I'M DONE | Van Life SOLAR Changes after 3 Years | Bluetti AC180

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  • Опубліковано 1 гру 2024

КОМЕНТАРІ • 152

  • @SunflowerandtheBussLady
    @SunflowerandtheBussLady Рік тому +24

    Linnea, I remember you saying something like, ‘please don’t catch fire’ as you added the last battery cable. I clenched my teeth and prayed right along with you. I was a very proud UA-cam aunty! LOL. Every time I see your videos I feel a connection that UA-cam affords. Big hugs and congratulations! 🙌🏽🥰🙏🏽✌🏽❤️

  • @scotttovey
    @scotttovey Рік тому +21

    Akela's reaction to that alarm was priceless.
    In the future, if you need to replace the battery or the fuse, you may want to put a cutoff switch between the fuse and the battery. It's not necessary, but you will feel safer being able to connect and disconnect those wires without the spark.

    • @bps1776
      @bps1776 Рік тому +1

      👆 this

    • @bexnut
      @bexnut Рік тому +1

      Blue Sea make a great set of high-amp battery switches for this purpose. Also a good move to install a Blue Sea terminal fuse (or fuses for multiple batteries) onto the positive terminals, plus terminal covers, to prevent any damage to the batteries if the system is overloaded, or against short-circuits.

  • @user-uk6yz1my8h
    @user-uk6yz1my8h Рік тому +4

    Akela's sweet little face as she was cuddling closer to you is priceless. Glad all is well.

  • @engineerswhovanlife
    @engineerswhovanlife Рік тому +26

    You absolutely crushed it and honestly looked so confident in the process! Yay for solar being done!

    • @Steve_travels
      @Steve_travels Рік тому +1

      I'll be reaching out to you once I have a few more resources in place

    • @engineerswhovanlife
      @engineerswhovanlife Рік тому

      @@Steve_travels do it! We’re here to help and love hearing about everyone’s unique DIY builds!

  • @tammyoverton2518
    @tammyoverton2518 2 місяці тому +1

    Thanks to you, I just upgraded my power to a Bluetti AC200L! Can't wait till it arrives next week. Thank you!!

    • @Linneaandakela
      @Linneaandakela  2 місяці тому +1

      Good choice! How exciting!

    • @tammyoverton2518
      @tammyoverton2518 2 місяці тому

      @@Linneaandakela I love thrifting and found the best hoodie last weekend. It was a LINNEA AND AKELA hoodie and in my size!! My FAVORITE find!!! 😍

  • @OceanCrazie
    @OceanCrazie Рік тому +1

    Oh wow! The alert @ the outtakes reminded me of Hunger Games! 😳🫣🙃🤓🤯🤭😂🤣 Congratulations on the accomplishment of your Solar! 👍👏

  • @cherylpugh5895
    @cherylpugh5895 Рік тому +1

    Linnea, what an amazing young lady that you are, to take on electrical work in your van, and are able to put in solar power. You did a great job upgrading the power. You said you were nervous, but you showed a confident person!! Love you, my friend

  • @thelivnded12
    @thelivnded12 Рік тому +1

    Omg this all makes sense now! My bf was trying to explain how i needed to set mine up for my little van amd watching you install this and explain it, i now know exactly how i need to do mine

  • @amyfu2047
    @amyfu2047 Рік тому +6

    You are so awesome Linnea!! You have come so far in the last three years!! I literally watched your build as I was doing my own. I’m still paying off my van so I’m working fulltime at a regular job. I’m so happy that UA-cam and Patreon have helped you so much to be able to live your best life at your age.
    I’m looking at upgrading my own electrical system. Long story short when I ordered my batteries they ended up delivered in Ontario and I live in The Yukon. Like next to Alaska. Completely opposite end of Canada. Ordered a second set. Tracking shows they arrived in Canada but they never arrived.
    So I ended up depending on my jackery 240 to run my fridge in summer and heater in winter. I just didn’t run heat during the day so if it was -40 outside it could be -20 celcius in the van after ten hours with no heat.
    I just didn’t run my fridge at all because food stayed cold enough. I literally used my unplugged fridge as a freezer all winter.
    Life in Northern Canada is fun. But when I finish paying off my van I am definitely going to start spending winter down south!!
    You inspire me so much. I’m so proud of you and everything you’ve accomplished!! I’m a single 44 year old woman and I understand being scared at times and not feeling completely comfortable with the electronic stuff. You’re teaching me so much!
    Hopefully I’ll get a cubic mini next summer. I was hoping to this year but I just can’t afford it right now. Damn this economy! 😂😂
    Safe journeys and give Akela a hug.

