Choosing an Off-Grid Power Solution for Our RV
When we first hit the road in our travel trailer, we had to decide how to power our camper while boondocking. A fully wired solar setup with lithium-ion batteries, an inverter, and mounted solar panels would have been expensive and time-consuming. Since we weren’t comfortable installing it ourselves, hiring a professional would have added even more to the cost. Instead, we opted for the EcoFlow DELTA Pro Portable Power Station with EcoFlow portable solar panels as a simpler, more affordable alternative.
Features & Specifications: EcoFlow Delta Pro
The EcoFlow DELTA Pro is a powerful and versatile portable power station, ideal for home backup, off-grid adventures, and RV or van life. With high capacity, fast charging, and multiple output options, it provides a reliable energy solution for a variety of needs.
EcoFlow DELTA Pro Portable Power Station
- Capacity: 3,600Wh (expandable up to 25,000Wh with extra batteries)
- AC Output: 3,600W (7,200W surge)
- Solar Input: 1,600W max
- Charging Time: 3 hours via AC, 3-4 days via 400W portable solar panel (weather-dependent)
- Battery Type: Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4)
- Weight: 99 lbs
EcoFlow 400W Portable Solar Panel
- Power Output: 400W
- Efficiency: up to 22.6% monocrystalline silicone
- Durability: IP68 waterproof rating
- Dimensions: Unfolded: 105.8 × 236.5 × 2.5 cm Folded: 105.8 × 62.0 × 2.5 cm
- Weight: 35.3 lbs
EcoFlow 400W Rigid Solar Panel
- Power Output: 400W
- Efficiency: High-efficiency monocrystalline cells
- Durability: IP68 waterproof rating
- Dimensions: 67.8 x 44.6 x 1.4 in
The DELTA Pro is a top-tier choice for those seeking a high-performance, expandable, and versatile power solution for both stationary and mobile use.
Initial Setup & Powering the Camper
One of the biggest challenges was safely connecting the EcoFlow DELTA Pro to our RV without costly electrical work while also finding a suitable place for it. Since it’s large and not waterproof, leaving it outside wasn’t an option. Keeping it inside ensured security but took up valuable space, making placement difficult.
Our solution was to plug the RV’s 30-amp power cord directly into the EcoFlow. This required routing the cord indoors—through a storage compartment, into a hole in the boys’ bottom bunk, across the floor, and into the solar generator near our dinette. While functional, this setup wasn’t the most elegant, as the cord ran across the floor.
If you’re comfortable with electrical work and have a bigger budget, you could hardwire a transfer switch or install an exterior power inlet for a cleaner, more efficient setup. But for us, this simple and affordable solution worked well enough!
Solar Charging Performance & Challenges
Portable Solar Panel Limitations
We initially used the EcoFlow 400W foldable solar panel that came bundled with our generator. While its portability made it easy to reposition for maximum sun exposure, charging was frustratingly slow—taking up to three full days of direct sunlight to fully charge the generator if no power was being drawn.
Security was another concern. We couldn’t leave the panel unattended while out shopping or hiking, as theft was a real possibility. Because of the slow solar charging speed, our most reliable option became AC charging, which takes only three hours. While off-grid, this often meant running our gas generator to power the camper while simultaneously charging the EcoFlow.
Upgrades & Future Expansion
To improve our setup, we mounted two EcoFlow 400W Rigid Solar Panels on the roof, providing a total of 800W. The installation was straightforward—I ran the wiring into a junction box, through the roof, into our upper cabinets, and down into the dinette bench seat, where it connects directly to the EcoFlow.
This upgrade significantly improved our ability to stay off-grid. On sunny days, we can sometimes go days or even weeks without using our gas generator. While our current setup works well, we plan to add an extra battery in the future to double our capacity and extend our off-grid time. However, additional batteries are large and bulky, requiring more space inside the rig.
Cost & Value
The EcoFlow DELTA Pro is a significant investment, typically priced around $2,000–$3,000. However, deals, discounts, and bundle options can help reduce the cost, especially when purchasing solar panels or accessories.
While the upfront price is high, the long-term savings—reducing generator fuel costs and avoiding expensive full-hookup campgrounds—make it a worthwhile investment for off-grid living.
Downsides & Frustrations
While the EcoFlow DELTA Pro has been a great solution overall, it comes with some frustrating aspects—particularly firmware updates and customer support.
- Firmware Updates: After one update, we noticed the battery drained significantly faster. Many other users reported the same issue, which was frustrating given the unit’s high cost.
- Customer Support: Dealing with EcoFlow’s support team was challenging. We experienced issues, including three melted wires that needed replacing. While they eventually sent replacements, the process was slow and frustrating. At least half the representatives we spoke to were rude or unhelpful, making the experience even more difficult.
Would We Choose This Setup Again?
In hindsight, we may have opted for a traditional lithium battery, inverter, and solar panel system from the beginning. While the EcoFlow DELTA Pro is a great product, it has limitations that a permanent system wouldn’t have.
That said, we don’t regret using EcoFlow’s products—they’ve served us well. The DELTA Pro is powerful and flexible, but it’s not without flaws. If EcoFlow improves customer service and firmware reliability, it could become a top contender in the portable solar market.
Final Thoughts
The EcoFlow DELTA Pro is an affordable, portable power solution ideal for RV travelers who want simplicity over complex wiring. It works best with rigid solar panels for efficiency, though a backup power source is essential for cloudy days.
While it’s been a great overall solution, installation requires some creativity with wiring. For those seeking a plug-and-play option, the DELTA Pro is a solid choice. However, for long-term off-grid living, investing in a permanent lithium battery system may be the better route.
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