Electrical Woes & Wins! Cabin Fixer Upper Part 17

[@SlimPotatohead]

I added links in the video description for all the items I purchased in this segment. Please check it out if you are curious. Thanks! SP

[@paulsccna2964]

Frankly. It would be interesting to see and get more info about the 12 volt installation and if you add Solar. FYI the cabin is amazing.

[@janingham1823]

Thank you for the links

[@devonwharton9244]

Your calm, storytelling demeanor is always a welcome break from the fast track of life. Thanks for doing what you do and for sharing with all of us.

[@oceanbrzzz]

@Devon Wharton. I couldn’t have said it better myself. I’ve been watching Slim for years and love the channel for both education and entertainment. Marcia from Minnesota

[@janingham1823]

I’m really enjoying your series on your cabin. Would it be possible to include a link on the marine power set up including HOW you replaced the plug set up. I’m thinking you will be using the solar panels to charge your Jackary but in the interim how are you charging it up? In your car/trailer? Thanks, again, Slim for another informative video.

[@MrsMoon-qs2gf]

Brilliant! I love how you meet a challenge head-on, not accepting the status quo, and figure your own way to get things done safe and efficiently.

[@samstlm]

Ditto on the brilliant!

[@mitchelll3189]

9:52 “I’ve probably lost some people at this point.” As my eyes are 2 inches from my phone cause I’m so interested in this. You’re a good story teller slim! The cabin videos have been my favorite

[@I_Santos_]

Right? I was keen on figuring out how he got around all the nonsense and came to a solution!

[@toronado455]

totally had my interest

[@bntravelin2]

i have lived on 12 volt for years. simple easy and no inverter. great solution

[@tonystrange7224]

Love how you’re always thinking outside the box for solutions. Great video as always Slim.

[@RoadDogSteve]

The opening segment really shows how much you have done on the cabin. Well done! Thanks

[@oldvermonter2813]

Hi Slim! Great video. I have been living off grid for over 5 years now. We built our cabin with both 12 volt wiring and 110 wiring. We use the 12 volt system to run our lights (led) and water pump. Recently we purchased a 1200 watt power station by Ecoflow. That was a game changer! I couldn't be happier. I run a generator for about an hour a day to recharge the Ecoflow. Now, I can run anything that requires 110 volt. We bought a new refrigerator (4.6 cubic feet). The station will run that alone for at least 1 day and half without recharging. We will be purchasing solar panels in the future so at least in the summer we will not need to run a generator to recharge the Ecoflow. I was really impressed :)

[@noahcount7132]

Murphy's Laws are numerous, Slim, and your efforts to renovate, improve, and personalize your cabin have demonstrated two of Murphy's most common Laws, that you've been coping with since you purchased the cabin: 1. Everything takes longer than you think it will, and 2. Nothing is as easy as it looks. 😄

[@kenhuth1762]

Don't forget to add that it also costs more than you planned as well.

[@webluke]

A few years back, I was thinking about how more devices, such as lights and chargers, are running off DC power. This requires everything to have an AC-to-DC power conversion circuit, which is wasteful. We should be wiring homes and businesses with 12-48V DC in the walls. But to take it a step further in the networking world, we have POE, which is power and data over network wires at 24-52V DC. This has worked great for Wireless Access Points, Security Cameras, Desk Phones, Door Controls, and Lights. This is all powered by a network switch back in a closet. There is still a need for 120/240V AC for higher-power devices, but many built-in things could run off DC in a home or office and be networked to be smart, allowing you to have switches that do more than turn on and off lights all running locally. It's essential to ensure these things don't require being connected to the "cloud" to operate.

[@richardthomas1743]

Very good solution for the 12 volt system! I really like the Lamp that you mounted on the piece of Birch wood! This has definitely given me some ideas. Thank you Slim!

[@UncleBuckle50]

I'm not a fan of AC/DC but I am a fan of your creativeness!

[@happyhong8779]

Man your geniuses! I never thought use 12V system at house!

[@rcsproject627]

Slim I love how you think outside the box. Excellent solution the 12 volt system for backup!!!

