Van Life Essentials- Solar Basics 101 for Living in a Van

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  • Опубліковано 29 лис 2024

КОМЕНТАРІ • 465

  • @HappyGodGirl
    @HappyGodGirl 7 років тому +4

    Thank you Bob! Did you notice how many women are commenting and trying to learn how to do this Van Life? It's amazing to me! Of course, I am on this journey myself.

  • @itsjustrenee1320
    @itsjustrenee1320 7 років тому +2

    You're an inspiration to me. You keep saying "live your best life" and it's starting to sink into my thick noggin.

  • @freespeech4all723
    @freespeech4all723 3 роки тому +1

    😆You could have called this series...The birds and the bees about solar power.
    Lol ...PG of course!
    Great information Bob!
    😊 Thanks!

  • @bonjan289
    @bonjan289 7 років тому +8

    This couldn't have come at a better time. Getting ready to do my own van build and my biggest worry was installing the solar. I had watched some videos and had pretty much decided to just pay the money and have it done for me (which I can't afford) , but now with you breaking down everything so simply I know I CAN do this. Thanks Bob!

  • @elrayabc
    @elrayabc 7 років тому

    So many teachers talk over the heads of students, assuming they know some basics. You are able to bring the information down to a true beginners level. What an excellent presentation. Assume nothing.

  • @NewHampshireJack
    @NewHampshireJack 7 років тому

    Without question, our grade school age students could follow these simple instructions. Bob Wells, mission accomplished

  • @SCLARK2112
    @SCLARK2112 6 років тому

    Leave it to Bob to turn a simple solar instructional video into a PG13 rated chat about the birds and bees...it was really dirty, but I still loved it!

  • @williamgestole4859
    @williamgestole4859 6 років тому

    bob! thank you thank you. I've been so intimidated with solar for my camper van. I got it!! I've been watching for a few years now. you have changed people's lives.

  • @DriftLibrary
    @DriftLibrary 7 років тому +1

    I'm really looking forward to this series as I have been learning about solar for the last couple of months for my campervan build here in Australia. The way you talk is so great and easy to understand. This video has really given me the confidence to go ahead and install our solar system myself rather than pay for someone else to do it for me.
    I am still a little bit confused about breakers, where they belong in a solar system and how to install them but I'm sure these will be topics you cover as the series progresses.
    Thanks again for sharing your wonderful knowledge ✌

  • @dadams19111
    @dadams19111 5 років тому

    Thanks Bob!!! Dauugh!!!!!! I really did not know that this was so simple. People try and make things so complicated but you always keep it simple. Once again, thank you!

  • @neilfarnham5996
    @neilfarnham5996 7 років тому +8

    Hi Bob. Suggest you never short the solar panel as you did in you video. Cut the extension cable first; use insulation tape; red and black accordingly; wire into the controller before connecting the panel. All the best. Neil

    • @K9River
      @K9River 7 років тому +1

      Neil, there is nothing wrong with shorting a solar panel. The panel is fine and there was no danger to anyone.

  • @annonymous9063
    @annonymous9063 5 років тому

    After watching far too many solar explanations I finally get it! You make things so clear Bob. You are a skilled teacher. Thanks!

  • @beverlyheinritz5294
    @beverlyheinritz5294 7 років тому

    Thanks Bob. I have been reading the solar boondocking Facebook page for months and had decided I need to find a pro to do this and hope I never have a problem. I figured out 30 years ago that if I do not understand a subject buy a children's book on how to do it. (Someone later came out with the Dummy manuals.) Breaking any task down to the most basic elements is so helpful for learning and I appreciate you doing this for your whole lifestyle. I learn something every time I watch.

  • @cherylmaloney8435
    @cherylmaloney8435 7 років тому +13

    I really appreciate this approach to explaining about solar. This demystifies it. I am now not intimidated and look forward to learning more. Everything else I've ever watched about solar installation made me feel as though I had to have a Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering to be able to install my own system.

    • @larsturner310
      @larsturner310 6 років тому

      lol

    • @ApothecaryGrant
      @ApothecaryGrant 3 роки тому

      It can be scary when you only know that you don't know anything about solar

  • @EVRYDYPRNCSSORGANIZES
    @EVRYDYPRNCSSORGANIZES 7 років тому

    I'm getting ready to move into my fifth wheel full time and have been wanting to install solar. I've had people insist it's too complicated. You make it sound easy and doable. Thank you.

