Off Grid Battery & Solar Sizing - Camper Van Conversion Series

Self Build Camper Van - Calculating the electrical loads and sizing the leisure batteries and solar panels. Get you FREE Blank Load sheet can be downloaded here:
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Thank you for watching this build series.
Greg Virgoe
#gregvirgoe #vanlife #tinyhome

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you to everyone that suggested I should have 12v charging sockets for phones, kindle and iPads etc. In my next wiring video you will see me making some 12v USB sockets to match all the other switches in my van. kzbin.info/www/bejne/d5OXnoGXes99i9E Thank you

[@montyburnsmx1]

Awesome videos

[@darrenjones3681]

Greg Virgoe really enjoyed your series can I suggest I’ve seen movable spotlights that clip into a rail so they can be switched around as required, the neat thing is they are also made with integral usb charging points

[@nahoskins]

In our van I actually wired in my own plugs for our laptop cables and use a DC 2 DC converter with an lcd display to take our 12V supply and bring it up to 19.5V. This is far more efficient and helps us use a measly 100ah leisure battery to work on the road.

[@deadtriple]

I don't agree or disagree that dc-dc charger, but ac-dc battery charger would be nice too. Considering the capacity of solar panels charge capacity (eg in winter in northern Europe).

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello Nick Hoskins , long time since you posted this so hope you see this but do you have details of your dc2dc device please?

[@SevenRavens007]

Greg's got a natural talent as a teacher. His style is accurate, practical and easy to understand.

[@GregVirgoe]

That’s very nice of you to say so thank you 😊

[@thecorbies]

Hi Greg. Another absolutely excellent video, and as someone else below said, you've got a marvellous natural disposition for teaching. Everything explained really clearly, both visually and verbally. Regards Mark in the UK

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello Mark, makes my day to read your comment. It’s very pleasing to know the videos come across well and are useful to others. Many thanks.

[@davebowie9200]

@@GregVirgoe I agree with Mark. Excellent work Greg. I've just found this series and have subbed now and am working my way through them.

[@GregVirgoe]

Dave Bowie great name and thanks for the sub.

[@richyrock69]

Hi Greg, can't believe you use a hairdryer & straighteners...? Keep up the great work, vids are fantastic.

[@GregVirgoe]

richyrock69, yes, mostly for my ear and nasal hair 😆

[@Zerpersande]

Love your shirt. Famous last words to most of your Saturday off.

[@applejacks971]

My famous last words when starting a project were always 'How hard could it be?'...followed with 4 hours and 2 trips to the hardware store...

[@rimmerd9908]

Although I feel I know plenty about these systems and the associated electrical calculations, it is still very enjoyable to watch you run through the figures and make it easy for people to understand. If you don't mind me picking you up a couple of points though. The 50% discharge of a standard lead acid leisure battery is not the same with AGM lead acid batteries which I personal recommend every time over a bog standard lead acid. 30-35% is doable as rather than 50% in my experience so up to 40% more discharge is possible with an AGM. AGM's don't need venting and can be positioned on their sides. The other thing is, I believe the efficiency rating of an inverter (and please people, buy a decent sine wave inverter) is based on a high load. As I understand it, an invertor rated at 2000watts maximum is less efficient at running lower loads than a lower specified invertor. So... if you have a load of 100watts on a 2000watt inverter, it will be much less efficient than a load of 100watts on a 1000watt and much better still on a 500watt inverter. I personally think 1000watts in a campervan should be plenty for anyone so don't do what so many people do and buy a 2000watt or even 3000watt inverter unless you know you'll "need" all that power. If you're running a 2000watt heater on a 2000watt invertor which is powered by your batteries then you're probably a bit mental anyway... Keep up the good work...

[@edwild344]

You have produced a bit of an ac/dc Masterclass there Greg -useful for beginners and experts alike. Congratulations. Ed

[@GregVirgoe]

Thanks Ed, there might be more efficient ways to skin a cat but this works for me. 👍🏼

[@getreel3515]

Hi, I stumbled on your insulation video, I am going to be starting to convert a Sprinter Van into a camper for my daughter and son in law. I have to say that I have been watching all of your videos, they are great. The way you describe all the steps and why you did them is awesome. I have given you all thumbs up and subscribed, keep up the great videos.

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you very much for your support and amazing feedback. It’s really nice to know they are appreciated 😊

[@CruisingTheCut]

Excellent video and equally applicable to sizing for boats too. Really good stuff.

[@GregVirgoe]

Absolutely, any solar application, van, boat or garden shed. Thanks for great comment.

[@daved4547]

And I am also following your exploints sir (as well as Greg's!) as after my van conversion comes the boat. It's the other way round due to costs, you understand!

[@Almatrodi]

This is my second time to watch this because it has so much information. Thanks so much.

[@johnfittis5764]

Best van conversion channel I have found, professional and understandable help. I'm not doing a van myself but watching this series makes me wish I was! Perhaps some day!

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello John, are you thinking of doing a van in the future or are you here for the workshop videos?

[@johnfittis5764]

Greg Virgoe Hi Greg, I like it all, everything I have watched so far has been done so well clearly explained and interesting. I do like to see how people do van conversions and then following them on their adventures, it seems half of America is living in vans! I also do some woodwork and will be checking out your SketchUp stuff, I use CATIA in work so I have some experience. Anyway good luck with the channel 😎

[@GregVirgoe]

We too are looking to do some VLOGs when touring Europe in the Van. I'm keen to show the day to day tasks that are required which are often missing from other videos. Does sound like you are my perfect subscriber in terms of your own likes.👍

[@kookalini]

Greg, I stumbled upon your channel yesterday and have been consuming your van build content non-stop since. We have been wanting to do a van build but have been hesitant due to our lack of knowledge. Your videos are such a fantastic resource laying out everything step by step. I think we are out of excuses not to do a van build! Am loving watching your progress - thank you for sharing your invaluable knowledge. You are a great teacher.

