Thank you Mishka. If you want to be one of the first to get the merch…..can you trial the process and order a hoodie from the website. Type my name and in slow time and it’ll come up. Thank you for your support.
Thank you Chris, the quality of your content far surpasses any quibbles or criticism of sound quality and I for one will always look forward to your vlogs regardless. Please be assured I meant no offence and my opinion is of no consequence. You have clearly led and continue to lead an interesting life and I look forward to further episodes. Kind regards. Mick Candler.
What a great common sense discussion between you both. You are both right about so many aspects in your discussion. This was great to listen to this morning. Thank you both.
What can I say…. GREAT GREAT GREAT…. fantastic Vlog Chris - Bloody Brilliant - LOVED IT - Hybrid Boats, got to be the way forwards… Love the idea of Gas - Coal FREE - wish I could do the same in the house, managed it in the kitchen when we renovated, but nothing suitable yet for the heating (electric still not efficient enough). Yes you have a compromise of still using Diesel. Love it’s not classed as (propulsion)… so save the tax 😂 Solar is definitely a big help so the more you can get, then the more (self sufficient) on energy you can be - be nice to see a progress report after a year. Love the extra use of the space under the kitchen units having draws in (may copy that idea in the house). I think I like the idea of the narrower canals as I live next to the Ashby… but get not so easy to navigate. What’s the Water Savings thing that’s installed? I get the anxiety of moving to areas you don’t know (have an autistic partner and 2 boys) so anything out the normal routine becomes a challenge - but then I like to push their boundaries to aid their development. Keep it up - Again Great Vlog 😊
There are many benefits to electric living. More space due to no coal but less space as there is a requirement for batteries to live somewhere. Yes diesel is still required and what I have recently found out is that solar panels are not that eco to make. I think the most efficient in eco terms is hybrid, but my set up with one lithium battery is probably the next best. All electric is good but if you are to do a through life cost analysis, that is where the sums don’t add up. That’s my opinion but I would never critique someone going down that route. I suspect the CRT will love that as do the Govt yet they will overlook the effect on the carbon footprint on the tings that don’t aligned with their narrative. Water Freedom was installed and they have got it nailed I think…..when it’s fixed!
@@chrismears-inslowtime- yes always going to have some kind of Trade Off with electric - it has to come from somewhere… whether that’s burning fuel to produce or creating products to harness natural resources…. Full electric boats…. You can see the que’s now waiting for charging points 😂 worse than at water points 😮 What is a water freedom system? Is that like the filtration system you showed on a previous vlog with the million different filters? Can’t see that as being cost or eco effective with having to keep replacing them all?
Hi Chris, great vlog this one very interesting conversation. I always learn something listening to others. My personal opinion is that John would be better off changing the battery bank to LiFEPo4 batteries. The reason for the long generator runs and hence the diesel usage is that the lead based batteries will limit charge current particularly when near full. Lithium will take a larger charge current all the way up to full. The upshot is that the generator will run for less time with a lithium setup and consequently use less fuel. Food for thought..
In reality and I can only speak from my lifestyle, I run the Genny or engine for about 5 hours to charge my set-up. 550 amp/h leisure battery. That will last about 3 days in the winter. Household appliances. In the summer, I never turn an engine on. I believe it’s how you use the boat and how much travelling you do. If you’re moving, that’s free electric. If you sit around, then it’s at cost. It’s the floating charge is the bit that takes the time. I’m happy with my set-up to date.
Good point Graham, but we didn’t discuss how often the Webasto was used per day which uses about one ltr an hour. To analyse that would have been fairer.
Very interesting blog, glad they are finding the hybrid ok, still glad we have stuck to diesel for the time being. Maybe in four years although we don’t plan to change our boat once finished. You should be able to view it at Crick xxxx❤❤
Hi Jacqueline. I' like the option of diesel engines and from what Mercedes and BMW have said in the news, EV are not the success they were promised to be so have re-introduced combustion engines. I would suggest, hybrid may be the best option but, diesel will be here for years to come. Not sure I can make Crick this year unfortunately.
I have loved Narrowboats for so long, holidayed on them, loved them more, I have been so close to selling up and buying my Narrowboat dream but it's listening to informative vlogs such as this Chris and following other Narrowboat You Tubers over the last couple of years I realise that going forward as a single female it would not be a good choice, both financially or anyway really, again going forward I love my creature comforts, my car etc, But I still enjoy the vlogs and will continue to hire them out for holidays away on the cut . Thankyou for the vlogs Chris informative and enjoyable 😊
Thank you Jayne. I agree with the holidays thing. It’s not your issue when things go wrong and it’s just a holiday. I too like my creature comforts and have plenty on the boat. A car would be useful….very useful. Enjoy your holidays and thanks for the comment.
Chris, I keep hearing a reoccurring theme in your musings: ....." I don't mind being alone, I just don't like being lonely...." Your desire for companionship is real... Your human... Have you considered getting a pet? Sharing your space with unconditionally love is what pet ownership is all about.
I’ve considered a pet Eddy. Then realised it’s not for me…..just yet. It’ll happen when I’ve stopped this UA-cam thingy and maybe someone else to share the duty. It’s strange perhaps but I think at this moment, it would suit my needs. Additionally, I’m looking for work which might take me abroad.
What a great surprise to see your Vlog this morning, as ever interesting interview or should i say cosy chat. covering numerous subjects. was it a one shot video, or many short ones joined up. the work you do in producing these videos is much appreciated
Hi Harry. Yes, one take and the edit; i just missed out the crap I spoke about so there was about 10 mins of reduction time. It took about 3 hours all in. Thanks for the support.
Always difficult to find people to interview. I passed them three days earlier and lucky to moor up behind them. There is Colin when the time is ripe. Thanks Sally.
I’d like to do more interviews as they are easy to make and easier to edit. Trouble is….finding people to chat to when I’ve only got a short stay at each location.
Interesting listening to that Chris…… I’ve also got a Smithwood boat and have to say that the drop down tv soon went…. cupboard for a tv….🤷♂️🤷♂️🤷♂️ plus I can now angle the tv to where I am on the sofa…… anyway, regards electric boat that need diesel for the generator and seems to use a fair bit compared to my dirty diesel boat😀. I have a hybrid battery set up lithium and lead acid and only run my engine an hour every few days and all is good to go…. Or I’ll fire up the champion generator for an hour. Can’t get my head around electric boats that need fuel and generators….Thumbs up for Chris at Smithwood tho, he’s a good bloke….
You appear to have the gold plated solution Stan. I think it’ll take time for the boat industry to align as what is the best system. It’s too new and the hybrid/electric solution needs to play itself out. The boat builders need to come together to discuss what’s best and keep in lane once the decision is made.
Chris. A brilliant vlog indeed. There’s also a couple on a self build boat just electric no genny. Loving all the different variations of electric and hybrid options. Batteries are improving all the time. Sodium batteries now. Blade batteries from BYD. I will be watching this vlog a few times. Looking forward to crick as last year got quotes on converting diesel narrowboat to leccy. Absolute brilliant Chris. Made my Sunday morning. Best wishes.
Thanks Trev. Not sure how a boat without a generator works in the winter. Would like to find that out. As for the conversion….would like to see that too as I think that will be the winner model if it’s workable. Take care mate.
Now that's very interesting. I commented on the last video saying I'd be very tempted to get an old dug-dug engine, but I have put real thoughts into it a few times, and even though I do really like the dug-dug engines, I think realistically I'd be going down the exact same route here. I'd definitely want to go hybrid and not just full electric out of fear of ever getting stuck if something should happen to the motor. But as for everything else, all electric, no gas, definitely. And definitely a diesel stove. Live crackling fires, lovely, but lugging around those bags of coal or logs and dealing with all the soot and dust, and gas bottles? Nah! That's definitely my kind of boat, realistically.
