Every system on this site is a parts list. Before a part goes on a list, we read its ratings in the manufacturer’s published documents and check them against the other parts on the same list. Here is what that covers, and what it does not.
Where the numbers come from
Specifications on our product pages come from manufacturer documents, such as data sheets, manuals and product pages. When two sources disagree, we go with the manufacturer’s data sheet. We publish a rating only after reading it in a manufacturer document, so some products show fewer specs than others.
What we check on every parts list
Check 1
Panel voltage and the controller’s limit
We add up panel voltage for the way the panels are wired, in series or in parallel, and keep it under the charge controller’s voltage limit. Panel voltage rises on cold mornings, so we leave room under that limit.
Check 2
Panel watts and the controller’s rating
Where the manufacturer rates a controller for solar watts at 12 V, the panels on it stay under that rating. System 2, for example, has 400 W of panels on a controller rated for 440 W at 12 V.
Check 3
One battery voltage
Every list is a 12 V system built on 12 V lithium batteries. The charge controller, inverter and DC-DC charger on each list are made for a 12 V battery.
Check 4
Inverter ratings you can compare
Where we have the manufacturer’s figures, each guide lists the inverter’s continuous rating and its peak, for example 800 VA, or 650 W at 25 C, with a 1,500 W peak. Compare them with the watts on each device’s label.
Check 5
Protection and monitoring
Every list has a terminal fuse block for the main battery cable. Lists with small DC loads add a blade fuse block, and most lists include a battery monitor you can read from your phone.
What a parts list is not
A parts list is not an engineered design, a permitted installation or a promise of runtime or performance.
- Cable, mounts, and the fuses that go in the fuse blocks are not included. Choose them for your wiring.
- A list is not sized for any particular appliance.
- We do not install systems or inspect installations.
What we ask you to do
- Check the running watts and start-up surge on each device’s label against the inverter’s ratings.
- Read each manufacturer’s instructions and follow them.
- Confirm equipment choices and installation rules with a qualified professional and the manufacturers. Battery and electrical work can be dangerous.
See the checks on a real list
- System 1: RV 200W parts list guide
- System 2: RV 400W parts list guide
- System 3: RV 600W parts list guide
- System 4: Camper van parts list guide
- System 5: Small shed or cabin parts list guide
- System 6: Fridge and internet backup parts list guide
- System 7: Business shed, job site or farm outbuilding, parts list in the shop