Off Grid Solar Powered RV Air Conditioning - Is it Possible?

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  • čas přidán 16. 02. 2016
  • Get all the gear details, more of our solar AC thoughts and research on our site here: www.gonewiththewynns.com/off-g...
    We had a simple question: Is it possible to power an Air Conditioner off solar when living off the grid? With our RV we decided to do a temporary wiring swap and test run our AC to see if running an air conditioner off our solar, battery and inverter is realistic or not.
    Enjoy our vids? Want to say thanks, buy us an espresso or a tank of fuel? Click over to our Tip Jar and see how to share the love: www.gonewiththewynns.com/tip-jar
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    Music:
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    If you wanna get social with us we're all over the place, hop in and join the adventure here: www.gonewiththewynns.com/join-us
    Thanks to our friends the RV Geeks for helping us temporarily wire the A/C. Check them out at www.thervgeeks.com/
    © Gone With the Wynns 2015
  • Věda a technologie

Komentáře • 1,1K

  • @hvacsoldier1554
    @hvacsoldier1554 Před 7 lety +10

    It is 100% possible to run your Air Conditioner off of your Solar system. The question is do you have the right size Solar System to support your needs. Making sure you have energy efficient equipment is also vital. Installing a soft start kit on Air Conditioners is never a bad idea. Many new models of HVAC equipment will have soft start installed from the factory. You can also make a soft start kit if you have the technical prowess. All of the material to create a soft start kit are available and inexpensive. Great Experiment thanks for the post.

  • @LibertyLeslie
    @LibertyLeslie Před 6 lety +5

    Thanks for making it super informative and bothering all the experts for us.

  • @ksimif
    @ksimif Před 8 lety +2

    Thanks for "doing the test" I have always wondered if on an optimum "Solar Day"! ... it can be done! You guys are awesome! Thanks to the RVGeeks for their input too!

  • @bluejeans8001
    @bluejeans8001 Před 7 lety +1

    I know Old "Land Locked" video but one of the reasons I follow you guys is the "experiments" and equipment test reviews you guys perform. This one regarding AC and solar certainly deserves more hits based upon the plethora of CZcams vids/questions on the subject. Fair winds!

  • @TheOffgridkid
    @TheOffgridkid Před 8 lety +5

    Lithium batteries are awesome! Great video, Nice RV & solar setup. I'm getting lots of AC from solar. Using my AC as a dump load.

  • @RVgeeks
    @RVgeeks Před 8 lety +98

    Thanks for including us in this great experiment. It was fun to be a small part of it. And for those asking exactly what we did to re-wire the electrical panel.... if we told you, we'd have to kill you. We love you Nikki & Jason, but that includes you, too. :-P

    • @RVgeeks
      @RVgeeks Před 8 lety +6

      +chris ce Yeah... those Wynns just left us out there to die. ;-)
      In an upcoming video, we'll be sharing the details of why we were camped about 500 feet away, rather then right nearby.... because we got our oversize RV stuck in the sand where they were! So we had to hoof it back home.
      Thanks for looking out for us, Chris.

    • @KevinLauscher
      @KevinLauscher Před 8 lety +7

      +RVgeeks kind of wish there was a bit more of that classic rv geeks voice narrating to really seal the deal. nice colab!

    • @RVgeeks
      @RVgeeks Před 8 lety +18

      Sorry. The Wynns couldn't afford my voiceover fee. ;-)

    • @starttherebellion9146
      @starttherebellion9146 Před 8 lety +1

      +Dragonetta - You mean using a winch with a land anchor for self-extraction?

    • @jw11432
      @jw11432 Před 8 lety

      +RVgeeks So much for freedom of information.

  • @longle1509
    @longle1509 Před 8 lety

    Thank you for sharing your experiment. Can't believe it worked.
    Out in the dry desert I think I'd opt for an energy efficient swamp cooling solution, but it's good to see that you can boon dock in more humid climates in comfort with the right kind of set up!

  • @edjensen7907
    @edjensen7907 Před 8 lety

    Really do appreciate all you are doing and sharing with us, seriously... Your experiences and willingness to share your found knowledge with the rest of us full timers is "priceless" !!! So Thank YOU Both!

  • @henrythinks
    @henrythinks Před 8 lety +51

    I also am a senior RV tech who retired 5 years ago. And I thought I may as well release some information to help you. A/C does in fact draw a lot of power and to cool your unit with what you have will drain it down over time. But there is also an alternative that will use much less of the precious power while out off the grid. A dehumidifier uses much less power and instead of recycling the hot moist air and cooling it as an A/C does. A dehumidifier removes the moisture from the air inside and drains it off to the outside or into a drip pan withing the unit. Thus cooling the unit my removing the hot water droplets held in the air trapped inside your RV. It cools the RV using about 1/3rd the power. It does take a bit more time to cool the unit down but it could continue to work using just you solar array alone while also charging the battery bank too. Food for thought, enjoyed you video.

    • @Mike82ARP
      @Mike82ARP Před 8 lety +5

      Yes, but they are in the desert where humidity is not a problem. I would think adding some humidity would be preferable and would suggest a small "swamp cooler" which can run off a small 12v fan and add some humidity to the RV.

    • @komerwest9520
      @komerwest9520 Před 6 lety +2

      Henry Avery The AC in our master bedroom has a dehumidifier in it. Thats normally what I have it set on. Love it.

    • @BOBBERtheKID
      @BOBBERtheKID Před 6 lety +4

      All air conditioners remove humidity, that is why on newer cars you will hear the compressor kick on when your the defroster on.