Hi, thanks for the comments. You would still be stuck if something broke on an engine or gearbox though. Are electric motors more reliable, I suggest they are. Watch this space.
There are a number of options which is great. Everyone lives their life differently with choices. For me, it came down to cost. Diesel stoves are more expensive to buy. I ran out of money with the basics as my pockets were only so deep. My only advice Mick, save hard. Thanks for the comment. Can’t add value to the engine stuff, as I’m clueless.
Interesting conversation Chris, especially about the fuel efficiency. The Guys at Narrowboat Life Unlocked have experience of a hybrid system (I think it's the Beta) and after a few months have had changes to the motor, prop and Genny to try and reduce fuel consumption. Their Genny was on all the time. I think this is new technology and the suppliers are not quite there yet. The best I've seen is Mermaid Marine and their electric boats. They use a special motor and a bigger prop to utilise the heftier torque from the motor. Most other installs I've seen are still using a similar prop to the diesel ones, rather than something tailored to electric.
@@johnchristmas310 Thanks for the correction. I thought their initial hybrid system was off-the-shelf too, but underpowered for their use. Hence the change to something beefier. Shows that electric and hybrid drive are still in their infancy.
Interesting video, but a bit early - you took the opportunity while it was there, so no complaints at all. I do hope you can have another conversation together in 6 months when they have been living onboard for spring and part of summer (or all of summer) so solar efficiency and diesel usage can be revisited as well as the question about whether they would have designed anything differently. After 6 months even a shelf position can become an issue. Also, a bit of a boat tour would be good - especially more of the electric setup. Also, perhaps include Lorraine (I hope I got that right) next time. Even if happy with everything she will have a different perspective on a number of things I expect. Ballpark budgetary costs of boats and power systems is also of interest. It seems to be a bit of a taboo item, but the cost of bare hull and propulsion system could be okay and would be helpful.
I would like that too. That said I would like to analyse the diesel usage as John stated 70ltrs every two weeks. So what is Webasto usage as opposed to generator and diesel stove. They all use the same fuel. I think if John had just a generator it might and didn’t use the Webasto or stove, the stats would be more complimentary. Although it wasn’t discussed, in hindsight having Lorraine in the vid would have been good but would have required a different set up. Filming on a narrowboat when I only have a few feet in width means the GoPro was the idea camera. However, John or Lorraine would have been blocked. Perhaps using my boat on the dinette might work although still a challenge to film. Thanks for the comment
That was great Chris. Our setup on the new boat, which we've been on for almost two weeks, is very similar. Same motor, same generator, 1.6kw solar, everything electric, same stove. We only have 600A/H battery bank at 48v, but ours are lead carbon. We've been in a marine, since launch but not been on shore power and we've used around 70 liters of diesel. Part of that over use was us leaving the stove on for three days straight. Can't wait to go cruising next week when our bow thruster is working! Take care mate
Good luck Craig and I hope you both enjoy it. We didn’t analyse the fuel bit enough. I should have clocked it. However, Webasto, Stove and generator all use the same fuel. It would be nice to get stats for future reference. You would only need to get hot water twice a day. The same as house I would think and you’ve probably used 2 hours = 2 ltrs a day. Stove….not sure of the diesel usage on low setting. Enjoy the lifestyle mate.
A 3kw motor is more than enough for narrowboat life . I have two 24v 1.25kw outboard trolling motors on my 54ft narrowboat that are plenty for my use . I only ever use one motor at a time . Im fully electric , no hybrid ! I have 4 x 12v led acid batteries powering the motors at the moment with 720 watts of solar . Ideally 2v full traction batteries is the goal .... 35 grand for a conversion is a joke 😂 3kw 230v motor £ 365 .00 4kw inverter £ 300 2v full traction batteries £1700 1440 watt of solar £ 800 ( 24v panels x 4 ) Wiring 24v £ 60 Job done Ive lived on the cut 19 years now , had electric propulsion 2 years and couldnt go back to deisel ! Good show ..you both reminded me of smith and jones haha ❤
You need to show all the builders what you’ve got. It’ll be interesting. If you’ve converted from diesel to electric, that could be a game changer. Thanks for the info Jason.
another great natter Chris with John & appreciate to hear you express your lack of time to live in your own boaty moment due to YT I'm sure many of your viewers would be happy with less frequency for you to concentrate on your own adventure & the subsequent output of more less occasionally ?! Just a thought... 'its a vehicle for life' Nuff sed...
We’ve spoken about it Lloyd. At the moment there is plenty of content. I wonder what it’ll be like when I wonder back up the GU over Winter. Probably no content and give myself a break. As you say, less content or when there’s something to film. Hope you’re well mate.
Really enjoyed this chat a good down to earth discussion. Re Hybrid we have the Beta system with 1600watt of solar last summer we cruised every few days and went about 3/4 weeks without running the engine but also have gas but seldomly use it.
That’s good to hear Gary. I don’t know anyone who has that system or full electric moan about it. I think as with all boaters, if you count the through life costs, it’s not cheap. Living isn’t cheap regardless but no-one discusses the cost of being on land do they? It’s just accepted.
Excellent video, honest and open. The cost of an electric boat if buying a new build is probably viable, one thing I would have if going that route is an incinerator toilet, electric. To retrofit a boat is it financially viable probably not. Nice to hear, although I'm not suprised Chris with your background, is planning, it's the way to make life easier. Keep up the good work 👏 🙌 👍
I've just watched another vlog where the people had an incinerator toilet and said that it was very power hungry when used for liquids, so this couple ended up with an elsan toilet for liquids and used the incinerator toilet for just solids. They said their power consumption went down by about 40% if I remember correctly!!
Thanks Tony. Nick makes a very good point and concur with his stats. The owner of The Fit Out Pontoon has an incinerator toilet. Two poos and a drained battery. He’s on the grid so he’s not bothered but wanted to check for future builds. Incinerate if you have a hook up. Agree with the retro fit Tony. I was discussing this point with Lloyd. Where do you put the leisure batteries. Electric boats or hybrid need to be designed from the start. That said, there is a comment that suggests otherwise…..forgotten who it is but if you’re interested……. Thanks for the interaction fellas.
That was an interesting interview Chris. Having a duel engine system is a good way to go but on the other hand my worry is on electric engine fires like are being seen with so many EV’s. Also those batteries aren’t cheap to replace if they’re anything like the Tesla. My guess these electric boats will be forced just like the cars are because of the agenda to get off fosse fuels. Happy days my friend! Also giving up all the work stress does wonders as it did for me. Stress and trauma are the drivers of dis-ease. Check into German New Medicine😎
I think there is a balance for lithium. Leisure use is great. Mine are supposed to last longer than my life on the boat. Not sure I’ll ever find out but then….I might. Lithium in cars must produce a lot of heat. How do they cool off. Yes they are expensive. Marine/leisure is about £1000 for 100amp/h as a planning assumption. Yes you can get cheaper from China but….. Retiring young is the key to happiness. The Govt don’t want you to though as they need workers to drive the economy in this insatiable world that globalisation has created. Thanks for the comment Val.
Really interesting Chris and a real different option, would love to know a bit of the back story that brought them to here and a tour of the boat would be great (love the shower enclosure!). Interesting seeing different perspectives.
Gary. There may be a blog soon about how it all started and journey from now. But 40 years as Main Contractor PM took it's tole so wanted a slower pace, always loved the canals so sold up and had Round Tuit made.