  • @naomig7004
    @naomig7004 8 місяців тому

    There was a boy around but you still did it yourself so cool! 💪 You make me feeling like I can figure it out too 😁 Great video.

  • @NYR14477
    @NYR14477 Рік тому

    Omg it’s been 3 years since I’ve been watching you guys. That’s insane. Thanks for sharing your life journey with us

  • @suezaple4950
    @suezaple4950 Рік тому +4

    I remember most of this you mention about your build congratulations on your upgrade and appreciate you showing us how you did it. Awesome work Linnea

  • @raelynnfinch9102
    @raelynnfinch9102 Рік тому +2

    Great job on your solar! I have been with you since right after your van build! Thank you for sharing your life adventures- even tho I’m old enough to be your mom, (and your mom is adorable by the way!) you inspire me to try new things! Keep having fun and stay safe!

  • @patriciatwalsh4479
    @patriciatwalsh4479 Рік тому

    Thank you for sharing blue yeti and the new solar panels & the flexible way directing them. Stay safe. I love the dogs so loving ❤😊

  • @krismaki757
    @krismaki757 Рік тому +4

    What great timing. My brother and I were talking about solar, power stations, and generators today. I am hoping to be getting a van in the not too distant future, so I can hit the road after raising my 4 kids, working, etc. I am now disabled and want to see this beautiful country we live in before I can't walk at all. I'm just starting to pay closer attention to what I will need to power my van life, as far as solar and a power station. I truly hope I will not have a need for a noisy generator. Thanks for the info, and the link to Engineers who van life blog.

  • @barbhampton54
    @barbhampton54 Рік тому +1

    Watching you do all of this is truly empowering! I admire you and how you are following your dreams.

  • @paige_n_neri
    @paige_n_neri Рік тому +2

    Great info!
    Akela's reaction to the zombie warning 😂😂😂

  • @ErikSjaastad
    @ErikSjaastad Рік тому

    Oh no!!!! Poor Akela❤❤❤❤❤❤ I've been charging my portable straight from my 12v fuse box for the past 2 years. Each pug takes about 100w so you can just use one or unplug it all to gether if you want to save your house battery. I haven't seen that many people do it that way but it's been working great for me.

  • @robinruns_late8375
    @robinruns_late8375 Рік тому

    Love Bluetti. I am wiring my whole van with a Bluetti AC 200 Max. Solar panels on roof straight into Bluetti and then 12v/30amp outlet wired out to a fuse panel. No other batteries etc needed the Bluetti will do everything. Your videos are very helpful.

  • @CowboyTrucking61
    @CowboyTrucking61 Рік тому

    3 years wow, can't believe it. Happy 3rd anniversary. Been watching since you started.

  • @omavicmcmurray2893
    @omavicmcmurray2893 Рік тому +3

    Love this stuff, not just the content but the embrace of learning new technologies , you are inspiring!❤

  • @demonknight7965
    @demonknight7965 Рік тому +1

    You probably didnt need to tape up the negative cable. But it is always a good practice to be safe and not take any chances. :) three words to always live by. C.Y.A. Cover Your Arse. One thing i would suggest is color coding the wires in and out of your circuit breaker. Just a little red tape on the positive cables so that way you can know at a glance.