    • @robertoblanco4410
      @robertoblanco4410 Před 5 lety +1

      You could use a mini split ac plumbed in with a all dc ac.
      Also, swamp coolers work great in a desert.
      Of course running a generator with diesel or propane would be cheaper in the short term .

    • @thelionsden3323
      @thelionsden3323 Před 5 lety +1

      @@BOBBERtheKID OR YOU CAN FART. SEE WHEN PEOPLE FART OTHER PEOPLE CLEAR THE ROOM. ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS FART AND THE HUMIDITY WILL CLEAR THE RV HA HA HA HA

  • @robertgarbe6348
    @robertgarbe6348 Před 8 lety +37

    Late breaking news.. That "soft start microprocessor control" gizmo that you briefly mentioned by MicroAir of Pensylvania is the most AMAZING device ever invented. AI little pricey , but man, does it live up to it's claims. My AC unit starts and runs and cycles on my Honda 2000 which it never did before and the Honda barely even comes out of eco mode. It is a must have device for anyone wnating to minimize their inverter, or generator size etc.Thanks for mentioning it.

    • @gonewiththewynns
      @gonewiththewynns  Před 8 lety +1

      +Robert Garbe AWESOME!!!! That is so cool. We're looking at one for our boat AC so we can run it off our battery bank too.

    • @Brandywine-farm
      @Brandywine-farm Před 5 lety +2

      You can get a hard start capacitor on Amazon for $20. Same thing without the fancy computer board.

    • @UTBanjo
      @UTBanjo Před 5 lety +3

      It’s not the same thing, at all. The cheap hard start capacitor with help with the surge. The Microair actually allows me to run my 13.5K AC on a Honda Eu2000i, and I could never make that happen on the hardstart.

    • @theunconventionaldeal3879
      @theunconventionaldeal3879 Před 5 lety +3

      There are cheaper soft starts, handy for microwaves and anything with large inrush currents.

    • @arthurlucas4920
      @arthurlucas4920 Před 4 lety +1

      @@UTBanjo I just put in a MicroAir. Just amazing! Same experience you had. I have a 100 foot extension cord to just keep batteries fresh. Just for giggles plugged in to extension cord and fired up the A/C. Wow it worked fine! Pricey but well worth it.

  • @sumbirb5843
    @sumbirb5843 Před 7 lety

    Thanks guys. Im planning on full time rving while freelancing around the U.S. and this information is huge for me

  • @energysavingsavemone
    @energysavingsavemone Před 7 lety +1

    Off Grid Solar Powered RV Air Conditioning, thank you for sharing this video..

  • @alexstepanski
    @alexstepanski Před 7 lety +5

    This is the most cheerful video I've ever seen on CZcams. I'm so used to seeing people get hurt or some kind of disaster happening.

    • @876234ABC
      @876234ABC Před 7 lety +1

      They're obviously quite wealthy--look at that rig! Money can't buy happiness, but it certainly can rent it...

  • @VanlifewithAlan
    @VanlifewithAlan Před 7 lety +10

    At Caravan Salon 2016 in Dusseldorf there was a Roadtrek vehicle which had AC running off the battery. It had 400A of lithium batteries on board. It also had an electric hot plate. This seems to me to be a revolution in RV technology.
    I am glad yours works - but there is no shortage of sun in California. Lithium batteries can go down to almost zero unlike traditional lead acid batteries.

  • @ghengiscrayon
    @ghengiscrayon Před 7 lety +1

    Great to see you and the RV Geeks working together.

  • @smacdiesel
    @smacdiesel Před 8 lety +1

    You two have the best channel relating to RV living. Thanks for well edited and high quality content, really enjoy watching them.

  • @theoldwizard998
    @theoldwizard998 Před 8 lety +3

    The "holy grail" of RV boon-docking is a DC A/C compressor. Well, it is on the horizon ! Automotive component manufactures are now making DC A/C compressors for battery and hybrid vehicles.
    The real win is when they have a variable speed compressor for RV A/C systems. These are the current "state of the art" in mini-split heat pump/A/C units. They have their own built in inverter.

  • @seineasylum6936
    @seineasylum6936 Před 8 lety +7

    The million dollar question in the back of every RV'er's mind LOL. This is very interesting, you guys are awesome!

  • @herronrob96
    @herronrob96 Před 8 lety +1

    "Oh..I'm not wearing shoes..." Classic! excellent production you two.

  • @K4t77
    @K4t77 Před 7 lety +2

    This gives me such off grid hope since I don't think I am roughing it material. Lol. Love your channel it is so informative and helpful and funny!

  • @mrstevereno2502
    @mrstevereno2502 Před 5 lety +3

    You guys are great! Love the delivery and the laughter. Kept me a captive attentive audience no problem. Now I’m off to binge watch all your other content. Keep up the great work!

  • @HolySwordsman1
    @HolySwordsman1 Před 7 lety +6

    what about just a truck camper with about 5500-6500btu AC? I'm planing a round country trip, and will use the seasons to my advantage temperature wise, but will still need AC/heat at times of course. I'm hoping 1000w will be enough for this, with propane and engine charging(diesel) to supplement. its a tiny camper, and my budget for the solar alone will be around 2,000$.

  • @jameshuebner8194
    @jameshuebner8194 Před 4 lety +1

    After watching you 2 sail I decided to look at some RV stuff. Good info!

  • @Usman.Sanaullah
    @Usman.Sanaullah Před 8 lety

    You guys seems super happy and satisfied with life and with each other i hope everyone could live like that!!! thumbs up you guys

  • @dominique___1980
    @dominique___1980 Před 5 lety +4

    3 years later, I'm seeing this. I know from Burning Man that loads of people have a pre-load limiting gadget connected, and that reduces the start up surges.

