rvoffgridsolar

Off-Grid Freedom

Sun, 09 Jul 2023 22:15:00 GMT

Are you ready to break free from the traditional power grid and experience the freedom of off-grid solar power?

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Step 1: Determine your energy needs - We'll work with you to assess your energy consumption and determine the size of the solar system that is best suited for your needs.

Step 2: Size your solar system - With our expertise, we'll help you choose the right number and size of solar panels and batteries to generate and store the required amount of energy.

Step 3: Choose a solar panel and battery type - We offer a wide range of solar panel and battery options, and we'll help you select the best options based on cost, efficiency, and durability.

Step 4: Install the solar panels and battery bank - Our team of experts will handle the installation of your solar panels, battery bank, and all other necessary components.

Step 5: Connect the system to your appliances - We'll connect your appliances and devices to the system, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and efficiently.

Step 6: Monitor and maintain the system - Our service doesn't stop once the installation is complete. We'll provide ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure your system is working at its best.

With our step-by-step guide and expert support, you can be confident that you're making the right choices for your off-grid solar system. So why wait? Take the first step towards energy independence and contact us today!

Tiny Home Life

Sun, 02 Jul 2023 22:15:00 GMT

A simple and sustainable lifestyle

Tiny homes are becoming increasingly popular as a way to downsize, simplify, and live sustainably. The affordability, minimalism, sustainability, mobility, sense of community, and sense of purpose are some of the main reasons people are choosing to live in tiny homes.

They are an ideal option for those looking to buy their first home, downsize in retirement, reduce their carbon footprint, or have the freedom to travel and explore new places. Building or designing your own tiny home can also be a fun and fulfilling experience!

Tiny homes paired with off-grid solar power offer an even greater level of freedom and self-sufficiency. Off-grid solar allows for the generation of one's own power, breaking free from the traditional power grid and eliminating the need for monthly bills. This combined with the small footprint of a tiny home, makes for a sustainable and eco-friendly living option. It also provides the ability to live in remote locations, where traditional power grid may not reach.

The combination of a tiny home and off-grid solar power can offer an unparalleled level of independence and a fulfilling lifestyle!

Ask us how we can help you get sustainable today!

Van Life and Off-Grid Solar

Sun, 25 Jun 2023 22:15:00 GMT

The ultimate combination for ultimate freedom

Say goodbye to monthly bills and hello to living life on your own terms! With off-grid solar, we generate our own power and have the freedom to travel wherever our hearts desire. No more being tethered to the traditional power grid.

Not only are we reducing our carbon footprint by using clean, renewable energy, but we're also saving money in the long run. Plus, we get to unplug from the daily grind and reconnect with nature in a way that's not possible when you're tied to the traditional power grid.

Van life and off-grid solar has allowed us to see the beauty of this country in a way we never thought possible. From the remote cabin in the woods to the middle of California overlooking the ocean, we have power and the freedom to live where we want.

So pack your bags, hit the road, and embrace the freedom of van life and off-grid solar. Trust us, you won't regret it!

Class C Solar Install

Sun, 18 Jun 2023 22:15:00 GMT

Big results in small spaces

Love Class C’s, but I must admit they can pose a technical challenge when designing and installing an off-grid system that stands up to the demands of our customers. In this case, we were able replace the basic solar package with an integrated Victron and Battleborn system.

From:

Constantly running out of power while boondocking.

• 200 watts of low voltage panels

• PWM solar controller

• 2 X low quality lead acid batteries

To:

Having no worries on power consumption and now being able to make that cup of coffee.

• 600 watts of high voltage panels

• Victron SmartSolar MPPT

• Victron Smart Shunt

• 2 X Battleborn 100AH Lithium

• LiBIM to charge from their engine

Compliments of Off Grid Solar Specialists technicians Amy and Heri.

Choose the Right Equipment for the Desired Outcome

Sun, 11 Jun 2023 22:15:00 GMT

A Voltage Toy Hauler transformed

Our latest customer spent his career serving our country and now is gearing up for his own “deployment” to wherever he (and his Wife of course) want to go. However, the story did not start off on the “front-foot” in getting the massive toy hauler readied for the new demands of life-on-the-road. As with many of our customers, they received advice from another vendor that put them is a bit of a pickle by not purchasing the right equipment for the desired outcome. They were in a rough spot having a bunch of “stuff” that not only was not designed for a 50A camper but many of the other components left our customer in a tight situation of not being able to install it themselves. After some collaboration we were able to produce a plan that got them what they needed without too much of a hit on the pocketbook.