[@supersloth4635]

I ❤ the deers casually going on with their business in the background. Our deer bounce out of sight two seconds before they hear us.

[@pattiwhite9575]

I remember when you first showed us the little cabin. I think I mentioned that if you bought RV products and installed them into your cabin it should be very effective. Plan 3 is working the best. WTH is with NB? Crazy laws. But, I understand it is for safety. I can not tell you how many channels I watch from off griders in Arkansas. In that state you can do anything you want on your land. Hence, lots of burned out places. LOL Your cabin is looking so nice with the shingle siding. Nice lighting at night all around. And, curtains? Cozy. Hope you are able to sleep inside during the cold winter nights now. Cleaver man!

[@richardthomas1743]

Awesome opening with the Deer feeding!

[@johngardner2620]

Loved the opening critter. I Saint Andrews we call them "rodents "

[@rcfield4525]

very interesting, I like the 12-volt solution. nothing beats the Keep It Simple Slim method

[@kimberlyshalaby1134]

Loved seeing your deer out front. Good to see how solar power can work for you. That was very interesting. I hope you have a good week. The cabin looks beautiful, & cozy.

[@gonesideways6621]

Great solution to skirt strict electrical laws T. Edison would be proud of you as 12 v dc was his way of lighting world untill that pesky Telsa came along safe source of power that has a purpose in every day life.

[@danrandall794]

Government over reach as usual. The more they say safety you can just hear lost some more freedoms. Great persistence and I think I would have said screw it and do twelve volts just like a camper. Another great Slim video.

[@fionaludbrook8193]

Wow Slim, a highly illuminating post. Electrical installation is highly regulated in Australia for 12 volt in vehicles, as well as AC/DC.in any situation. However the new plug and play batteries are enabling many of us to bypass the red tape in our camp set ups. You have gotten me thinking about how much power could be saved if everything was 12 volt in my home! Food for thought.

[@gene_takavic57]

The shot with the lights on in the cabin really makes it pop! Looking great Slim!

[@didlidoodles343]

I can't believe how creative and resourceful you are Slim! I learn so much from you while being entertained. 😃

[@zac123h]

Sounds like you can be on grid, off grid or offgrid 12v. The options may prove themselves useful in the future! So cool to see your creativity. Necessity is the mother of invention!

[@jsim5000]

Mr Slim slides through another loop hole to meet his needs! Smart thinking Mr Slim Slider Potato Head. I’m going to try this also Thank you for sharing your ideas.

[@LilyWasHereMB]

12v definitely the way to go. If you need 120 say, for a coffee maker or toaster, connect an inverter or, directly to your Jackery. Love that you "stuck it to the Man", the Govt & the electricians that wouldn't call you back, too.

[@papajeff5486]

Slim, I’ve pulled a lot of wire, when I was a teenager, always under the supervision of an electrician. I don’t know the Tennessee law; but, my dad saved a fair amount of money by offering my pulling service. Apparently, there are things to do, under an electrician’s supervision, that are allowed. I hauled rolls of wire, from truck to house. The electrician drilled holes in the studs and I pulled wire from breaker panels to switches and end use, lights, outlets and such. I think you’re right, SAFETY is the answer. Really smart to go 12 volt, IMHO.

[@jerryolson3408]

As an electrician for over 50 years I have been arguing the inefficiency of inverters for a long time. Use the dc directly from your solar, wind or other source !! Good job Slim.

[@Nerd3927]

Great solution! As a live aboard electrician I fully approve! Well done!

[@3dognite]

Loved the video. I hope this 12V system meets your needs. Thanks for the update. Looking forward to the next video. Take care Slim and stay warm.

[@jimnjele.bean-dayone3505]

Outstanding sir....sucks "They" won't let you work on 120vac, but I love your workaround!! The cabin is looking very nice....thanks for the videos

[@97TRAKIN]

I have the exact transfer switch. Installed it myself and then had an inspection done afterwards. I didn't need the inspection, but for insurance purposes, I think it was a good idea.