    • @LukeRT
      @LukeRT Před 4 lety +1

      They glazed over that their inverter is rated for 40 amps max, and they were pulling 70 amps and some change..good way to let the smoke out of your inverter, soft start in place or not

  • @TallTexasGMan
    @TallTexasGMan Před 7 lety +3

    You can get DC only HVAC units. In fact Practical Pepper here on CZcams has some great videos of mini-split units that run completely on solar.

  • @DavidSmith-bt6qe
    @DavidSmith-bt6qe Před 8 lety

    Now that was an interesting experiment and great information to know for those of us that think we have to have air conditioning when the temperature hits the 85 to 90 degree mark. Thanks for having the guts to even try this off of the batteries.

  • @Bozonez3m
    @Bozonez3m Před 8 lety

    WOW ! What a GREAT testament to your system. That was simply amazing ! I only have half the solar & 2/3 rds the inverter on my 5er. So I won't be doing it anytime soon . But to see it done was so cool. Keep the good stuff coming.

  • @Rvlove
    @Rvlove Před 8 lety +9

    Educational as always, thanks guys - we don't have solar, but it's good to know A/C is possible with the right gear. Hey Jason, around 8:30 it occurred to me you look rather like David Bowie! Has anyone ever told you that? (when he was younger of course ;) Safe travels you two!

    • @gonewiththewynns
      @gonewiththewynns  Před 8 lety +3

      +RVLove | Marc & Julie Bennett I like it, David Bowie. Never heard it before but I can see the resemblance. :)

    • @thelionsden3323
      @thelionsden3323 Před 5 lety

      @@gonewiththewynns how many batteries and how much is the price tag. I am getting a camper that has no vehicle attached. I am from Philadelphia Pennsylvania we don't have sun like you guys do but I need your help

  • @RVwithTito
    @RVwithTito Před 8 lety +24

    Awesome experiment! That's the first I've heard about the soft start. Thanks for the great info. I love how the RVGeeks just show up in the desert and walk off into oblivion :)

    • @RVgeeks
      @RVgeeks Před 8 lety +11

      +RVwithTito Don't worry Brian. After they sent us packing, they had the compassion to call search and rescue. ;-)

  • @ZenTrickz
    @ZenTrickz Před 8 lety

    I've been wondering about this topic for the longest time. It's fascinating to see someone running AC off of their solar setup.

  • @laurajphillips5981
    @laurajphillips5981 Před 6 lety +2

    Thank You that's what I thought, I'm going to be doing this kind of living soon and I'm gathering all the info I can!

  • @allenslansky
    @allenslansky Před 7 lety +9

    The "soft start" or "Easy Start" is a big hit with the Airstream crowd. They find they can reliably run a Dometic 13,500 BTU AC with a Honda eu2000is generator.
    It's a electronic device that goes in the AC shroud, and takes that giant spike in current and smoothes it out over a longer time.

  • @reimersorama
    @reimersorama Před 7 lety +7

    Interesting, didnt realize they made a "soft start" module for small air conditioners like that. We use several soft start drives on our motors at work (the technical term is variable frequency drive, or VFD). They work great, saves alot of money in electricity and keeps the wear and tear down on the motor itself.

    • @earlzeis35
      @earlzeis35 Před 2 lety

      Soft starter and VFD's are two completely different items that do different things.

  • @mirkamarlowe3762
    @mirkamarlowe3762 Před 8 lety +2

    You guys are so awesome! Love what you do and how you share your knowledge along the way. You've inspired us to go full time!!

  • @BryanProper
    @BryanProper Před 8 lety +1

    After watching this I can't help but think you are gonna be totally prepared for Burning Man this year!!! I hope to finally meet you after following you for a couple years now!

  • @edwinscherer
    @edwinscherer Před 8 lety +6

    I don't know about RV efficiency, but there are new variable speed compressors with inverter motors that achieve SEER ratings of 33, about double what standard high efficiency units of this type achieve. The units run at top speed initially and as the thermostat set point is approached the unit slows down until it is running at a speed where the output matches the heat entering the space it is cooling as well as heat generated from bodies, activities, etc. You might want to check some of these units out. Of course the problem will be mounting the outside units. Some of them run directly on 48V D/C so no inverter is needed between solar panels wired to achieve 48V and the units. They can be zoned as well so you keep the main space you occupy cool during the day and then at night switch to cooling your sleeping quarters and bathroom. Great experiment though. Wonder how long it will take for your inverter to have a melt down due to the very high current draw when it is changing 24 or 48V DC into 120V AC. Good luck. Always find your videos informative and enjoyable.

    • @XRinger
      @XRinger Před 7 lety +2

      I use Min-split cool/heat units on my home. A 24,000 BTU Sanyo can hog a lot of power when starting, but because of the 'inverter' technology which controls the fan and compressor motor speeds (outside unit), I can start up slowly keeping the 230vac amps under 10 amps. (under 2.3 KW) easily.
      Today it wasn't too hot, so the max start up power was under 700 watts.
      After the house was cooled down (about an hour), the power dropped to under 500 watts. (I have TED monitors) So the cooling is running along at 470w and then drops down to 10w when the house is a tad over-cooled..
      Works almost the same when heating. The main cause of higher power use is real cold weather.. It can average around 1 KW per hour.. Up to 20 kWh per day.. (I'm installing a new unit that works down to -20 degrees F)..
      This kind of system is one of the better ways for people living off-grid, when they have a lot of PV panels.. :)

    • @brucebear1
      @brucebear1 Před 7 lety

      Yes, the technology on these is great today, and it's advancing (without great purchase price increases) by leaps and bounds. I have a number of friends who have put mini-splits into RVs with mixed results. It appears that they're not built to withstand RV stresses without mods at the present. But if you mount the components on rubber mounts, be sure wiring has flex room but is mounted securely, ditto for the coolant ("Freon") lines, be sure of your air flows for compressor and condenser modules, etc., the newer models seem to be lasting well.
      There are also options being developed. There are systems with one compressor unit running two or more evaporator/air handlers, etc. (although I think I'd prefer the redundancy of two separate systems). Have a look at the websites for technical details.
      My opinion is that these units are a bit of an experiment for RVs now but soon, they'll be a powerful option.

