Sunday, January 15, 2017

Vandwelling 101 - I need power

Setting up a simple 12v system isn't hard.
You need
-a deep cycle battery (about $100)
-a battery box (about $8)
-a dc power unit (I used a triple socket one)
-2 metal clip ends
-electrical tape
- 100 watt inverter (no bigger than 100 watts)($20)
-a type of battery meter
-a way to charge deep cycle battery
-some basic math skills

You put battery in battery box. Mine sits in front on floor on passenger seat floor.

Cut end from triple tap so it's just wires. Separate wires and strip ends so 1/4" copper wire shows.
Thread wires through clip ends. Use crimper or pliers to close.

You'll need to touch clips -one to each battery post. Note which way they light up. Add some red electric tape to the positive one.

Now to run your power set up.
Clip red to +, the other one to - posts.
Lightly put lid back on battery case.

Put dc USB plug in one of the dc sockets. Attach your phone or tablet cord to dc plug just as if you're using dash lighter socket.
To run small electric, insert 100 watt inverter and plug in.

A van is not a house. Forget electric hotplate, microwave, or electric heater. Not happening.

I have 2 dc universal plugs to run my laptop. Ebay $7.50

Never leave this setup unattended.

I'll cover charging battery in another post.

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