Off Grid RV AC 🥵 How Long Will My RV Air Conditioner Last in Desert Heat 🔥 Full Time RV Living

In today's full time RV living, van life travel vlog, we test my Winnebago Travato's off grid RV AC capability. We'll find out how long will my RV Air conditioner last in desert heat.
I have been living in a van for almost 4 months now and have really enjoyed van life in my Winnebago Travato. One of the reasons I bought this Winnebago Travato for full time RV living is that it has the Volta system. This system is a game changer for RV air conditioning. In this video I show the power of this power system by running my RV AC non-stop in 100 degree desert heat.
My Winnebago Travato had a Coleman Mach 10 NDA air conditioner. This RV Air conditioner is the latest and greatest from Coleman and is very quit.
Even with the best RV AC, most can't run the air conditioner more than a couple hours at best. Even the best camper van conversion usually can only run an AC for a few hours. The Volta system in the Winnebago Travato changed that.
The day I did this RV air conditioner test on my tiny house on wheels, the temperature stayed mostly in the high 90s.
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#rvliving #travato #vanlife

[@jonnieinbangkok]

"I'm not anti-kid...I just like being surrounded by adults." 😆😆😆

[@30AndAWakeUp]

haha!

[@rockn997]

It would be good to have two more solar panels under the one solar panel on slides so you can pull the mail on each side and then you would have three of them upfront. Also have an awning on the left side so it blocks the sun and then it would be better to have a white van

[@CellasChariot]

Ok I have been watching VanLifers and RV KZbinrs for many years trying to gain all the knowledge I can so when I hit the road, I do it the right way and learn from others' mistakes. I always give every single one I subscribe to a thumbs up, but rarely comment. Kevin -- you always post super relevant content and do great interviews so I always like to comment. Thanks for sharing once again and hope it cools off there soon for ya LOL

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Awww thank you soooo. much Michelle I really appreciate that.

[@javiersalas8758]

Great video and thank you for keeping us potential RV Van Lifers in the know! I am planning to travel with my dogs and this video gives me good insight! Go Navy!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks brother!!

[@brutuslo4064]

Very good information. This is exactly the information I need to consider for my next RV purchase. You are the real deal, the man with the PLAN!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@eafc2112]

I like the new intro. We picked up our 2020.5 NPF a few weeks ago in Florida. On our way back home we stopped at a Cracker B for the night, it was hight 90's and humid, our A/C lasted all night, not needing to auto start. We were pretty impressed. Thanks for the info

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Yeah, it's crazy how good it is!

[@JaYoeNation]

Thanks for the review. This was really beneficial

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad it was helpful!

[@12HourTravels]

Thank you so much!!! I have been waiting for this exact video on your type of van. Couldn’t even hear the AC running. Very impressed with the whole van.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad it was helpful! This was a fun video to do.

[@rox3452]

Great video Kevin! You answered a lot of my questions regarding the Volta system. Thanks...and continued safe travels my friend! Great intro!!!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@stephencaravello8254]

First of all thank you for your service. I'm a disabled veteran and if they ever come out with a motor home that is wheelchair accessible I will get one. I enjoy your videos seeing all the beautiful places you go keep up the great work

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks for your service as well, Stephen.

[@bevn362]

Stephen Caravello Check Winnebago for their accessible motorhomes in various price ranges winnebago.com/models/product/motorhomes/accessibility-enhanced/adventurer-ae

[@DanOnWheels]

I’m 100% disabled veteran and a full time wheelchair user. The problem with the commercially manufactured wheelchair accessible RV’s is they are Class A ($200k to over $400k) or large Class C’s. I’m wanting a Class B that I can use it as my daily driver and while traveling. Most of my doctors appointments are over 200 miles round trip, and I have one that’s over 430 miles round trip. So, I’m looking at doing a DIY conversion if I can get the VA to put the wheelchair modifications in a full size van. Take a look at what Kirk did to a Ford Transit at “impact.overland” over on Instagram.