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you so much, its lovely to hear that the videos have given you some help and inspiration. It's most definitely achievable and you seem quite passionate and focused so I bet you do a really great job. I'm also into my fitness and nutrition too, been a triathlete for last 6 years. Have you tried a paleo diet?

[@kookalini]

Thanks for the response Greg! I'm actually gearing up for my first 70.3 IronMan next year (yikes!). I'm yet to try paleo but it's been on my radar for a while now. Looking forward to seeing how your van turns out.

[@johnvickers5750]

I'm late on this build series & playing catch up but I have to say this is the most comprehensive explanation of van electrics I've seen! Also I can understand it perfectly thank you.

[@GregVirgoe]

Welcome aboard John, really pleased you find the vids to be useful. Thanks for great feedback. 👍🏼

[@daved4547]

I don't say this often as it is quite difficult to find a 'gem' amongst the seemly endless advice, guidance and 'expertise' on here these days but to you sir, I doff my hat. I have watched many videos on van conversion as I also will be starting mine in a month or two and am gleaning information from everywhere but the deep insight you are providing will help no end so thank you.

[@GregVirgoe]

Hi Dave, thank you for taking the time to watch my videos and for such fabulous feedback, makes everything so worth while when it is appreciated. Best wishes Greg

[@SHARPEYSWORKSHOP]

Wow Greg you've put some thought into that mate frazzled my tiny brain lol

[@GregVirgoe]

Part of the reason why there's been a bit of a break in transmission lol It's taken me quite a lot of time to research and put this one together. When it comes to electrics I'm sure there are lots of people that know much more than I do and will correct me if I'm wrong. Thanks for watching mate.

[@giridharg82]

Superb explanation!! The battery planning is a daunting task. You explained it in a simple way. The data derived calculations shows your meticulous research. This is certainly an educative video for DIY van converters. Thumbs up!

[@GregVirgoe]

Many thanks, glad you found it interesting.

[@JockeSelin]

Thanks for this Greg, we're just starting out with a mammoth spreadsheet with all the components and calculations like this. To say that we're confused and that our heads are spinning is an understatement. Thanks to kind people like yourself it's all becoming a bit easier. Thanks again!

[@GregVirgoe]

Hi Jocke, have a look at my other solar panel video too I work the calculations back the other way has some useful info in it 😀

[@JockeSelin]

Greg, yeah, I've been following your videos from the start, I'm now revisiting all the "necessary ones", one by one, spinning my head even more at first, hopefully being able to figure things out as I go along. Thanks again! :)

[@Raul689]

wow this man is a walking talking encyclopaedia. Thank you for sharing this stuff with us!

[@GregVirgoe]

There are lots of useful videos in this series. Thanks for watching 👍🏼

[@Raul689]

@@GregVirgoe I am going thru all of them. and will come back many times more as i am just starting my campervan conversion. thank you for making this videos

[@stephanevanderlee]

Thanks Greg for taking time, explaining clearly with good visuals plus going the extra mile with consolidating your research a passing on your efficient way of planning and recording stuff. Excellent and pretty awed!

[@GregVirgoe]

Really pleased that you found it interesting stephane, thank you for such great feedback.

[@germanders9756]

Hoi Greg look at you in the Netherlands. very clear explanation. In this way, a difficult item in the construction of a motorhome is made it easy. And makes it a completely nice hobby

[@rups22]

So helpful thank you! In Oz we get 8 hours sunshine per day so this makes life a little easier

[@GregVirgoe]

rups22 then you will have tons of free energy all day long 😀

[@normanmazlin6741]

This is a excellent video Greg. You have all the qualities of a great teacher! You shouldn't have any problems with power. We have a slight advantage in Aus with far more sunlight and no need for heating (mostly), just need a big fan to keep the flies at bay. Those lead acid batteries are NOT good - better to lash out and get deep cycle gel AGM batteries. The lead acid also give off lots of hydrogen when charging and it is essential that they are well ventilated, not so with gel batteries. I look fwd to watching your next amazing vid. Thanks!

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you Norman, very much appreciated. I am going to get sealed deep cycle leisure batteries, either AGM or Calcium but definitely NOT the old lead acid type you have to top up with water!! No No No

[@yourTuBaer]

What about those LiFepo4 batteries. Half of the space, since you can use much more of the capacity. You can charge them very fast with solar power. The only issue is the price.

[@PhilHawkshaw]

Agreed. If budget allows it the LiFePo4 are much better.

[@dawidbiwad7771]

Hi Greg, firs thing first. You are such a smart person. Every one can make a mistake we are only humans.. I've just had married, I'm 26yr old and I had idea to buy a van to convert to campervan as my Mrs loves to travel.. Because of u its much easier to make our dreams come true. Thank you. God bless!

[@GregVirgoe]

e Mizuni that sounds like a great plan and wish you both a lot of happiness and safe travels. 👍🏼😊

[@DogburyGuitars]

Mate you're a genius, thanks very much for taking the time to do this stuff and saving people like me time, money and heartache. Brilliant.

