Boondocking Perspectives: An Off Grid Solar Specialists POV
We would have never imagined the explosion in the amount of people who are building out their RVs for Boondocking. It has become one of the major reasons they are turning to solar powered solutions. At Off Grid Solar Specialists, we not only are specialists in designing and installing incredible, solar powered systems we are avid boondockers as well. So we wanted to share our humble opinions and advice for those looking to take the plunge into this new lifestyle.
Here are 10 tidbits to consider:
1. Take your time before doing anything. A rush to hurry up and purchase a system (especially online) can result in wasted money on something that will not get the job done
2. Stay focused on outcomes! Lots of calls are “I need solar” but solar is just gear and stuff in the end that make up a solution. Your experience matters more and that determines what parts are needed.
3. Safety is critical to peace of mind and your actual families protection against the risk of a fire. Fusing, wire sizing and shut-offs are important parts of any system.
4. Do some research on the system components that make up a full solution. You will get a lot of advice in online forums but just be careful to vette the information before taking it as gospel.
5. Don’t be scared away by the cost of some of the components like Lithium batteries. Good ones will cost more but look at the long term benefits and portability.
6. Use an expert: If you have any doubts it is alright to chunk down a few extra dollars for an expert installation. By the time some buy the tools, hours reading and watching installation videos and mistakes you are likely into it for more than it would be to have the systems installed. Less frustration and knowing that it is done right can be priceless.
7. Design the system based on your needs. There are lots of variables to deliver a solution that will provide the desired results when out in the woods. If you under scope, or shave off needed components it will come back to haunt when in the field.
8. Keep a watchful eye. Good solar power systems will mimic as if you are plugged into shore power. That leads us to believe at times we have unlimited resources and forget we are working with batteries and mother nature. Checking in on state of charge and amp draw can help avoid the 2AM power loss.
9. Have a backup plan: Stuff sometimes goes wrong or you may find yourself in a shaded area, snow had fallen covering your panels, or a you tripped a breaker. Having a small generator is not a bad thing to keep handy.
10. Tools of the trade: Just like a NASCAR pit stop, have all your replaceable items handy for a quick repair. Practice replacing your fuses, keep a bunch as backup, small tool kit at the ready.