  • @amandachambers8593
    @amandachambers8593 Рік тому +1

    I have the small one and I freaking love it!! Really happy to see you choosing this company too!! ❤

    • @simply.leen.
      @simply.leen. Рік тому +1

      I have the small Bluetti as well. I have to keep telling myself that I don't need the bigger battery (yet) because everytime I see the capabilities of their batteries, I am so tempted to buy another one! LOL

  • @Steve_travels
    @Steve_travels Рік тому

    I ordered my Bluetti and used your code for the discount ❤❤❤

  • @amyrudolph1090
    @amyrudolph1090 Рік тому

    You are just like me working on electrical, cracks me up! I also have a fear of things exploding and whenever something sparks it totally freaks me out! 😅

  • @andreaewert7204
    @andreaewert7204 Рік тому +2

    🙌 great job upgrading your solar!

  • @livinginthenow
    @livinginthenow Рік тому +6

    This was great. The idea of a circuit breaker is something that never occurred to me before, but it makes perfect sense. Love, love, LOVE the bloopers at the end with Chris being a pest. You flinching when he made that zapping sound made me actually laugh out loud. 😂😂😂

  • @dyanprice4397
    @dyanprice4397 Рік тому

    That is amazing! Bluetti!!

  • @hailahafley-kluver2052
    @hailahafley-kluver2052 Рік тому +8

    Watching what you do makes me feel so great to know the power of what a woman can accomplish when she needs and wants to. I love it all...and especially Akela's expressions. The best hugs come from our fur babies. I looked up Bluetti...wonderful.

  • @injectionAI
    @injectionAI Рік тому +4

    i'm 2 months in and wow, it can be challenging. i'm rocking a Delta Pro with 800w of solar

  • @sammyinbrooklyn
    @sammyinbrooklyn Рік тому +1

    Akela is so adorable ❤. Thanks for sharing!

  • @tammycruz8189
    @tammycruz8189 Рік тому

    YEAH So Happy For U . Safe Travels Always God Bless Y'all Mucho Love From Your Friend In Michigan Tam 💜💜

  • @SarahBoza
    @SarahBoza Рік тому

    I feel the exact same whenever I am doing something technical and my Husband is around. Don’t watch me struggling!!!! Haha love you guys!

  • @LimeRickey71
    @LimeRickey71 Рік тому +1

    Congrats on a sick set up Linnea!!! So happy for you all!

  • @drewwarmath2559
    @drewwarmath2559 Рік тому

    “At the ready with my Bluetti AC180…….” 😊 I actually use a competitor’s 500 model, but I’m impressed with your official, and unofficial reviews. I too quit using an inverter a couple years ago. The draw was just so much greater than sticking with DC. I use my van for business, and have greater access to AC as needed. It’s still nice to get off the beaten path whenever possible though. Great video! It’s been fun to watch your upgrades over time. A lot of great info! Thanks for sharing! 😊

  • @charleneolmsted1718
    @charleneolmsted1718 Рік тому

    Of course, you have special people

  • @CJO509
    @CJO509 Рік тому

    Love this! And your hair looks so great.

  • @dorothymctee5626
    @dorothymctee5626 Рік тому

    You and pup are amazing

  • @pamelahipple589
    @pamelahipple589 Рік тому

    Oh I love your channel, you are a true inspiration. Thank you

  • @terryqueen3233
    @terryqueen3233 Рік тому

    Good job young lady good job. I haven't gotten my truck yet in order to start my build but I hope I do as good as you in a little less time and I will utilize that blog you were talking about. Stay safe out there now. PS it's good to see you two back together

  • @msvg3
    @msvg3 Рік тому

    Great tips on the upgrade. Chris, behave!!! 😊. Looking forward to the return to the north woods in a warm season. ✌️❤️🏕️

  • @tammyinman1699
    @tammyinman1699 Рік тому

    Awwww poor Akela!!
    I don’t think I could learn all that! Lol…. Gives me anxiety thinking about it 😂.
    Hi to Chris n Kobuck.
    Linnea you are amazing!!!❤️🙏🏻❤️🙏🏻❤️

  • @abigailvuocolo1548
    @abigailvuocolo1548 Рік тому

    Linnea thank you! This video came at the perfect time, I was about to purchase a jackery 1000 in the upcoming weeks, before moving into my bus. I have now removed it from my cart and am purchasing this! Glad I saw this before buying

  • @zepherstarrtrail7802
    @zepherstarrtrail7802 Рік тому

    I used to have an Old English Sheepdog that would get occasional hot spots . Besides cortisone shots, I used to apply clear aloe Vera gel. It helps take the heat out and helps with the itching as it heals. I hope she gets better soon.