  • @ouranacondahome
    @ouranacondahome 7 років тому +4

    Thanks Bob. I think this is the best and most simple way for me to understand the solar systems

  • @malky736
    @malky736 7 років тому +2

    Excellent tutorial. I wasn't sure how reproduction worked until you hammered home the male/female thing. Thank you

  • @jessiee2115
    @jessiee2115 6 років тому

    I was feeling overwhelmed at the idea of trying ot connect a solar system to my future van. This has helped TREMENDOUSLY!

  • @catchbay
    @catchbay 7 років тому +4

    Been with solar 10+ years. This was a good video and as you said - this is a serie of videos. Solar is not simple. It's not a generator which you can start when there is a need for power.

  • @MadnomadM
    @MadnomadM 7 років тому +2

    I have one of the small folding portable solar charger. Don’t need a battery/controller. It’s part of the solar charger. Haven’t used it much yet but it works.

  • @bonniereidinger3926
    @bonniereidinger3926 7 років тому +6

    Thank you Bob!! This is so easy to understand! Thank you for making it so easy for even a blonde woman to understand!!

    • @maxartman8277
      @maxartman8277 7 років тому

      Stop with the blonde! I'm sure you're very smart! Hair color has NOTHING to do with it. And by the way, blonde jokes are as old as Polish jokes (I'm both - blonde and Polish) We need something new ... Bonnie ... What's funnier than blonde and Polish ... Muslim? ADD? ADHD? Autistic? Prolly none of those. Still too close to the skin. Jus sayin

  • @igotstoknow2
    @igotstoknow2 7 років тому +6

    Cheap flexible panels need to be installed with an air gap for permanent installation.
    The short warranty is mainly because many owners will install the panels without a gap which will cause heat buildup that decreases the life of the panel.
    The panels with frames ensure air gaps when installed and therefore have longer warranties.

  • @familyfunshots
    @familyfunshots 7 років тому +1

    This is EXACTLY what I needed! I love this channel... I'm still bouncing between a Roadtrek and a van... I see the positives in both.
    I'm purchasing the first set up, that's all I need. I just need to charge my phone and a solar light, but it takes care of itself so, thank you!!!

  • @DanChasingTheGlobe
    @DanChasingTheGlobe 7 років тому +3

    This is quickly becoming my favorite UA-cam channel. Bob is a great video-host-personality. Thanks Bob.

  • @bigal6684
    @bigal6684 7 років тому +20

    Think about it....If you have a small solar set-up and small refrigerator, You can use sunlight to keep your food and drinks cold.
    We certainly have come a long way since caveman times!

    • @michaelchiesa6142
      @michaelchiesa6142 3 роки тому

      We're unfortunately still cavemen/trogladytes, just more devious/sophisticated than the average Neanderthal, many of whom still appear to be flourishing here in Australia...

  • @sunsetlife5053
    @sunsetlife5053 7 років тому +1

    Awesome tutorial Bob & I look forward to next one because solar power has been confusing to me but now you're making them more understable with your tutorial! THANK YOU BOB!!

  • @monkeyshinemmie
    @monkeyshinemmie 4 роки тому

    I feel like this is a heck of a time to be getting into this, but no time like the present. Covid19 has delayed my plans, but I have begun preparing. Bought a 2013 Ford Transit Connect recently and now REALLY beginning to study outfitting it. The thought of solar has been overwhelming, but with your series I think I will be able to do it! Thank you so much. Will keep you up to date... Thank you, Bob, for all you do for everyone! Leslie - 66 yr old lady who has waited long enough. 😊

  • @ritab3573
    @ritab3573 7 років тому

    I'll be sure to follow this series. I'm planning to add a couple solar panels to keep my 2-12v batteries charged so I can do some boondocking next year. This first in the series explained a lot and will stop me from making a lot of mistakes. TY

  • @cathyf6848
    @cathyf6848 4 роки тому +2

    Bob- THANK YOU for this excellent teaching. I really do need the hand you are offering to encourage me to walk along learning this. You are an excellent teacher.

