Heiser RV Solar & Electric
A full service RV solar, inverter and battery installation company
Heiser RV Solar & Electric is an installation and consulting business located in Northern California. If you are looking to add (or upgrade) a solar, inverter or battery system to your RV, you’re in the right place. I have been consulting on, designing, building and installing systems in RV’s since 2011. I specialize in fully integrated Victron Energy systems powered by Battle Born or EPOCH batteries. I am a Victron dealer, Victron certified RV installer and Victron trainer. I am also a Battle Born recommended installer and retailer, as well as an EPOCH battery installer and retailer. I can also work with other manufacturer’s components and products as needed. Whether you want a consultation, a complete system installation or need something in between, contact me. I would be happy to put my expertise to work for you.
In this website you will find information about me and my experience, educational material on the three main parts of a complete RV system, and resources related to products I sell and install. You will also find a library of installations I have completed for reference and review. Simply browse through the HRVSE Content menu to find the Installations list. You may also find me out and about at an RV rally or gathering giving presentations on RV solar, inverter and battery systems. Whether it is over the phone, through the internet, or in person I would be happy to talk with you about what I do and how I do it.
Customer Testimonials
Chad, the quality of your work and choice of components to use results in
an installation that I freely and highly recommend to others who want a
great solar system installed at very reasonable cost. Please feel free to
use my recommendation to promote your business, you have my permission to
ask others to look at my trailer while at HDT rallies or any other
gathering I may be attending as an example for showcasing your work.
Thank you very much for installing our solar system it has really
improved and enhanced our camping experience.
Dave & Donna H.Full Victron System Installation
I’ve had my solar system from Chad for about 4 years now. I think I was one of the earlier customers when he started doing them for other people. My system is 1410 watts on the roof and 675 amp hour agm battery bank. It has served me well. I could not be happier. The system works perfectly and the install and cable routing is a thing of beauty. I just recently upgraded to a 900 amp hour Relion lithium battery bank and Chad helped me with the change in settings on the ME- ARC.
Bottom line is my next trailer’s solar system will be planned and installed by Chad if he will have me as a customer again. We will be at the West Coast HDT Rally if anyone wants to check out his work
Tim & Cheryl D.Solar, batteries and second inverter installed
Chad installed a 4 panel system on the roof of my rig and installed a 6 battery AGM bank, along with all the wiring. He also installed a Magnum Energy control panel, new breaker box to support the solar system and a Magnum inverter and battery monitor. I do have a 6500 Cummins generator. The generator runs everything in our 5th wheel just fine, but its loud and a lot of parks have “Quiet Time” which limits how often you can use your generator. Since Chad installed our system, we are completely self sufficient. I don’t need to plug in or use the generator. Fact is, since he installed the system, the only time I start the generator is just to keep it lubricated. We don’t even have to stay in a park. It opened up an endless venue for our camping trips. I don’t even have to plug in for the winter anymore. The solar panels keep our battery bank fully charged all the time. The install was very professionally done and I would highly recommend Chad for your next solar install. You won’t believe the difference a professionally installed solar system will add to your RV experience.
Jeff & Jackie H..Full Magnum System Installation
I have been totally pleased with my solar system with lithium batteries. I’m still learning the system, but it’s the best single item I’ve done for my RV. I can run the refer, or lots of electrical needs, or any combination of different loads and because of the readouts it’s all in front of me. I love it.
Dave S.Full Victron System Installation
Look no further for someone to install the solar system in your RV!! Chad installed a complete solar system in our 2017 Momentum RV two years ago. We are extremely satisfied with his workmanship and complete knowledge of solar systems. Chad did absolutely meticulous work with the installation and recommended many little nice extras we would never think about needing. Chad is a SUPER guy to work with! Most important Chad made sure we understood how to use the Solar System before we left his shop. We recommend Chad to all our friends and will definitely use his service again in the future. We just love having a solar system on our RV and the ease of use. It is so nice not to worry about having a power source nearby as long as you have sun every few days!!
Gordy & Lucy M.Full Victron System Installation
I initially contacted Chad to ask questions about solar and inverter setups. Chad patiently answered dozens of questions and it was clear he was very knowledgeable about the entire system. Chad then designed and installed a combined solar, Battle Born battery, Victron Solar Charge Controller, and a Victron Multiplus hybrid inverter (along with the associated parts to make it all run) system in our new RV. The installation was quick and very clean, as most of it is not visible. Chad was able to use previously wasted space and actually cleared up more storage space for me. Chad took the time to show me how the entire system worked and made sure my phone was connected via Bluetooth so I could monitor it all. I’ve run the system through several tests at home with 15 amp, 30 amp, 50 amp, and a 2,500 watt generator. It all worked flawlessly including being able to run the main air conditioner for a few hours on battery alone. We took the RV out for the first dry camping test and it performed exactly as intended. We were able to use everything in the RV (except AC as it wasn’t needed) including the microwave, television, coffee maker, outside 120v mini-fridge, my wife’s hair dryer, etc. without a single issue. The solar brought the batteries back up to full by mid afternoon with moderate sun and some fog in the morning so we never had to use the generator that I lugged out with us. The system Chad installed is performing exactly as I wanted and we are very happy with it. I would easily recommend Chad for your solar/inverter/battery project!
