pianotuna wrote:
Great plan.
Make sure to stay with 24 volt for the battery banks.
Acquire a good DC to DC converter for items that are 12 volt only.
Consider a sun frost or other 12/24 volt fridge/freezer.
Populate the entire roof with solar panels.
With enough battery bank, and enough solar it may be possible to eliminated using propane for household needs.
Use a water heater that has a loop to allow the bus coolant system to meet the hot water needs. When the bus is not in motion, use a diversion load from the solar charge controller to heat the water. Have a low wattage back up heater for times when the sun is not shining. I would want a ten gallon unit.
Use a hybrid 24 volt inverter/charger for times when there is shore power available. This will allow you to use a 1000 watt inverter generator for back up power should the sun be uncooperative for several days. At least one full time person has not used the generator except to exercise it for over a year.
Consider LI batteries for the bank. Aim at 3 days of storage.
Consider a waterless cassette type toilet. Then you would only need a gray water tank and potable water tank.
Use closed cell foam insulation and don't skimp on it.
Look at a DC air conditioner. They are more efficient. If they have a heat pump variant go for it. Install the air conditioner using duct work. It is a lot quieter. Follow the climate so that both space heating and cooling are not major energy uses.
Use induction cooking units (Nuwave are fantastic) for cooking, and a convection microwave for an oven.
Use led lighting.
Find a floor plan that works for your family.
I am considering replacing my awning with solar panels that fold down to cover windows during travel.
Best of luck with your efforts.
Thanks for all the great advice Don, I really appreciate it. I hadn't thought about going to 24v, I'll have to research that more.