  • @tbaer4894
    @tbaer4894 7 років тому +1

    Thank you so much! I was just praying about wanting to know how to understand solar for my future van build. I'm looking forward to this series!

  • @mdmerch6166
    @mdmerch6166 7 років тому +1

    Thank you so much Bob, I found your channel a short while ago and find I am already addicted, you are so informative and so easy to understand. I am in the beginnings of setting up my minivan for camping trips, and hopefully someday live in a van full time like you! I cant wait to see the rest of the info you present in this series.

  • @offthehook4u
    @offthehook4u 7 років тому

    OMG Bob!!! You are THE BEST!! As Newbies preparing for vanlife we have been completely stymied as to all of this solar stuff and confused amidst a maze of amp hours, watts, chargers, MPPTs, etc etc etc. And then, what is the best, most appropriate purchase and how do we avoid spending money unnecessarily or foolishl. So, we have done nothing as yet. But we know we will need some sort of solar to aid us in running a fan at least. Thank you thank you thank you for distilling this down to "Solar Energy for Dummies". It's really been helpful.

  • @bodhifever4626
    @bodhifever4626 2 роки тому

    Wow, I think this is the first solar related video for van builds I've watched where I understood what the person was talking about. Thank you so much for keeping it simple and expressing things in laymen's terms. I was very intimidated by the idea of the solar system set up part of the build, but I feel like I can actually make it happen now. That's a really great feeling.

  • @viniciusamaranhao5738
    @viniciusamaranhao5738 7 років тому

    Thanks Bob! Your life with your experience shared is inspirational in an worldwide level. Few months watching your You Tube channel and the learning curve is moving ahead. Always learning and adapting to the local reality. The project of going full time on CheapRV living is moving faster than projected. Thanks again and keep going.
    Vinicius de Albuquerque, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil - F350 2008 crew cab 4x4 long bed / Larturist Tahiti Camper 1987 (2017 got this rig and already traveled 9/26 brasilian states and 9/15 departamentos in Uruguay).

  • @katrinaschneible7399
    @katrinaschneible7399 7 років тому +1

    This is exactly what i have been trying to figure for my van build. Thank you for doing these solar videos now!

  • @lindacripple-creek7008
    @lindacripple-creek7008 7 років тому

    Excellent! Now i just need to learn the process for determining how much power a certain piece of equipment uses. I have no doubt that you plan to fill in that gap. Soo looking forward to the rest of this series!! THANK YOU!!

  • @Puddles79912
    @Puddles79912 7 років тому +1

    I appreciate this tutorial. Solar is no longer a mystery.. I look forward to your next video!

  • @melindaford5080
    @melindaford5080 7 років тому

    I learned more with this video than any of the other numerous videos I’ve watched about solar panels for my RV. Thanks Bob! Looking forward to your next installment!

  • @richgreenejwrustictoolmanv9954
    @richgreenejwrustictoolmanv9954 7 років тому

    Excellent v-log simple and to the point. The basics really are simple. Chargers usually even have pictures of the solar panels and battery where the wires hook up.
    But to make clear to your listeners don't just buy any wires for the charge controller to battery they need to be a certain gauge
    Generally 4-6 gauge

    • @brucestarr4438
      @brucestarr4438 7 років тому

      Rich Greene that depends on how many Amps it is carrying and how long it is. There are charts available for this.

  • @pamcarter1585
    @pamcarter1585 7 років тому +5

    I think this sounds like "electrical discrimination" to me... Males aren't always positive & females aren't always negative 😁😁 I'm just kidding...am sooo glad you started this series. It is going to be VERY helpful too many of us considering solar in our future RV endeavors 👍👍👍

  • @garystone2863
    @garystone2863 7 років тому

    I had to watch it twice to understand what you meant by cutting the extension leads in half. And most importantly keeping the positive and negative lines the same.
    Thanks...was the first time I had ever seen this.

  • @whatsananna
    @whatsananna 7 років тому +1

    So glad to see this, and your common sense exclamation works really well for me. I have a Goal Zero Little solar set up that I do just what to say. I put it on my dash during the day, and use it to charge my phone at night. Thank you for this.

