| Re: [GMCnet] *New Owner* Battery Bank Questions..... [message #327117 is a reply to message #327111] |
Thu, 14 December 2017 19:54   |
Carl S.
Messages: 4186
Registered: January 2009
Location: Tucson, AZ.
Karma:
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Like Rob, I am somewhat electrically challenged. That's why I kept my solar system simple. Here is a seminar on what I did to adapt our coach to be a better boondocker:
http://gmcws.org/blog/the-gmc-unplugged-by-carl-stouffer-at-spring-2013-rally/
It is just a JWID presentation and I don't pretend to be any kind of an expert. It just makes sense to employ the KISS principle whenever possible on the coach.
Keep in mind that even a 26' GMC is pretty small, so use of extension cords etc should not be much of a factor. It is pretty simple to add a few dedicated inverter powered outlets at strategic locations in the coach and to keep the inverter system separate from the shore power/generator 110 volt system. Ken Burton's suggestions are spot on (he is NOT electrically challenged) and following his suggestions about lighting, refrigeration, etc will take you a long way toward where you want to go.
Living in the Southwest, I have an abundance of sunshine, so my small 195 watt system with a PWM controller and two GC-2 batteries works just fine for us. Most days we are back at 100% on the house batteries by mid afternoon. We do use only LED lights, a propane fridge, and are conservative on power use at night. But, we can still use two laptops and a 19" TV/DVD as much as we want to. We generally do not use our furnace at night and rely on body heat and extra blankets to ward off the cold, with occasional use of the furnace in the morning to take the edge off. We also stay away from really cold camping areas whenever possible when dry camping.
Carl Stouffer
'75 ex Palm Beach
Tucson, AZ.
Chuck Aulgur Reaction Arm Disc Brakes, Quadrabags, 3.70 LSD final drive, Lenzi knuckles/hubs, Dodge Truck 16" X 8" front wheels, Rear American Eagles, Solar battery charging. GMCSJ and GMCMI member
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