I lived on my own by choice for 10 years, can’t imagine ever living with anybody again, think I’m too set in my ways now. Looking at getting a narrow boat and becoming a continuous cruiser if I ever bump in to you in the future we go for a pint 😅
I think that is an issue of living on your own. But if you’re happy, that’s great. I just want to be happy. Happy go for a pint but I must warn you, I’m a lightweight! My days of handling beer…..well gone.
For me it was about cost…..and now, although I do get it, the cost of diesel on the Genny is far more than I would have been happy with. Those are the hidden costs that maybe are less known on design and buying. It’s all about the idea and when used practically, well, it’s a little late to change your mind.
The two things that put me off using Lithium on a boat are firstly the number of electric vehicles that are bursting into flames and, secondly, how Lithium first react to water. Why would you put yourself on a boat liable to burst into flames with a medium that don't like being put out by water? Traction batteries have a much safer and reliable record over many years. As for CRT putting electric plug in charging on the waterways, this was something being turned over in the late '80's with discussion with The Electric Boat Association on the BCN.
I get the point Jess. I did some strong research into my lithium leisure setup. The heat from a lithium is generally caused when in use. I can hear the fan playing in the background when pushing out power for the washing machine. Also when charging. It has ventilation…although not for the reason the boat safety scheme suggests, which assists. I don’t know if cars have that sort of ventilation. My battery is the same style of battery used in larger marine vessels. If it’s good enough for a multi million dollar boat……There was a re-visit of this in 2022 for electric on the canals. Dismissed as too complicated and it’ll be difficult to redesign every boat for electric. Not sure you can properly convert a diesel to electric………edit……wrong. Read Jason, he’s done it
Well got to agree with John we have a hybrid boat Tranquility you may have seen the vlog David did on our boat on cruising the cut titled peace in the pod... We also have traction batteries 24v and 1000w which can run a domestic fridge and freezer for over a week and longer in the summer with the solar, the pod drive unit provides excellent drive steering control and virtually zero maintenance with no shaft to grease and risk of water ingress..all electric no gas and cheap to run diesel generator simple to run as cheap as it gets and clean and this was built in 2009 .. you're welcome to come and have a gander Chris... Great vlog as always Arthur
I thought that going electric would cut out the diesel costs but seems that doesn't happen, so really don't see the benefit. That generator was pretty noisy in the background. I guess it's better in the summer though. You say you're lonely, it is hard sometimes but I've got so used to it that now I find being with people is hard 🙂 thanks for another interesting vlog
It does appear to be quite expensive but we didn’t determine if the Webasto central heating system uses more than the generator? The Webasto uses about one ltr of diesel an hour. You only need to put that on for 1.5 hours in the morning and evening for hot water and that is approx 42ltrs of fuel every two weeks. Agree with the loneliness thing. I think there will be a crossover of when I will become used to being on my own. I’m less lonely this year than last year. As the years progress….. Thanks for the comment.
I bought my boat in 2019 and still having work done before i can take it out. I said to my sister we need to do this now im on level 55. My mum escaped this world aged 45 dad 57 and my brother 56 so it has been worrying me thinking how long i might have left so finishing the work and getting out there before its too late.
So important to get out there. I delayed, there are SO many things we let get in the way of our plans. I know so many folks who delayed these sort of decisions 😢. I have just recently bought a narrowboat from a couple because of a delay and one of them becoming terminally ill, so so sad. ... ... get the the boat done and get out there on the cut. I still wonder if I left it later that I should have, well time will tell, however I have experienced 5 months of living on a boat! Woooohoooo, nobody can take that from me .... whatever happens. Colin, Iris No.2
When i first started boating , i remember not been able to open the bottom gates at Ings lock in Wakefield. Id given up and was sat in my boat having a cuppa contemplating turning round back down the river when i heard some woman shout ' its open for you if your coming up ' ... When i got up the lock the woman glossing her boat waved me over . She was 91 years old and it was her who opened the bottom gates ! A very nice lady she was , she taught me how to open gates properly that day ! Never had a problem since bless her 🙏 I moved on the cut at 35 with a slipped disc and porosis in me spine . Have 2 slipped discs now 😅😅😅 still cruising ! Been swept under me boat , Dragged by me boat , And roped me boat out of some very tricky situations ... What an adventure 🎉
@@JL1308 I think the time my boat and myself was washed up out of a tidal lock onto the lock face would be close to my most ' shit , shit, oh shit ' experiences on the cut 🤣 Makes one feel veru grateful 🙏
Narrow Boat Life Unlocked use around £168 in diesel every 3 weeks with their electric boat, that said they have had no end of trouble with that boat, Solar panels replaced, they just had a new electric motor fitted and a new propeller. I think the guys from Oakums Boats have spent more time on that boat doing repairs than the two guys have. I picked up a few tips from this Vlog for future plans, thanks
Thanks for the insight. I rarely watch other Narrowboat channels as to be honest, I don’t have the time and the stuff on UA-cam I watch, I want to learn about psychology or other factors of life….comedy. It’s only when people like John and those narrowboaters offering information that we can get the inside scoop. It’s quite expensive in diesel costs. I didn’t realise that. Pleased it was informative. Thanks for the comment.
Interesting. I assumed that hybrid would be the best power option, but having a built-in generator and quality batteries is quite feasible. I wonder if electric has sufficient power for tidal waters? On the other hand, diesel stoves are simple and economical. Pump-out toilets would be practical, but ultimately it costs in weight and room for a tank. With a generator on board a heated compost toilet would be a possibility. Electric would rule out Incinolet or Cinderella,. So many possibilities....
As you say Peter, plenty of opportunities and while some would like to berate another person’s decision making, it is that person’s life we are all analysing. If they are happy with their set up…..who should argue. I know there are some that have had a pop at my set up but I am more than happy with it in the summer. I have to measure that with life in the winter. Pros and cons of life. Thanks for your thoughts mate.
I couldn't have done 20 years living on our sailboat alone. But, I cannot imagine living anywhere other than on the water. A narrowboat seems like a realistic alternative if I were on my own. Good point that owners still use plenty of diesel with an electric engine. One YT channel with a new electric engine actually uses more! 😃I'm hoping sustainable biofuels will become more readily available for private use. And if the boffins ever get fusion off the ground, we could be laughing... Electricity may be clean, but batteries are full of minerals being mined around the world, destroying local communities. You can't win. 🤷🏼
I agree with the battery and solar minerals being used to create ‘Green’ living. Not very green to make them. If the Blue life is in your veins this life should suit. It suits me if I wasn’t on my own. Sure I can cope but…..Thanks for the comment Liz.
Oh fyi I'm on the K&A later this year I'm having a 10k British designed British built solar battery system installed on my boat , your welcome to film it if you'd be interested 1520 watt
As an ex-humidification engineer it always makes me laugh when people justify their window choice by saying ' the condensation needs somewhere to go'. No it doesn't - you have simply provided a surface below dew point temperature that creates condensation - without that surface the water simply stays in the air. The condensation is not looking for somewhere to go you have just specified that your builder puts a condensation making surface on your boat. People with double glazed thermal break windows are not suddenly finding other areas on their boat wet because the moisture is thinking to itself that it needs to find somewhere to go!
I do remember this conversation at the time of my build. To be honest, I rarely get condensation on the boat when the stove is on. So I do wonder if the double glazing is worth while anyway. I just put the bungs in!
@@chrismears-inslowtime Yes the stove is an air dryer. First of all it warms the air in the boat up which reduces the relative humidity %. It also takes the moist air that is inside your boat and draws it in and sends it up the flue. This air is then replaced by air via your vents so instead of adding your breathing, cooking and showering moisture to the same batch of already moist air in your boat you are constantly sending the moist air up the flue and refreshing the air inside your boat. Without the stove you will end up with air with a very high rH% and in turn more condensation when it finds a surface below its dew point temperature. Bungs are a good idea as they basically insulate your glass and window frames from coming into contact with any of the air inside your boat. The frames and glass may well still be at a temperature that is below the airs dew point temperature but if the air can't come into contact with them then you can't get condensation. The bung to window frame seal needs to be 100% air tight though. Your bungs will also be absorbing any condensation that is caused by the air that is able to get past the bung. The downside of bungs though compared to double glazing and thermal break frames is that they block out light and stop you looking at the outside!