[@louisesanto]

It's great to know that military RV sites have affordable and free amenities. It is as it should be. Thank you for your service.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks, Louise, and thanks for watching as well.

[@chaosncheckt9356]

As a retired disabled combat vet I'm always embarrassed when someone says Thank You For Your Service. A few months ago while I was in the hospital for routine LABs, I got into a conversation with a Korea War Vet. I mentioned the Thank You For Your Service and he smiled and said he always preferred WELCOME HOME. I like that, just Welcome Home.

[@peteremerson8306]

Cool intro! I really liked your experiment in real life living. I also really appreciate the tips on keeping the heat out.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad you liked it! Thanks for watching and commenting, Peter.

[@ORIginaLgifts772]

So helpful! Thank you so much for taking the time to do this!!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

You are so welcome!

[@saratemp790]

I love van a/c tests. But I think you should do another one, because I think most people do their a/c on auto and a set temp, as that would be more of a real life test. Set it like at 80 degrees, and see how long it lasts.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Good idea!

[@bobmccaslin2040]

Great video showing how a good solar system works; I wasn't EVER considering this as a consistent source of power (especially in that heat!), but you convinced me. Again, thank you for your service to our country, and it's neat that you get to enjoy some benefits RVing, although I bet you didn't volunteer to serve with that in mind- blessings to you on your journey! Bob

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks Bob. Yeah, Im more and more impressed by the Volta Power System every day.

[@karolsmith7593]

This van is beautiful,the AC did great on your system. Thank you for your service, May God Bless you.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thank you!

[@adamfischer6768]

I like the new intro! Its really amazing how versatile the Volta Power System is!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks! Yeah...I can't rave enough about the Volta Power System.

[@cuorips]

Today 109 degrees projected here in the de Anza state park, CA. Great place to be in the winter in BLM for Rv nomads. Military RV parks are so great , I had no idea !! That Travato is so great ! Good music ! You are so genuine and cute !!!!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Awww thank you so much, Catherine! :)

[@17655460]

Very impressive, thank you.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad you liked it! Thanks for watching and commenting, Tom.

[@jentommyontheroad8089]

Interesting test and great power system! I appreciate you sharing your insulated shades as well! They are on my list!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I love those shades!!!

[@llo70422]

Good to know about the AC sound. Yeah I turned up the volume on your video and I didn’t hear anything. That sounds like a much better AC unit than mine. Stay cool and have an absolute blast Sheila

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks, Sheila!

[@janmoline]

I'd say, do an extended test, similar to what a pet owner might do, leave the AC on auto at an agreeable dog/cat friendly temp. You can take off, do a tour of the dam (if you're still near Nellis AFB), come back and see how it's done.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Good idea...will do. Thanks for watching and commenting, Jan.

[@MikeKilo1969]

Hey partner, I was in the Army for 24 years and we had out comfort blankets too. They were rain poncho liners and we called them woobies! I love and miss my woobie.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I remember the term woobie from Mr. Mom!! haha...were old!

[@MikeKilo1969]

30 And A Wake Up Yes sir! My woobie went around the world with me, it was a faithful friend. I enjoy your videos and will be following in your footsteps in a few years...

[@ronaldfasano6511]

Great video, keep up the great job , would love to see more like this 👍

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks! Will do!

[@nieco2528]

Kev!!! Great video and one I wanted to see Thanks for sharing!!! And that campground is SWEET!!!! Stay safe brother and I’ll catch you on the next one

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks man!

[@brianjacobus722]

Wow impressive, I wonder how it would do if that van came in silver as it more then likely would not get as hot 🥵

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Yeah....definitely would be a lot cooler. Thanks for watching and commenting, Brian.

[@MariafromthePhilippineIslands]

104°F is our normal temp in Manila. Majority of us had no house aircon but electric fans with wide open windows and we're fine with it...😁😁

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I know...Im spoiled! :)

[@rizatacsagon]

Kababayan😅

[@rizatacsagon]

Kababayan😅

[@paulnubreu6887]

I'm in the Philippines and I'm nowhere close to fine with it, I have seven AC's. I am from America though.