Eric R.Full Victron System Installation
Chad did a fantastic solar install on my Grand Design 28BH 5th wheel. After hearing what I needed and how I intended to use it, he presented me with a very detailed plan and schematic specific to my rig. The installation looked extremely professionally done and was completed much sooner than expected. What impressed me the most was how clean and organized his wiring job was done. Chad obviously takes pride in his work and it shows. I’ve used it now for over three months and can attest to how well and efficient it has been working for my family and I, we love it! I highly recommend Chad for any solar installation you might need. Thank you Chad!
Carlos B.Full Victron System Installation
We had our system installed on our Luxe in July 2021 and we’re very happy with the end result. Chad worked with us to determine what our needs were and designed a system to meet those needs. Including the ability to easily expand our system if our needs were to change. Whether you’re looking for advice, components, or an entire system, I highly recommend Heiser RV Solar & Electric.
Roger & Margaret S.Full Victron System Installation
After a number of years attending Chad Heiser’s seminars on Solar and Batteries at the West Coast HDT rally’s, we decided to have a system installed on our 2010 New Horizons Majestic.
The equipment ordering process was seamless, as Chad supplied a list of equipment with links to Continuous Resources. Everything was delivered in a timely manner, ahead of our arrival at Chad’s.
As he mentioned in his write up on our installation, Battle born Lithium batteries were installed at the HDT rally in June. Installation of the system took about two days. Chad’s attention to detail in the placement of equipment and the use of heavy gauge wiring was second to none.
I have to say that Chad has the patience of Job. Most things electrical are way over my head. For probably a week, I was calling nearly daily with questions. Some he had already explained. Lol
I am now in Arizona for the winter, working the system nearly daily, looking to see if I can cut my park power bill.
The system performs flawlessly. Looking forward to using it more for boondocking In the future.
I would highly recommend an installation from Chad Heiser.
Chuck & Cheryl B.Full Victron System Installation
I reached out to a Facebook group to see if anyone had any recommendations on a solar installer in my area. Chad Heiser’s name came up quite a few times, so I reached out to him. I gave him my vision of what I wanted installed on my 2014 Forest River Charleston and he invited me over to his home-office to go over the details of the install. After seeing how his install was on his fifth wheel and seeing his attention to detail, I knew this was my installer.
When very few people were willing to touch Tesla batteries, Chad was willing to give it a try. He came in at an extremely fair price point, he completed the job in just a few weeks and I couldn’t be happier with how the install came out. His attention to detail is second to none. His willingness to go the extra mile to make sure I had what I wanted was incredible.
As for the system, I am going on about 8 months with the system and have had literally no problems with it at all. Chad has it set up so he has control over it and is able to remotely monitor it. I love the Victron system. I added Microair soft starts to all 3 of my air conditioners and I am able to run 2 of the 3 units for about 4-6 hours at a time.
I have recommended Chad to a few of my friends that fell In love with my system as well.
Go with Chad the first time. It will be done right and on time. He will treat your coach as if it was his own.
Thanks again!
Jack N.Full Victron System Installation
Chad met with us to determine what should be included in our solar setup based on our power needs. We have a Grand Design Imagine Travel Trailer which we had previously determined would fit six 210 watt HighTec solar panels. Chad suggested we use Victron products which was in line with what we believed we wanted. Chad created plans after inspecting and measuring our travel trailer. He gave us a list of the items we needed to purchase to complete the installation. He provided us with a discount code for Continuous Resources from which our order included a Victron Energy MultiPlus 12/3000/120-50 Inverter with Charger, a SmartSolar MPPT 150/85-Tr Charge Controller, a VE.Bus Smart Dongle with Bluetooth, a BMV-712 Smart Battery Monitor w/ Bluetooth, a Cerbo GX Communication Centre and a GX Touch 50. Chad was kind enough to include installing a Micro-Air EasyStart on our single AC unit. He also segregated our two way refrigerator so it does not draw our batteries down. I picked up four Lion Energy 105 amp hour batteries through Costco. The work was completed quickly and everything was put together in a neat and organized manner. Chad was professional, meticulous, and punctual. We are extremely happy with Chad’s work ethic and the solar system he installed in our Travel Trailer. It is a pleasure to now be able to stay in state and regional parks without needing electrical hookups and still enjoying the comforts of home. Thank you Chad for your kindness and hard work.