[@lancheloth]

Hi sir, greeting from Indonesia, love you videos. my son planning to roam our country when he finish high school before he enter university, your videos give us inspiration and guidance how to at least plan and budget for that goals ( my son still in the elementary school).. A lot of saving and dreaming ahead.. Thank you for your great videos.. Btw if you go to Indonesia you have at least 8 hours of sunshine a day.. Cheers..

[@GregVirgoe]

I'm not sure we will get that far in our van but I'm really glad my videos have been useful to you, best wishes with your future build for your son.

[@reesv01]

Excellent video, the first I've stumbled upon which clearly demostrates, in realitic terms, how to assess power useage and requirements. Keep up the good work.

[@GregVirgoe]

Thanks very much Vince, glad it was useful to you.

[@harleyd500]

LFP batteries are a great way to go with solar. Deep discharge, much faster bulk charging to 100% Small, lighter. They are expensive but you need fewer/smaller and in the long run less expensive. Cheers from America!

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello from across the pond :D I'm sure you are right, I don't think my budget will stretch that far unfortunately.

[@TheShaky2]

A wee tip if you cant read a tiny label take a photo and zoom in. Fantastic video series

[@GregVirgoe]

Great tip. I recent found out that you can triple click your home button on iPhone to bring up a magnifier. 👍🏼

[@connie2671]

Thank you so much. I am a total novice. Never did any of this at school. Didn't understand. But you explain everything do clearly and deeply. I now have the confidence to start on my van. Not gonna be a full camper van, but it will be a lot more comfortable now thanks to your videos.

[@hinotinorangertruckconvers2736]

Thanks so endlessly for sharing… very detailed….excellent job 😔🙏❤️

[@stephenwiggins3148]

Oh my god. The things to consider for the electrics. I’m thinking what am I letting myself in for. I must admit though I’ve never realised what thought goes into a van build. A great and informative video. With a van build the main thing is the planning. Great stuff and can’t wait for the next instalment.

[@GregVirgoe]

Hi Stephen, I spent more time planning and researching than I have building. I didn’t want to rush into it and end up making loads of costly mistakes. There’s a lot to consider but I’m enjoying the whole process. Are you doing your own conversion?

[@stephenwiggins3148]

Yes Greg. At the investigation stage. I’ve been researching for about 3 months now. Looking at suitable vans and what to fit in it. I’m getting some ideas for a budget and cost for each part of the build. Looking for something to start next summer hopefully.

[@GregVirgoe]

I’ve found there is a lot to a conversion and have spent hours researching websites and KZbin videos. Good luck with your build. Cheers

[@skindude9251]

Awesome is the only word for you and your vids Greg! What would we do without you!

[@justgopherit3454]

Hey Greg. After watching a few of your videos I decided to pull the trigger on doing this myself and just bought a cargo truck. I can't wait to get started.

[@thepieman4398]

Another great video. I just got my Sprinter and I'm ready to start. Just a point to those advocating Lithium because of the 50% discharge issue, check out Victron Super Cycle AGM and the 100% discharge test results. A very compelling alternative to Lithium.

[@GregVirgoe]

This is the extract from Victron test results "Tests have shown that the Super Cycle battery does withstand at least three hundred 100% DoD cycles. The tests consist of a daily discharge to 10,8V with I = 0,2C20, followed by approximately two hours rest in discharged condition, and then a recharge with I = 0,2C20. The two hours rest period in discharged condition will damage most batteries within 100 cycles, but not the Super Cycle battery. We recommend the Super Cycle battery for applications where an occasional discharge to 100% DoD, or frequent discharge to 60-80% DoD is expected." So, yes it can handle a 100% discharge which is great but it is still not good practice to design and use you battery system like that unless you want to change them every year. All lead based batteries are best kept topped up with the DOD kept as low as possible for long lifespan.

[@pradolover]

Hi Greg thanks ao much for these vids, been binge watching since yesterday. Love your no BS all detail style. We have a 1983 camper trailer and I've had to remake some of the furniture, and these videos will be a great help. Cheers.

[@GregVirgoe]

Glad you like them and good luck with your build Stuart

[@fabidownunder]

Great Video Greg! Thank you so much. quick question: in your spreadsheet, you said you multiply the quantity by watts by hours used. Wouldn't that be 600 Wh for your LED Lights? Same goes for the roof fans.

[@grahammyers6475]

absolutley love your content .ive watched all your videos more than once. by far the best tutorial videos on here . thankyou for helping me understand ,im now ready for my first van conversion

[@toma1153]

Greg thank you for your videos! They're the most informative and helpful vids out there! Much appreciated!

[@GregVirgoe]

Many thanks, Tom, very nice of you to say so.

[@susanwaltho4151]

Hi lm astronomer and engineer find your vlogs great I'm in the States working on the orion space craft but watching vlogs as well as David you both aregreat🍎

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you very much for following my channel. Much appreciated 😊

[@stuartmcdonald1784]

Good technical info that's easily digestible, Thanks Greg!

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you Stuart McDonald, much appreciated 👍🏼

[@madusan1]

Amazing series of videos! Thanks Gregg from Vancouver, Canada. The lifestyle changes although sometimes difficult, I believe will make for a better and healthier life. Love the "engineering/mechanical" thought process but also the practical points! I hope all is well on your trip and maybe do a followup on your build by letting us know what you might change in a "build 2.0". Thank you again for these videos!

