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opinion:frater_secessus:cheap_build [2020/08/25 18:28]
frater_secessus [building out a camper on the cheap] 		opinion:frater_secessus:cheap_build [2020/08/25 18:38]
frater_secessus [power]
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-===== the van ===== 
  
-  * Consider a mommy van or minivan instead of a Sprinter. +===== sourcing ===== 
-  * get a mechanic's inspection + 
-  * plan your moves in advance to save on fuel costs.  Use "economy" routing rather than "fastest time" routing.   +Buy used from craigslist, thrift stores, etc. when possible.  Know the internal dimensions of your van and carry a tape measure with you.  Buy used/open-package from Amazon.   
-  * drive slower+ 
 +Use pricewatch tools like camelcamelcamel to get alerts when prices drop on items you need.  
  
 ===== power ===== ===== power =====
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   * avoid heating/cooling with electricity you make offgrid.  Use propane or similar for heating and cooking.   * avoid heating/cooling with electricity you make offgrid.  Use propane or similar for heating and cooking.
-  * avoid using power-hungry PCs or laptops.  Use a tablet, chromebook, phone, or other low-power device. +  * avoid using power-hungry PCs or laptops.  Use a tablet, chromebook, phone, or other low-power device.\ 
 +  * run discretionary loads [[electrical:solar:nonessential|when you have excess power]]
  
  
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   * Buy larger/higher-voltage panels which are cheaper by the watt.((this will require MPPT controllers for nominal 12v banks))   * Buy larger/higher-voltage panels which are cheaper by the watt.((this will require MPPT controllers for nominal 12v banks))
-  * if you are using PWM controllers, choose poly panels vs mono due to their higher Imp rating.  When choosing between poly panels at the same price point, pick the one with the higher Imp (and thus lower Vmp)+  * if you are using PWM controllers, choose poly panels vs mono -- they are typically less expensive and actually perform better with PWM due to their higher Imp rating.  When choosing between poly panels at the same price point, pick the one with the higher Imp (and thus lower Vmp)
   * if you are going to be deep-cycling the batteries every day((like to 50% [[electrical:depth_of_discharge|DoD]])) consider using a dirt-cheap [[electrical:solar:shunt_tweaking|shunt controller]] rather than PWM.   * if you are going to be deep-cycling the batteries every day((like to 50% [[electrical:depth_of_discharge|DoD]])) consider using a dirt-cheap [[electrical:solar:shunt_tweaking|shunt controller]] rather than PWM.
   * [[electrical:solar:overpaneling|overpanel]] your MPPT controller;  +10% is optimal, and 20% is reasonable [[opinion:frater_secessus:panelsizesforinsolation|in challenging insolation]].   * [[electrical:solar:overpaneling|overpanel]] your MPPT controller;  +10% is optimal, and 20% is reasonable [[opinion:frater_secessus:panelsizesforinsolation|in challenging insolation]].
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-===== recurring expenses ===== 
  
-  * consider moving to a bank that does not charge ATM fees (Ally, Schwab), checking fees, etc 
-  * get your internet use under control and downgrade to a cheaper plan 
-  * avoid keeping a self-storage unit 
  
  
opinion/frater_secessus/cheap_build.txt · Last modified: 2020/10/11 19:48 (external edit)

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