[@MariafromthePhilippineIslands]

@@paulnubreu6887 We were born with that climate being a tropical country. Since our childhood our body had well adjusted with it. Enjoy your stay in the Philippines. By the way, Filipinos are as warm as our climate to American guest. Stay safe...😷😷

[@Kralphrn]

As always, great video

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I appreciate that! Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@jasonbarnette6772]

Great video!! Love the new intro. Keep them videos coming.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad you liked it! It was fun to make. Thanks for watching and commenting, Jason.

[@dennisdeyoung5428]

I really enjoyed this episode! As a wannabe RVer I wanted to know how much power lithium batteries and the Volta system provide. (especially for those of us who believe that AC is one of humanity's greatest achievements!)

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad you enjoyed it, Dennis.

[@whiskythrottle8421]

Right on! Great info on what the Travato park edition A/C can handle in hot weather! I'm born and raised in Florida one of the hottest most humid climates around so this is a great video for me to get a idea of what I want to do when I set my van up. Although I plan on having a builder do my van so I can get exactly what I want. For me the A/C is a top priority and I'm going to need the adequate power bank to be able to run it along with whatever else I need going. I'm currently looking at the 12volt cruise & comfort with atleast 500 to 1000 watts solar and around 630 amp hours of lithium batteries with a 3500w inverter for when I'm boon docking off grid. I'm Mainly looking at that because I don't really want the big overhead unit on top of the roof because I would like to keep it stealthy as possible and I'm going to need that room for the solar panel, plus I'm not to sure how those will do over time with any kind of leaking into the van? I definitely want the 3 stage way of being able to charge up with solar, the alternator, and shore power for piece of mind. I love love love how how your system has the automatic 1500 RPM self start when the batteries need it. I think that is a genius thing to have so you don't have to drive to recharge! Do you know if that's off of a second Alternator? Overall great video awesome information. I would be kind of curious to see how it would do from starting the A/C unit when you're not already plugged in at room temp that way you would be starting off with it already hot in the van to see how long it would take to get to a comfortable room temp. Then see how many hours you would get of run time after that! Thanks again for the great content! I remember not that long ago when you first got your van how excited you were and you seem to really enjoy it. I think it's awesome that you put your time in the military I'm guessing from a young age and now you're able to enjoy life while you're still young and healthy you definitely deserve it, so thank you for your service! Side note sorry this has been such a long comment but maybe a video on the things on the road that are not so fun or things that where unexpected ect ect?

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I have seen under the chassis ACs on a few rigs. That might be something you look at. Yeah, the charge comes from the 2nd alternator - it's 58v so it charges pretty quickly as well.

[@dontworrybehappy5139]

Hey Kevin, Nice introduction graphics! Thanks for another informative video.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad you like it! Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@carolwest6095]

It's great to see you on a swing set. I'm 58 and am still known to do that. Thank you for all the concise info on the cooling and solar system.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Haha..I love a good swing set! Thanks for watching and commenting, Carol! :)

[@darrylk808]

Getting pretty good at content creation...nice intro, animated battery schematic, etc... A/C on battery, hourly update = 2 updates.🤣 Bob Wells says drape a reflective tarp outside on the sun side of your rig. Keeps the hot side a lot cooler.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Yeah...I need one of those tarps for sure.

[@dean_ov_az]

We found in the heat of the desert, cutting reflectix to fit each window really works magic. We insert it between the blinds and window. The curtain installed to isolate the cab area helps a lot in cold and hot climates.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks for the tip...im going to try that.

[@dean_ov_az]

@@30AndAWakeUp When we first arrived in AZ I just went to Walmart and purchased 3 standard windshield sunscreens and cut them up. I later learned ACE Hardware actually has huge rolls of reflectix sold by the foot which would been the most cost effective. Good luck!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

@@dean_ov_az Thanks...ill definitely be hitting up ACE

[@leilaniandalajao2780]

This was so informative. Thank you!!!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching and commenting, Leilani.