As a result, their Voltage Toy Hauler is now sporting 400AH in Lithium, a Victron 50A inverter, dual solar systems producing over 1400 watts and all managed via an integrated Victron touch screen complete with remote management. We even integrated their onboard generator to automatically engage based on state-of-charge. The Off Grid Solar Specialists team was amazing in going the extra mile to take care of our retired service members.

Oh, and as a bonus we even re-claimed storage in the pass through giving them more storage space and building new, resilient walls.

Lithium Batteries and Cold Weather

Sun, 04 Jun 2023 22:15:00 GMT

The BIG CHILL and Lithium batteries - insights

All batteries have trouble with temperatures below freezing but, believe it or not, Lithium batteries perform better in cold versus lead acid. However, you still need to take care of them and know the ins-and-outs. Cold weather – specifically below freezing – does get in the way of charging more than drawing power from the battery. Many lithium owners with solar systems rely on the sun to keep their batteries charged when not in use. What happens often to RVs with these systems is it drops below freezing, charging stops and the small loads on the battery will eventually bring it so low the battery just shuts off and requires a special sequence to bring it back to life.

When a lithium battery’s internal temperature drops below 32 degrees, the charging process is “hampered” and can cause the lithium ions to lose their ability to find their happy place in the graphite anode. This can end up damaging the battery and reducing its ability to hold capacity. Yes, there is a bunch of tech stuff and ways to charge lithium batteries safely below freezing but most quality manufacturers leave the decision to allow charging up to the internal/external battery management system (BMS). For most situations that means (depending on battery brand) you can expect the BMS to turn off charging between 25 and 41 degrees. Some batteries have internal “heaters” to help but keep-in-mind that that does not always solve the challenge since there is a limit on how much a battery can warm itself based on the how cold it is.

So, what can you do to help ensure the best performance in cold weather?

1) Follow your manufacture suggestions

2) Disconnect all loads and charging and, or bring the batteries inside during very cold weather

3) Add “heating blankets” around the battery(ies) that automatically turn on/off (Usually best when cold-weather camping)

4) Put a small electric heater in the storage area to keep space warm (Assumes you are plugged into shore power)

5) Keep an eye on the system remotely so you can monitor the battery health. (e.g. Victron VRM)

Solar Backup System

Sun, 28 May 2023 22:15:00 GMT

Worried about power back-up? You may already have the groundwork in your backyard

How safe are our power grids? Not very! Just as recently as 12/20/22 California was hit with an Earthquake causing a power outage to tens of thousands. Early December brought an attack on 2 electric substations in North Carolina leaving almost 45K customers without power for 5 days- unexpectedly. In the same month, stations in Oregon and Western Washington were attacked. Homeland Security has had an eye on this problem, releasing a statement last January saying how vulnerable the United States is for these types of attacks - “We have over 55 thousand substations in our country, most with very little or no security".

The challenge of what to do in the event of a power outage is very real. Most people may immediately think of a fossil fuel-based back-up system like a generator, However, if the outage is long in duration access to fuel may become a real problem as pumps also rely on electricity. So, what can be done to help mitigate the risks related to the growing problems around reliance on an electrical grid? Well, if you have an RV or shed, or even a pole barn, they can become much more useful than you think! With self-generating, sustainable off-grid power systems you can use your RV or even your shed as a back-up generator that replenishes itself each day.

Why not look to your shed, for example, as a new means of power? A few solar panels, batteries, inverter and 30 Amp plug on the outside can give you the ability to provide some basic power to run the important systems like a refrigerator, laptops, charge phones and maybe even your homes forced-air heater fan (depending on the system size). Best of all is you don't have to pour gasoline into it every day, maintain it or listen to the noise. Instead, it is passive, self-replenishes and you will never hear it make even a whisper.

Now is the time to prepare yourself before the unexpected strikes! Having multiple power sources like a generator, a solar based power system and food/water for a few weeks just sounds like a good idea. Just look at the chaos when many thought toilet paper was in short supply! Imagine what level of chaos there may be if power was unavailable at home, at the grocery store, at the gas stations and people couldn't communicate via their cell phones?

Sound like something you want to explore, or are ready to do? Give us a call at Off Grid Solar Specialists to check it out.

