Caravan Solar Performance – Common Questions & Answers

Q: Does Arizon offer high-quality solar panels?

A: Yes – absolutely! At Arizon, we take pride in carrying some of the most efficient and high-performance solar panels in the industry. We're well known across the caravan and off-grid community for our reliable, durable, and top-tier solar panel range, and we’ve built a strong reputation based on real-world performance and customer satisfaction.

Q: My solar panel is rated at 200W – why am I not seeing 200W output?

A: Great question! Solar panel wattage ratings are based on Standard Test Conditions (STC) – perfect lab conditions with:

• Solar irradiation of 1000W/m²

• Cell temperature of 25°C

• No shading or obstructions

In real-world caravan use, conditions are rarely perfect. The sun hits at an angle (especially on flat-mounted panels), shading from hatches or an air conditioner is common, and even a small amount of dirt or partial shade can reduce performance significantly. Temperature also plays a role – panels become less efficient as they heat up.

Q: Can dirt or dust really affect my panel’s output?

A: Absolutely. Dust, bird droppings, and road grime can accumulate over time and reduce the panel’s efficiency. A quick clean every few months with water and a soft cloth can make a noticeable difference in performance.

Q: Is my solar system faulty? How can I tell?

A: It’s possible, but often what looks like a fault is just environmental or setup-related. Here's how to check:

1. Observe over time – Monitor your solar charge controller (regulator) over 1–3 months. Check the maximum power output recorded during peak sunlight.

2. Panel-by-panel test – Disconnect or shade each panel individually and see if the output drops proportionally. If it does, all panels are likely working. (should be performed by an experienced technician)

3. Check voltage drop – Measure the voltage at the solar regulator and compare it to the battery terminals. A large drop may indicate a cabling issue or a bad connection. (should be performed by an experienced technician) 

Q: What kind of output should I realistically expect?

A: That depends on the season, sun angle, temperature, and any shading. A 200W panel mounted flat on a caravan might output around 140–170W under ideal summer conditions. In winter or partial shade, output can drop significantly. Real-world average conditions often reduce performance by 20–30% compared to the rated STC value. But it is also possible to observe full power output if shade on the solar panel is minimal and the sun's irradiation is almost perpendicular to the solar panel's surface, and the battery is not full.

Q: How can I get the best performance from my solar setup?

• Keep your panels clean and free of obstructions

• Park in full sunlight where possible

• Add extra or portable solar panels for more power

Q: Can you help if I think there’s a fault?

A: Yes – we’re always here to help. If you're consistently getting low output, gather data from your solar regulator (especially on sunny days), try the tests above, and reach out. We’re happy to assist.