Interesting chat, would have liked to hear from his wife but perhaps it was her choice not to be in front of the camera. I appreciate the amount of work it takes to do these videos, but don't let it take over your life!
We do plan to meet up again so I’ll ask Lorraine if she wants to chat on camera. Initially is was a camera faff thing as there is very little room on a boat for that type of chat. Perhaps the next one will have to be on my boat if all three of us are present. Thanks for the comment Angela.
It just sounds a bit pointless, and expensive, to have a generator to charge the batteries and run for almost as much time as a diesel propulsion engine. I moored against an electric boat at a festival and the generator kicked in at 6 in the morning and it wasn’t quiet.
As I was moored behind John, I did hear the Webasto coming on at 0600hrs from the inside of my boat but not their generator. That said, the generator is noisier than the Webasto on the inside. We didn’t analyse the amount of time the Webasto is used for hot water and diesel heating. I think I need to add a bit more context in a future vid. Thanks for the comment George. You have made me think deeper about it.
I can understand the appeal of electric boats but what puts me off is as they get older and start to break down their going to be more problematic than the standard diesel engine to fix and depending on what goes wrong possibly more expensive to fix
It's a good point but if you exclude the generator there are much less moving parts in an electric motor and drive train than in traditional engine and gearbox. As you say, time will tell. It is nice to experience near silent cruising though.
Very interesting but I had to keep pausing it because of the incredibly intrusive background noise coming presumably from the generator. If that is the level of noise I had to contend with on a daily basis It would drive me insane. Was it down to poor microphone placement perhaps? Hardly a good advertisement for the system you have installed!
I didn’t find the noise intrusive on the boat so maybe the microphone picked up more than it sounded on the boat. I have found all microphones appear to pick up more background noise than I think I heard at the time……. I also think we can all get used to noise if it’s constant. I remember sleeping next to a 3kva generator in Iraq. We needed it for power in the HQ and radio batteries. As loud as it was, I still got sleep.
Thank you for your reply Chris. I didn't mean to criticise your vlog which I found to be extremely interesting and helpful. In my experience as a studio musician the level of unwanted background noise bleeding into microphones varies significantly,depending on the listening device. In this particular instance I watched your vlog on a Galaxy tablet via a set of Sound core earbuds. These are fairly high-end earphones if you like and the frequency range capability is well extended, meaning that the low frequency noise from the generator was very prominent in relation to the conversation which was barely audible at times. Listening via my inexpensive android phone was a different experience and the generator was far less prominent. I thought it might be useful to you to be aware of the problem , it might help you avoid similar issues in future. Please keep up the vlogs which are incredibly useful and delivered in a very informal, natural and spontaneous conversational style which is very refreshing. Kind regards, Mick Candler. 😎👍😎
@@mickcandler9849 thanks for the reply. I understand about headphones. I love my sennheiser headphones. A lovely warm sound. I am aware of the background noise and could lower it and perhaps should have done. That has an effect on the tones of the voice. I would then need to address the quality of the sound design over the 40min vid. That takes time and to be honest, it is worth my time? I don’t get paid for my work and to do editing, colour and sound correction to an audience that generally are accepting I’m not a pro. This is not a criticism of your initial comment but a justification of my reason why I didn’t address it. Thanks for your understanding
Our question to the government, if the push is towards electric cars and such, why don't they manufacture cars with a solar roof to recharge the batteries? This entire 'electric' push is rubbish. Coal and diesel will always be needed one way or another, and in no way will anyone be able to live without them.
The solar panel on a car will not produce enough. e.g. Today we had some sun; about two hours of sun in total along with light. I woke up with 76% of battery life and when the sun set, I had 81%. It’ll use 25% over night. So with those 2 big panels I gained about 5% extra. A car will use when moving a lot of power. It’ll need to be plugged into the grid to charge it up regardless and the amount of resources it takes to make a solar panel exceeds the power it generates over a life time, I have read. Electric anything is not green. Lithium leisure batteries are about as green as lithium can be in my opinion which is not as green as a lead acid battery. So agree with your comment in general. It’s all a load of rubbish. So what is the agenda?
Very enjoyable and interesting conversation. I do like your interviews. Thank you
Pleasure and thanks for the support.
I really enjoyed this conversation, informative and interesting. Hope you will do more of this. Cheers
Thanks Fred. Need people to interview. Hard to find as it happens. Thanks for the support.
Another great vlog. Really interesting and good to listen to. Thanks to John for sharing his thoughts.
Thank you Mishka. If you want to be one of the first to get the merch…..can you trial the process and order a hoodie from the website. Type my name and in slow time and it’ll come up. Thank you for your support.
I’ve messaged you re colours! Thank you 😊
Thank you Chris, the quality of your content far surpasses any quibbles or criticism of sound quality and I for one will always look forward to your vlogs regardless. Please be assured I meant no offence and my opinion is of no consequence. You have clearly led and continue to lead an interesting life and I look forward to further episodes. Kind regards. Mick Candler.
Thanks Mick. Appreciate it
You are a natural interviewer/ conversationist
Thank you David. I appreciate the support.
Again,, very interesting!
Lots of great topics,,,,,
A great watch
👍👍
Thanks Rich.
A great conversation. So rich in content and life. Thanks so much.
Thanks as always John.
What a great common sense discussion between you both. You are both right about so many aspects in your discussion. This was great to listen to this morning. Thank you both.
Thank you Debbie.
What a nice Sunday edition Chris. Really nice to hear John's take on their new venture.
Thank you Trevor.
Chris, I love watching your vlogs.... I think it's your regimented approach to it.
Thank you. I appreciate the support
What can I say…. GREAT GREAT GREAT…. fantastic Vlog Chris - Bloody Brilliant - LOVED IT - Hybrid Boats, got to be the way forwards… Love the idea of Gas - Coal FREE - wish I could do the same in the house, managed it in the kitchen when we renovated, but nothing suitable yet for the heating (electric still not efficient enough). Yes you have a compromise of still using Diesel.
Love it’s not classed as (propulsion)… so save the tax 😂
Solar is definitely a big help so the more you can get, then the more (self sufficient) on energy you can be - be nice to see a progress report after a year.
Love the extra use of the space under the kitchen units having draws in (may copy that idea in the house).
I think I like the idea of the narrower canals as I live next to the Ashby… but get not so easy to navigate.
What’s the Water Savings thing that’s installed?
I get the anxiety of moving to areas you don’t know (have an autistic partner and 2 boys) so anything out the normal routine becomes a challenge - but then I like to push their boundaries to aid their development.
Keep it up - Again Great Vlog 😊
There are many benefits to electric living. More space due to no coal but less space as there is a requirement for batteries to live somewhere. Yes diesel is still required and what I have recently found out is that solar panels are not that eco to make. I think the most efficient in eco terms is hybrid, but my set up with one lithium battery is probably the next best. All electric is good but if you are to do a through life cost analysis, that is where the sums don’t add up. That’s my opinion but I would never critique someone going down that route. I suspect the CRT will love that as do the Govt yet they will overlook the effect on the carbon footprint on the tings that don’t aligned with their narrative.
Water Freedom was installed and they have got it nailed I think…..when it’s fixed!
@@chrismears-inslowtime- yes always going to have some kind of Trade Off with electric - it has to come from somewhere… whether that’s burning fuel to produce or creating products to harness natural resources….