    • @XRinger
      @XRinger Před 7 lety +3

      Using them on RVs would require some anti- vibration mods. It would be better to have them designed from the baseplate up for RVs..

    • @Mradevans
      @Mradevans Před 7 lety

      Richard Lee not sure I completely agree in that regard, design for vibration and road issues sure, but rv specific, not thrilled with that, the reason, cost, just because it's "rv" you can add 100% to your asking price, not because it's 2 times better, but because only rich people buy ac made to run on batteries
      it's the same thing for semi ac, apus capable of running ac for 8-10 hours runs between 6 and 15k (used/new) and more often it's a small deisel generator and a splice into the existing ac/coolant lines, there are SOME battery powered units, but those are in the 10k range as well, I've looked at fabricobbling my own together, and I CAN do it with off the shelf parts for about 3-6k, evert once in a while you'll see a guy who stuck a home ac unit in and set up a small generator on the frame to run it for less than 1000$
      bottom line, I don't trust rv and truck mfgs to cone up with a better product because I'll end up paying through the nose

    • @terrywaters6186
      @terrywaters6186 Před 7 lety

      A 13,500 btu RV rooftop AC can be bought for $600. A 3500 watt generator to power it can be bought under $300, I managed to buy a dual-fuel one for $179 last summer.

  • @vincentmaturo8906
    @vincentmaturo8906 Před 8 lety +10

    You guys are AWESOME............ I have never spent an hour in an RV, but I am fascinated by them and the people who live in them. Recently I discovered The RVgeeks, and love them. Just the other day I discovered you guys, and now I find out that you know The RVgeeks. OMG, I have reached a state of Nirvana.
    Your sense of adventure and enthusiasm is a joy to behold. Thank you for these vicarious thrills.

    • @RVgeeks
      @RVgeeks Před 8 lety +8

      +Vincent Maturo Nikki & Jason are the greatest, and we're honored to call them friends.

    • @NomadicSociety
      @NomadicSociety Před 8 lety +1

      +Vincent Maturo lol ahh Nirvana! i love it

    • @RVSteveTravels
      @RVSteveTravels Před 7 lety

      Vincent Maturo love RV Geeks! Wish I had them on speed dial!

  • @lifeisadance5125
    @lifeisadance5125 Před 8 lety

    Great ! What you both did the future of the industry is amazing and as always are presenting new ideas for the RV buyer to demand thru new innovations which cannot happen quickly without your input , thank you again and enjoy your journey !

  • @xanthopteryx_rsfw
    @xanthopteryx_rsfw Před 8 lety +1

    Very good experiment. Enjoyable video. Congrats.

  • @onebyside
    @onebyside Před 7 lety +230

    Ive never seen 2 people laugh after every sentence.

    • @JkouFiles
      @JkouFiles Před 7 lety +5

      Mark Dove hah huh hah

    • @preluder4
      @preluder4 Před 7 lety +24

      Mark Dove Its like the parents from that freakazoid cartoon smiling 24/7. They must be od'ing on anti depression medication.

    • @giovannichingautheman3780
      @giovannichingautheman3780 Před 6 lety +10

      That happens among some people, sometimes it gets annoying but it's better to be like them, they live healthier and don't let troubles disheart them which usually sickens people. Maybe you saw them as freaks given their indie pop style which seem to be common among gays but these guys seem a decent couple.

    • @onebyside
      @onebyside Před 6 lety +25

      I don't see them as freaks, I see them as 2 people dressed by a stylist and performing for the camera.

    • @JkouFiles
      @JkouFiles Před 6 lety +1

      Mark Dove yea I see that now

  • @patrickeh696
    @patrickeh696 Před 7 lety +6

    So, if you doubled your solar panels you could run the AC with "no battery" drain during peak solar. Cool! Literally.

    • @kevintaylor5715
      @kevintaylor5715 Před 4 lety

      Hehe I see what you did there. Because "cool" could mean a lower air temperature, which is what the A/C is helping create.

  • @findingsimon
    @findingsimon Před 8 lety +2

    FINALLY!!! Asking the big questions! I love how you guys went about this. It's also great how you stressed the money and time invested in your rig to remind people that yes it is possible, but it might not be worth the cost involved to everyone. People ask us about AC all the time and I'm like "dude we live in a 25 yr old van, so no"

    • @gonewiththewynns
      @gonewiththewynns  Před 8 lety

      +Shelby and Simon HA! Seriously, it's crazy how many people assume the AC will just work and when we tell them "no" they are disappointed.

    • @findingsimon
      @findingsimon Před 8 lety

      and then use that as an excuse to say they just couldn't do it. Like seriously? Air conditioning? that's your limit?

  • @brucesamuelson7541
    @brucesamuelson7541 Před 8 lety

    Very cool I've seen it before with window AC so I know it can be done but the soft start option for rooftop is great information thank you guys great job!

  • @jbncnow
    @jbncnow Před 6 lety +3

    She is so cute though, i wish i was that happy

  • @zweibrucker
    @zweibrucker Před 7 lety +3

    Informative but financially challenging.