John & Kimberly H.Full Victron System Installation
We can highly recommend Heiser RV Solar and Electric. We purchased a new Grand Design Solitude in 2021 with plans to do a lot of boondocking. We started doing our own research on what we wanted included in our Solar installation. After we had an idea of what we thought would work for us we began reaching out to multiple vendors and installers. We spoke with at least seven different companies but we were very surprised to find that none of the companies we spoke with took the time to ask about the kind of camping we were planning on doing or what appliances we had in our 5th Wheel. They all basically told us they had two or three different solar packages we could choose from and then left it at that.
Based on a recommendation from another Solitude owner we met through an RV Facebook group, we called Chad Heiser. We were impressed with Chad from the first call. He took the time to ask enough questions about our plans and expectations. His recommendations were in line with our research. He also recommended a few additional features we had not thought about. We made an appointment for Chad to inspect our 5th Wheel and design a solar system that would meet our needs.
We were impressed with his expertise, design, and the pricing.
The installation went very well and we are absolutely thrilled. Chad completed the install on time and on budget. When picking up our 5th Wheel Chad took time to review the installation with us and spent time showing us how to use the new system. In addition to providing us with all of the product documentation Chad also created a reference document with all of the important operation topics to further assist us in using all the new equipment.
The solar system is working great! We would absolutely recommend Chad to anyone looking to have a solar system installed.
Robert & Cherie K.Full Victron System Installation
Chad installed solar on our rig which consisted of four 365 watt panels (1460 total watts) along with six Battle Born 100 ah heated lithium batteries. We arrived Thursday and Chad started working Friday and finished up Sunday afternoon. Chad’s attention to detail is evident in the quality of his installation.
He is well organized and had all the tools and supplies on site. Our install was flawless and continues to provide the solar power that enables us to boon-dock frequently with confidence.
He made us feel so welcomed and comfortable on his property while we lived in our coach during this install with no inconveniences at all.
I would definitely give Chad 5 stars and would highly recommend Heiser RV Solar & Electric without reservation.
Ana & Joe G.Solar and Battery Installation
A few months ago we decided we would keep our coach for the long term and a solar and lithium upgrade was something we wanted to do. After researching and getting estimates from both local and out of state installers, we were still a bit leery of making such a substantial investment with them. That was until I found Heiser RV Solar & Electric. Chad and I worked together several years ago for the same employer but did not really know each other. However I knew based on our job that he was a man of integrity. I emailed Chad and asked him for an estimate. He replied in a very timely manner with a comprehensive and complete estimate which included all product information, schematic, parts list, labor, as well as alternatives. After talking to Chad, reviewing his estimate, and discussing alternatives, we quickly realized Chad was the guy to do the install.
During the install Chad kept us informed with texts, including photos. The work was completed in the anticipated time frame and the components were installed in a professional and clean manner. Chad also spent about 2 hours with us doing a walk-thru to explain what we needed to know to operate the system and how to do any troubleshooting if the need arose.
We took the coach home and saw no need to plug into our power pedestal for the time being. Two days later one of PG&E’s transformers blew-out leaving our area without power for almost 24 hrs. Since power outages in our area are frequent we did our usual process of moving into the coach and plugging both our home refrigerator and garage freezer into the coach to keep them running. We also used the opportunity to give the new solar and lithium install a real test under fire. We used everything inside the coach as if we were plugged into shore power. That included the on board residential fridge, coffee maker, furnace, tv, desktop computer etc. Even with partly to sometimes mostly cloudy skies, the batteries never went below 60%. We never even had to think about firing up the generator.
Are we thrilled? You bet!! Thanks Chad for the great job you did and for making the process as comfortable and painless to us as we could ever hope for!
Frank & Penny C.Full Victron Installation
We contacted Chad after receiving referrals from trusted full time RV’ers who spend time off grid. We purposely delayed posting a review until we had had ample time to test our system. Our system was installed in August of 2022 and has been used in multiple environments and elevations.
Chad started by asking what we wanted the system to do. He followed up the conversation with a color component / cabling schematic.
He provided a line-item estimate (which, for us, was actually a little higher than the final cost).
Upon arrival at his shop, he examined the rig for placement of components – taking into consideration storage and current use. The build process incorporated routing cabling smartly and with consistent measurements, installing lugs and cable ends that were hydraulically crimped, batteries that were secured for zero jostling, secure placement of panels to enable roof access for maintenance, use of proven Victron components which allow local/remote view/control of status and ability to change parameters for incoming current and generator response, and finally the involvement of the end user in the planning & installation to the extent the user wants to be involved.
