Check out the super simple solar power set-up we installed on our new camper van roof! If you’re interested in any of Inergy’s solar power products, they’re offering our viewers a discount when they use this link*:
*Full disclosure: we are part of the Inergy affiliate program and we earn a commission from qualifying purchases made using our link.
We built our own roof rack using 1″ square aluminum tubing from Home Depot, and solar panel z mounting brackets. We thought about using VHB tape to install the panels but weren’t sure how strong it would be, and opted to use the pre-drilled roof rack holes in the Ford Transit to ensure the panels were safely secured.
We had space for 2 x 100 watt panels on the roof, but would have loved to install a 3rd panel if there was room (the Maxxair fan made it a bit too tight).
Once the panels were installed, the system is literally plug and play. And if our panels aren’t generating enough electricity to charge the Kodiak, we have a 12-volt charging cable that we can plug into the van to charge while we drive. There’s also a wall adaptor for anyone who’s got a home base to charge up their Kodiak from home.
We don’t often accept products for review, but this genuinely seemed like a useful product for our own conversion, and we thought it might be for other alternative spaces. We made sure to test it out for a few months before installing it in the van, and before making a video about it.
Full disclaimer, the Kodiak and the solar panels were sent to us for free, and we earn an affiliate fee for each Kodiak that is sold using our link.
We’re huge fans of solar power for mobile and off-grid applications so whatever system you choose to install, we wish you all the best!
Thanks for watching!
Mat & Danielle
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Blog: www.exploringalternatives.ca
Facebook: /exploringalternativesblog
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We occasionally include paid sponsor messages/integrations in our videos to help fund the channel. We do our best to work with companies and organizations that offer products or services that are in line with our values, and that we think would be interesting and useful to our viewers.
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For business or sponsorship inquiries, please email us at danielle.is.exploring@gmail.com
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VIDEO CREDITS
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Music & Song Credits:
All music in this video was composed, performed, and recorded by Mat of Exploring Alternatives.
Editing Credits:
Mat and Danielle of Exploring Alternatives
Filming Credits:
Mat of Exploring Alternatives
Get 20% off the Kodiak solar generator and/or any Inergy product with our 'exploringsolar' discount code here: https://inergytek.com/collections/solar-generators/products/kodiak
can it run a tv?
Probably nice to know if they have different sized systems. But good review.
2:35 Would have thought Kodiak would have a solution for sealing the power cable from the elements considering the base unit itself isn't weather resistant.
Would have been nice if you said, the cost of each item. 👎👎
With the RV port how much you could use in your RV? Can you run an AC?
I was just looking at this system
And I absolutely love it..is expensive but you get what you pay for..what I like about it is that you could create a setup that best suits you..from simple to a huge
System by adding parts to it…
What ceoling lights did you buy that allowed use of the adapter??
Thank you
Where did you get the plug in adapter to plug in the lights??
Thank you!!
Side entry for wiring has less chance of leakage if it can be accommodated just a thought. Nice job.
Hi! Was thinking the same approach for my build!
Which LED light set did you go with and what adapter did you need?
I don’t get it, it’s the same price if I go straight to their site or use your link. What’s the discount? How do I get the discount?
Will it run a small ac unit
Noob question: Would you require more than solar power if you were going to run an AC or heating unit for 8 hours? Thank you!!
I been looking for a very simple easy set up for solar thank you for the video will be looking for a update to see how it worked out for you
This is pretty neat. I made a somewhat modular system very similar to this that can be taken apart easily instead of being hard-built into the van. Considered making some to sell.
Nice video..some more info on how you waterproof the entry would be 👌
Like it
How can I get touch with u go talk to u. Can u help?
Ah, I am happy that your channel is giving me new ideas and info about this kind of modern options too! Just planning my future vanlife and studying a lot now.