    • @jonriley5695
      @jonriley5695 Před 4 lety

      not if you buy batteries directly from china. which is where the cells are coming from anyway. less than half the price

  • @nealdavis350
    @nealdavis350 Před 8 lety

    Very interesting stuff, Jason and Nikki. Thank you, especially, for the additional information that you gathered after you did the test. Thanks, too, to the RV Geeks for making the test possible. :-)

  • @rvertv
    @rvertv Před 8 lety

    great info and test......

  • @shepd3
    @shepd3 Před 8 lety +4

    If RV manufacturers would get into this century, they'd demand an inverter based A/C (not power inverter, but an inverter based motor controller). Your compressor draws loads of power due to the fact it is powered the same way they've been powered for 5 decades. Inverter setups will actually modulate the amount of power sent to the compressor so it doesn't start so harshly. They are also wildly more efficient than the old tech you have right now. 32 SEER vs 15 SEER. Best part is they aren't bang/bang on/off to regulate temperature. Instead, they adjust the speed of the compressor to select various BTU outputs so the A/C runs constantly (but at a lower power). Contrary to what you'd think, A/C units last longest when they stay on and aren't abused with on/off cycles. This also gives you drier air and a very consistent temperature.
    Also, soft start kits will solve the problem at the expense of the life of the compressor. They're a hack method I've used to accomplish the same thing with running a fridge off an underrated inverter. It works but you have to understand it is damaging to the windings of the compressor.

    • @vlakkieaarde
      @vlakkieaarde Před 5 lety

      Fully agree . Currently running inverter Ac units on our pv solar powered house. You can even ( manually) modulate the power draw with the temperature setting to balance the power draw with with what the pv solar system is harvesting.... and you get a very soft start thrown in

  • @WookieSenshi
    @WookieSenshi Před 7 lety +15

    So theoretically you could double your solar and run it right off of the solar. :P lol

    • @chuckbronco6485
      @chuckbronco6485 Před 7 lety +1

      Wookie Senshi bigger inverter also. 3k isn't much to work with.

  • @mudspringer
    @mudspringer Před 8 lety

    That was awesome info. Thanks very much for posting that!!!! I thought there must be a way to do something like the 'soft start' but didn't know it existed until now. Thanks again.

  • @3321MDZ
    @3321MDZ Před 8 lety +2

    Good test. Truth is just like with a microwave, it's the start up 'jolt' that most solar/battery systems can't handle. Once the unit is actually running, the drain on the system is much less. Both Dometic and Coleman are working on those soft start systems from what I've researched. Blue Skies.

  • @deodog7135
    @deodog7135 Před 7 lety +3

    I would love to see these two get in an argument

  • @Billodnh
    @Billodnh Před 8 lety +19

    Who wouldn't want to have the RV Geeks on speed dial?

    • @RVgeeks
      @RVgeeks Před 8 lety +9

      +Billodnh Oh they do! LOL

    • @goldo1107
      @goldo1107 Před 8 lety +4

      +RVgeeks I love the Wynn's. You guys just earned a new sub. Will learn a lot from you. Planning on a year long excursion living full time in an RV traveling all over the U.S., Canada and Alaska. Hope to learn a lot from you guys.

    • @RVgeeks
      @RVgeeks Před 8 lety

      Sounds fantastic, Robert! Have a blast!

    • @deodog7135
      @deodog7135 Před 7 lety

      Billodnh yeah.. she even gave the guy a hug..She needs some discipline

  • @shelbylynncoleman
    @shelbylynncoleman Před 8 lety

    That was a really good and interesting video. I've always wondered if it were possible. A challenge? Yes. But you guys did everyone a great service sharing this. Thanks!

  • @chrispalko3675
    @chrispalko3675 Před 8 lety

    Cool! Thanks for doing this, from theory to reality.

  • @DoubleD72
    @DoubleD72 Před 7 lety +10

    As much as I like your videos. I will say these videos on certain things are not for everyone... more so for rich people who want to go off the grid in style without losing the luxury. Especially this Solar setup is outrageously priced... normal off gridders who want a simple system this would not be the way to go... you can literally get the same setup for half the cost of what this system is priced at... that is including batteries... not lithium batteries... but still... I do enjoy the videos though... you people are bloody adorable..

    • @gonewiththewynns
      @gonewiththewynns  Před 7 lety

      +Double D it can be done for much less with off brand equipment, we choose quality and warranty over budget because if something goes wrong we want to be covered.

    • @DoubleD72
      @DoubleD72 Před 7 lety +1

      I agree with you for certain people. People who just don't or can't do things for them selves... But I disagree about quality.. you can also buy quality for much cheaper... I understand wanting to be covered. but nothing is more secure then covering your self by doing it your self... From what I gather from watching you both I believe you are both smart enough to figure these things out with out anyone else... and to be out at sea you can't just ring up a professional and have them skip on over and fix your issues... In these types of situations you both or anyone needs and should learn these things because things do happen. Solar is much different then line electricity... i also realize you both are doing these things to make money as advertising the items you show and use... and that is helping your income to do the things you guys are doing... I also have no doubt you two are a little more well off then alot of people... not that any of that is a bad thing... keep up the good work... I enjoy your videos...

