Van Life Essentials How to Install Solar While Living in a Van

In today's video, we see how I took the 480-watt solar power system off my old van and put it on my new van. Just like on the old van, I used a ladder rack and treated 2x4s to mount the panels. Because I have a mix of 12-volt and 24-volt panels, I had to use two different solar charge controllers.

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Thanks for watching!

[vonrollveeg]

Glad too see you are wearing an appropriate hat! I've had numerous bouts with skin cancer (the easily treatable kind - so far) due to stupidity in my youth - spent most of my time at the beach. Take care of yourself, the desert and mountain sun can be intense.

[mrtambourineman]

Big respect 🙏 to this man from UK vanlifer - love ❤️ all you do for freedom 🙌

[jimdoozy]

I worked for the Navy repairing night vision, lasers, and thermal imaging (FLIR) devices and I have quite a bit of experience with the science light and heat. In thermal imaging, everything is based on a "Black Box" and how the color black absorbs heat and white reflects heat. (Light energy is transformed into heat energy when it strikes a surface). That's also a good reason to purchase a white vehicle to live in. White will always remain cooler than any darker color.I believe it would be better for you to paint your ladder racks white and your 2X4's white to reflect both light and heat away from your van. By painting the 2X4's black, they will absorb ore heat and breakdown much quicker, while white will extend their life. The ladder rack is an excellent idea! The space between the roof and the solar panels will prevent the heat absorbed by the black solar panels, from being transferred into the metal of the roof, thereby keeping the inside cooler. I have been watching your videos continuously for several days because I have considered this life style for years. I am 54 and left my navy job in 2001 and I am on SSD. I live well on my income now, but I believe I can live happier living as you do. Thank you for allowing me to develop some foresight before I do make the change. Your experience speaks volumes to me and is an inspiration that alleviates so many of my fears about "Just Doing It!"

[gbarraco]

I would never tackle this myself but like learning about how it is possible to have solar power on your van. Thank you Bob and Terry!

[jimcameron]

I loved this video.  I know too that I would blow up my van by no later than say 10 min into the video.  I need a Terry in my life.

[therealnastyx]

The ladder rack idea really made my install less stressful I haven't installed my panela yet but I got the racks on last night and I'm glad I don't have to drill so many wholes in my roof. stuff. I paid 50 bucks on Amazon for mine.

[mikeabner]

Thanks Bob, Just finished the design on my little tow behind camper. Iam installing 4-100watt Grape Solar panels. With a 3500-7000 peak modified inverter and 30ampcharge controller. Considering going to 3000 pure sine inverter. So your video was very helpful as always, I should be seeing you out there by this time next year. God willing. lol. Iam doing this because you sincerely inspired me. And this is what I want for my retirement.

[whatsananna]

Absolutely fascinating (if intimidating at this point). I was thinking about a solar "suitcase" setup until a commenter made the point that roof mounted could sharge while driving, something a suitcase set up could not do.

[tmbuchtel]

Aren't you two having fun! So nice of Terry to help you out! You deserve kindness, Bob!!

[Angel-ocgd]

Now all you need is a mini air conditioner and you're set. there's super durable liquid plastic paint you can brush on with a cheap simple brush. The stuff is amazing against rust.

[MsRegina]

It looks like a TOP NOTCH job! I don't have a clue about solar but one step at a time... Beautiful build and I am so happy for you Bob! Thank You for all the information and the video!

[KauaiMike]

Bob - another example of straight-forward problem solving. Leave the complicated to those seeking that.

[sallyanne]

a good idea is to use old bicycle tire tubes to put between the gutter mounts and the drip rail. no scratch

[douglasfreebirdphotography]

I love Bob's explanation of his ladder racks, they go across the roof as most ladder racks do....lol.

[ellad]

just went through all vids about insulating and powering system. Everything that I had confusion/blurry ideas on has been clearly discussed in all your videos! Thank you so much for all your vids and info!

[bobbycason]

I can't find the link to your roof rack system rain gutter brackets

[msshoeka]

Nice looking gentlemen putting your solar in Bob let nothing happen to him😁

[GospelTruth]

Very nice electrical job. Terry is a great worker!

[visualtraveler]

I'm looking forward to seeing your new high top, that Carolyn showed on her channel, of your van behind her, of your van with a new high top. :-))) ☮ ☕ ☺ ✌

[CherylFlynn]

Wow, amazing and so well done. Packed with really good information on installing solar panels. Thank you for another great post