Thanks Ron, your reply was über helpful! My question was, did I have to take any overt action to employ the benefit of the solar panel, or does it just work automatically, assuming it is in good working order. As I do mostly forest service-type camping, I will soon determine if the solar is working by the condition of the batteries after a couple days of no 110 service. I do not watch tv and use a French press for coffee, so my power use is limited to lights and the water pump. Thanks again for your quick response to the newb.