[@GregVirgoe]

Thanks Jon, we plan to continue with travel vlogs once we are using the van and give some feedback on how things are operating and what problems we encounter etc

[@larndavies6954]

Linear actuator to angle the soar panels, or a car scissor jack connected to a car wiper motor( The apocalyptic inventor just did a KZbin on it) a simple way to get more efficiency out of them. Another well presented episode Greg. Ps o overwhelmed by Te beautiful wiring I overlooked your breaker size.. well I didn't question it anyway. Great stuff ain

[@GregVirgoe]

+Larn Davies, I watched a video by Amy from the AltE store on solar angle and shading and amazed at the drop off in performance so a tilting mechanism would be ground breaking for van builds. Will give it some thought. Thank you for your continued support.

[@lioncrunch]

Calm, cool, collected. Excellent manor, excellent video.

[@GregVirgoe]

lioncrunch thank you very much.

[@changyu3316]

That has to be the best explanation of electrical I have come across on the internet! Thank you very much!

[@GregVirgoe]

If you think that is good please look at my latest wiring video kzbin.info/www/bejne/qIfOdYOwp6ZgsNk

[@bp2chin]

Absolutely agree, best explanation of electricals.

[@milesfryer1707]

Absolutely GREAT video, Greg. I have watched a lot of videos (and there are a lot), regarding combined power systems and this is up there as one of the absolute best. Thank you so much for taking the time out to do such a detailed video. :)

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you so much for such great feedback. Really pleased you found it to be useful.

[@jeffcarter3048]

Thanks Greg. Great help I'm just putting 2x150w German panels on my sprinter with a 100/30a smart charger victron. Just in case I add another panel.And I have 2x170amp Agm batteries hope this will be fine. thanks again for your top videos. Regards Jeff

[@GregVirgoe]

jeff carter yes that sounds like a good setup. Just be careful to keep your usage below what you can generate until you get the extra panel on it. What part of the world are you in. D what’s the daily sunshine like?

[@jeffcarter3048]

Greg Virgoe Unfortunately Greg I’m in Manchester so not great sunshine we have webbed feet up ere it rains that much lol. Jeff.

[@amoreno830]

thank you!! probably the best van building videos. That's the technical view I was desperate looking for.

[@mastery9292]

Excellent walk through of figuring out needs for the build. Thanks for making this so simple to understand.

[@velorucionLDN]

Excellent video on sizing the solar/ battery system! Thank you very much!

[@GregVirgoe]

You are welcome my friend, glad you liked it. Cheers

[@BsYtHandle]

Quick tip for reading tiny text on an object: use your phone to take a photo of the text and then zoom into the picture to make it big enough to read.

[@GregVirgoe]

If you have an iPhone. Triple tap the home button to bring up the magnifying camera app 👍🏼😃

[@BsYtHandle]

@@GregVirgoe cheers mate. Any chance of a video with thoughts on the portable power stations that are becoming more popular? All of the podcasts etc on renewable energy technologies are focused on the vehicle industry right now.

[@MrYamman35]

hi Greg. In Spain for example you may find that in a lot of cases there is no specific live or neutral. each conductor reads around 110v to earth and 230v between each other. So you always have power to a an appliance.

[@GregVirgoe]

I'll check into that (reaches for my European motor caravaning guide)

[@LJLeung]

Finally sat down and sized my system. Glad I live in California! Thanks Greg.

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello Larry, you must have sunshine in abundance, what was your figure for average sun hours?

[@LJLeung]

I used 6 in my calculations but now that I think about it, that might be a little high. Especially since we're not in a drought anymore; it has been raining a lot lately.

[@GregVirgoe]

Who can predict the weather, at best it’s a guess so better to er on the side of caution.

[@AstralBoy2009]

Thanks Greg for sharing all these wonderful videos, It is indeed the best learning experience and knowledge enhancer for me, I liked your Sketchup video, you are a very good teacher with best composure and voice, very impressive. Keep sharing the good gyan.

[@GregVirgoe]

I’m really pleased you are enjoying the videos and finding them to be interesting. Many thanks for wonderful feedback. Cheers

[@martincadman6331]

Great Series Greg. We could just follow your workings out for solar panels and battery requirements. You done all the hard work working it out lol. Some of it sounded complicated,

[@jamesnevinson9818]

Top quality information simply explained!

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you 🙏🏼

[@i.s.1819]

Hi Greg, love this vide! Finally understanding how to size my battery!!! :-D Only one remark: for the Watt Hours you are saying to calculate the "item quantity * watts * hours/day" but what in your table you exclude the item quality (see e.g. LED lights).

[@GregVirgoe]

I. S. I think there was a formula error in the video but the download sheet has been corrected. Well spotted

[@popuptoaster]

Very helpful, and helps clear up a sesnible way to come up with an estimate, but don't forget you are not limited to lead acid batteries, there are alternatives that take up less space, weigh less and can be discharged more fully. I'm lucky in the my Sprinter is an ex RAF ambulance so it has a square box on the back and is wide enough for 60 cell panels across the roof.

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you for your feedback. Are you referring to Lithium batteries? What I have seen are very expensive and I'm struggling to justify the extra cost. Unless you know of something else I have overlooked. Please let me know. Great base vehicle you have, more room inside, double axle for more weight carrying and you get to put 60cells on top. Have you got any photos you like to share on my facebook page? facebook.com/Greg.Woodshop/

[@popuptoaster]

Yes i was mainly talking about lipos, they do cost more and the charging setup needs to be a bit more complex as well, I have spoken to a guy who bought some second hand from a mobile phone mast, I think there are places that have to replace at set intervals and can be getting rid of perfectly good batteries. Traction batteries (forklift trucks etc) are still lead acid and heavy but they can take more of a discharge so possibly would allow smaller batteries? I'll post a couple of pics of my van, I've not started conversion yet as I'm still in the planning stages, although I have built a couple of very basic weekend panel van conversions in the past. :)

[@GregVirgoe]

Great, I'll be interested to see them. Good that you have got some experience too. It's a very steep learnign curve for me right now. As you may have seen already invested in the charge controller and other items so I'm kind of committed down this route. Any thoughts on AGM vs Calcium?