Don't Discount Small Solar Systems

Sun, 21 May 2023 22:15:00 GMT

Mighty little Minnie

Not all systems have to be massive . Our latest incredbible customer is out enjoying her retirement years in her "new to her" Minnie Winnie travel trailer. Her lot-in-life is exploring our wonderful U.S.A and boondocking in all of the amazing wilderness it offers.

With this system there was a lotta bang-for-the-buck! She is all ready to go where everything works just the way she likes. Especially the fact she can run the air conditioning just long enough to cool of her right-sized RV.

Thank you, Kathi, for allowing us to be part of your story. And a special thanks to our amazing team led by Heri and Amy.

Boondocking System in a 2020 Keystone 368 MBI

Sun, 14 May 2023 22:15:00 GMT

Off Grid Solar Specialists goes off grid

As they say "You have to drink your own Kool-Aid"

2022 was absolutely an amazing year and one that had our team working tirelessly delivering transformed RVs to our truly courageous customers wanting unique experiences and, in some cases, back-up vehicles to protect their families from unplanned disruptions.

We decided to go a bit wild on our new (well generation 6) solar power system in our personal 2020 Keystone 368MBI. As we are avid Boondockers, having a system robust enough to power our lifestyle was worth the investment and show others what can be done to not only create amazing camping experiences but provide a go-to safety net if traditional power sources are disrupted for any reason.

Thought we would share the details:

1. 1800 Watts of solar.

2. Feeding 600AH of Victron Smart Lithium (heated) to provide AC power via a 3000 VA Victron Multiplus II,

which...

3. Also charges a pair of Victron Super Cycle AGMs to provide the DC power to the rig (via both the Multiplus Inverter trickle charge feature and DC2DC).

4. The system is automated to sense both State of Charge and Solar production which in turn will switch the refrigerator automatically between gas/electric based on conditions. The system will also block the water heater from accidentally being put on electric heat to protect the battery storage system.

5. All air conditioning units have easy starts so they can be run for a short duration in hot weather on the solar/battery system.

6. We also reclaimed storage in the pass through by building a new wall in the backside. Relocating the water pump -which was noisy- to correct that problem.

7. To clean the look up a bit we also built a carpeted ceiling and added in LED lighting to help illuminate the typically dark pass-through storage area.

8. All of this is managed via the Victron Cerbo management system with a nice touch screen. It is also monitored via the Victron Remote Management portal.

9. Since we work from the RV on occasion, we also have a SureCall cell booster and WiFi hotspot.

10. And as an added measure of safety we installed a 15-watt GMRS two way radio in the RV, Tow Vehicle and side-by-side for remote/off-grid communications and weather monitoring.

Special thanks for the amazing talent of Heri and Amy!

Class A Outlaw Toy Hauler Solar Install

Sun, 07 May 2023 22:15:00 GMT

Power in droves

We just completed a superb system on a very unique Class A Outlaw Toy Hauler. The couple wanted only the best and enough self-produced power where they can go boondocking where, when and in any condition- all while staying connected to their work and families. As a result, we packed on 2400 watts of solar, twin 3000 VA 24V Victron inverters, 600AH of 24V Victron batteries and all of the cool monitoring gear we could.

... and as a special capability we added in automation features that will only allow the water heater to operate on electric when on genny/shore and auto generator start capability based on state of charge and managed via the Cerbo.

Every part of this solution was curated precisely to our customer's needs. Our amazing team collaborated on each step using our collective experiences - while keeping our customer engaged with each step - to deliver an amazing outcome.

Full-Timers With Small Campers

Sun, 30 Apr 2023 22:15:00 GMT

Outfitting small campers to suit full-timers

We have had an incredible journey this year helping some of the most wonderful people live their dreams. Every camper; every story and every outcome is just so unique - it truly is so gratifying seeing the excitement our customers have picking up their transformed rigs.

Lately, we have had an increase in smaller campers being used for full-timing. They all pose some unique challenge since the space to work is super tight. Casita campers are one of our favorites and have found with their space constraints that a twin-pair of Enduro 100AH batteries does the trick - even upsizing the wire for a future inverter. The Wolf Pup (in picture) was slightly larger but allowed some more room for a triple Battleborn set, inverter and 400 watts of solar. We also set up a parallel, ground deploy system to even get more of Mother Nature free energy.

Both customers were thrilled getting back on the road and promised to share their adventures.