  • @cynforrest
    @cynforrest 7 років тому +8

    Brilliant, Bob! I finally understand some of the basics. The dashboard system is very doable. Thanks so much. I’m hoping another vid will explain the kind of cable needed to attach controller to a house battery. The only cables I know are jumper cables. Inverters are still a mystery too. lol. Thanks again.
    I’m glad I’ve subbed to your Blog and YT Channel. You’re amazing. Hope to come to RTR 2018.

    • @cynforrest
      @cynforrest 7 років тому

      tree feller - Thank you

  • @saoirses_travel_bug7426
    @saoirses_travel_bug7426 7 років тому

    Thankyou so much for doing this series Bob! Im converting my one ton Ford E-350 van into a stealthy camper van and going to install these myself but didnt know how, oh this is going to be alot of help sooo thankyou again! :)

  • @tomcor33
    @tomcor33 7 років тому +4

    You always to connect the battery first to the controller then connect to solar panel. Also an inline fuse should be installed close to the battery positive connection.

  • @terrantula7733
    @terrantula7733 7 років тому +2

    Bob your so awesome!! Thank you for all that you do for us in the nomadic world. God bless you!!

  • @Scorpiomary
    @Scorpiomary 7 років тому +3

    Good job. You reminded me of my talk of birds and bees with my dad. I knew already but I made him start ... Then let him off the hook. ☺

  • @CetMM
    @CetMM 7 років тому

    Thanks for chunking down that info, Bob.
    That’s a lot more manageable than most explainer videos and I think builds confidence in learning more.

  • @magicgemmaster566
    @magicgemmaster566 7 років тому

    Thanks, Bob! I think I'm going to go for two of the foldable solar panels. It just makes sense for me

  • @PrairieNightMoon
    @PrairieNightMoon 7 років тому

    I recently emailed you about solar so I really appreciate this. This really does simplify things for a beginner. Very well done video. Thank you.

  • @donwyates
    @donwyates 7 років тому

    Thanks Bob! As always, you use the KISS method... which more often than not, works well. You've helped so many - loads of gratitude to you sir!

  • @lanaschnur5640
    @lanaschnur5640 7 років тому

    Thank you for the solar basic video!!! I was so confused by the whole thing I was giving up on the idea until I could pay someone to do it for me. You have given me new hope! Thanks again!!

  • @kayleeskottageonwheels
    @kayleeskottageonwheels 7 років тому +6

    thanks for the info Bob. Looking forward to the rest of the series

  • @familygene9030
    @familygene9030 6 років тому

    Bob you are a man far ahead of your time , well done.

  • @asphaltgypsy868
    @asphaltgypsy868 7 років тому

    Thanks again for your patience in teaching us, Bob! Also, thanks for including the list of your fav products!!!! I KNEW that you had spoken highly of a solar charger for off-grid phone charging! Thanks for making it so easy to find/order!!

  • @cmiller1952
    @cmiller1952 7 років тому

    Thanks! I've wanted to go solar for a long time before didn't know how...you're helping me understand....THANKS!!!

  • @SOFISINTOWN
    @SOFISINTOWN 7 років тому +2

    Thank you Bob for making it easy!

  • @maehay4065
    @maehay4065 7 років тому

    Thank you Bob for sharing this information on solar. I'm looking forward to this series to learn more from someone who has been using it for years 👍👍👍

  • @rebekahleonard2884
    @rebekahleonard2884 7 років тому +3

    Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU, BOB! As always, you've given us a starting place! This is really all we need to know to grasp the concept..then, we can add to this foundation as needed. Again, thanks. I'm looking forward to this series without the dread that often accompanies anything that references "solar"!

  • @ginac7839
    @ginac7839 7 років тому +2

    Thank you for making this understandable to me! Sooo looking forward to the rest of the series so I can upgrade my solar in prep for my very 1st RTR and venture into this way of life! 💙

  • @vannanny982
    @vannanny982 7 років тому

    Bob, thank you so very much for this series!!! I absolutely do not understand electricity at all. I want solar for my van but had no idea how to do it! This series is going to be so great for me! Now I know what that mysterious controller does! 👍😊❤️

  • @Dorothye58
    @Dorothye58 6 років тому

    Bob, thanks for explaining this so simple a simpleton like myself could comprehend. Another amazing video!