[@rono33]

What an excellent video and calculations. Thank you very much. I'm guessing the only reason you don't go lithium batteries is because of budget. But with all your calculations you're clearly good at your math, I think you'll find the lithium batteries lifespan, being able to use them below the 50% mark for many many additional cycles etc. they eventually pay for themselves. Excellent video.

[@GregVirgoe]

I know they have many good features but I just cannot spare the cost on this build.

[@Namdor2012]

Lithium deep cell are the way to go as you can discharge them near %100 so a 200 amp hr is equal to 400 amp hr regular battery, they last 6 times longer and are %70 lighter, but are very very expensive...Hope they come down in price by %60 in the next few years..A buddy gas heater and portable gas cooktop might be a good idea to have as backup..

[@GregVirgoe]

You are absolutely right, they are much better but still very expensive.

[@Toaster-v1z]

And they are much easier to charge since their internal resistance is much lower. Definitely cheaper to use LiFe when considering useful life.

[@tospicy4ya]

@@GregVirgoe could you do a video on where to buy cells, I’ve watched loads of lifep04 balancing and bms seems straight forward but buying cellls is a minefiled ?

[@GregVirgoe]

@@tospicy4ya I’m not the guy to do that. We have AGM batteries living full time for 4yrs now and they have never been switched off abs never dropped below 12.4v so like that they are far better value for money 🥴🤔

[@GregVirgoe]

@@Toaster-v1z I disagree and as I have lived for 4yrs with AGM I can prove it.

[@jonnytacooutdoors]

Best videos on KZbin!

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you so much 😊👍🏼

[@jonnytacooutdoors]

@@GregVirgoe doing it all myself thanks to you. Saving me lots of money! Thanks so much Greg

[@jonnytacooutdoors]

@@GregVirgoe hey I’ve got my wiring setup all drawn out! I’ve found what’s called a DC-DC charger now and it’s starting to get overwhelming! Do I need one? I’m sure it’s nice to have . That use the truck battery to charge the batteries in the back when there’s no sun? Where would the DCDC wire into the mix?

[@GregVirgoe]

@@jonnytacooutdoors yes it’s a good backup to have and can charge while driving. I would go for an isolated DC to DC charger and connect the positive and negative wires from the charger to the same terminals as the MPPT charger 👍🏼😃

[@NickGled]

Simply the best and most easily understandable video on this topic on KZbin. Thank you Greg! New sub and looking forward to watching every relevant video. Thank you.

[@nathannookie]

You’ve got me thinking. During the daytime, you’re not using your batteries, but simply using the solar power, so all those daytime hours of refrigerator use and charging computers etc. wouldn’t need to go into the battery calculations, but simply solar panel calculations. Also, I’d seriously consider the ability to tilt your panels or simply add mobile panels that could be laid out and tilted. There is so much less sun in the winter, and the angle of the sun is so much lower, it becomes pretty important during those months.

[@GregVirgoe]

The power still has to go via the batteries as you can use it directly off your panels. But you are generating more than you are using during the day. Thats the plan. I agree with you about the tilting in the northern hemisphere (Europe) It is 54.5°N in latitude so that would be the angle of tilt, to be at right angles to the sun.

[@AndrewD50297045]

Can't thank you enough for the Sketchup Measurements to start my Sprinter Van conversion!!

[@GregVirgoe]

You are welcome Andrew, please share your design when you have it fleshed out, would be interesting to see what you have planned.

[@AndrewD50297045]

Greg Virgoe where would you like me to share it? I don't have my own KZbin channel.

[@GregVirgoe]

You can upload it to the 3D warehouse from within SketchUp then you can share the link to the file.

[@reframeyourbody]

Amazing video, using it a a guide for my build! Thanks a lot for taking the time to share

[@GregVirgoe]

Glad you find it to be useful

[@a64738]

One thing to take into the calculation is a normal 220v fridge uses about 1500w for a short while when starting (not sure how long but a few seconds or so). One way to get by that if you have a small battery bank that can not get it started is to use supercapacitors to help give enough amps for a short while.

[@AB-tg9ov]

Ideally you would have the fridge radiator isolated from the rest of the van and vented to the outside. This way in the winter the fridge remains cool even if you heat up the inside of the van, without using much of the scarce power you get on a short, cloudy winter day. Very cool video!

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello, Yes it's an interesting point you make. I'm thinking this may be more important in the summer when the van is hot and the condenser cannot reject its heat as effectively. In winter the fridge will work more efficiently and the rejected heat will be a bonus to help keep the van warm. Either way, I just don't want to cut massive holes for those ugly fridge vents in my van sides.

[@AB-tg9ov]

Fair enough: these holes would decrease resale value and create another risk of leaks, so that has to be taken into account. Maybe a hole on the floor of the van, which would also be used as a vent intake (taking the coldest air to the fridge)? I'm still trying to think of something, because the fridge is definitely the biggest power draw, which is a shame when you have all that cold outside!

[@GregVirgoe]

I have finally gone for a Dometic CRX50 12v fridge. No mains power and No Gas, works really well and has a small ice box too.

