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Wednesday, January 24, 2018

Low Power



I made the mistake of running my power too low. Then the clouds moved in and I was unable to get enough solar power to use my laptop. After two and a half weeks off-grid in the National Forest, it was bound to happen. Finally, but noon the next day there was enough sunshine to fire up the computer and get some on-line work done.

Fortunately, I'd left enough power in the batteries to run my c-pap. At least I was able to get a good night's sleep. It was cutting it close as the voltage was pretty low by morning. Also, I had enough charge left in the phone for emergencies.

In a couple days we'll be back on-grid at a private campground. I'll make sure all my batteries are topped off from the grid while we are there.

Right now my big power draw is the 12 volt cooler. I was really tempted to get a much more efficient one, but my lovely wife had an eye on the budget. We are making do with the one we have.

The oil and coolant are topped off in the van. The diesel tank and full and I topped off the veggie tank with grease. We are ready to hit the road.

-Sixbears

4 comments:

  1. If you don't mind me asking . . . which model CPAP do you have ? My Responics unit died last week after eight years and I am scheduled for a sleep study to satisfy insurance unit replacement.

    I would like to get a unit that can be taken off-grid (i.e. battery powered), as sleeping without it causes some major issues with wakefulness the next day or three. I'm sure you know what I am talking about - sometimes nearly fall asleep on my feet when that occurs.

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    1. Responics, I believe. I've run it on a small inverter and a car battery. Just got a 12v DC cord for it from a third party.

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  2. South will be much warmer. Stay safe.

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    1. Made it! Safely in Key Largo! Long drive, but uneventful.

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