  • @brendalynn0
    @brendalynn0 Рік тому

    I am so happy for you 😊

  • @hopefulhope9123
    @hopefulhope9123 Рік тому

    I love the love that you have for your dog because I have a German Shepherd Belgian Malinois cross 50/50 and I he's a rescue and he's about the same age as your dog and I love your authenticity and your love for your life and how that that is your home and you've made it your home this episode kind of seemed like it was just one of your promote promote promote promote ones which you never do so I'm happy I'm going to become a patron because I think that you have so much Knowledge and Skills to offer people who generally don't want that fake like they want to really truly live this life just like I do and you are so authentic and true and real and you will have such a beautiful story

  • @brianburge3349
    @brianburge3349 Рік тому

    THANKS YOU ARE VERY INSPIRATIONAL.

  • @karenb1627
    @karenb1627 Рік тому

    Girls got skills. I love how stubborn you are about doing things on your own. The value you place in yourself with your knowing capabilities. Which includes, getting good advice and pursuing the task. That's empowerment.

  • @paulinemorales3391
    @paulinemorales3391 Рік тому

    I love the outtakes!

  • @alanaward6584
    @alanaward6584 Рік тому

    I love how much you love your pup, or should I say, pups. And like a nut, I am fascinated with that blue coffee mug. Love blue. OK my squirrel brain is in control. Sorry. Thanks for all the solar info. Almost twice the power is fantastic, & small. Happy trails!

  • @jasonjones5213
    @jasonjones5213 Рік тому

    Those power stations changed everything, for the good.Great job on the solar.

  • @sheripride428
    @sheripride428 Рік тому

    North Woods! I love watching you accomplish things

  • @belindamceathron304
    @belindamceathron304 Рік тому

    Great job and I love the support you receive from your beau. ❤

  • @juliewilliams4068
    @juliewilliams4068 Рік тому

    I always LOVE when you add the extras at the end. 😂😂😂

  • @mikesoule1761
    @mikesoule1761 Рік тому

    Spectacular!

  • @kizer19796
    @kizer19796 6 місяців тому

    Just found your you tube channel couple days ago, good content I really like the outtakes from this video gave me couple chuckles.

  • @johnbenjamin79
    @johnbenjamin79 Рік тому

    Great video and congrats on "finishing" your solar.

  • @donnaingle391
    @donnaingle391 Рік тому

    Linnea,you have grown so much in van life ! Your amazing!

  • @bebastella68
    @bebastella68 Рік тому

    Omg! I remember when you started ❤🙏🏽

  • @kathyhays9819
    @kathyhays9819 Рік тому

    Way to go girl!!!! You rock

  • @patricialawrence7459
    @patricialawrence7459 Рік тому

    👋 Hi Chris. Nice to see you.

  • @ResoluteRonin
    @ResoluteRonin Рік тому

    I Love my Bluetti! Been using one since 2020

  • @gingerlundgren-barron3594
    @gingerlundgren-barron3594 Рік тому

    I have a Goal Zero 1500x and love it .. But I know Bluetti is very good too.

  • @margaretmartin3143
    @margaretmartin3143 Рік тому

    Lots of good how to info and electrical consult help. I had no idea of where to even start w using solar power. I'm wondering if u have a video of the initial solar panel install and setup.

  • @milocross9693
    @milocross9693 Рік тому

    i've been following your tutorials since i started vanlife 2 years ago!! i'm a fellow solo female vanlifer :) i got a small battery bank to tide me over until i could afford to do solar and ended up just never feeling the need to ever go solar...now that i'm seeing this video i'm glad i never went in on it! i have a jackery 500 and i love it but boy does it charge slow compared to the one in the video 😅 might need to upgrade pretty soon here!