[@AB-tg9ov]

Greg Virgoe Yeah I understand that 12V fridges (not many brands besides Dometic) are just the best and that you can't really beat that. Also I was told that many cheap 240V fridge are not RV-proof anyway and vibrations would eventually destroy them, so probably not the best place to save money. Are you already driving through Europe or still building? Your van looks splendid and so well-built on all levels, and you're great at explaining what you are doing, so I'm very glad you're doing your videos.

[@GregVirgoe]

Hi Jay, we still have a couple of months left before we leave. My last working day is Friday 29th June. Then we have a few weeks in July to pack up our house before heading off on our travels. Thank you for the kind comments and support.

[@realmisterkorea]

Thanks for the incredibly informative video! Keep it up!!! We appreciate all the effort you put into these videos!!!

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you for this great feedback Pius Lee, really nice to know they are appreciated. 😊

[@claddaghhouse]

Greg, fabulous job, love your presentation style and you clearly do your homework and make available very useful documents. Hope you are a teacher in real life..your dam good at it. My only comment would be that might be useful for someone if your spreadsheet was the other way round, ie start with how many/size of your solar panels (due to the size of your roof or maybe due to your budget) once you know that then you can figure out what you must power (ie fridge) and for some of the other items, cell etc, it's quite inexpensive to buy a rechargeable battery (with usb ) for those. A 3,500 mAh battery is about $10 and a 26,000 runs about $45 and when ya go into the pub after a long ride, just take it in with ya and plug it in for a recharge. Great job and I look forward to viewing your future video's.

[@GregVirgoe]

Your in luck Tommy, it just so happens I have the perfect video for you. This one is the other way round. kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z5_VcnhrhpifjLM Hope you enjoy it 😊

[@claddaghhouse]

Of course you do...another pleasantly informative video...thank you

[@GregVirgoe]

No problem at all Tommy. Glad you liked it 😀

[@flybeep1661]

I was a bit confused about that list at 10:24 which shows the power usages. It has the Truma Combi on it twice. But then I see what the difference is. The combi part in Truma Combi refers to the fact it can run on both mains or on either diesel, lpg or propane (depending on which version you choose). So on mains it's at 230 volt but not using diesel/lpg/propane. While on 12v it's using diesel/lpg/propane and thus uses less energy.

[@christineritchie8289]

Loving your videos and thank you for sharing your knowledge!

[@GregVirgoe]

That's really nice of you Christine, thank you so much.

[@Jumpstopphotography]

Super helpful thanks Greg. Being in Oz and having the same 230V issues as you guys, I have been able to learn so much. Thanks again!!

[@MrJFoster1984]

Modern alternators via a split charge relay may fully charge the battery as they will switch of charging before they have been fully topped off. I believe it is anything pre 2006.

[@michaeltully6813]

Hi Greg. Another very useful video, thank you. Just a couple of questions on your spreadsheet. 1) You say that to get total watt hours you multiply quantity x watts x hours used but on the LED lights line it doesn't look like you have multiplied by the quantity of 10 - or have I missed something? 2) I was assuming (maybe wrongly) that the fridge would be on 24 hours but I notice that you have only put 6 hours down for your fridge. Would appreciate understanding your logic on this. Many thanks for your help. Sharon :-)

[@RiazRJ]

Superb, you’ve certainly given this a lot of thought and it’s making me think think about my van! 👍🏼

[@pa_maj.MARTINI-van-MAN]

Great points, trimming down is key I think at least until you find the sweet spot. I can only fit two 100 watt panels to my roof with millimetres to spare ( just ) I have them but not fitted them yet. I have one battery for domestic supply and I think it's around 100 amp hours but haven't found info on it to be sure, It charges when my engines running at present or when plugged into mains power. I don't know whether to get another battery and have it charge independently from solar and have separate sockets for it or connect to the battery I've already got as it's probably better that one battery gets properly charged than two batteries mostly getting half charged. I plan to use the van a lot in in Spring and Autumn with some winter use. Also if I was going to parallel up two batteries I'd like them to be the same batteries, this is why I have not rushed into fitting the solar yet as I'm still figuring whats the best option for me plus it's a small van and batteries can get very heavy quickly lol. My heater is an eberspacher so it uses battery power too. I have a 12.5 amp hour battery bank with small inverter ( lithium based ) and it's a great little back up but a large one is very expensive even to self build and a generator is heavy, noisey and expensive to run. Unfortunately we don't have a lot of options and coming across your video on the subject is everything I was researching a month ago almost in an identical fashion so I understood you well. There are so many variables to take into account but 200 watts is all I can fit plus the use of very efficient devices ( my tv, 14" 18 watts max ) is a good compromise and example of this. Thank you very much Greg for making these very informative and well executed videos, a real breath of fresh air away from the normal KZbin clutter.

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello, my advice would be to parallel the batteries together in one system and have all three options charging them both. The batteries will last longer if discharged less and kept topped up and joining them together will do that. Thank you for the compliment on the video too 😊

[@pa_maj.MARTINI-van-MAN]

​@@GregVirgoe Do you know something Greg, I didn't even think of that thanks. I was eventually able to find some info on my present battery and it is 100 ah so now another 100 ah should be fine although I can't find anywhere the exact same battery for sale. Do you think it would be much harder on the alternator charging the extra battery while driving?