[@Spielmanjon]

Great intro, good information, and I agree. I was a Infantry guy, and I still have a poncho liner I sleep with. It's just one of those things, that once you get used to, just works amazingly, and you don't want to do without!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Exactly and thanks for your service, Jon.

[@chrisaman]

The Woobie!!!!!!!!!

[@chanceogden]

Reflectix is awesome at keeping heat out. I have a 32’ travel trailer and I put it in almost every window but one. It stays in West Texas where it gets over 100 degrees. It’s awesome at insulating the single pane automotive glass.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Good tip...I'll check it out.

[@NyxTravels]

One of the things I enjoy most about your vids is how genuine you are. Always great info but we get to see your playful side too! I'm out on a bike trip right now - hope you get a chance to check out my blog. Keep the rubber side down buddy 😊

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I love your vlog! :) Be safe out there!!!!

[@nocturnal7312]

Just hopped on your channel, Thank you for the Volta demo, Love it !! 😁😁

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad you like it! Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@rvadventuregal]

Fun new intro Kevin! Awesome information for potential Travato owners.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad you like it!

[@travato1592]

Interesting video. Many T owners (and class B) don't hook up to city water for fear that the system will spring a leak under constant pressure. If you do you should at least have a pressure gauge so that you can adjust pressure down. I prefer to use fresh water tank and refill as needed, and turn the water pump only when needed, again, as a guard against a leak especially if I am out of the van. Would hate to be greeted back to the van with a flood. Also, many people don't leave the sewer hose connected and just dump when necessary. Not a good idea to leave black tank open and connected because the solids need lots of liquids to flush the system, and the gray tank provides a good way to flush out the hose of any sludge remaining in the hose. After all, the T is a good vehicle for making a run down to the commissary to pick up another 6-pack and disconnecting all that stuff is a PITA. I do enjoy your videos. Retired USN here. Oh - and the hot water coming out the tap was probably because of your black city water fill hose was a good solar collector out in the full sun. Another problem solved by using your fresh water tank.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

If you look real close you can see a pressure regulator hooked into my blue water filter. But I get the warning for sure. Im retired USN as well! Very cool.

[@travato1592]

@@30AndAWakeUp Gotcha! And thank you for your service!

[@larnole]

This was a most helpful video, Kevin. Given the demands an A/C makes on a power system, I was pleasantly surprised to see how long the system was powered on a single charge. Any idea what the life expectancy of your batteries is before you'd need to replace them and what it would cost to do so? Looking forward to the next episode! -Larry

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Not sure but there is an 8 year warranty on them. Hope that helps!

[@MemawsMatters]

Nice new intro👍🏻👍🏻 I am jealous of your Volta system. Nice experiment. That’s a great RV Park too. TYFS

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks, Memaw!

[@thangala]

Great test to your your viewers. Thanks!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thank you!

[@thangala]

@@30AndAWakeUp I meant to say "Great test for your viewers."

[@QBNTO1]

Fancy new intro!! Like it!!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad you like it! Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@lorihutton4719]

Thanks for mentioning this. I forgot. Yes it is a nice intro..I agree.

[@frank5596]

I hit “Like 👍” just because of your intro! NICE!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I appreciate that, Brother!

[@davidstephen8943]

Nice new intro, Kevin. Thanks.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad you like it! Thanks for watching and commenting, David.

[@keitht7546]

Like your intro and a great video on staying cool with your system, witch is a mystery until we get too know it.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

It was a fun one to make. Thanks for watching and commenting, Keith.

[@perrycooper7460]

That was an interesting video. I had no idea you could run that for so long. I am guessing you had other stuff on to, not just the A/C?

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Yeah, my lights, my laptop plugged in, I used the microwave a few times. Normal use.

[@jgingram]

You’re in my neck of the woods. Welcome to Sin City. I have to laugh..you said “extreme hot weather”. We’re in a cool spell...you should have been here a couple of weeks ago. ☀️☄️🔥

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Haha..extreme hot for me!!!