  • @The.painted.Buffalo
    @The.painted.Buffalo Рік тому +1

    Super informative and funny! I do a lot of electrical with my eyes closed 😂 ironic you did it in the rain, but was scared of the shock 🤭 exactly how I’d do it too 🤦🏼‍♀️

  • @beeamerica5024
    @beeamerica5024 Рік тому

    Hundred percent electrical technician 🤓 missed seeing my doggy but the part at the end was good that sounded like a movie the last day of Earth 💥🐝😉

  • @KevinM-ov3qr
    @KevinM-ov3qr Рік тому +2

    Hopefully your wires are rated for the new fuse. Otherwise they will over heat and be the cause of your fire

  • @lynncatalano4782
    @lynncatalano4782 Рік тому

    Wow! I didn't realize the van build was so long ago

  • @jimmymalone3494
    @jimmymalone3494 Рік тому

    I enjoyed video thank you.

  • @joylynnburkhardt3202
    @joylynnburkhardt3202 Рік тому

    You go girl!!

  • @tomscotttheolderone364
    @tomscotttheolderone364 Рік тому

    It looks good. One thing though, mentioned in another comment. You need to install cable clamps on your wiring where it enters the breaker enclosure. This is an absolute requirement on all electrical installations. Other commenter called them connectors, which is not correct. The clamps act as bushings to protect insulation from the sharp edge of the enclosure opening. They also act as strain reliefs to protect the wire from being pulled out of the breaker if something should snag or pull it.

    • @mackenziewebster9553
      @mackenziewebster9553 Рік тому

      Similar to like a rubber grommet but with metal?

    • @tomscotttheolderone364
      @tomscotttheolderone364 Рік тому

      @@mackenziewebster9553 No, a clamp that firmly holds the wire in position so that it doesn't move. Bushings only offer protection against wire chaffing, but doesn't hold it.

    • @mackenziewebster9553
      @mackenziewebster9553 Рік тому

      @@tomscotttheolderone364 I see, that makes sense. Thank you for your response!

  • @MannyWC
    @MannyWC Рік тому

    Bluettti equipment won’t disappoint. Customer service is NIL!- MIA!- I installed the AC300/portable 350w panel with 410w on top of van (total solar 750w and total battery 252ah/ 3052wh). I haven’t had to tough it (thankfully!) as there is nooooo customer service!.

    • @l.b.3148
      @l.b.3148 Рік тому

      Probably a bit more responsive if you are sponsored 🤔

    • @MannyWC
      @MannyWC Рік тому

      @@l.b.3148 def. Not as I know folks that are affiliates. It is really too bad. I think they are trying to get the affiliates to be their tech peeps. idk. Just thankful all is working, but I have questions of expansion but can’t reach anyone. Ever!

  • @maryhight6030
    @maryhight6030 Рік тому

    I just ordered that Bluetti AC180 today🎉

  • @gsp49
    @gsp49 Рік тому

    So nice to own your own power company.

  • @dylanbalderson3049
    @dylanbalderson3049 Рік тому

    I would recommend you put some connectors where your wires go thru your new breaker box. That way your wires are protected from any vibration from the van driving!
    They’re black plastic connectors and tighten around the wire.

  • @Uggatip
    @Uggatip Рік тому

    fantastic

  • @samtoomer2756
    @samtoomer2756 Рік тому

    Has it really been 3 years? I remember you putting in insulation while still in Southern Utah. Also can’t believe that it’s been that long since you got your freezer! I really thought it was only a couple months ago- the time flies!

  • @simply.leen.
    @simply.leen. Рік тому

    The fact that you did this while it was raining? I was a bit worried - old lady worries perhaps. LOL But I love the fact that you powered on regardless and completed the tasks. Thank you again for the excellent informative video and the laughs. WHAT WAS THAT ALARM?

  • @robertallen6028
    @robertallen6028 Рік тому

    the only things i would suggest is you use cable ferrules on the ends of your cables so they don't fray out which could lead to shorting. it is a good idea but not necessary to use the ferrules on all cables that are held in place by screws. in addition, you shouldn't have any bare cable showing beyond where the cable goes into the device. this could also lead to shorting. you do such a great job, these two things would make your build that much better. keep up the great work and videos and kiss akela for me!!!

