Test Run Take 2
Sooooo, we were a little concerned over some battery issues and we wanted to see just how capable the Minnie is water wise. I’m talking water and waste wise while off grid as it were. So trial run take 2.
The biggest thing is we believe we have finally figured out the battery issues, even while connected. Turns out not all things are as advertised if you will. The campground we’ve been trying out, which friends happen to stay at, has negligible electric. Negligible as in we actually draw more with hardly anything running than what they provide. I would see a 6-7 amp draw on the system with 2 or less amps coming from our “30 amp” hookup. Hence our battery drain while hooked up. Note: The battery will make up for any deficiency.
So, when we got back home I figured I’d see what my little inexpensive (relatively speaking) generator would do if I connected to it. DANG! My little 1800 peak watt generator pushed more juice running at 67% capacity than the campground. In 30 minutes it pushed nearly 15% back into the battery. I’m talking the difference of 80+ amps vs 2 or less. Holy frijoles! At least we have some comfort and peace of mind now regarding the battery.
I had spoken with a Lithionics rep since my last post and he did sort out a lot of questions. What questions you ask? Well, I covered some of it previously but basically, the whole system is solid if you realize the capabilities of it.
First off, the solar can only push about a third of the total capacity of the battery back into it. That’s with no draws on the system mind you. Secondly, no matter how many amps the Xantrex can push to the battery (150), the battery will only allow 100 amps.
As far as the water goes. If used sparingly it can easily make it several days. Granted, you will either be showering elsewhere, skipping showers, or if just one person is using it the grey tank can hold up. Our black tank was never an issue as we take care of the more “serious” business elsewhere. Fresh water was surprisingly good, even after 4 showers over two days. Still, we do plan on bringing a 7 gallon portable water jug/tank when we boondock to have more available, as well as a portable pooper mover if need be.
As a bonus note, use caution when using the convection part of the microwave. I found out that the venting on it REALLY heats up the ceiling above it. I mean as in you can’t touch it hot. I am going to sort out some heat shielding option to rectify that issue. The convection piece did a nice job though. I just need to sort out how to use it without potentially torching the roof. Makes one wonder if manufacturers even bother to try these things out before final implementation. Sheesh.
(Side note: I reached out to Winnebago about the ceiling temp from that convection temp and they claim it’s rated to 400°. They didn’t specify for how long and they tested it by heating one to 425° and cooking for 15 minutes to get a temp off the ceiling. According to their engineers it was within “acceptable” limits. So there is Winnebago’s stance on it.)
In less than 2 weeks the real test begins. 4 nights with no hookups! Though we will be utilizing some shower houses to reduce the load on the Winnie!
To be continued…