[@yvairguy]

I was laughing too. I was thinking when the heck did he make this video. I think this was the mildest "extreme hot weather" video I've ever seen. I can say this because I'm a HVAC contractor that lives in the desert. LOL

[@NatohDine]

John Ingram as someone who was raised in Phoenix, this made me laugh. Three digit heat is something else. Dry heat that hurts and feels like opening an oven in your face.

[@jonbedison]

Great video.... showing how functional your rv tech is.... this is way more informative than other channels.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I appreciate that! Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@Salsadepr40]

Thank you for a great demonstration on your AC and battery power duration. Good to keep in mine. Awesome Video.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching and commenting, Jose.

[@828findadventure]

Your van looks so awesome with that lift and functional as well. Great video, was this only battery power, or where the solar panels charging at the same time? Sorry, if you mentioned that in the video, and I missed it.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Yeah, the solar panels were helping a tad.

[@michaelconchscooter8940]

11,600 watts is huge (950 amps like it or not). I have 7,500 (600 amps) and I can keep the van bearable but not freezing cold overnight in South Florida My a/c eats 100-120 amps when running full blast. That’s three and a half hours flat out with charged batteries. I set the a/c to cycle just at bearable and by morning I have power to spare overnight in high humidity and 95 degrees. 400 watts of solar helps a little but the twin alternators are what makes the system work. To recharge at idle I use the engine a/c to add cold air and charge the batteries. The generator thing is totally unnecessary nowadays in vans. I pretty much ignore the electrical bank in normal use and use my electrical stuff at will.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks for that great insight. Really appreciate it.

[@DanOnWheels]

What A/C system are you running? A 110 volt system like the Coleman or a 12 volt system?

[@michaelconchscooter8940]

Dan Eilenstine 110v 13,500 BTU Coleman. With a 3,000 watt inverter.

[@jaynemiller8464]

Awesome video. You nailed it. Stay safe.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks 👍Hope your travels are going well!

[@constructionverse]

Thanks, this is great!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad it was helpful!

[@thegingerwalkabout1550]

Awesome test! Great to help manage expectations. My Travato GL is about the same, I drop 10%/hr when running the a/c. Depends some on temp and humidity obviously but 10%/hr is good for planning purposes. I love how everyone is like, "SOLAR, SOLAR, SOLAR!" and those of us that actually have one of these systems are like, "USELESS, USELESS, USELESS!" If the solar was worth a damn we would be shouting it from the rooftops (see what I did there?) but the technology just isn't there yet. On the SOC gauge: The batteries never truly go to 100%, that's a safety feature to prevent overcharging the lithium batteries. When the system first launched people freaked out because the gauge never showed "100% SOC" so Volta dumbed it down for us non-engineers to show 100% when that is not technically true. That might be why it seems like it drops faster between 100% and 80%. Also when you are charging it up it will slow down the rate of charging between 80% and 100%. Another feature to protect the lithium batteries. Suggestions: if you want to use your cab seats (i.e. not put up the blanket) you can hang a beach towel from the sun visors to block even more heat/sun from the windshield. That Remis shade it better for privacy than temp control. If mine breaks again I'm just going to get another VanMade shade. Try a "solar vent cover" (i.e. a piece of Reflectix with a fancy edge and velcro stickies/$9 at Camping World) to cover the MaxxAir Fan opening on the inside of the rig. The black plastic hood on the roof still lets in a lot of sun and heat. Isn't the most attractive thing but it helps keep it cooler. Gonna have to see if my Mom can get me into this campground when I'm out that way again! Safe travels.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I just need to call you when Im trying to figure stuff out. You have such good advice and ideas! Hope you're healing well!!!

[@thegingerwalkabout1550]

@@30AndAWakeUp You are always welcome to call me but half the fun is figuring stuff out! My learning curve was STEEP until I got familiar with all the capabilities/limitations of my actual rig. Some things you just can't teach :-) Getting back in the van tomorrow for a short trip before my final surgery. Just can't sit still for too long!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

@@thegingerwalkabout1550 Yay!!!