Retirement and Solar

Sun, 23 Apr 2023 22:15:00 GMT

Full-timing the right way

We received a fantastic referral from Enduro batteries to help out a retired couple (with their Fur Babies) who want to retire in style. It all started out with an amazing Grand Design Momentum that was running off a generator and one, measly, small lead acid battery. What that meant is that anytime they were not plugged into shore power it required the noise, fuel and vibration on a 5500 watt generator to do just the basics. They wanted so much more and knew exactly the outcomes they needed to enjoy the road in style.

Flash forward to today with 1200AH of lithium, twin Victron Multiplus IIs, full Victron Lynx system, 2K watts of solar and the cool color display, remote monitoring with VRMs - and lets not forget a cell booster -, they are traveling in style. Enough power to run the AC in hot weather and get through the night with total confidence while living their boondocking passion.

Van-Life is Booming

Sun, 16 Apr 2023 22:15:00 GMT

Take to the road with a mini-home on wheels

Take notice when you are traveling and check-out all of the cool “Sprinter like” vans running up and down the highway. At Off Grid Solar Specialists we have seen a ground swell of new customers turning to Van-life for very good reasons. Granted they are a bit tight on space but that is made up in the flexibility the platform provides its owners. We have adjusted our model a bit to help out Van Builders with snap in power systems that make the build go faster and with higher quality; Van owners who need to catchup with the times to get the power they need and Wifi to keep connected and those who want full end-to-end systems customized for their unique needs.

Although the work is hard it is incredibly rewarding to help transform people’s lives and get them the tools to make the experience one that brings them the most joy. It is really all about the customer in so many ways. Sure, we only install the best equipment their hard-earned money can buy but all of that “sexy” equipment is nice to have but it all boils down to that hot pot of coffee ready for them in the AM or the warm electric blanket on those cool nights. Seamless, quiet and mother nature friendly.

Pre-Configured Solar Power System

Sun, 09 Apr 2023 22:15:00 GMT

Snap-in and connect to solar

Have a Van and need a pre-configured power system? Well, that is another specialty of our amazing team. We can do both custom builds right in your off-grid van or get you all ready with a fully tested solution for you to snap-in and connect your solar.

This system pairs with three Battleborn batteries, Cerbo Touch 50 Display and is ready to connect to AC, DC, Solar, Alternator/starter battery and 30A shore power.

Solar System in a Tight Space

Sun, 02 Apr 2023 22:15:00 GMT

Geometry, electrical engineering and creativity precision

A recent customer has a massive Class A DP and wanted to use as little space as possible with his new off-grid power system. It posed a significant challenge to the team at Off Grid Solar Specialists, but we were up to the task. Kevin was able to organize the core of the Victron system in a space, at first, thought never possible. Bravo to his technical expertise and keen eye.

The result is really a piece of art that wow'd our customer and his spouse. They got all the bells-n-whistles to compliment the system and now can boondock in peace and quiet. Power is not an issues despite the enormous amenities their rig has.

Why Solar Panel Voltage is Good

Sun, 26 Mar 2023 22:15:00 GMT

Learn how to get the most out of your solar panels

You want to get the most out of your panels and the Sun each day. This is why how your panels are wired, and a good MPPT charge controller, is so important. Charging batteries starts when the solar system can produce about 5 volts higher than your battery.

We wire solar panels to produce voltage earlier in the day while balancing wire sizes and potential shading impacts. Take a look at the picture and you will see at 6:55 AM I am already producing a charging current. It means the system will produce more energy during the day v. systems configured in a less optimal manner - despite if it has the same wattage.

Another reason why doing it right the first time is so important.

Helping Out a Digital Nomad

Sun, 19 Mar 2023 22:15:00 GMT

Testing out a variety of approaches

You may have seen our journey with a Digital Nomad we have been working with for about a year. This case required a phased approach and the budget was not as robust as she would have hoped to be able to invest. Our goal is to always look for a solution that exceeds the customer expectations while ensuring a good value for the money.

In this case we married up 420 watts solar, Victron MPPT/DC2DC/charger, Xantrex 1200 and Rich Solar 100AH Lithium to get an optimal result. It allowed us to get a result that fits our brand and conclude with a very happy customer. We also added in a cell booster, AC soft start and even did a little of the interior mods for her. Much to our surprise too, is that we were able to balance the power for her smaller Air Conditioner so that it can run for 20 min to cool off her interior.