Full electric boats…. You can see the que’s now waiting for charging points 😂 worse than at water points 😮
What is a water freedom system? Is that like the filtration system you showed on a previous vlog with the million different filters? Can’t see that as being cost or eco effective with having to keep replacing them all?
@jongibbs1036 again a lot of trade offs but it does mean they can shower and use the washing machine more regularly than me!
It's really just for occasional use, water anxiety etc. if we find a great spot and don't want to move for water we can top up from the canal.
Sorry for the previous spell check mistake. It’s Naperville, Illinois.
I’m crap at English so don’t worry about it.
Hi Chris, great vlog this one very interesting conversation. I always learn something listening to others.
My personal opinion is that John would be better off changing the battery bank to LiFEPo4 batteries. The reason for the long generator runs and hence the diesel usage is that the lead based batteries will limit charge current particularly when near full.
Lithium will take a larger charge current all the way up to full.
The upshot is that the generator will run for less time with a lithium setup and consequently use less fuel.
Food for thought..
I agree with Wayne on this point. 400 Ah of lithium would have provided greater capacity and far less diesel for recharging.
In reality and I can only speak from my lifestyle, I run the Genny or engine for about 5 hours to charge my set-up. 550 amp/h leisure battery. That will last about 3 days in the winter. Household appliances. In the summer, I never turn an engine on. I believe it’s how you use the boat and how much travelling you do. If you’re moving, that’s free electric. If you sit around, then it’s at cost. It’s the floating charge is the bit that takes the time. I’m happy with my set-up to date.
Excellent sandbag Chris ❤
Thanks Chunky. Appreciate it.
Enjoyed this conversation, really informative and relevant, thank you guys
Thanks for the comment
Good stuff as usual 👍
Thanks for the support. I appreciate it.
Great vlog Chris. 160 litres for 4 weeks on the boat!!!
Good point Graham, but we didn’t discuss how often the Webasto was used per day which uses about one ltr an hour. To analyse that would have been fairer.
Very interesting blog, glad they are finding the hybrid ok, still glad we have stuck to diesel for the time being. Maybe in four years although we don’t plan to change our boat once finished. You should be able to view it at Crick xxxx❤❤
Hi Jacqueline. I' like the option of diesel engines and from what Mercedes and BMW have said in the news, EV are not the success they were promised to be so have re-introduced combustion engines. I would suggest, hybrid may be the best option but, diesel will be here for years to come. Not sure I can make Crick this year unfortunately.
@@chrismears-inslowtime aww that’s a shame hopefully catch up another time soon xx
Greetings from Naperville Illiterate (USA). Cris, you’re interviews are are always interesting to watch. This was a great one. Love your channel.
Thanks for the lovely comment and support. I appreciate it.
An Interesting informative session. Thanks
Thank you Martin.
A very interesting vlog sharing the issues of electric propulsion and the reality of daily boating in isolated locations. Thank you. Linslade Steve
Thanks Steve. Linslade…need to moor there at some point. Never any room when I pass.
Great vid mate. Love a bit of bacon grill 🤣 2 weeks left in this location and I am back out CCing so we may well pass meet up 👍🍺
I must ring you soon as my life could be changing soon. Possible job with work abroad type of thing. Thanks Pete.
Really enjoyed the vlog, Chris. Thanks to John for sharing his boat and story with us.
Stay well this week and see you again soon 😘
Thank you for the support.
Bless them and there lovley dog ...but i did roll up when he said were only MOANING about little things 😂😂😅
Isn’t that life Lynn. Never happy unless we’re moaning about stuff.
I quess so 😂 i dont really moan .but saying that i suppose i moan about people mooaning 😅
I have loved Narrowboats for so long, holidayed on them, loved them more, I have been so close to selling up and buying my Narrowboat dream but it's listening to informative vlogs such as this Chris and following other Narrowboat You Tubers over the last couple of years I realise that going forward as a single female it would not be a good choice, both financially or anyway really, again going forward I love my creature comforts, my car etc, But I still enjoy the vlogs and will continue to hire them out for holidays away on the cut . Thankyou for the vlogs Chris informative and enjoyable 😊
Thank you Jayne. I agree with the holidays thing. It’s not your issue when things go wrong and it’s just a holiday. I too like my creature comforts and have plenty on the boat. A car would be useful….very useful. Enjoy your holidays and thanks for the comment.
Yet another stunning video mate
As per usual they are always interesting and informative..
Anyway Chris keep safe and well.
Thanks Wayne.
Chris, I keep hearing a reoccurring theme in your musings: ....." I don't mind being alone, I just don't like being lonely...." Your desire for companionship is real... Your human... Have you considered getting a pet? Sharing your space with unconditionally love is what pet ownership is all about.
I’ve considered a pet Eddy. Then realised it’s not for me…..just yet. It’ll happen when I’ve stopped this UA-cam thingy and maybe someone else to share the duty. It’s strange perhaps but I think at this moment, it would suit my needs. Additionally, I’m looking for work which might take me abroad.
What a great surprise to see your Vlog this morning, as ever interesting interview or should i say cosy chat. covering numerous subjects. was it a one shot video, or many short ones joined up. the work you do in producing these videos is much appreciated
Hi Harry. Yes, one take and the edit; i just missed out the crap I spoke about so there was about 10 mins of reduction time. It took about 3 hours all in. Thanks for the support.
A great interview Chris. More like this please. 🙏
Always difficult to find people to interview. I passed them three days earlier and lucky to moor up behind them. There is Colin when the time is ripe. Thanks Sally.
Very interesting… it would be great if you could revisit at the end of Summer to see how the PV performs, over running costs of the genny.
Yes Jack. Agreed. We have exchanged mobile numbers.
Very nice gentle vlog Chris and and narrow boat slow time 👍👍👍👍👍👍☘️☘️☘️☘️☘️☘️☘️☘️☘️
Thanks Tom. As always.
What an interesting vlog Chris really enjoyed it nice to have a Sunday vlog keep up the great work mate 👍
Thanks Andy.
This was a fantastic vlog Chris. Me and Karl loved it and think you should do more like this! Thanks for a great start to the day! 😊😊
I’d like to do more interviews as they are easy to make and easier to edit. Trouble is….finding people to chat to when I’ve only got a short stay at each location.
@@chrismears-inslowtime understand! Thanks Chris. Have a good day 👍
Interesting listening to that Chris…… I’ve also got a Smithwood boat and have to say that the drop down tv soon went…. cupboard for a tv….🤷♂️🤷♂️🤷♂️ plus I can now angle the tv to where I am on the sofa…… anyway, regards electric boat that need diesel for the generator and seems to use a fair bit compared to my dirty diesel boat😀. I have a hybrid battery set up lithium and lead acid and only run my engine an hour every few days and all is good to go…. Or I’ll fire up the champion generator for an hour. Can’t get my head around electric boats that need fuel and generators….Thumbs up for Chris at Smithwood tho, he’s a good bloke….
You appear to have the gold plated solution Stan. I think it’ll take time for the boat industry to align as what is the best system. It’s too new and the hybrid/electric solution needs to play itself out. The boat builders need to come together to discuss what’s best and keep in lane once the decision is made.
Chris. A brilliant vlog indeed. There’s also a couple on a self build boat just electric no genny. Loving all the different variations of electric and hybrid options. Batteries are improving all the time. Sodium batteries now. Blade batteries from BYD. I will be watching this vlog a few times. Looking forward to crick as last year got quotes on converting diesel narrowboat to leccy. Absolute brilliant Chris. Made my Sunday morning. Best wishes.
Thanks Trev. Not sure how a boat without a generator works in the winter. Would like to find that out. As for the conversion….would like to see that too as I think that will be the winner model if it’s workable. Take care mate.