[@sunroameroverland]

How is solar useless, If he was boondocking and not in a park with power, He would have in one day ran his batteries down completely and would have had to rely on solar to replenish them without the use of ac the next day.

[@thegingerwalkabout1550]

@@sunroameroverland He had an 11,000+watt hour battery pack and 200 watts of solar on the roof. Even sitting in full sun, that solar will not put a dent in that battery pack. It has been likened to filling a bathtub with a teacup. Without shore power the most efficient way to charge the batteries is by driving at highway speeds. Full charge in a couple of hours. You can use the auto-charge feature while stationery but the high idle generates a lot of heat and it will only add about 20% to the batteries for every hour you run it.

[@tedmaxjorgenson2974]

Does your rig come with a spare tire? If not have you modified to add a spare or considered a swing away hitch spare tire carrier? If none of the above, what's your plan to handle a flat in a remote setting? Thanks.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

No, it didnt but im thinking about adding one. I have a compressor with goo in it if I get a flat.

[@lorihutton4719]

Yes Kevin you need a spare tire. Definitely. Even if it's a tiny dummy tire. It will get you to get it fixed plus the lil one won't take up much room. Please get a spare,that good don't always seal well.

[@gowestjeff]

Pretty amazing system! Great video.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

It really is!

[@BreakerInc]

Thank you for making this, massively helpful in regards to what I may or may not do with my own solar.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ET_Videos]

Pretty impressive considering the amount of solar panels you have. I think i'd max out the solar on that thing. Also, gotta love the base benefits! Thanks for your service too!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Great point! Thanks for watching and commenting, Eric.

[@jacksmith-yq5my]

Is the A/C so loud its hard to sleep? How often do you go out to eat since you don't cook much?

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Not at all to be honest.

[@pystol57]

Great information man! Love your intro too. I would like a video on the auto start recharge system. Thank you so much for these cool videos!!!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Coming soon!

[@michaelkaras6168]

You give great video, this subject grabbed my attention, you are very detailed , share lots of data, I am totally rivited

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching and commenting, Michael.

[@BP-kc3dj]

Technically the system already failed if you have to close off areas of the van to keep it cool. Your countermeasures are good. How about using one of those portable garage canopies (A WHITE ONE.. LOL!) to cover your van on the front back and sides while parked. OR use your portable solar panel on really hot days with a FULL canopy.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Yeah, I only do that in extreme weather. but yeah..i do need one of those white covers for the front wind.

[@johng7390]

I would be interested to see the same test with the solar panels covered or disconnected. You probably had the best possible SOLAR day for this test, so seeing this test with the solar panels disconnected would be a good test to show what solar added to this test. I've read articles from several Class-B owners saying they are probably removing the solar panels to gain the roof storage space back. Would you have lost an hour or two without the solar - Thank you - great video.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

For sure...but at 200 watts it's just a trickle for 11,600 watts of power with a 3600 watt inverter. Definitely wouldn't have lost an hour...probably half an hour. I will try that in the future though.

[@johng7390]

@@30AndAWakeUp Thank you - as previously mentioned, waiting on my Travato GL delivery - I think I would prefer the extra roof top storage over losing 30-45 MIN of solar in Ideal Conditions.

[@steventoney4018]

The air conditioner and panels are in different place on GL vs KL.. I'm working on ordering a GL as well.. I think the only place one can put a "small" cargo box is along the driver side - closer to the front of the racks. and you would have to unhook and more the ladder to the side to access.. Given the awning. I think a cargo rack in the place of the large solar panel would be a real pain to load - unload - put stuff - in and out. There is just not a lot of usable real estate up top with vents - A/C - antennas - awning etc...

[@johng7390]

@@steventoney4018 Great INFO - Thank You. My thoughts were a small water tight cargo carrier or cooler for extras or flat storage for some folding chairs. But if makes sense - I'll leave the Panels up there. Enjoy the new GL.

