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removing my generator
Posted: Mon Nov 10, 2014 2:41 pm
by Mark
I'm planning on installing a full solar system in my RV this winter.
Given that the system will power everything I need, does it make any sense to keep the generator? I could lighten my load and gain some storage space by getting rid of it.
Downsides?
Re: removing my generator
Posted: Mon Nov 10, 2014 3:59 pm
by skater
It all comes down to what is more important for you - that backup source of power or the extra storage. It's a tough one for anyone else to answer. I'd be concerned about several overcast/rainy days in a row not giving me a chance to recharge, but you could also charge off the alternator in the engine if you really had to.
Re: removing my generator
Posted: Mon Nov 10, 2014 5:24 pm
by lido14co
It could hurt resale value, if you're thinking that far down the road. Also, it' since to have that one extra power option.
Cliff
Re: removing my generator
Posted: Mon Nov 10, 2014 8:51 pm
by jb1rd73
I would keep it, resale value and options are nice to have
Re: removing my generator
Posted: Mon Nov 10, 2014 10:27 pm
by Marko Polo
I would ditto what everyone else is saying if only because removing it is a pain in the rear (have you cut wires because there's no harness to remove it is what a Cummins tech told me) and you really don't gain that much storage space.
Nice picture by the way - I spent a few weeks out in Hood in the B190 last winter. Caught a few real nice, albeit wet, days skinning up the side of the lot right there. (NOTE: I realize the picture is Yosemite, the poster is from Hood).
Re: removing my generator
Posted: Mon Nov 10, 2014 11:05 pm
by Mark
Thanks for your thoughts. I think I'll keep it.
Re: removing my generator
Posted: Mon Nov 10, 2014 11:14 pm
by twistedskipper
Actually, if I didn't need the generator, I'd consider replacing the sofa with a dinette, rather than adding storage, but that's not everyone's cup of tea.
Can you tell us more about what "full solar" means? What are you planning to be able to run off the system?
Re: removing my generator
Posted: Tue Nov 11, 2014 12:12 am
by Mark
I'm not fully done researching it but I hope to run everything, including the modest microwave use, on it. My needs are pretty light, I don't watch TV and it would be nice if I could run the microwave for a short time, maybe 3 or 4 minutes to reheat a meal. All I really want is to listen to music, charge my phone, iPad and computer and run the blender for a smoothie every morning.
Right now I'm looking at two panels on the roof and two batteries. I'm getting a bid for the whole kit from AM Solar.
http://www.amsolar.com