    • @potc420
      @potc420 Před 7 lety +1

      Double D I'm a normal off gridder and my set up is bigger than theirs. 960 watts is tiny

    • @JSmith-wy3yh
      @JSmith-wy3yh Před 5 lety

      @@gonewiththewynns I hate to say this but warranty is not always covered for anything in life. good luck

    • @jaime4022
      @jaime4022 Před 3 lety

      @@DoubleD72 And that was hardly patronizing at all! smfh

  • @leerman22
    @leerman22 Před 7 lety +6

    It's only using ~1KW of power, which is less than my microwave oven. You can't produce 3KW of solar out there?
    That would need about 12 255W solar panels I used to install :P

    • @leerman22
      @leerman22 Před 3 lety

      @mike h Do you not run an air conditioner at the same time as a toaster or microwave? You want to put charge in the batteries at the same time, too.

    • @leerman22
      @leerman22 Před 3 lety

      @mike h They cant charge their batteries, they're being drained. They want to have battery power for night.

    • @leerman22
      @leerman22 Před 3 lety

      @mike h One out in the desert in a poorly insulated RV? It might be an 80-90% duty cycle. You do realize you don't produce the full rated power at all times the sun is out, just a few hours of they day right?

  • @NomadicSociety
    @NomadicSociety Před 8 lety +1

    absolutely great test info here-but for most people with a not so expensive system like you are fortunate enough to have been blessed with prob. won't work at least like your test . the soft start is where we all need to start really! for most of us just buying the most efficient 5000 btu window unit like i just researched and bought that runs and draws 386 watts according to my kill a watt meter is the answer if your serious about needing true Ac -but a sweet battery bank and 800 watts of solar and a quality 2k + inverter also. im also researching soft start set up as this is crucial if you want the compressor to start and not have a massive power draw and fault and inverter shutting down and just strain on the inverter.great info though and thanks guys for taking the time and doing these tests.

  • @TraderRoss
    @TraderRoss Před 8 lety +2

    Another option, with the magnum inverters the hybrid M model you could hook a small 2000 honda generator up to help extend the run time. A/c's are a beast to start. My factory air will start off my honda 3000 but the bedroom a/c will throw the fault.
    I need a soft start for it

  • @dansouthcomb5439
    @dansouthcomb5439 Před 8 lety +15

    Installing a $10.00 Supco Solid State relay and hard start capacitor can reduce the start up current by up to 50%.

    • @SotolNorteno
      @SotolNorteno Před 8 lety

      Yea I heard them say soft start, but the correct term is a hard start capacitor correct? Because with out it its hard to start. Correct me if I'm wrong.

    • @seanash7134
      @seanash7134 Před 8 lety +1

      +Daniel Southcomb would one of those capacitors from a car stereo store work?

    • @dansouthcomb5439
      @dansouthcomb5439 Před 8 lety

      +Sean Ash I have no experience with that type of capacitor

    • @chadjones99
      @chadjones99 Před 7 lety +1

      sorry I just posted the same. I always add them to my air conditioners makes life easier on your generator you can get them on eBay and Amazon and no they're not the same as car stereo coils LOL. they come rated for horsepower a 1 to 5 horsepower should be fine

    • @joeyherring5942
      @joeyherring5942 Před 7 lety

      Soft start, by definition is a ramping up of the ac side to the motor, this limits the start up current - essentially, the motor winding is near zero resistance until the X of L has a chance to build, so soft start limits that inrush current. The capacitor would work better on the DC (battery) side and act as a very temporary storage for "saved up" electrons. This would allow for high current draw on a temporary basis without taxing the batteries as much. This is all very cool stuff, but out of my price range for now. :)

  • @tacticaladvance
    @tacticaladvance Před 8 lety +110

    Can you run AC on a $135000 RV. If no get a refund. Lol

    • @yankeegoogle199
      @yankeegoogle199 Před 6 lety +14

      Tactical Advance soo..i worked in HVAC industry for awhile and my 2 cents worth is this...RLA. THAT'S STARTING POWER. IF you want less initial draw on your load you need a "soft draw" or as I know it called a "hard draw". Regardless of your set up the point I want to make is YOU NEED A CAPACITOR TO HELP on your a.c. start up. It's a relatively CHEAP wire in. If you have a "hard start" CAPACITOR wired in properly you will not only help save your ac compressor but you will also help save compressor power consumption durring start up. Will this help in the long run of running a.c. longer? YES and NO. It will take less initial amps to start your on and off again a.c. unit. No in the sense that as it continuously runs after start up. Soo...is a hard start cap sys worth it..? I would say yes. Less stress on batteries on start up and less stress on the compressor motor on start up.
      Cost for parts? Less than $100. Install? Double or triple..
      Also..installation is relatively easy. All done at the compressor on the roof..

    • @elbybrook9466
      @elbybrook9466 Před 6 lety +6

      A hard start capacitor is an easy install. Just youtube that shit.

    • @ghermansizer
      @ghermansizer Před 6 lety +3

      Google User thanks for your 2 cents. I will spend it when I start restoring my 1962 airstream.

    • @rockydennis8926
      @rockydennis8926 Před 6 lety +2

      Depending on the size of the unit they have single two wire hard starts one being called SPP6 look it up it’s worth it .

    • @marklines260
      @marklines260 Před 6 lety

      Blaaahhaa! Exactly.

  • @davidmichael3137
    @davidmichael3137 Před 8 lety

    Best video you two have posted yet, thank you for all the great information.

  • @lizb7777
    @lizb7777 Před 7 lety +1

    Your videos are very informative.

  • @gonewiththewynns
    @gonewiththewynns  Před 8 lety +27

    We've got loads more detail on this little test on our site here: www.gonewiththewynns.com/off-grid-solar-rv-air-conditioning
    I hope this helps debunk a few of those naysayers out there, it sure did open our eyes to the possibility :)

    • @monster1576
      @monster1576 Před 8 lety +5

      You guys are the coolest

    • @simonlynchsae
      @simonlynchsae Před 8 lety +6

      +Gone with the Wynns Math could have saved you the effort. It's not as fun and exciting, but it's always right! ;)
      It's cool to see that with a good setup, one can run the AC for a few hours just to keep the temperature acceptable!
      Keep up the fun videos!