We did a few different configurations prior to the final and learned a lot along the way. This little rig really served as a good test bed to build our skills and come up with creative approaches.

Demystifying Solar Capabilities

Sun, 12 Mar 2023 22:15:00 GMT

Boondocking Ambitions - An Off Grid Solar Specialists PoV

We get asked all the time if solar can power large loads like Air Conditioners, electric fireplaces and, drum-roll... the biggest ask, believe it or not, are CPAPS. Well, I struggle to say that the answer to all is "it depends". So rather than writing a long narrative on the varying answers lets take a stab by flipping the approach from an answer to the question- Jeopardy style.

Category: Boondocking ambitions

The answer: What is a properly architected solar solution?

1) Running an air conditioner for a couple hours to cool off the unit (with a Soft Start)

2) Powering the refrigerator during daylight hours

3) Keeping warm with electric blankets

4) Having a hot pot of coffee ready in the AM - automatically

5) Working from the RV with WiFi while powering the laptops

6) Still have battery power after forgetting to turn off the TV and it runs all night

7) Running a CPAP with the heat function

8 ) Keeping the heater fan working all night when below freezing

9) Providing a single pane of glass monitoring capability

10) Creating an at-home experience when off-grid

Tiny Shed Home

Sun, 12 Mar 2023 21:30:01 GMT

Living Off Grid in a Tiny Home/Shed

Super family living Off Grid here on the Eastern plains. One of our new solution approaches to help individuals, economically, power their lives. Pre-build, configured and tested for a fast snap-in complete system. A mixed and collaborative approach where the customer prepares the solar racking and space (in this case a Tiny Shed/home) so we can transform her living space.

So cool! Would love to have a place like this..... check it out.

Note: We build systems like this on cement board for safety.

Battleborn Game Changers

Sun, 26 Feb 2023 20:46:28 GMT

Battleborn Game Changers are AWESOME!

OK, just wrapped up a massive Toy Hauler with a couple massive @battlebornbatteries GC3s and all Victron. Holy smokes is this one "mac-daddy" system for a super family. Hopefully most of our followers are not surprised on the equipment choice we encourage our customers to make for their RVs. Times are a bit uncertain at the moment and one thing for sure is that you do not want to be worried on equipment performance when out in the wild.

Now that we have done dozens of similar installations, it is all about fine-tuning to match precise customer requirements. We do like to consider ourselves customer obsessed, but to be honest there is a certain sense of satisfaction building amazing configurations.

Why We Like Lithium Batteries for Solar

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 23:27:19 GMT

The Skinny on Batteries (Off Grid Solar Specialists POV)

What can one do when you see so many opinions, options and prices on Lithium batteries for RVs and off-grid. It is a bit confusing and can leave us more jumbled than when we started researching. However, one thing for sure is that Lithium (and the future variants) are for sure the way to go when looking at powering your RV lifestyle. Yes they are more expensive over Lead Acids- but for good reason. What can get a bit more dicey is understanding the value of investing in better Lithium batteries. The question becomes “geeze” are they essentially the same or is a better battery worth it?

The answer surprisingly will come more from the perspective of what is most important to you as the consumer. For us very simply is that if cost is a top priority then, sure lower cost options are fine to help get the base introduction into Lithium for your setup. So if you are looking for a simple solar system and battery set that is better than a Lead Acid battery approach it could be a good path forward. However, going in eyes-wide-open would then mean to accept the fact that there could be issues with the potential lower quality and lack of certain safety measures like- temperature cut-offs.

On the other hand, if outcomes are what you are looking for then those requirements will drive the solution components used. Outcomes that are more predictable and provide peace of mind. Premium Lithium batteries like Victron and Battleborn are more expensive for a reason! Their goal is not to be the low cost provider with the most economical parts. Rather they strive to be just the opposite and build their battery solutions with resiliency in mind. Manufactures are in the business to make money and margins are super important (price minus cost of goods sold). All of them have similar financial goals they are responsible for, like to their shareholders and income to pay the bills. Lower price requires lower cost the build, but they need to sell more- it’s just a business model that is super common. Think of low cost Lithium as the fast-food of batteries.