Now that's very interesting. I commented on the last video saying I'd be very tempted to get an old dug-dug engine, but I have put real thoughts into it a few times, and even though I do really like the dug-dug engines, I think realistically I'd be going down the exact same route here. I'd definitely want to go hybrid and not just full electric out of fear of ever getting stuck if something should happen to the motor. But as for everything else, all electric, no gas, definitely. And definitely a diesel stove. Live crackling fires, lovely, but lugging around those bags of coal or logs and dealing with all the soot and dust, and gas bottles? Nah! That's definitely my kind of boat, realistically.
Hi, thanks for the comments. You would still be stuck if something broke on an engine or gearbox though. Are electric motors more reliable, I suggest they are. Watch this space.
There are a number of options which is great. Everyone lives their life differently with choices. For me, it came down to cost. Diesel stoves are more expensive to buy. I ran out of money with the basics as my pockets were only so deep. My only advice Mick, save hard. Thanks for the comment. Can’t add value to the engine stuff, as I’m clueless.
Fantastic, we intend buying a boat within the next year or two. Would be great to meet you on the cut
You can always meet up if you’re ever in an area easy for you. Thanks for the support.
Interesting conversation Chris, especially about the fuel efficiency. The Guys at Narrowboat Life Unlocked have experience of a hybrid system (I think it's the Beta) and after a few months have had changes to the motor, prop and Genny to try and reduce fuel consumption. Their Genny was on all the time. I think this is new technology and the suppliers are not quite there yet. The best I've seen is Mermaid Marine and their electric boats. They use a special motor and a bigger prop to utilise the heftier torque from the motor. Most other installs I've seen are still using a similar prop to the diesel ones, rather than something tailored to electric.
Mark. NB life unlocked had a system from their boat maker not Beta marine and changed to Vetus set up after the problems you noted.
@@johnchristmas310 Thanks for the correction. I thought their initial hybrid system was off-the-shelf too, but underpowered for their use. Hence the change to something beefier. Shows that electric and hybrid drive are still in their infancy.
Good chat fellas.
Nice 1 Chris and John…
Thanks Tony.
Interesting video, but a bit early - you took the opportunity while it was there, so no complaints at all. I do hope you can have another conversation together in 6 months when they have been living onboard for spring and part of summer (or all of summer) so solar efficiency and diesel usage can be revisited as well as the question about whether they would have designed anything differently. After 6 months even a shelf position can become an issue. Also, a bit of a boat tour would be good - especially more of the electric setup. Also, perhaps include Lorraine (I hope I got that right) next time. Even if happy with everything she will have a different perspective on a number of things I expect.
Ballpark budgetary costs of boats and power systems is also of interest. It seems to be a bit of a taboo item, but the cost of bare hull and propulsion system could be okay and would be helpful.
Hi.
Hull from known builder c£60k
Electric similar sum all in.
Fit out c£100k
Hope that helps.
I would like that too. That said I would like to analyse the diesel usage as John stated 70ltrs every two weeks. So what is Webasto usage as opposed to generator and diesel stove. They all use the same fuel. I think if John had just a generator it might and didn’t use the Webasto or stove, the stats would be more complimentary.
Although it wasn’t discussed, in hindsight having Lorraine in the vid would have been good but would have required a different set up. Filming on a narrowboat when I only have a few feet in width means the GoPro was the idea camera. However, John or Lorraine would have been blocked. Perhaps using my boat on the dinette might work although still a challenge to film.
Thanks for the comment
That was great Chris. Our setup on the new boat, which we've been on for almost two weeks, is very similar. Same motor, same generator, 1.6kw solar, everything electric, same stove. We only have 600A/H battery bank at 48v, but ours are lead carbon. We've been in a marine, since launch but not been on shore power and we've used around 70 liters of diesel. Part of that over use was us leaving the stove on for three days straight.
Can't wait to go cruising next week when our bow thruster is working!
Take care mate
Good luck Craig and I hope you both enjoy it. We didn’t analyse the fuel bit enough. I should have clocked it. However, Webasto, Stove and generator all use the same fuel. It would be nice to get stats for future reference. You would only need to get hot water twice a day. The same as house I would think and you’ve probably used 2 hours = 2 ltrs a day. Stove….not sure of the diesel usage on low setting. Enjoy the lifestyle mate.
A 3kw motor is more than enough for narrowboat life .
I have two 24v 1.25kw outboard trolling motors on my 54ft narrowboat that are plenty for my use . I only ever use one motor at a time .
Im fully electric , no hybrid !
I have 4 x 12v led acid batteries powering the motors at the moment with 720 watts of solar .
Ideally 2v full traction batteries is the goal ....
35 grand for a conversion is a joke 😂
3kw 230v motor £ 365 .00
4kw inverter £ 300
2v full traction batteries £1700
1440 watt of solar £ 800 ( 24v panels x 4 )
Wiring 24v £ 60
Job done
Ive lived on the cut 19 years now , had electric propulsion 2 years and couldnt go back to deisel !
Good show ..you both reminded me of smith and jones haha ❤
You need to show all the builders what you’ve got. It’ll be interesting. If you’ve converted from diesel to electric, that could be a game changer. Thanks for the info Jason.
@@chrismears-inslowtime
narrowboat economical electric propulsion / jason woods
ua-cam.com/video/6j3cb4hxF0I/v-deo.html
another great natter Chris with John
& appreciate to hear you express your lack of time to live in your own boaty moment due to YT
I'm sure many of your viewers would be happy with less frequency for you to concentrate on your own adventure & the subsequent output of more less occasionally ?!
Just a thought...
'its a vehicle for life'
Nuff sed...
We’ve spoken about it Lloyd. At the moment there is plenty of content. I wonder what it’ll be like when I wonder back up the GU over Winter. Probably no content and give myself a break. As you say, less content or when there’s something to film. Hope you’re well mate.
Really enjoyed this chat a good down to earth discussion. Re Hybrid we have the Beta system with 1600watt of solar last summer we cruised every few days and went about 3/4 weeks without running the engine but also have gas but seldomly use it.
That’s good to hear Gary. I don’t know anyone who has that system or full electric moan about it. I think as with all boaters, if you count the through life costs, it’s not cheap. Living isn’t cheap regardless but no-one discusses the cost of being on land do they? It’s just accepted.
Excellent video, honest and open. The cost of an electric boat if buying a new build is probably viable, one thing I would have if going that route is an incinerator toilet, electric. To retrofit a boat is it financially viable probably not.
Nice to hear, although I'm not suprised Chris with your background, is planning, it's the way to make life easier.
Keep up the good work 👏 🙌 👍
I've just watched another vlog where the people had an incinerator toilet and said that it was very power hungry when used for liquids, so this couple ended up with an elsan toilet for liquids and used the incinerator toilet for just solids.
They said their power consumption went down by about 40% if I remember correctly!!
Thanks Tony. Nick makes a very good point and concur with his stats. The owner of The Fit Out Pontoon has an incinerator toilet. Two poos and a drained battery. He’s on the grid so he’s not bothered but wanted to check for future builds. Incinerate if you have a hook up.
Agree with the retro fit Tony. I was discussing this point with Lloyd. Where do you put the leisure batteries. Electric boats or hybrid need to be designed from the start. That said, there is a comment that suggests otherwise…..forgotten who it is but if you’re interested…….
Thanks for the interaction fellas.
