Avenue All-Access Solar Limitations

[offacough]

Cross-posted from the Avenue sub-forum:

• The Avenue All-Access models are equipped with a 200w panel and 15amp MPPT controller. The inverter prep is limited to 300w.
• The full Avenue series has a 400w panel, a 40amp MPPT, and supports a 3000w inverter.

I understand that this is as good as it's going to get from Alliance, but if I'm wondering if the wiring or build otherwise limits aftermarket options. I eventually would like to get a 3000w inverter and whatever count of panels it requires to make it work. I'm wondering if I have to start from scratch, or can just upgrade the charge controller and add panels.

The biggest concern I can think of is the gauge of wire installed, and any other coach outlet limitations.

I understand Alliance making this a low-cost, entry-level solar entry on this model, although I think they ought to make it as extensible as any other coach. Just because your coach is smaller doesn't mean you might not want to have lithium batteries and the ability to run an AC while boondocking.

 

[Lantley]

You can have solar A/C or you can be budget friendly. You really can't be both!
Solar A/C is not a budget friendly upgrade.

 

[offacough]

You can have solar A/C or you can be budget friendly. You really can't be both!
Solar A/C is not a budget friendly upgrade.

I understand this. My reasons for the 29RL instead of a 40ft Paradigm are not all financial.

I am looking into what is possible; I’ll decide after that what is reasonable. YMMV. 👍

 

[Oregon_Camper]

The Renogy MPPT controller and solar panel can be used with new 3000w inverter. I would suggest not using the Renogy MPPT and just bite the bullet and move all over to Victron. I gutted by system and went with all Victron components. I need to update this picure, as I have added a 50 amp Victron DC-to-DC controller as well

 

[Mike in North Wales]

If you add enough panels and batteries to be able to run an AC, you will have to run new larger cables from the roof to the charge controller. We have to do that with Paradigms, too.

 

[offacough]

If you add enough panels and batteries to be able to run an AC, you will have to run new larger cables from the roof to the charge controller. We have to do that with Paradigms, too.

This is part of what I was asking - the fact that it was not “prepped” for the larger inverter tells me they they used too small a gauge of wire.

I don’t have my hands on the RV yet (we’re buying in January). Am I to assume that running the proper cable is something that a modestly skilled owner can do without being a contortion artist or ripping apart the coach?


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[Mike in North Wales]

Running cables from a larger array to wherever you mount the rest of the system shouldn't be too hard. Alliance provides a wire chase the size of the tank vents from the roof to somewhere in the basement. I assume this is the case with the All Access line. Where it lands in the basement depends on the floorplan. That will determine if you need to work on your flexibility before tackling the job!

Typically, when expanding the array, the existing wires are abandoned in favor of larger cables. Most mount a box over the top of the chase and use waterproof cable entry devices to get into the box. There are several installations detailed here. Look for CornCrib. I think RGeyer may have his installation here somewhere. Jim Beletti has 2 threads, one for his Paradigm and 1 for his Delta. There are a few others, as well.

 

[offacough]

This is great info - thanks!


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[Oregon_Camper]

If you add enough panels and batteries to be able to run an AC, you will have to run new larger cables from the roof to the charge controller. We have to do that with Paradigms, too.

Super easy! Alliance has a dedicated pipe coming from the roof...just for this reason. Take you 10 mins (getting cap on/off hardest part) to drop new wires down this pipe.

 

[rgill]

I have the new 2025 All Access 23ML and spent some time examine the inverter prep and panel etc. It is yellow romex. It only goes to like 5 outlets. There really is no reason you cannot install a larger inverter (though not 3000 watt) The circuit is limited to 20amp. Of course not 3K without upgrading wiring. But others will work. A 2000 watt will work as long as you dont run all those outlets at once with high pull.
I have 400 on the roof with a 60AMP mppt.

 

[Eire]

I have the new 2025 All Access 23ML and spent some time examine the inverter prep and panel etc. It is yellow romex. It only goes to like 5 outlets. There really is no reason you cannot install a larger inverter (though not 3000 watt) The circuit is limited to 20amp. Of course not 3K without upgrading wiring. But others will work. A 2000 watt will work as long as you dont run all those outlets at once with high pull.
I have 400 on the roof with a 60AMP mppt.

Hi Rgill
A few questions if you don’t mind.
Did you install additional solar panels on the existing feeder ? How many, make / model
What make / model inverter did you use ?
TIA for your response