  • @lindadunn5707
    @lindadunn5707 Рік тому

    Hi Linnea you Rock girl ! No worries with all those electric cables, I sent you some money via Google so I hope you received it OK hunny to get yourself & our favourite pouch a treat ! You make life look so easy my little Ray of sunshine 🌞 so enjoy life hunny & will be watching your next vlog next week , stay safe , god bless your Vivid fan & friend from the 🇬🇧UK , Linda & family xx😊😂

  • @DebraAltizer-eq9wz
    @DebraAltizer-eq9wz Рік тому

    Love watching you guys. I must have missed something, why are you getting rid of your inverter?

  • @chadfaulkner3600
    @chadfaulkner3600 Рік тому

    in the past couple years, solar power stations have come along so much that i wonder if its really worth installing a perminant solar electrical system

  • @jonathanford9774
    @jonathanford9774 Рік тому

    Yep a 12 volt spark will make anybody jump 😮

  • @chadchlarson5298
    @chadchlarson5298 Рік тому

    3 years …… that’s amazing

  • @blessedveteran
    @blessedveteran Рік тому

    I love my Bluetti, and I would never use any other system. Also, it's made in America, which you didn't mention 👍 ... that should be important to all Americans!

  • @sovereigns1grace
    @sovereigns1grace Рік тому

    It really would have helped me if you'd explained why you removed the inverter.

  • @MrGundawindy
    @MrGundawindy Рік тому

    I don't want to be that guy, but I told you about that fuse in your "Solar power upgrade" video a year ago. I'm surprised it's lasted this long, probably only because you were hardly ever using the inverter. But the real question is, have you upgraded the wiring at all? The fuse should be sized depending on the wires it is protecting. If you have 20A wire and a 40A fuse, that's a really bad idea.

  • @ronethridge9875
    @ronethridge9875 Рік тому

    is it good to go-or go to good/can you run your refrigerator off that/fine/thanks much

  • @jackblock777
    @jackblock777 Рік тому

    Without the inverter how do you plug your fridge in or charge your new power station?

  • @abigailvuocolo1548
    @abigailvuocolo1548 Рік тому

    Do you have a list somewhere of all you used in your solar set up?

  • @dwaynerobinson1037
    @dwaynerobinson1037 Рік тому

    What about the inverter ? You never said how you now convert the power.

  • @angiewhiting1146
    @angiewhiting1146 Рік тому

    I’m going to start van life by the end of the summer! I’ve been doing rv life for two or so years but I feel like simplifying and I want to make sure I’ve got the power I need, do you have a complete list of what I would need to have a similar electrical set up that you have? I also want to do a freezer for small game and fishing. Also curious why you chose blue etti be eco flow? Thanks!

  • @VoodouFairy
    @VoodouFairy Рік тому

    you mentioned that the solar panels on your van are heavy. is there a reason you didn’t go with flexible solar panels??

  • @cherylbrown7622
    @cherylbrown7622 10 місяців тому

    did you get and install a different inverter?

  • @krisk1547
    @krisk1547 Рік тому

    Battery is not that big in it. You have 1800w inverter. I am looking to buy one of those however app is missing alot of options that i have on ecoflow and i do not like the flat top 😂. I'll see what has better sale

  • @grandpamikee
    @grandpamikee Рік тому

    High five.

  • @koonske
    @koonske Рік тому

    Hmmm, I have questions.
    Do the Battleborns just charge the BluEtti now? The bluetti is essentially your old setup in a convenient box. That's an expensive upgrade without the sponsor giving you a freebie.

  • @abigailvuocolo1548
    @abigailvuocolo1548 Рік тому

    So do you not need an inverter?

  • @billiefreedom6687
    @billiefreedom6687 Рік тому

    Thank you so much for sharing your experience. I’m truly grateful as always. So with the circuit breaker you no longer require an inverter? I seriously don’t comprehend electrical. Amps, watts, voltage 😳 I do however feel less fortunate for not being a patreon. It seems as though allot of youtubers that I fallow are going that direction. The almighty dollar wins again…. Le sigh 😞