That was an interesting interview Chris. Having a duel engine system is a good way to go but on the other hand my worry is on electric engine fires like are being seen with so many EV’s. Also those batteries aren’t cheap to replace if they’re anything like the Tesla. My guess these electric boats will be forced just like the cars are because of the agenda to get off fosse fuels. Happy days my friend! Also giving up all the work stress does wonders as it did for me. Stress and trauma are the drivers of dis-ease. Check into German New Medicine😎
I think there is a balance for lithium. Leisure use is great. Mine are supposed to last longer than my life on the boat. Not sure I’ll ever find out but then….I might. Lithium in cars must produce a lot of heat. How do they cool off. Yes they are expensive. Marine/leisure is about £1000 for 100amp/h as a planning assumption. Yes you can get cheaper from China but…..
Retiring young is the key to happiness. The Govt don’t want you to though as they need workers to drive the economy in this insatiable world that globalisation has created. Thanks for the comment Val.
Really interesting Chris and a real different option, would love to know a bit of the back story that brought them to here and a tour of the boat would be great (love the shower enclosure!). Interesting seeing different perspectives.
Gary. There may be a blog soon about how it all started and journey from now. But 40 years as Main Contractor PM took it's tole so wanted a slower pace, always loved the canals so sold up and had Round Tuit made.
Thanks for the chat fellas
Look forward to it John and best wishes on your new adventure
I lived on my own by choice for 10 years, can’t imagine ever living with anybody again, think I’m too set in my ways now. Looking at getting a narrow boat and becoming a continuous cruiser if I ever bump in to you in the future we go for a pint 😅
I think that is an issue of living on your own. But if you’re happy, that’s great. I just want to be happy. Happy go for a pint but I must warn you, I’m a lightweight! My days of handling beer…..well gone.
Not a big drinker myself, but like a pint with a pub lunch 😅
Not a fan of electric anything, (vehicle wise) I do prefer diesel boats each to their own though!
Great chat Chris 😄☀️👌🏻
For me it was about cost…..and now, although I do get it, the cost of diesel on the Genny is far more than I would have been happy with. Those are the hidden costs that maybe are less known on design and buying. It’s all about the idea and when used practically, well, it’s a little late to change your mind.
Pod drives, toroidal props and Sodium batteries: the future is electric!
I'm not sure toroidal props are good for canals. Imagine how much more complicated it would be to remove a plastic bag from it.
Thanks fellas for the chat. I’m clueless so can’t add value.
The two things that put me off using Lithium on a boat are firstly the number of electric vehicles that are bursting into flames and, secondly, how Lithium first react to water. Why would you put yourself on a boat liable to burst into flames with a medium that don't like being put out by water? Traction batteries have a much safer and reliable record over many years.
As for CRT putting electric plug in charging on the waterways, this was something being turned over in the late '80's with discussion with The Electric Boat Association on the BCN.
I get the point Jess. I did some strong research into my lithium leisure setup. The heat from a lithium is generally caused when in use. I can hear the fan playing in the background when pushing out power for the washing machine. Also when charging. It has ventilation…although not for the reason the boat safety scheme suggests, which assists. I don’t know if cars have that sort of ventilation. My battery is the same style of battery used in larger marine vessels. If it’s good enough for a multi million dollar boat……There was a re-visit of this in 2022 for electric on the canals. Dismissed as too complicated and it’ll be difficult to redesign every boat for electric. Not sure you can properly convert a diesel to electric………edit……wrong. Read Jason, he’s done it
Well got to agree with John we have a hybrid boat Tranquility you may have seen the vlog David did on our boat on cruising the cut titled peace in the pod...
We also have traction batteries 24v and 1000w which can run a domestic fridge and freezer for over a week and longer in the summer with the solar, the pod drive unit provides excellent drive steering control and virtually zero maintenance with no shaft to grease and risk of water ingress..all electric no gas and cheap to run diesel generator simple to run as cheap as it gets and clean and this was built in 2009 .. you're welcome to come and have a gander Chris...
Great vlog as always
Arthur
Would very much like to have a goosey at some stage Arthur. Am I heading your way? Thanks for the comment and I’ll have a look at the CtC vid.
@@chrismears-inslowtimeyou are more than welcome Chris..lots of northern hospitality 😊
I thought that going electric would cut out the diesel costs but seems that doesn't happen, so really don't see the benefit. That generator was pretty noisy in the background. I guess it's better in the summer though. You say you're lonely, it is hard sometimes but I've got so used to it that now I find being with people is hard 🙂 thanks for another interesting vlog
It does appear to be quite expensive but we didn’t determine if the Webasto central heating system uses more than the generator? The Webasto uses about one ltr of diesel an hour. You only need to put that on for 1.5 hours in the morning and evening for hot water and that is approx 42ltrs of fuel every two weeks.
Agree with the loneliness thing. I think there will be a crossover of when I will become used to being on my own. I’m less lonely this year than last year. As the years progress…..
Thanks for the comment.
I bought my boat in 2019 and still having work done before i can take it out. I said to my sister we need to do this now im on level 55. My mum escaped this world aged 45 dad 57 and my brother 56 so it has been worrying me thinking how long i might have left so finishing the work and getting out there before its too late.
To life life to the full is important. My son Max taught me that. Hence Maximise Life. Enjoy every day.
So important to get out there. I delayed, there are SO many things we let get in the way of our plans. I know so many folks who delayed these sort of decisions 😢. I have just recently bought a narrowboat from a couple because of a delay and one of them becoming terminally ill, so so sad. ...
... get the the boat done and get out there on the cut.
I still wonder if I left it later that I should have, well time will tell, however I have experienced 5 months of living on a boat! Woooohoooo, nobody can take that from me .... whatever happens. Colin, Iris No.2
When i first started boating , i remember not been able to open the bottom gates at Ings lock in Wakefield.
Id given up and was sat in my boat having a cuppa contemplating turning round back down the river when i heard some woman shout ' its open for you if your coming up ' ...
When i got up the lock the woman glossing her boat waved me over .
She was 91 years old and it was her who opened the bottom gates !
A very nice lady she was , she taught me how to open gates properly that day !
Never had a problem since bless her 🙏
I moved on the cut at 35 with a slipped disc and porosis in me spine . Have 2 slipped discs now 😅😅😅 still cruising !
Been swept under me boat ,
Dragged by me boat ,
And roped me boat out of some very tricky situations ...
What an adventure 🎉
You’ve got a story to tell. Need to meet up Jason!!!
Now that would make a very interesting conversation!
@@JL1308 I think the time my boat and myself was washed up out of a tidal lock onto the lock face would be close to my most ' shit , shit, oh shit ' experiences on the cut 🤣
Makes one feel veru grateful 🙏
@@Jason-cj3ih 😮😂
Narrow Boat Life Unlocked use around £168 in diesel every 3 weeks with their electric boat, that said they have had no end of trouble with that boat, Solar panels replaced, they just had a new electric motor fitted and a new propeller. I think the guys from Oakums Boats have spent more time on that boat doing repairs than the two guys have.
I picked up a few tips from this Vlog for future plans, thanks
Thanks for the insight. I rarely watch other Narrowboat channels as to be honest, I don’t have the time and the stuff on UA-cam I watch, I want to learn about psychology or other factors of life….comedy. It’s only when people like John and those narrowboaters offering information that we can get the inside scoop. It’s quite expensive in diesel costs. I didn’t realise that. Pleased it was informative. Thanks for the comment.
Interesting. I assumed that hybrid would be the best power option, but having a built-in generator and quality batteries is quite feasible. I wonder if electric has sufficient power for tidal waters? On the other hand, diesel stoves are simple and economical. Pump-out toilets would be practical, but ultimately it costs in weight and room for a tank. With a generator on board a heated compost toilet would be a possibility. Electric would rule out Incinolet or Cinderella,. So many possibilities....