The old adage of “you get what you pay for” just might apply here until the dust settles on the Lithium battery wars. Until that time comes, Off Grid Solar Specialists will remain true believers in providing the best outcomes with the best solutions. We 100% believe that it is worth the extra cost to not only provide the best equipment but also the peace of mind that the batteries under the bed are the safest ones available. Very simply our always-on approach will be to build systems that are (in order of priority): unrelentingly safe, exceed the desired outcomes and provide a good value. We will never install sub-par equipment- ever. Our customer’s personal safety it too important.

So the in the end when looking at a Lithium battery choice of premium v. budget it just boils down to the customers priority.

10 Tips When Considering Solar

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 20:26:21 GMT

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.

Off-Grid Tiny Home Solar System

Sun, 30 Jan 2022 21:25:36 GMT

Rugged, resilient and safe

Extra safety was a top priority for an off-grid Tiny Home customer. Rather than going with a nice carpeted look we opted for a platform that can add a little extra peace of mind and durability against heat.

This power system will be paired with Battleborn batteries and 6 residential, ground mount panels.

These shop built systems easily snap into Tiny Homes, busses, barns and RV restorations. Best if all they are tested and programmed- ready to go. Super economical as it quickens on site installations.

Do It Right The First Time

Sun, 23 Jan 2022 22:47:57 GMT

Sometimes it is Good to Just Take Your Time

Investing in an off-grid power system for your RV can be a big investment. It is a good idea to "slow down" and take your time so that the money invested provides the outcomes you desire. Our latest installation was a perfect example. The chasm between a cost expectation and what a system can provide at a reduced budget was pretty big. It was somewhat driven by the lure of inexpensive, cheap equipment bundles pitched online and in many forums.

Off Grid Solar Specialists is all about doing it right the first time even if it takes time and extra consultation to get to the perfect equilibrium. In this latest case, that is exactly the journey our customer needed to go through. In the end, the collaboration ended up nailing the perfect match on budget and outcomes. They are all set for their family treks in their amazing Class C.

It took some solid research and time to marinate on what was the right approach. In the end it was a spectacular all Victron power, 800 watts solar and a cell booster to hit the mark.

The big message: Take your time and Do IT Right The First Time

Why You Should Reconsider DIY Solar

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 22:10:20 GMT

Five Reasons it Makes Sense Leaving an RV Solar Installation to the Pros

With all of the online focus on selling solar DIY kits it is no wonder it can get confusing. Just following some of the social forums on Facebook it will not take long to see the immense postings from so many who are looking for advice with potential purchases from online retailers. Those questions range from “is this good” to “can someone show me how to configure this items- I am confused”.

There is no doubt that solar is RED HOT in the RV community and demand is skyrocketing. Retailers understand this and want to move “gear” and drive margins. They will tell you DIY or call an installer after you purchase. However, RV solar installers in most cases will not be interested in installing customer supplied equipment- just too many potential problems from wrong equipment, to warranty handling and troubleshooting. The concept is similar to an auto repair shop! They diagnose, order the parts and complete the repair- they do not take a bunch of parts purchased online and install them. Since so many are new to the solar concept it is very hard to find trusted information and is time-consuming wandering through the masses of opinions to get to the real data hidden somewhere in there. Many posters are affiliates of vendors nudging you to click a link so they can get a commission. It is easy to be seduced by the inexpensive solar kits, ease of purchase and loads of likes and glowing reviews. But the old adage of Caveat Emptor, buyer beware, cannot be overlooked.

Don’t get me wrong, the inexpensive solar kits have their place in the market but really are limited to the most basic of solar installations and for those who have a core set of skills in installing them. On the other hand, more serious investments into your RV that involve inverters, high amp batteries and multiple solar panels could be that inflection point where chunking down the money for an expert to DO IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME is a wise move. There is far too much at stake! From your personal safety and peace of mind to wasted money by selecting the wrong gear. In all cases customers are looking for outcomes not equipment. Running your coffee maker, watching TV or warming some tea in the microwave to give your that at-home experience. If that is you? Then “marinate” on what you really want from your investment and, if you see your camping vision well beyond a simple mother-nature battery charger, take the time to consider expert installation.

The top five reasons

1) Safety: A solar systems is comprised of both DC and AC components. Each one is dealing with high voltage and high amps. Not understanding how to fuse and what wire type/gauge to you can leave a tremendous risk to you and your family.

2) Cost: In terms of equipment and your time. If you buy and install the wrong gear it eventually comes out and finds a home in the corner of your garage. Furthermore, “cheap” gear fails faster and generally has weaker warranties. These cases lead to frustration and costs that far exceed the option of doing it right the first time.