[@steventoney4018]

take a look at what VanTrekking Lifestyle did for top storage and moving solar panels.. They have a KL where the A/C is further forward and big solar panel is behind the A/C.. the GL has the A/C further back and big panel in the front of the A/C -- so doing a storage project up top is a bit tougher

[@drguy629]

Nice!! Thanks for sharing! Be Safe!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks, will do!

[@markwilkins9048]

Digging the new intro Kevin. Nice work as usual.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks 👍

[@OrlandoRick]

You state: "Even with the best RV AC, most can't run the air conditioner more than a couple hours at best. Even the best camper van conversion usually can only run an AC for a few hours. " like if that is a fact. But it is just a matter of a) increasing your battery capacity and b) increasing your AC efficiency. Get a Nomadic Cooling AC and with 11.8 KWh you'd get roughly 12 hours of AC. Just keep adding battery until you reach the # hours you feel you need. It's not rocket science, just battery science. ;-)

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Fair point. Definitely not a fact! :)

[@shane6242]

How long does it take to charge from 5 to 100% using shore power? How long does it take to charge using solar only?

[@30AndAWakeUp]

like an hour or so....not long at all. It would never charge from just solar unless I shut everything down. Solar doesn't really contribute much to my batteries. If I had more panels it might be able to keep up with the inverter. But I dont have enough space to keep up with the AC.

[@shane6242]

@@30AndAWakeUp ah ok! So if you are boondocking somewhere and get low you just start your engine and it charges back up quickly?

[@30AndAWakeUp]

@@shane6242 Actually it starts by itself all the way down to 1/4 of a tank.

[@G.Photogirl]

This was very informative. I always wondered how RV'ers dealt with extreme heat conditions. That power system you have is awesome.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks! Was a fun one to make!

[@bambihargrove6499]

Great Information love your rig. 👍😊

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching and commenting, Bambi!

[@bambihargrove6499]

@@30AndAWakeUp your Welcome, I'm looking at a 2015 roadtrek camper Van the price is right, if it passes inspection I may buy it. 👍

[@7heRedBaron]

Interesting demonstration. As you explained, your system has the four lithium cells, which I believe have an estimated life of 500 cycles and are pretty expensive to replace. Do you often find yourself running the engine to save wear and tear on this expensive system even when your batteries are charged? I’ve heard that the portable solar panel from Winnebago is bulky and not very powerful for the trouble. Have you looked at other portable solar options available? Some are very thin and produce several hundred amps. I would personally be doing back flips to reduce wear and tear on the vehicle, both alternator and battery system. Is this a concern of yours?

[@30AndAWakeUp]

The volta system has an 8 year warranty. So Im good for at least 8 years. Yeah, the portable solar unit is bulky and only 90 watts. I will try to get a better portable option for sure.

[@cigarmann]

I believe the cells are good for 1000 charge cycles....

[@7heRedBaron]

Cigarmann Thanks.

[@christinaschell6142]

Did you name your van yet? I thought of another name for you “ Maverick”

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Not yet! I kind of like that!

[@ragincajun9354]

@@30AndAWakeUp Goose?

[@johoover209]

@@30AndAWakeUp name it "Rack ops"

[@30AndAWakeUp]

@@johoover209 haha...i like it...

[@John-de8xs]

Always enjoy your videos. Very informative. As for a truck name...... with the lift kit...... “Bubba Truck”

[@sharonanspach2734]

very informative info and a better understanding of the volta system

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad you liked it. Thanks as always Sharon for stopping by and being so supportive.

[@gailmiller7035]

great explanation of the volta system....very helpful :-)

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad you liked it!

[@taitruong3903]

It’s really a very nice and quiet Military RV Park. What an affordable daily rate - $20 per day with all the access you’re getting. That’s awesome! The battery is excellent. It supports the AC operations in full 8-9 hours without a single charge... that’s very cool. Thank You!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Yeah...pretty cool place for sure. Thanks for watching and commenting, Tai.