Chad’s integrity and attention to detail confirmed our early confidence. He communicated before, during & after the installation. We wanted a system that would duplicate 50 Amp shore. It simply wasn’t in our budget. We knew what to expect within our budget before we started. We are novice users so we have a learning curve. He provided us with a physical reference document as well as lots of verbal instruction on management of the system. He has provided continued support as we encounter different situations on the road. We have found that our hybrid system allows us to live comfortably with either limited shore power or fully off-grid in both hot and cool temperatures.
We highly recommend Heiser RV Solar & Electric and encourage potential clients to review Chad’s website chadheiser.com. Our unit is https://chadheiser.com/hrvse-new-horizons-majestic-2/.
John & Anita G.Full Victron Installation
Used the trailer a couple weeks ago for an 8 day trip to Death Valley and Joshua Tree. Had a great time, and the trailer performed flawlessly. Very happy with the installation and setup. We used the coffee maker, air fryer, microwave, and AC for a bit every day, never went below 30%. Seemed like it was always recharged by noon the next day. Never had to fire up the generator either. The wife and I are extremely pleased.
Marc V.Full Victron Installation
I initially learned about Chad through a Grand Design Owners Forum. Several people had solar systems installed by Chad and others had sat through Chad’s seminars. I did my own research on Chad’s and other websites and made a list of questions and concerns I had about my usage and power needs. After looking at Chad’s website and seeing some of his layouts and builds I decided to contact Chad with some questions that I had. I contacted Chad and had several discussions where he answered my questions in great detail. I initially was going to install the system myself but after talking to Chad decided to have it professionally installed by Chad. Chad presented me with 2 different systems with all the bells and whistles and a breakdown of all the prices. Chad also let me know what was needed and what was optional so we could keep within a budget. After we came up with a system that met my needs within my budget, I made an appointment to bring my coach to Chad and have the system installed. The completed installation looked professionally done, very clean and well organized and was done within a couple days. When I picked up the coach Chad took the time to walk me through the system, showing me the install and how to use it. I have only had the system for 2 weeks but have spent 9 days boondocking it, using it like I was plugged in, everything worked beyond my expectations. Chad was very professional and I would recommend Chad to anyone wanting to have solar installed onto their coach.
Rob & Sonya N.Full Victron Installation
Chad installed a full solar, battery, charging and control system in my 2010 Tiffin Zephyr motorhome. After a very thorough review and discussion whereby Chad ascertained my needs and wants, he provided me with a detailed design, parts list and quote. It was at this point that I had a very good feeling that Chad was a true professional and knew his craft.
I delivered my coach to Chad when he requested and he finished the installation in less than one week and on the day he committed to. The system consisted of the removal of existing roof solar panels, solar charging controls, batteries, inverter, inverter controls and generator automatic start controls and all related wiring. Chad installed eight roof mounted 200watt solar panels, a Victron Energy MultiPlus II inverter, Victron Energy SmartSolar MPPT Charge Controller, Victron Energy GX Touch 70-7 inch touch display, generator automatic start controller, three wireless remote temperature sensors, eight Battle Born 100 amp hour lithium batteries and all related wiring.
I HIGHLY recommend Chad to anyone that is interested in a full, turn-key, solar design and installation experience; you will not be anything but amazed at the entire experience. I have owned and operated an electrical contracting business since 1987 and can say, without any doubt, that the quality of Chad’s installation is second to none. I took note of many of Chad’s processes and would be wise to implement them into my own business operation. I drove a total of 6 hours delivering and picking up my coach and I would suggest that if you are able to make the drive to Chad, you will not be disappointed with his service.
If you would like to personally talk to me concerning any details I might not have covered in my testimonial, please contact Chad and he will put us in touch.
Scott Z.Full Victron installation
We met Chad at a Grand Designs Rally while attending some of his seminars. I was pleased, and equally impressed, with his knowledge, experience and passion with solar, inverter and battery systems for RV’s. We agreed to meet at our ’22 Grand Designs Imagine 17MKE during the rally and discussed possible solutions. We had just had 400W of solar and a charge controller installed but wanted more!
After reviewing the rig together we decided on a Battle Born GC3 – 270 Ah battery to replace our two lead-acid batteries, a Victron MultiPlus II 12/3000/120-50 120V Inverter , 500A Smart Shunt, VE.Bus Smart Dongle and an additional 200W solar panel to complement our two previously installed 200W solar panels managed by a Victron MPPT 100/50 solar charger. With such a small rig it was very important for us to understand and agree where and how the system was to be distributed. Chad was very happy and willing to work with us on this small rig challenge.
Within 24hrs, we had received a schematic of the proposed system as well as a quote.
To make a long story short, we agreed on the proposed system installation plan and price. Within a few weeks we brought our rig to his shop and he got the job done on time and with a high degree of competence and attention to detail. Thanks Chad!
Scott M.Victron Installation