    • @StimRacingTrailerandTravels
      @StimRacingTrailerandTravels Před 8 lety +3

      +Gone with the Wynns Great job guys, and RV Geeks. You guys are the best!

    • @NomadicSociety
      @NomadicSociety Před 8 lety +2

      +simonlynchsae yes on paper 800watts of solar on top running a 386 watt portable Ac unit sounds like it could work for most older RV setups this is my plan but still expensive to set up

    • @RealFarknMcCoy
      @RealFarknMcCoy Před 8 lety +1

      +Gone with the Wynns Yes, it's good to see that the advances in technology are bringing this into the realm of possibility. A few years ago, this was just not possible - now it's looking promising. And not just for motorhome setups, either. Imagine how awesome it will be for the people living in desert/tropical environments to be able to run a/c off of solar. :-D

  • @Zraupp10
    @Zraupp10 Před 8 lety +6

    960w in pannels?
    thats close enough to run a small 5k-6K BTU on low, but i would like it
    Never pull more then 75% out of the barriers, if u do that will really lower the life span of the barriers.

    • @Zraupp10
      @Zraupp10 Před 8 lety

      ***** sorry, i know house solar setups/batteries, and i said, "Pull more then 75%", = 25% left.

    • @josecasillas1463
      @josecasillas1463 Před 8 lety

      mal.

    • @josecasillas1463
      @josecasillas1463 Před 8 lety

      mal. 7

    • @MrSGL21
      @MrSGL21 Před 8 lety +2

      they were getting about 40 amps out of their panels when doing this test. I have a 5k btu window ac that pulls 450 on high with the compressor running. they would just barely be touching their bank for a few amps with that AC unit.

    • @deodog7135
      @deodog7135 Před 7 lety

      Zraupp10 they aren't very intelligent if you've noticed.. the smart thing to do with just run it off the generator.. if they really want to be smart they should learn how to run generators off of wood gas ;)

  • @VanlifewithAlan
    @VanlifewithAlan Před 6 lety +1

    Re my below comment from one year ago! I have now installed an AC device in my van which I believe will work off hook up (shore power).

    • @kevintaylor5715
      @kevintaylor5715 Před 4 lety

      Wait works "off" hookup? Or works "on" hookup? Or is it works "off "hook" "up"? Or is it works "on" "hook" "down"?

  • @johna1398
    @johna1398 Před 8 lety

    I run my AC all day long. 1500 watts of panels, 700 Ah of lead acid battery, 3000/7000 surge watt inverter, 850 watt 9000 BTU mini-split AC (I removed the highly inefficient roof top AC units), and 2 ceiling fans. With the dark window tint and good air circulation, it runs like a champ. System has been working for 4 years. I also have temporary loads including the 900 watt microwave and 1500 watt hair dryer.

  • @kamikazekunze
    @kamikazekunze Před 8 lety +5

    You can.....with a million rig

  • @carlhursh505
    @carlhursh505 Před 4 lety +12

    Then there are the rest of use who live on a fixed income or reality.

    • @rockyalvarez520
      @rockyalvarez520 Před 4 lety +6

      Rving is not a poor mans game. Get yourself some food stamps and a Hud housing voucher and leave the RV road trips to those who can afford it.

    • @jacobwomack5627
      @jacobwomack5627 Před 4 lety

      "Reality"

    • @happyhealerforpresident2029
      @happyhealerforpresident2029 Před 4 lety +2

      nah, you make it that way. It doesn't have to be that way.

    • @loquist42
      @loquist42 Před 4 lety +1

      @@rockyalvarez520, we full time RV and it is less expensive for us than living in a sticks and bricks house. We save money and our kids travel everywhere.

    • @loquist42
      @loquist42 Před 4 lety +2

      Carl, they installed just about the most expensive system possible. We have a similar system to them and it cost me a fraction of the price they paid by using different components and installing the system myself.

  • @YarelysNatureG
    @YarelysNatureG Před 8 lety

    " oh! im not wearing shoes... O.O" Hilarious.
    Great in depth information Wynns. A little over my head, I guess i'm heading over the the article to read more and get my head wrapped around this. Great job!!

  • @speedbuggy16v
    @speedbuggy16v Před 5 lety

    awesome, thanks for the video I just found your channel and it was just the info I was after. More than a lil jealous of your coach, makes my 5th wheel look like a hovel!

  • @TYZA108HD
    @TYZA108HD Před 7 lety +8

    How much solar for a tv and a ps4 lol

    • @gonewiththewynns
      @gonewiththewynns  Před 7 lety +2

      +TYZA108 HD a few hundred watts should do :)

    • @TYZA108HD
      @TYZA108HD Před 7 lety +1

      Gone with the Wynns you doing a 100k special?

    • @shermanhooper324
      @shermanhooper324 Před 7 lety

      Gone with the Wynns n

    • @deodog7135
      @deodog7135 Před 7 lety

      TYZA108 HD. 2or3 12v batterys ran in series/400w pure sine wave power inverter/ 12v 20 amp lighter socket/400w solar panels/40 amp solar charge controller and you are playing all day...make sure you use proper fuses and you know what you're doing

    • @deodog7135
      @deodog7135 Před 7 lety

      Gone with the Wynns it takes more than a few hundred Watts lol

  • @REVIEW_JUJUR
    @REVIEW_JUJUR Před 7 lety +3

    Lovely wife u got there mate...