  • @GrandTraditions
    @GrandTraditions 7 років тому +1

    Thanks for another great video. I'm getting excited to get my solar installed. Your videos really do help.

  • @BasicBenny
    @BasicBenny 6 років тому

    i understand all about solar,but i just like watching your videos.

  • @yolandav2784
    @yolandav2784 7 років тому

    Thank You Bob.. Very informative,, im taking my notes.. I needed to get more knowledge on soloar.because im planning to retire in 2 years. And get my travel van..😊. You make it sound simple, 👍. I so appreciated. I hope i can save this video..Have a beautiful day⭐.. Hugs to Coty!!.Bob you have a gift to share with us!!. Keep sharing. God Bless you and Coty..🌻

  • @SandraNelson063
    @SandraNelson063 7 років тому +1

    Canadian Tire has the Coleman 100 W 12 V panels on for $200.00 instead of $540.00 right now. FYI. They have smaller very low watt panels (7.5, 4...) for $30.00 to $50.00 as well.

  • @tayloredtravels5271
    @tayloredtravels5271 7 років тому

    Bob, I have followed you through your videos for quite some time now & I can't tell you how much I appreciate the time & consideration that you put into helping others to learn how to be so independent, self reliant & FREE!! I am retired & in the process of selling my home & hitting the road! I plan to tent camp for awhile until I find what I want in a small camper or RV. I don't think I would have ever had the courage to do this had you not been so gracious as to have been such an advocate of this lifestyle. Thanks again, hope to meet you at the RTR in Jan.

  • @MrSafetyForever
    @MrSafetyForever 7 років тому

    Bob, Solar is indeed a fascinating technology that has decreased in price substantially over the past ten years! Take Care

  • @dianakamalamars8397
    @dianakamalamars8397 7 років тому

    I kept laughing -- it was like you were speaking directly to me. Keepin' it so incredibly simple & funny that it kept me engaged were I'd usually glaze over. Love you!

  • @waswestkan
    @waswestkan 6 років тому

    Having training and practical experience in things electrical and electronic, I'm not fearful of the topic, but I appreciate the shopping lists and views of the products.

  • @johnmitchel4022
    @johnmitchel4022 6 років тому

    It certainly cleared up some things for me; now I know where to start! Thanks

  • @SarahTree
    @SarahTree 7 років тому

    Thanks Bob!
    Can't wait for the next one! I want to get those flexible panels too. Thanks for testing them for us so we can see how they do.

  • @deborahdansante-white913
    @deborahdansante-white913 6 років тому

    Thank you so much. I posted a question on another of your videos concerning Solar. This video helped explain it a great deal. Cheers.

  • @jimray9505
    @jimray9505 6 років тому

    Thank you so much for making this easy to understand. I now feel comfortable to purchase and install solar in my 5th wheel.

  • @maryr5083
    @maryr5083 5 місяців тому

    Thank you for doing this step by step. I’m trying to learn it and it’s too hard when they do it all at once.

  • @flpirate45
    @flpirate45 6 років тому

    Bob,I know that song very well. I live that way each and every way. I enjoyed this video a lot and take it to heart. Thank you Bob.

  • @supersolarpower4191
    @supersolarpower4191 7 років тому

    Great to hear from someone with a lot of experience in solar. Thanks for sharing!

  • @Jackie5992
    @Jackie5992 7 років тому

    Hey there Bob....I am hoping to be able to make it to the RTR this year also. I will be totally new to rv/car living, having never even camped out in my life! Have been watching your channel for years. I'll be coming for classes, get some info from people who have been doing car camping for awhile and hopefully, making some new friends-whom I hope to be able to travel with my lst year out. Your channel is invaluable to all of us. Thank you again

  • @barbaraeidel6344
    @barbaraeidel6344 7 років тому

    Thank you Bob! Your explantion was terrific! ...easy enough for even me to understand!

  • @kw2756
    @kw2756 6 років тому

    Thx Bob. Very helpful basic info. You've simplified the process. THANK YOU.

  • @LetGoAnLive
    @LetGoAnLive 7 років тому

    Thanks Bob ! Your videos are great 👍 That makes it very easy to grasp the concept can’t wait to see the rest of the series..