[@o.smallwood4268]

Never underestimate the mind of "Slim," I believe Innovation is his middle name 😄. Way to hang in there....we will have to see where the solar panels go next 🤔. Thanks for sharing. Oh, the cabin is looking great 👍

[@hockeynutt9434]

Ohh, and amazing idea to use 12v!, Genius move

[@kaykaykayak9368]

Smart and brilliant move 12 volt!!!!

[@thizizliz]

1. Good look8ng neighbor that stopped by for breakfast. 2. Love the heavy cover on the woodshed 3. Siding looks great! 4. Boo his on the power woes but yay for solutions.

[@bikingal4283]

ok that's what that cord is for.. I have a teardrop camper and it has a double ended 12v cord like you used with your jackery.. I have solar panels on the td and I have 2 1000w and one 300w jackeries plus the agm battery that came with the td...I couldn't remember what that cord was for but now I see that's how I run my td electrical off of my jackeries... see???? So I now know to run the td off my jackery I plug that cord into the 12v outlet of the td and the same on the jackery.... I knew the manufacturer set that up for some purpose... and I do have a kill switch to keep from draining the agm battery whilst using the jackeries... here I come truly off grid camping and exploring... thanks again Slim for your wonderful instructional videos... as you can see, they really helped this gal....

[@Kevin_M_Hall]

Noticed you got a new handle for the stove. Much Nicer, especially for bare hands.

[@michellegoodrich7115]

Your videos are so much better than anything on tv! I rarely watch tv, but I'm always chomping at the bit for a new Slim video!!

[@toronado455]

agreed 100%

[@onedollah49]

You are so much smarter than you look. Only teasing, long time fan and wanted to leave a comment and a like to be supportive.

[@gereshomeE]

Well done! ☺ Greetings from an Englishman 🇬🇧 in Arabia!

[@Lisa-ud6qz]

Love the deer in the begining so cute I love when your in the cabin my fav video the cabin is beautiful looks great ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@thomasjohns8184]

Slim I enjoy your videos! Something to think about is adding thermo electri cells on the sides of your firebox! These generate electric power from the heat and can be sized to power additional batteries and your jackery at the same time! This is especially useful when solar sunshine is at a limit like in higher parts of the world! Their not cheap but when combined keeps your batteries charging even when using power! I also put a 40 amp 12 volt generator on my truck engine with a 2000watt inverter charger that I can use at the jobsite/ camping or to just keep my 4 -12 volt battery bank charged! It operates efficiently at idle speed!

[@dragonskunkstudio7582]

The first 3 minutes of this video was a montage worthy of winning some kinda award. It was amazing.

[@SlimPotatohead]

Well Thank You! I was really just trying to confuse all those people who tuned in for electrical advice! SP

[@jennyleef1775]

I have often wondered how people in Canada and the USA got away with doing their own electrcal work. Here in Australia it is illegal to do your own so you have to pay an electrician, just as you have now. It's interesting how it can vary. I am pleased you have been able to come up with some good solutions. Another good video. Thankyou.

[@ChrisRI1000]

Here in New Hampshire USA, I was able to do everything I wanted to DIY. I did the electrical, plumbing, put in a boiler, gas lines, water softener system, etc. As long as it's an average job, there isn't a need for expensive unreliable contractors if you're handy.

[@stevebailey7633]

My village on Long Island, NY used to allow homeowners to take a test to qualify to do their own electrical work. Usual method applied, you roughed in, got it inspected and approved, then finished and got that approved. Saved a bundle. Then they sadly did away with it, only registered and licensed electricians now. Interesting comments about power stations providing 120v. There are a few YT channels for RV'ing that describe how inefficient 120 conversion is and to whenever possible, use the 12v outlets. Easy on a modern RV where everything is LED, which may be your best solution for future lighting.

[@LatteLover]

The cabin looks amazing fully shingled!

[@GHE2005]

I no good at understanding electricity. I like this video because your challenges help me see what would work and not work. Safety is important and each city, state, county or district sure has their own rules and that makes things even more complicated at time. I can't wait to see what more you will need to get more power in your next video Slim. You stay warm too.