3) Performance: Good outcomes in many cases is based on experience. Companies that focus on RV solar know what works, and what doesn’t. We all have handy people in our lives or know someone who has installed a system in an RV. However, if you are not doing this on a daily basis you just do not have the deep knowledge to design, optimize, and configure a system with a unique level of complexity.

4) Peace of mind: We all worry when we even just perceive that we may have made a wrong decision in the pursuit of savings. Even if you had your cousin Joe the Electrical wiz do your install, or maybe you did it yourself, we sometimes can be left with that nagging question if something was missed, or something was not connected right. Being on the road is about an experience and enjoying the freedom. No need to interfere with that lying in bed worrying.

5) Investment protection: There may come the time you will be selling your RV along with the Solar system. That moment will come when you start to explain all the great things it can do- wanting to add value to your RV, differentiate it and recoup your investment. Then comes the question and resulting pause when the purchaser asks who did the installation? Look through their eyes…. A DIY or Cousin Joe answer may be a big detractor and create concern. Having the ability to point to an established firm will drive confidence in the system and give them the comfort they know it was done right and if something goes wrong they have a place to go.

RV Retirement: Freedom On The Open Road

Wed, 05 Jan 2022 22:44:35 GMT

The Ability To Retire On The Open Road Is The New Frontier

Ever heard of the great retirement, or sometimes referred to as the great resignation of 2021?

Well, it is not a fairy tale! There are significant amounts of people (19M since last April) tapping-out and taking early retirement- spurred by a supercharged stock market, boom in housing prices, the need for social interaction and, for some, a realization that it is time to enjoy the lives they have. The pandemic turned almost everything upside down and the prior norms no longer apply. At Off Grid Solar Specialists we have seen a huge uptick in people coming to make an RV their retirement homes. They are cashing out and hitting the road with super big smiles and an adventurous spirit.

The shift, or maybe not so much of a shift, and more of a new group looking to be the 21st century’s equivalent of the late 1800’s quest for the frontier life and taming the wild west. We have come a long way since then and now have all sorts of adventurous families from young millennials to the older generation coming to the shop with fire in their eyes and adrenaline in their veins looking to turn their RVs (1800’s wagons) into their traveling homes. Now, we still have the other side of the coin in people who are the weekend warriors that have shifted preferences from crowded developed camp areas to the open air of fabulous boondocking sites. However, it is pure amazement to see the growth in people wanting to get off grid.

As a result of the rapid transformation in life perspectives during 2020 and 2021, we have also witnessed a parallel swing from simple power systems to integrated solutions that support the needs of RVers like you. It went from simple solar panels and controllers charging batteries to “home” like systems that create similar experiences we all have come to expect and enjoy- like coffee automatically brewed in the morning, streaming your favorite shows and snuggling up under heated blankets. The really great news is that the technology of RV, solar based solutions is here. With the advent of highly intelligent lithium battery systems, smart inverters and cell boosters you can easily replicate your home environment. Work camping, RV living, weekend remote getaways and multi-location treks across the US are now all within reach.

Off Grid Solar Specialists is here to help you create your next adventure and prepare your RV for what comes after that. Maybe off-gridding is not for you, or maybe it is! Regardless, the global pivot right in front of our face begs the question to be answered. Think about it, marinate on the possibility and envision if maybe it is time for a change. We at Off Grid Solar Specialists love helping others achieve their dreams and are passionate about Doing It Right The First Time. If you are interested in learning more feel free to contact us- we are here to consult and collaborate on what is right for you.

RV 24V Solar Installation

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 19:08:01 GMT

Learning Is A Journey

Our latest installation adventure was an incredible challenge but filled with discovery. Our goal from the customer was fairly simple! Give us a system that mimics the experience of shore power without being plugged in or using a generator. Although a simple request, it is a tall order in design and implementation.

The end result was an overlay system using a 24V approach with all Victron equipment along with 2K watts on the roof. However, after a ton of research and collaboration with Victron experts, our learning with complex systems skyrocketed. Configuring and using Victron's deep capabilities allowed Off Grid Solar Specialists to implement a unique solution for our customer.

These types of solar powered solutions builds the expertise and know-how that transcends value to all of the installations we do- big or small.

There is no better outcome than a happy family when delivering their transformed RV back to them.