As you say Peter, plenty of opportunities and while some would like to berate another person’s decision making, it is that person’s life we are all analysing. If they are happy with their set up…..who should argue. I know there are some that have had a pop at my set up but I am more than happy with it in the summer. I have to measure that with life in the winter. Pros and cons of life. Thanks for your thoughts mate.
I couldn't have done 20 years living on our sailboat alone. But, I cannot imagine living anywhere other than on the water. A narrowboat seems like a realistic alternative if I were on my own.
Good point that owners still use plenty of diesel with an electric engine. One YT channel with a new electric engine actually uses more! 😃I'm hoping sustainable biofuels will become more readily available for private use.
And if the boffins ever get fusion off the ground, we could be laughing...
Electricity may be clean, but batteries are full of minerals being mined around the world, destroying local communities. You can't win. 🤷🏼
I agree with the battery and solar minerals being used to create ‘Green’ living. Not very green to make them. If the Blue life is in your veins this life should suit. It suits me if I wasn’t on my own. Sure I can cope but…..Thanks for the comment Liz.
Oh fyi I'm on the K&A later this year I'm having a 10k British designed British built solar battery system installed on my boat , your welcome to film it if you'd be interested 1520 watt
Keep me in the loop Nathan. I’ll be happy to meet up and do a spot of filming.
@@chrismears-inslowtimeno problem , I'm just waiting for my house sale to complete so I have funds for the project
As an ex-humidification engineer it always makes me laugh when people justify their window choice by saying ' the condensation needs somewhere to go'. No it doesn't - you have simply provided a surface below dew point temperature that creates condensation - without that surface the water simply stays in the air. The condensation is not looking for somewhere to go you have just specified that your builder puts a condensation making surface on your boat. People with double glazed thermal break windows are not suddenly finding other areas on their boat wet because the moisture is thinking to itself that it needs to find somewhere to go!
I do remember this conversation at the time of my build. To be honest, I rarely get condensation on the boat when the stove is on. So I do wonder if the double glazing is worth while anyway. I just put the bungs in!
@@chrismears-inslowtime Yes the stove is an air dryer. First of all it warms the air in the boat up which reduces the relative humidity %. It also takes the moist air that is inside your boat and draws it in and sends it up the flue. This air is then replaced by air via your vents so instead of adding your breathing, cooking and showering moisture to the same batch of already moist air in your boat you are constantly sending the moist air up the flue and refreshing the air inside your boat. Without the stove you will end up with air with a very high rH% and in turn more condensation when it finds a surface below its dew point temperature. Bungs are a good idea as they basically insulate your glass and window frames from coming into contact with any of the air inside your boat. The frames and glass may well still be at a temperature that is below the airs dew point temperature but if the air can't come into contact with them then you can't get condensation. The bung to window frame seal needs to be 100% air tight though. Your bungs will also be absorbing any condensation that is caused by the air that is able to get past the bung. The downside of bungs though compared to double glazing and thermal break frames is that they block out light and stop you looking at the outside!
Interesting chat, would have liked to hear from his wife but perhaps it was her choice not to be in front of the camera.
I appreciate the amount of work it takes to do these videos, but don't let it take over your life!
We do plan to meet up again so I’ll ask Lorraine if she wants to chat on camera. Initially is was a camera faff thing as there is very little room on a boat for that type of chat. Perhaps the next one will have to be on my boat if all three of us are present. Thanks for the comment Angela.
It just sounds a bit pointless, and expensive, to have a generator to charge the batteries and run for almost as much time as a diesel propulsion engine. I moored against an electric boat at a festival and the generator kicked in at 6 in the morning and it wasn’t quiet.
As I was moored behind John, I did hear the Webasto coming on at 0600hrs from the inside of my boat but not their generator. That said, the generator is noisier than the Webasto on the inside. We didn’t analyse the amount of time the Webasto is used for hot water and diesel heating. I think I need to add a bit more context in a future vid. Thanks for the comment George. You have made me think deeper about it.
I can understand the appeal of electric boats but what puts me off is as they get older and start to break down their going to be more problematic than the standard diesel engine to fix and depending on what goes wrong possibly more expensive to fix
It's a good point but if you exclude the generator there are much less moving parts in an electric motor and drive train than in traditional engine and gearbox. As you say, time will tell.
It is nice to experience near silent cruising though.
@@johnchristmas310 IV just started cruising and IV got a beta marine diesel on my boat , it runs so quiet the noise never bothers me
Good chat fellas. Dont ask about engines for me as I can just about work out where the key goes.
Free trips to kids from the Congo…
I’d like to go there too.
@@chrismears-inslowtime that’s what President Xi said!
Very interesting but I had to keep pausing it because of the incredibly intrusive background noise coming presumably from the generator. If that is the level of noise I had to contend with on a daily basis It would drive me insane. Was it down to poor microphone placement perhaps? Hardly a good advertisement for the system you have installed!
I didn’t find the noise intrusive on the boat so maybe the microphone picked up more than it sounded on the boat. I have found all microphones appear to pick up more background noise than I think I heard at the time……. I also think we can all get used to noise if it’s constant. I remember sleeping next to a 3kva generator in Iraq. We needed it for power in the HQ and radio batteries. As loud as it was, I still got sleep.
Thank you for your reply Chris. I didn't mean to criticise your vlog which I found to be extremely interesting and helpful. In my experience as a studio musician the level of unwanted background noise bleeding into microphones varies significantly,depending on the listening device. In this particular instance I watched your vlog on a Galaxy tablet via a set of Sound core earbuds. These are fairly high-end earphones if you like and the frequency range capability is well extended, meaning that the low frequency noise from the generator was very prominent in relation to the conversation which was barely audible at times. Listening via my inexpensive android phone was a different experience and the generator was far less prominent. I thought it might be useful to you to be aware of the problem , it might help you avoid similar issues in future. Please keep up the vlogs which are incredibly useful and delivered in a very informal, natural and spontaneous conversational style which is very refreshing. Kind regards, Mick Candler. 😎👍😎
@@mickcandler9849 thanks for the reply. I understand about headphones. I love my sennheiser headphones. A lovely warm sound. I am aware of the background noise and could lower it and perhaps should have done. That has an effect on the tones of the voice. I would then need to address the quality of the sound design over the 40min vid. That takes time and to be honest, it is worth my time?
I don’t get paid for my work and to do editing, colour and sound correction to an audience that generally are accepting I’m not a pro. This is not a criticism of your initial comment but a justification of my reason why I didn’t address it. Thanks for your understanding
An enjoyable and informative conversation but less ageism please, some of us active boaters have fond memories of only being 80.😂
Good for you. Sorry about the ageism. I just think it’s great for the older folk to inspire the young pups there is life past 30.
Chris, I left a comment here that this POS platform didn’t allow. Maybe I can email it.
Hi Val - nbinslowtime@gmail.com
@@chrismears-inslowtimeThank you and I see my original post was allowed. I don’t understand what is going on and why they do it.
Just use oil
Not sure what you mean Harry. I’m thinking does everything use oil?
Our question to the government, if the push is towards electric cars and such, why don't they manufacture cars with a solar roof to recharge the batteries? This entire 'electric' push is rubbish. Coal and diesel will always be needed one way or another, and in no way will anyone be able to live without them.
The solar panel on a car will not produce enough. e.g. Today we had some sun; about two hours of sun in total along with light. I woke up with 76% of battery life and when the sun set, I had 81%. It’ll use 25% over night. So with those 2 big panels I gained about 5% extra. A car will use when moving a lot of power. It’ll need to be plugged into the grid to charge it up regardless and the amount of resources it takes to make a solar panel exceeds the power it generates over a life time, I have read. Electric anything is not green. Lithium leisure batteries are about as green as lithium can be in my opinion which is not as green as a lead acid battery. So agree with your comment in general. It’s all a load of rubbish. So what is the agenda?