[@miken9449]

I also found my power station would drain all power over a matter of days even when stored! I discovered the inverter has a power switch that should only be turned on when using the 120v outlets (A "functional limitation" not well disclosed in the ads or manual...hmm). With the inverter off, the station only uses about 5% of the battery capacity per month on 12v standby. I'm guessing you should be able to run 12v items directly from your power station for a long periods. Please let us know! So, like an RV, we have have a 12v system powered by the battery and a 120v system that runs 120v appliances only when connected to shore power. Running your cottage on 12v is a great idea BTW! Love your channel.

[@campingwiththeadamss8552]

Very good Slim. You unknowingly have solved my cabin off grid woes man and I appreciate it. Thank you for showing this and if you every make it to Tombstone Arizona next winter, I buy you a dinner. Stay safe.

[@katielin2379]

Big tech and govt just have to be all in your business. BS. Your cabin is so wonderful.

[@Joe-vv8xl]

Very cool... As a EE, I would love to convert most of my house to a 12V system covering the lighting and air circulation. The outliers would be the HVAC and kitchen appliances that consume high power.

[@RichieRich-l6s]

Wife & I enjoy all your videos! We don't RV, but we live in a rural area with frequent outages. We have many 12 v. Items (electric throws, led lighting etc) we have two 100AH lithium batteries (kept charged via solar) and we have a Honda 2kw generator which I just converted to run on propane as gas doesn't store very well. Between the Honda and lithium batteries we're in good shape to cope with outages. Incidently they make a regular ac light bulb containing a small lithium battery that charges when you're using it on AC. Should the power go out it will function for several hours on it's internal battery. They're pretty cheap and available on line or Home Depot etc. I've got them placed throught the house should the power go out we're not hunting a flashlight down. Cabin is looking great! Especially like the cedar shingles and metal roof! Keep up the good work, Rich

[@whatsamacallit3833]

Good job on explaining this process even though you did "loose" me half way through, I watched to the end. Thanks Slim!

[@chucktrier9586]

Could have waited for a while longer before you opened the door. Beautiful.

[@mikeranfurly1135]

Great looking 12volt setup. It’s all about fulfilling needs, but keeping life simple. Thanks

[@peterpowell6168]

watching the deer reminds me of when growing up in Nova Scotia we had a bungalow and would put out salt blocks for the deer! happy trails!

[@krissfemmpaws1029]

In a cabin low voltage makes sense if the runs are short. With the new LED lights they draw less amperage so the voltage drop is less. Of course you can step up to 24 volts if needed.

[@donnasnorthernlights2089]

I bought the Jackery 1000 with 2 solar panels and love it!!!

[@MaureenTheTemp]

This was an absolutely fascinating video, issues I hadn't thought about (how inefficient converting to 120v is, lack of interest in taking a "small job" is from an electrician, etc.) and, of course, how you put in your own 12v system to meet your needs.

[@fredsieber2676]

Thank you Slim. I have commented before that I am from Western NC and now live in very busy and urban Japan. Your videos come out on the weekend here....just at the right time I need to take a breath and recharge my batteries. I miss the woods and small town life so much and live through your videos. You have inspired me to rent a camper when I visit the states this summer and really enjoy the outdoors. Thank you.

[@elainefarr3155]

What a wild journey for electricity! I love your final fix, that was very creative. We love our Jackery, we just bought our first one last summer and used it to power a fridge/freezer for a cross-country trip. Using a power station to power your lights is brilliant, pun intended, .lol

[@remaguire]

I really admire your handyman skills. You are VERY professional.

[@lisantica842]

Totally enjoyed this video, in fact, I gave it a thumbs up during the first 20 seconds because of Bambi in the video! That cabin is so very charming.

[@jasonwilliamson8346]

Good afternoon Slim

[@SlimPotatohead]

Good Evening Jason!

[@dadadit]

Slim you are an inspiration to all of us "DIY's"

[@marilynrenaud1892]

As I've said before...you SP are a genius! You come up with the most brilliant ideas! I have to show my husband this video as I do all of your others because you have a fix for everything. I am so impressed by you! Thank you for this very informative and interesting video. I appreciate your knowledge.👍😁

[@smithcon]

Your creative DIY solutions continue to impress.

