Frequently Asked Questions

Installation

Who will do the installation?

Installation will be done by Xponent-certified installers. Please contact your dealer of choice to see if they are already certified, and if not, either have them contact us or let us know and we’ll reach out to them!

Integration

Is Xpanse™ compatible with my RV or trailer?

Is Xpanse™ can fit many RVs and trailer makes and models.

The minimum requirements to install are: 

  • 16.4 feet straight unobstructed roof corner space
  • 10″ unobstructed space from roof corner 
  • 6.2″ of vertical wall space for each of the two arms that are 15′ 10″ apart

Obstructions, eg vent, other solar panels, etc, can often be moved/addressed so once information about the specific  manufacturer, make and model of the vehicle is submitted with your pre-order, we will confirm the compatibility of the Xpanse™ solar awning with your vehicle prior to final payment.

Do I need to remove my existing awning in order to install the Xpanse™ solar awning?

No. You can install the Xpanse™ solar awning on the opposite side of the vehicle or any other location that may be suitable for installation.

What changes to the RV need to be made to accommodate the solar awning?

Our system has been designed from the inside out to be universally retrofittable on most models of RVs, without the need for any modification of the vehicle.

Beyond installing the solar awning, the rest of the system leverages standard components (charge controller, battery, inverter) used in any rooftop solar installation and requires the same level of modifications.

Will this awning work along with my existing RV rooftop solar?

Yes. The Xpanse™ awning can be added as an extension to your rooftop system and will require its own charge converter and battery monitor. Once the system is installed, our mobile app can also enable you to monitor real-time energy generation from all your solar panels.

Technical Specifications

How big is the awning?

The  Xpanse™ solar awning is approximately 16ft long and extends about 7ft when fully open.

Can you customize the awning size?

Not at this time. Xpanse™ is currently offered in just one configuration, with additional models to come.

Will the awning power my appliances? Can I use Xpanse™ solar power for RV air conditioner?

Xponent™ generates 1200W of power, enough to power most appliances depending on usage patterns. To run a large number of appliances and AC, the Xpanse™ awning may be combined with a rooftop solar system or an additional Xpanse™ awning on the other side of the vehicle.

How wind tolerant is the awning?

XpanseTM has been tested to withstand sustained wind speeds of 15mph and wind gusts of over 20 mph. Also, the awning is designed to intelligently retract slightly under windy conditions, thereby enabling air to pass between the solar panels and prevent the awning from flapping around, unlike a fabric awning. Additionally, the awning is programmed to automatically retract completely when the wind speed crosses a pre-set threshold.

Is the awning rain proof?

The Xpanse™ solar awning, like traditional fabric awning, is not intended for use under rainy conditions. The Xpanse™ awning will limit the intensity of a direct downpour but it is not rain-proof. However, unlike a fabric awning, rain will in no way affect the durability of the awning (e.g. fabric tearing, mildew growth etc.).

How do you know the product will be reliable?

Xpanse™ has been designed from the start to be robust and durable. The product has been subjected to extensive testing. Please see our Technology page for more details.

Usage

How much energy does the Xpanse™ awning generate? How many amp hours do I need?

Xpanse™ can generate over 6kWh per day depending on weather conditions. The amount of energy you need depends which appliances you are using and how often you are using them.

Will the Xpanse™ awning power my refrigerator? How much solar power do I need to run a refrigerator?

Xpanse™ generates 1200 watts of power, enough to run the average RV refrigerator, which typically consumes between 40 and 50 watts while running depending on size, model and operating conditions. Keep in mind that the overall energy consumption will be lower due to cycling on and off during the day.

What is the size and power rating of the Xpanse™ solar awning? How big of a solar panel do I need to power my appliances?

The Xpanse™ solar awning is approximately 16ft long and extends about 7ft when fully open. Xpanse™ is offered in ratings between 800-1200W, which is significantly more power than most RV rooftop solar installations. The amount of energy you need depends which appliances you are using and how often you are using them.

Order Fulfillment

How soon after placing my order will I receive the awning?

Please expect a 2-3 month lead time given our current backlog of orders.

Financing

Do you offer financing for the product?

We currently do not offer financing but if you purchase the product through your dealer, they might. 

Are there any rebates or incentives being offered with the purchase of the Xpanse™ solar awning?

RV owners may qualify for a federal tax credit of 30% anytime from 2024 through 2032, 26% in 2033, and 22% in 2034. The credit applies to the total system cost, which includes the Xpanse™ solar awning and any additional system components, plus installation. Please confirm eligibility with the IRS or a tax advisor. Details can be found at the IRS website

Post-Purchase Service

What is the warranty on the purchase?

The warranty is three years for material and workmanship of product under normal use.

Who do I contact if there is a problem after installation?

You can contact Xponent™ Power directly should any issues arise after the installation process.

Alternative Applications

Can the awning be used for other applications besides RVs and trailers?

Yes! Since Xpanse™ generates high power and fit on vehicles and structures with limited mounting space, its also a great option for commercial applications such as food trucks, utility and construction vehicles, events, disaster relief, residential, and more.