  • @ROWLESmade
    @ROWLESmade Před 8 lety

    Very cool! Thanks for sharing some great info.

  • @montauk06
    @montauk06 Před 8 lety

    Very Interesting Video, Will watch it a few more times to get my notes down and thanks for the link to your other A/c videos.

  • @victor070
    @victor070 Před 6 lety +4

    Nice video but those fake smiles and laughing is annoying

  • @diegosuarez5994
    @diegosuarez5994 Před 7 lety +8

    gorgeous eyes!

  • @jacobs2285
    @jacobs2285 Před 8 lety

    I just found you guys and watched all of your Alaska trip videos! loving you guys! keep it up!!

  • @WVFAN1958
    @WVFAN1958 Před 8 lety

    Good job folks.. Drive careful.

  • @stormthrush37
    @stormthrush37 Před 8 lety

    This is so cool! Thanks for sharing.

  • @Omwereru
    @Omwereru Před 6 lety

    Great Video!....Gave me a way to install A.C on R.V!..true, instant pulling of 75A...can damage the components rated capacity....

  • @chelseagirl278
    @chelseagirl278 Před 3 lety +1

    I absolutely LOVE that they travel with they fur baby. That cat 🐈 is beautiful!

  • @tammiepulley1396
    @tammiepulley1396 Před 7 lety +1

    you guys are so sweet. You kind of remind me of Donnie and Marie Osmond. Thanks for the experiment!

  • @hellodoggy8688
    @hellodoggy8688 Před 6 lety

    I know this is an old video, but I love you guys, you are a cool, happy couple and have a cute cat!!! You have so much fun!

  • @leiloumei
    @leiloumei Před 3 lety +1

    Thank you for sharing.

  • @workhardforit
    @workhardforit Před 8 lety

    we have an LG Inverter V with "Active Energy Control" feature. The amazing thing about it is you don't have to fiddle with the temperature setting which take the guesswork out of the wattage it uses since you CAN select the cooling capacity or SPEED/POWER CONSUMPTION of the compressor.
    It has a soft-start feature which pulls power from the socket starting at 15W, then gradually increases to 320, 675, 800, then 950 at full compressor speed.

  • @ClassALiving
    @ClassALiving Před 8 lety +1

    Great tips, thanks!

  • @mrdaihatsu
    @mrdaihatsu Před 8 lety

    My front AC unit was losing it's cool, so I built a half size Mastercool out of sheets of aluminum. The front end is a Lasko 4500 turbine blower, The mastercool 8" pad was hand sawed down to fit the 18" high X 20" wide custom case. I placed a Fantastic Vent (Fantastic Fan without the Fan) in the roof opening, and tied them together with a handmade aluminum elbow. It runs along at under 200 watts on the inverter including the pump and if it chills outside at night, I can close down the vent. I live in the desert, so the moisture stays manageable. Only downside is the 3/4 gallon/hour of water it uses because you never have enough water when dry camping.

  • @1D10CRACY
    @1D10CRACY Před 5 lety

    I use to do this my 1972 Winnebago, except I had 8 golf cart batteries, a 3k non pure vector inverter and a hard start cap on a 13.5k btu carrier air conditioner.

  • @simpliestwinterenerg
    @simpliestwinterenerg Před 7 lety

    thanks to this video got my report done.. awesome..

  • @LibertyLakeWildlife
    @LibertyLakeWildlife Před 7 lety

    Great video! Cooling the whole RV does take a lot of electrical power and hopefully some company will produce a smaller unit that could be used for local cooling that could be directed toward the kitchen area or dining area when needed.

  • @SyberPrepper
    @SyberPrepper Před 8 lety

    Great information. Thanks!

  • @Remus42
    @Remus42 Před 7 lety

    As a new RV owner of a older model Dodge that needs updating (it's a 1977 Sportsman Mobile Traveler), I'm glad I saw this as I am considering an installation of a solar unit so that my fiancee and I can travel and record our reality show, RV Pinay In The USA. Yes, the RV, christened "Jasmine," needs modifying and I am thinking just to be able to have a fan-based unit instead of a full-on air conditioner might work in my case. I'm still mulling over options.

  • @Horizonlight
    @Horizonlight Před 8 lety

    Thank you for answering the question I always wanted to know. Thank you! Also, great video.

    • @kevintaylor5715
      @kevintaylor5715 Před 4 lety

      It wasn't that great. It didn't even have an explosion.

  • @ASkyeMall
    @ASkyeMall Před 7 lety

    Thanks for sharing. Best wishes.

  • @brendarose4917
    @brendarose4917 Před 6 lety

    Thank you so very, very, very much for doing this video. You truly inspired me and gave me hope. And you taught me something I didn't know. Well truthfully, several things I didn't know. Please make more RV videos like this.

  • @lizcarter6938
    @lizcarter6938 Před 7 lety

    OMGosh THANK YOU SOOO MUCH for doing this video and you seriously answered my question!!! I wanted to know if I could use an RV Air conditioner connected to a solar system in an off grid cabin. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU ... for doing this test and all the info you gave!!!!!

    • @gonewiththewynns
      @gonewiththewynns  Před 7 lety

      you definitely want to click over to our website for the Soft Start info and discount...it's the only way. :)

  • @workhardforit
    @workhardforit Před 8 lety +1

    By the way the best thing about DC Inverter Air conditioners and refrigerators is they pull no more that 6-7 amps at startup. Even when running at full capacity!

  • @WanderlustmanC
    @WanderlustmanC Před 8 lety

    Thank you for the practical test, so much better than all of my random information gathering. In ten more years batteries will be insanely superior to everything now, including your lithium's and my lifeline's. Cheers you two.