[@bafergs]

That 12V dc system you have come up with is awesome. Given me some ideas for a future project idea. Thanks.

[@brianmombourquette2673]

LOL quest for power. I approve of your quest. Unlike so many people...

[@ChrisRI1000]

This I will be very interested in. I always thought 12V was a viable option over 110V especially since more items are coming to market for 12V usage. I'm also planning a winter getaway down in Arizona making a small dwelling that's off grid. So glad you ended up going this way.

[@bah5310]

I worked with a guy 20 years ago that had a 12 VDC house because the power company wanted some insane amount to run the lines to his house.

[@coachgeo]

24v better... 48v they say is for offgridding the best.

[@ChrisRI1000]

@BAH In my area that can get pricey too. But there is the option of having a contractor dig a trench and we can DIY the conduit. Costs are much less that way.

[@1978jra]

@@coachgeo Well yes and no. 48v is as a system much better than 12v for starters required wires are much smaller than in 12v system, but for example there is far less 48v lamps than 12v lamps. Anyway if loads are in that category as in this video, 12v is good enough even tho that wire from Jackery to wall looked kinda thin to my eyes.

[@ScubaSteveCanada]

Good afternoon Slim. Crunchy snow/ice = ccccold! ;-)

[@SlimPotatohead]

It just got even colder!

[@jmpattillo]

Really cool solution turning to low voltage wiring.

[@odoroussmegma2191]

I enjoy your methodical approach to things. Keep up the good work.

[@susanstrickland6774]

Wow! You're the man!! You have been busy. Your tenacity amazes me. The cabin outside looks so good. Glad you got through the electric dilemma. Very cool repurposing the light fixture. How nice to see you have wildlife, beautiful deer. 🙂👍👍👍

[@HaroldMalaby]

Yes enjoyed please continue. I have a little cabin behind my house and want to do as you have with my Jackery also. Like you like the flexability of using in my RV also. Now here in Ohio and in our travels the humidity can get high so the need for cooling. Both our RV and my little cabin need 120V for the AC so that remains an issue. I too want the best of both worlds sorry to hear they are being difficult for you. Difference for me I am running electric to my cabin from my house and the County thinks the cabin is just a shed but it is more. I have chosen to just do which means no inspetions on my electric. I look forward to your solar story continuing because I too have my panels used when traveling but not set up yet at the cabin. I also want to introduce the 12V to our house so like you when the power goes out we have options. Keep up the good work and know that I for one look forward to hearing more ideas. Thanks for sharing and presenting us with more cabin things which I enjoy

[@Usualeclectic]

That company who ended up giving you a refund probably learned a ton about their product form you. Way to be persistent!!

[@ernestpaul2484]

That and the lost sales due to the video. Once they get their proverbial stuff together and correct the deficiencies in their product, they can make a major sales campaign on the "new and improved 2.0" version of their portable generator.

[@williampaxton167]

Great video Slim,any chance you can name the company that you bought from. Keep up the great videos.😊

[@looyosummers5796]

I love how you problem solve, and your cabin is looking quite cozy.🍻

[@Onemattressatatime]

Best opening scene on KZbin .🦌

[@kst357]

I used to live in the Chicago area and they've addressed it since then but it used to be that the codes didn't allow you to use Romex cable or Greenfield but had to run your wires through conduit. With plumbing they only allowed copper & steel water pipes and Pex & PVC pipes weren't allowed. This caused most homeowners to have to hire an electrician or plumber. They did that due to pressure from the electrician & plumbers unions as it kept their union workers busy. It sounds to me as if NB is being so restrictive for the same reason. They want to keep their tradesmen working and the poor homeowners have to foot the bill.

[@stephen.mcguire]

Thanks for sharing, my power needs are larger but your basics are right on the money.

[@Thomas_M_1963]

What an intro scene! Absolutely great!

[@nancyulloa7119]

Wow...your cabin is beautiful...you are making it look brand new...amazing!!!

