, Chris recommends investing in batteries first. A healthy battery bank gives you flexibility and keeps your rig running longer, even without added solar panels.

And no matter how much solar you install, he insists: Always have a generator as backup. Cloudy days happen, and power needs don’t stop.

Chris’s Dream Setup

In his Airstream, Chris is working toward his dream system:

• 2000 watts of solar on the roof.
• A Quattro inverter for more programmable control.
• A huge lithium battery bank capable of running air conditioning nonstop for 24 hours.

That’s an off-grid powerhouse!

One Upgrade Every RVer Should Make

If you only take one step today, Chris recommends installing a battery monitor. Unlike your simple voltage meter, a true monitor shows precisely how much power you’re using and how much is left. Battery monitors are game changers for planning travel days and preventing downtime caused by dead batteries.

Where to Find Chris

Chris shares RV tutorials, installs, and stories through his brand Why Not RV:

• 🎥 YouTube: Why Not RV
• 📸 Instagram: @whynotrvfl
• 📘 Facebook: Why Not RV Group

He also offers consulting services for anyone considering solar or electrical upgrades — whether you’re a DIYer who needs a plan or you’d rather have a professional handle the install.

Listen to the Full Episode

This conversation is packed with practical advice, laughs, and a reality check on what solar power can (and can’t) do for RVers.

🎙️ Listen here: Learn to RV: The Podcast
📺 Watch on YouTube: Learn to RV Channel

👉 Your turn! Do you have solar on your RV? Are you team lithium or are you still rocking AGMs? Share your setup and stories in the comments. We’d love to hear how you power your adventures!

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