[@jonathancamm896]

I am so glad I watched this great video. I am at the planning stage now (also a LWB Sprinter, but with extra high roof) and I didn't factor in the narrower roof width of the van. When I double checked I realised the two 250W solar panels I had chosen wouldn't fit on across the van and there isn't sufficient space up there for them to go lengthways between the extractor fan and large skylight I am having. Thanks for sharing and for being so very detail orientated! I'm working my way through your build series and it's excellent. (I already subscribed after the first one)

[@mork6911]

Thanks you do a great job of communicating to Van conversion for a Dummy, Cheers

[@NomaddUK]

Hi Greg. You, like me, should need to use the hairdryer for very long :o). Great detail. I am hoping to opt for a diesel heater as it may be needed when there could be no shore power available. I probably won't use the hair straighteners much either ;o)

[@GregVirgoe]

Haha, I only need to stand under a fantastic fan on supply and 3 seconds later I'm good to go 😂

[@southjerseysound7340]

Webasto makes a great diesel heater,its pretty much the industry standard bunk heater for the big trucks here in the states.Also dont be afraid to check out some big rig stuff stateside for ideas ;)

[@GregVirgoe]

That’s a good tip for everyone stateside, although shipping and import duty for us in the UK is a killer. Another good source is Marine and Ship industry as they all run off 12v systems too. Thanks 😊

[@southjerseysound7340]

They have a European dealer network,I know of about 6-8 in the UK near London along with a few near Manchester too and I'm sure there's more. I know you guys get beat up pretty good importing stuff,I even had to pay import duties on personal goods while working in the UK..........Good times lol. Anyway,thanks for the great vids with real information for a change.Your van sure beats the air mattress we chucked in the back of a Transit purchased in London and ended in Bulgaria 3 months later ;) Still was a great time though and I want to do it again.

[@GregVirgoe]

That’s sounds like more of an adventure though. I’m all for chucking a mattress in the back and off we got. However unless there is an onsuite the other half is not impressed. Lol

[@only1platinum]

Very helpful post. Thanks for this. Will be very helpful when my wife and I eventually start making a camper van for our business when we travel to shows. We would like to camp... or in this case, glamp. HAHA

[@GregVirgoe]

Why slum it when you can have a home from home 😊

[@jeffwisemiller3590]

Since you are dealing with 230 volt mains, your AC main would be rated for 16 amps. The reverse polarity indicator is wired in BEFORE your AC main as a safety feature. A 2 pole AC main breaks both L1 & LN since the nuetral line can be energized to ground if the polarity is reversed.

[@GregVirgoe]

Jeff Wisemiller I have a plug tester and reversing lead to deal with that scenario. 😊

[@chicagomasters2081]

Last comment. Personally, I decided to go with more ah so I have a surplus. I don't want to have to be careful and always worry about power. How about 2 x 350 ah house batteries with 3 x 315 watt solar panels. Life is good then for a bit more cost. Additionally, I have a Honda eu2000i generator I will bring for boondocking or I might just use the engine alternator and run the engine for a while to juice up the batteries.

[@GregVirgoe]

That sounds like a fantastic setup, your neighbour will be wanting to plug into your van 👍

[@SunscreenDreams]

Hi Greg, thanks for this really informative video it will come in really useful when we start our Sprinter conversion this month.

[@GregVirgoe]

That's great are you going to be documenting any of the build?

[@SunscreenDreams]

Yes we have just posted our first video. :) We are going to be documenting the whole build process.

[@nicwilliams00]

2:20 on the polarity change. Great idea!!! Also double sockets are almost always available in Douple Pole (DP)

[@Redneck3610]

You really explain things well ,

[@remyllebeau77]

If you are in an out of the way area, you could always use a generator to top up your batteries and run some of your high power items. I hear Honda has a pretty quiet generator that might work if it is necessary to not make much noise.

[@GregVirgoe]

Brilliant Idea, I do plan to carry a small generator for emergencies if I find i'm running really low on batteries. rover.ebay.com/rover/1/710-53481-19255-0/1?ff3=4&toolid=11800&pub=5575265109&campid=5338027957&mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.co.uk%2Fsch%2FGenerators%2F46412%2Fi.html%3F_from%3DR40%26_nkw%3Dportable%2Bcompact%2Bgenerator

[@remyllebeau77]

Wow, that is a great price. The Honda one I was thinking of is 2000w for around $1000 usd or 727.89 British pound.

[@GregVirgoe]

There is a 2kW one on that link for £150 new!!

[@jameshanson5610]

Have you looked at AGM batteries? They can be discharged further than a conventional Lead Acid battery. This does come at a cost though but with a longer life.

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello James, where did you get lead acid from? Was it that image I used in the video? I've had a lot of comments the same. I'll have to be more careful with my image selection in future. I'm not using conventional lead acid batteries. It will most likely be AGM batteries. Thank you

[@simondigiwiz4810]

Hi Greg, thank you for your videos and all the effort that goes into them. I am in the process of putting together a plan for building an rv out of the new VS30 4x4 Sprinter. Hopefully will have it and be able to start building by December. I have watched every other van building video out there and find your videos to be some of the most professional, polished, easy to follow, most informative “how to videos” on KZbin. Please keep up the good work and have faith that you really are helping many of us out here, get our projects sorted. Thank you! P.s. I haven’t seen a video of your sprinter van completed yet. Is that video still in the pipeline? Cheers Simon

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello Simon, I'm truly humbled by your amazing comment, thank you very much. The completed van tour video is yet to be shot and uploaded so you haven't missed it yet. Currently, 31 videos in the build series not to mention the extra SketchUp tutorials too

[@felixalbion]

Interesting video. In about 2 years my plan is to go full time living in a motorhome off grid as much as possible. Intend to use refillable gas bottles, the maximum solar panels I can fit and highest battery capacity possible. Knowing how inefficient solar is, especially in UK, I am also considering the possibility of using a 12v wind turbine at night or when parked up for any length of time. Something that can be removed when not needed.