[@mrv6968]

Great video Slim and it is sad Canada has such a huge amount of red tape in all of it's departments. Your way of getting around some of that red tape is awesome and ingenuous. Stay warm.

[@jimmyjenkins9240]

Thank you, Slim. One of the many things I like about you is that you are a problem solver! Well done!

[@stuartstuart866]

Ha ha, well Slim, you are a problem solver. Usually, I multitask while watching videos, this one captured my attention 100%.

[@MrTechRat]

Love that you did what you do best and found a way around the issue. Can’t wait to see the panel set up as I’m sure it won’t be “simple” but you’ll make it look easy lol

[@richardthomas1743]

HEY! Hello Slim ! Awesome to see you and of course thumbs UP!

[@cathyjay2569]

I’ve said it before and I’ll probably say it again. You, my friend, are a genius! I just love watching you do things.♥️TN Nana

[@campfirerob1089]

Slim, all your videos are so well done, I like everyone. Thanks for taking to time to produce and post.

[@navigatingthedestination]

What a great work around. 🙂 12v has come along way. I didn't realize you could buy standard light bulbs that are 12v. It's always best to keep it simple. I look forward for more cabin videos 👍

[@mezanian]

Genius solutions, well to a frustrated lamp upcycler.😉😎🇦🇺

[@glynnalan195]

Good evening slim, Hope your good, I’ll start with just how fantastic and natural your cabin is looking and coming along. Iv watched from the start and I absolutely love what you have done and doing on the improvements 🧐. I admire that it’s off grid and self efficient , that goes a long way when living in natures back yard and keeping it natural. I always look forward to all your posts and as you fund every single piece your self and no sponsors, that is what makes it real and honest. I have watched most of your posts more than twice and never get bored, many tips and good advice. I am never amazed just how much of a do it your self guy you are with absolute brilliance in your ideas 🤔. I am planning to live off grid and live full time in my touring caravan in the next 2 months and took onboard many of your advice and great ideas. I like the fact that animals feel comfortable so near your cabin ,,,,, thank you for all your time and effort in every post you share with us. Thanks slim 🤝🇬🇧

[@glynnalan195]

🧐 did you do the switch mod by taking the USB from the marine board and placing it to the wall light🧐 as I believe the marine board is equipped usually with two USB ports

[@tammyspears3624]

I love how cozy your cabin is

[@paulsccna2964]

Very good information. For anyone doing a off-grid or small cabin.

[@dustymiller7758]

Well done Slim, fantastic entertainment. The cabin looks great.

[@toronado455]

Great video! i absolutely LUV the 12V DC solution Slim created! i had no idea there were 12V bulbs that screw into standard light sockets (wired for 12V DC of course). I totally agree about the inefficiencies of inverters.

[@garybrown9062]

Other than a short stint working the oil patch in Alberta back in the late 70’s Iv’e lived all my life in N.B. What you say about the power grid being unreliable is true. Except in my situation. I lived in Taymouth where my power was reliable from 1985-90. I then moved to Fredericton northside and lived there from 1990 until 2006. My power wasn’t out there for 5 hours total in that time frame until Arthur came through. Then it went out Saturday morning at 9:30 and came back on Wednesday at 5:00pm. I had a back up generator that kept me going the whole time. I then moved one more time in 2016. I have a whole house generator here and my power hasn’t been out here either. Go figure. I honestly believe it’s because I’m prepared.

[@shoopnooop2952]

The annoying part is that the amount of power you need in that cabin is so little this could have been done from the start and just run extension cords for what little would run 120v. That power station can still be useful if the 12v is decent though. If not i'd rip that apart for the battery and trash the rest.

[@SlimPotatohead]

Correct, however I need to consider both the needs of others, both visitors and other property owners in the future. The wiring was already there, I just needed to tap into it. Thanks! SP

[@terrynewell8968]

I'm happy you figured it out. But. If I were you, I'd go to an antique shop and get a couple of oil lamps. It would be helpful for cloudy days. I also knew a guy who put copper pipes in the back of his fireplace to heat water for the shower. Your stove probably isn't big enough, but it's a thought.