Easy Start By Micro Air

bob_nestor wrote:
From other postings I've seen where people have tested running their A/C off batteries and they are reporting that you can get about 1 hr of run time for each 200aH of battery.

I wonder how long it will be before RV manufacturers start offering an option of placing Lithium-Ion (or sodium) batteries in the generator bay, installing an inverter at least 2800W, wiring all the 110v outlets and appliances in the RV thru the inverter, and putting Soft Starts in the A/C. And with Lithium or sodium batteries, installing the second high-output alternator in the chassis in addition to as much solar as then can fit on the roof.

While recently researching for my next RV I found one that I liked which I thought could be built this way quite easily to match my camping style. (I'm not looking to run the A/C on batteries other then when I'm traveling, hence the second alternator. Plus future battery technology may improve well beyond where it is now.) I figured I could replace the generator with about 1200aH of Lithium batteries (pricey, but doable). When I contacted the manufacturer with my requested changes, they flatly refused - said the generator couldn't be eliminated and they'd never wire the A/C and microwave thru the inverter. Reluctantly crossed them off my list and moved to other manufacturers.

I see manufactures started to put small Solar systems with standard being 150 watts but but you can up grade to 300 watts. I also heard that EPA is going to make small gas generator illegal. still p300 watt solar is still pretty lite when it comes to solar and power demand.

When I did my system I determined I could get by with a 500 watt solar because I boondocks almost always in the summer. Since my battery banks of 340ah is lead acid only half of that is usable.

In the summer with my flagrant use of energy running a big screen TV, Satellite I am usually back up to 100% by 1pm. BUT throw in a cloudy day or one day of rain or low sun angle and I will be sucking off the generator. I do run my frige on propane when boodocking.

If you want to be able to boondock all year round and run at least one AC you will need that large battery bank 1200ah in lithium would cost you a bundle. Throw in 1500 watts of solar on the roof and some nice Victron electronics and you into a 25k+ solar system not counting labor. Now if I had a little piece of land somewhere where I could park when not traveling maybe the price would be worth it.