  • @kengrimes4586
    @kengrimes4586 2 роки тому

    Thank you sir you awnsered my question on how to size a controller all the controllers I have have came with my harbor freight ,100 watt panel sets so I got 4 ten watt charge controllers and only need one forty watt one ,lol. Thanks for clearing up that question for me .Safe traveling to you and hope to see you out there some day.

  • @randyx1763
    @randyx1763 7 років тому

    Your videos are simple and amazingly helpful. You're my go to guy for questions. Thanks!

  • @ritav7917
    @ritav7917 7 років тому

    Thank you so much! You are a gifted teacher, it's so easy to listen to and watch your instructional videos.

  • @hardknocksschool1963
    @hardknocksschool1963 4 роки тому

    finally not a ROCKET scientist! Thanks for the STRAIGHT forward lesson!!!

  • @daviddirom7429
    @daviddirom7429 7 років тому

    Thanks Bob for all the videos you do, haven’t seen them all yet but I’m working on them lol. This is one that will help me out as I’ve been baffles by the salesman’s BS to the point where I don’t buy anything. I was raised on the K.I.S.S. Principle especially in the military. You are taking the mystery out of solar for me. David

  • @wendelljohnson1884
    @wendelljohnson1884 6 років тому

    BOB ALWAYS READ THE INSTRUCTIONS PLUS COMMON SINCE. BUT YOU HELPED SOME PEOPLE .

  • @lynneteorten585
    @lynneteorten585 7 років тому

    Thank you Bob for publishing solar video! I really want to make this work for me. Watching for the next solar video!!

  • @kathybitzan7473
    @kathybitzan7473 7 років тому

    Bob has definitely found his niche in life. Another great video. thank you....

  • @lanaswanson1743
    @lanaswanson1743 5 років тому

    Always wanted to understand this and you set it before me as clear as a bell. Thank you🍒

  • @Riverotter76
    @Riverotter76 7 років тому

    THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH! You have a wonderful way of taking the scary out of everything Bob. Much appreciated

  • @thomassavage7451
    @thomassavage7451 7 років тому

    Very nice presentation Bob. Just one small correction. The MC4 connector attached to the positive cable of the PV panel is actually the female connector. If you look down the center of that protubance you will see it is hollow. If you look down the barrel of the other MC4 connector you will see it has A solid metal pin. I originally confuse the two just as you did that is how I know the difference now. It probably won’t make a difference until you have to order a Male or female MC4 connector.

    • @CheapRVliving
      @CheapRVliving  7 років тому

      +Thomas Savage, I never noticed that before. But because we usually buy everything in pairs, it shouldn't be an issue.

  • @douglasmclaughlin9204
    @douglasmclaughlin9204 7 років тому +2

    Bob I always look forward to your videos. Lots of good info you do a great job thank you for sharing. Doug

  • @hiker750
    @hiker750 6 років тому

    Thanks, Bob. I’ve had solar on both of my campers but still struggle with understanding it. I’m so glad you’re doing this series. Thanks for the information you provide:)

  • @judyjudyjudy9593
    @judyjudyjudy9593 7 років тому +1

    Bob...view behind you is awesome!!! Yes, that is the way I need to learn, one step at a time! Thank you so much! See you in the next step!!! LOL Judie

  • @live4u672
    @live4u672 7 років тому

    Awesome information. I always wanted to know about solar from the start to finish. Thx, Bob!

  • @laserracer6
    @laserracer6 7 років тому

    Awesome thanks Bob....I found this so interesting...very well explained in simple layman's terms...

  • @muzerhythm2242
    @muzerhythm2242 7 років тому

    Thanks for breaking down the steps on putting together solar set up! I agree that other videos give a lot of information all at once, I would get overwhelmed and confused. Have to admit I laughed a little on needing to explain "we're all adults here" on the male and female cables. It's a typical term used, my dad worked on electronics and used terms like this and I grew up hearing them.

  • @ArtByAnnaMarie44
    @ArtByAnnaMarie44 3 роки тому

    Thank you for keeping your video simple. I'm starting to understand solar because of you:)

  • @uperbee
    @uperbee 6 років тому

    Just what I’m need right now. Will be gettin solar in as I deside what I’m going be my future home. Step Van, bx truck or pull behind truck.Still looking.