[@mikecole153]

Great set of videos, I am planning on a day van conversion some time but have caravanned for many years. I think you have over estimated the size of batteries that you need by 100%. based on what we used in our caravan. Remember you need to watch the weight as well.

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello Bill, with a name like that I'm guessing you found me thanks to David. I would be grateful if you can explain where I have gone wrong in my sums. Thank you in advance. Cheers

[@mikecole153]

Yes, I found your channel thanks to David, I just think you have over estimated how long you will be using each item per day. When we were in our caravan not on mains hook up a 120 amp hour would last 2- 3 days. I guess we had less stuff then that needed power but still you need to consider weight.

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello Bill, ah I see, you are not wrong at best this is a complete guess. I have told the other half if we’re off grid she has to go with curly hair lol I’ll sit down and have another stab at a realistic figure. Nice to have a bit in hand Northern Europe weather can be a mixed bag. Cheers

[@bajadon1958]

Longer lasting, in the long run, saves money

[@GregVirgoe]

Like investing in pensions, you either live for today or live for tomorrow. I’m very much a live for today person and the saving in cost will allow us to travel for another three months and see so many more places. That’s priceless.

[@chicagomasters2081]

All those things you are using off the inverter can also have 12v car chargers because they are actually 12v. You are basically going from 12v to 230v back to 12v. Just put some 12v car battery plugs and chargers.

[@GregVirgoe]

I have taken everyone's advice and in my next electric video you see I have made some 12v USB sockets. Thanks

[@tedwaller6805]

Greg, I do like your approach! Did you look at B2B chargers when planning the system? There are some slightly scary comments on other sites about "smart" alternators not allowing a full charge on the leisure battery. There also seem to be some issues with B2B chargers conflicting with other stuff too! The solar option does sounds like the best/simplest way to go, but it is up there in cost.

[@davidburgess9224]

Hi Greg. We've been watching your videos for quite a while now. As a result you have cost me several thousand in a Merc Sprinter LWB :) I've watched your video about battery sizing etc. I'm a little confused how you have come to 60 total watt hours for 10 LED lights. Your spread sheet shows 10 LED lights at 0.83amps which equates to 9.96wants. We have used 6 hours of daily use and our understanding to get total WH is quantity x watts x hours used ( 10 x 9.6 x 6 =597.6) Please forgive me if i am missing something. We really like the design of you van and are using it for ours. Thanks again for all your help. You have given me the confidences to tackle this myself.

[@banjollero]

Great stuff Greg and thanks for the downloads... BTW, Ignore these 12 plonkers that gave a thumbs down! :D

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you very much Michael, I don't ever worry about things like that, there is no explanation but by the law of averages even if your video was perfect there would always be a handful thumbs down for some reason or another.

[@banjollero]

I've learned lots of great tips/ideas from all of your video's... Much appreciated!

[@sharoncrawford01]

Hi Greg, you and your videos have been a life-saver and are giving me the confidence to do this for myself, so thank you! I'm curious that you only have 6 hours for your fridge - is that because the motor doesn't actually run all the time or do you not leave your fridge on all the time? Sorry if this is a daft question.

[@a64738]

A fridge onrly runs for a short while then stops, then start again when temperature rises. My fridge and huge freezer combined used 70w on average measured over 24 hours when it was 20c outside in the summer. But one thing about fridges and freezers that run on 220v is that they use about 1500w for a short while (a few seconds) when starting, if you have only a small battery and a 1000 - 1500w inverter you will need a supercapacitor to help give enough ampere when it starts.

[@Flossy_tops]

Very well explained and put together, thanks Greg 👍🍻

[@jagobouffler6206]

The maths has funny coincidences. Calculating the Ah, we x2 then /0.5 then /12, which is equivalent to x2 /6, which is equivalent to just /3. So basically, to find Ah from Whr, divide by 3. Then just divide that number by 0.7 for your solar

[@GregVirgoe]

It can be simplified but you have to explain it the long way because then you understand where the numbers come from. Otherwise it would not mean anything.

[@Capt.sierra]

Very interesting thank you for the info I consider your project very well made 👍

[@GregVirgoe]

Many thanks Salvador

[@TheHjm95]

Brilliant stuff, as always

[@scottweikert5189]

So, three years later: Did you choose wisely as far as solar panel capacity, battery capacity, etc.? Your videos are beyond educational!

[@GregVirgoe]

Yes, totally, we have been 100% solar and nothing else for 2.5 years full-time now. so it was the right amount.

[@scottweikert5189]

Good to hear! I'm tinkering around with what capacity gear I'd need for the devices I intend to have along, and your setup is pretty close to what I have in mind. To hear that you didn't underestimate your needs and had to replace anything is reassuring. Though you did have that 2000w inverter die and you replaced it with a 3000w unit, yes? Was that just out of caution or did you find the 2000w unit wasn't enough?

[@GregVirgoe]

@@scottweikert5189 no, it was replaced with a 1500W unit and in fact, I could have gone right down to 500W as the largest device we use is my laptop @180W

[@scottweikert5189]

I guess I remembered wrong! Oops. :) Alright, thanks for replying so quickly, and I hope you and your wife are doing well!