[@arseniotuero5892]

Awesome content 🤟🏼

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad you liked it!!

[@MrQbenDanny]

BRAVO!!! WOW!! AMAZING TECHNOLOGY. I always thought Van Life was all about turning a fan on and walking around in briefs!!!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

haha....me too!

[@MrQbenDanny]

@@30AndAWakeUp Do one of those nostalgia 1950'S Van Life Days and shoot it in black and white!Do you have a fan?

[@heabberscebber2706]

First, thank you for your service! Second, thank you for the honest review. I just started looking into your content. I will be watching more as I am a mil spouse, and currently building my first van conversion. I was not aware of these mil parks and I am very excited. Vegas is definitely on my bucket list. I would like to know about the cable/internet situation in these parks. P.S. I also like being surrounded by adults. 🤣😜

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Internet is hit or miss but most of the military parks are decent.

[@jmp2990]

Hi! Watching from Napier, New Zealand. Stumbled across one of your videos while scrolling and have been really enjoying them

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad you like them! Thanks for watching and commenting, JM.

[@maryhull3877]

Awesome blossom...Like your new intro..some of the fotos look like the shots were up in Mammoth, Inyo County area.....Im headed up to Mammoth next week to see the fall colors. However, with the fires close to the area a week ago most camp areas are closed with quite a bit of restrictions.....ENJOY

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I was in Mammoth last week. It was really smokey!

[@megand.673]

I enjoyed the new intro! I live an hour from Henderson in Arizona. It has been unusually hot and dry this year. Try Chilly Jilly's in Boulder City while you're in the area - it's a nice little eatery with Dole Whip that beats the heat!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I'll check it out! Thanks for watching and commenting, Meg.

[@stevenchen1338]

Really impressive! Great video ... I know you don't stay in RV parks much but really love the tour.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Appreciate that, Steven.

[@lmartinez3633]

Interesting real life test. Very nice military campground.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad you liked it. Thanks for watching and commenting, L.

[@selisagrimes9837]

Hey u! like the new intro and u have great music too. C u next week.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Can't wait!

[@jonathanmchugh3208]

Great new intro Kevin. Very good. Nevada looks very hot. Visited many years ago and could not believe how hot it was. Very informative video. Have a great weekend. Jonathan 🇬🇧

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks 👍

[@jimpryde5609]

Great Demo.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks.

[@freeandhappy8562]

Interesting test. Seems like a fairly robust system. I was surprised at how long it lasted. Great video!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Yeah, it really is a great system.

[@ChadandPaul]

That's so funny! We use a blanket as a heat barrier too exactly the same way you do!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

It works!!!!!

[@tankjeff8056]

I can wait see your next video very nice video

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thank you so much 😀

[@RR-or5ip]

I love your van! New subscriber!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@LifeWithLeMaige]

This was great info and yes it would be nice to see the cycle with the recharging thru the auto system. It’s great to think it wouldn’t let you run out of gas.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I'll do that vid when I get to Florida. Think it'll be a good test for sure.

[@gtrumpnc]

Thanks man. We are currently preparing for a build and need to make a decision on a solar power system. This was super helpful!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad it was helpful!

[@gomickya]

Very informative. Thanx

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching and commenting, Michael.

[@TeeMarie36]

This was. A very informative video. I like that you gave detailed reports of your batteries and how much time to takes to get the best results out of your ac and batteries.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching and commenting, Toni.

[@shebna840]

Cool intro... love the bamboo thing! lol🙂🇨🇦

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks and me too!!!

[@rickfetz469]

Great idea to do this test! Always wondered how good the AC system would work.in a real life condition.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

It was fun to test for my own knowledge as well.

[@jitterygoat49r]

Really enjoyed the video Kevin. Impressive battery performance. However, if you want to give it the ultimate test, try it in Palm Springs in the summer. Today was 115*. Stay cool my friend.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

haha...sounds miserable! haha!

[@user-sk6bf8vr1u]

I love your Travato!!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

me too 🙏