The van now has a completely separate power source to run all the appliances necessary for a home on wheels. Power comes from two 100 watt panels connected to a pair of 125 amp hour batteries. This should provide power for my needs without sunshine for up to three days. Apart from the panels, I currently will have no other way to charge the batteries. I'm hoping California is bright enough to keep me charged up fully most days. Later on if I find I do have issues keeping enough charge, I'll add the ability to charge from the engine while it's running, add another battery, or another solar panel depending on the situation.
What am I powering you might be wondering?
What am I powering you might be wondering?
- Fridge
- Stereo
- Stovetop (runs on diesel but requires some electric)
- Hydronic (Glycol) heater for heating the van interior and water (also runs on diesel but has pumps).
- Water pump
- Lights
- Ceiling vent fan
- Power inverter (120 volt power) for laptop charging etc...
This was the first major job and it came out quite clean. The panels are strongly mounted to the top. The batteries are hidden away under the passenger seat. And the electronics necessary are arranged beautifully outside the passenger seat pedestal. Very happy with the job.
Next up will be work leading up to a finished ceiling.
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