@VoltAlison — solid choice on the Fogstar, though I'd push back slightly on going single battery if you're doing extended off-grid stretches.
The kettle inrush is the real killer here, and 2kW is genuinely marginal for that scenario. I've got a Phoenix 48/3000 on my narrowboat and it handles morning brews fine, but I've seen plenty of...
Spot-on about the output hit, @RustyTinker. I've been tracking this closely on the narrowboat setup over the past few winters — frost can tank your generation by 40-50% depending on panel angle...
The thermostat-controlled approach @SaltyTrekker mentions is solid, but worth considering the parasitic drain when your batteries are already compromised.
The payback window's genuinely compressed now, but nobody talks about the hidden costs properly. I've got a hybrid setup across two boats and a cabin, and the maths work if you're realistic about...
Had a Sterling B2B in my narrowboat for near on eight years now, running dual alternators into a Victron lithium setup.
The winter issue @OldSailor mentions is spot on. With 400W you're looking at maybe 800-1200Wh daily in December.
in Q&A
1 year ago
thumb_up 1
Absolutely agree with the above. The community here actually understands the practical constraints of off-grid living rather than just spouting theory.
The split array setup you're describing is spot-on for Highland conditions, though I'd push back slightly on one thing—don't underestimate how much those winter angles actually hurt your...
The lads are spot on about your peak load issue, but there's a bit more to consider for a caravan setup.
You're looking at needing roughly 5-6kW minimum if you want kettle + microwave running...
Depends heavily on your specific loads and climate honestly. I'm running a similar 400W array with 200Ah LiFePO₄ on my narrowboat, and I still keep shore power as backup—mainly for winter when...
