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

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

[@vonrollveeg]

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

[@mrtambourineman6107]

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

[@gbarraco8888]

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

[@jimdoozy]

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

[@jimcameron9848]

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

[@cindyjencks5848]

You too? The idea of possibly electrocuting myself keeps me from attempting this.

[@therealnasty1x951]

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

[@suzyq1233]

Just AWESOME! A wealth of information in all of your videos Bob. Thank You so much for sharing your priceless knowledge!!

[@tmbuchtel]

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

[@ellad1234]

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

[@mikeabner6629]

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

[@MsRegina333]

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

[@whatsananna]

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

[@KauaiMike1000]

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

[@robertjreiss2029]

Terry, smart man. Nice job Bob.

[@PaperPlaywithElaine]

Love this entire series. Watched it again and still wishing for more 🌺🌸🌺 Thanks for all this great information.

[@CherylFlynn1]

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

[@GospelTruth37059]

Very nice electrical job. Terry is a great worker!

[@ScratchinMyAss]

Well done Bob.

[@sabinacle1529]

Thanks for the education Bob

[@sissyrobinson4556]

great video goid to see u bob always in my prayers

[@TrevorMarty69]

Wow, that's super cool Bob. I'm waiting on delivery of my solar panels, and was suppose to hook up my battery to the solenoid that I bought today. It rained so that didn't happen, but it will tomorrow. I am quite nervous about doing it. We are going on a week long test run of the van next week. I hope I've done everything right. I'll be making videos of the whole week. Thanks again for doing this. It has helped me a ton getting the confidence to do this build.

[@geebonzo]

Thanks. I've run across the gland thing recently, wasn't sure how it worked. That is a great explanation and it seems very useful.

[@Angel-oc8gd]

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

[@signmann636]

Very thorough video. Masterful

[@allenjohnson4310]

I started researching that microwave. Knowing there was a reason you selected that one. Looks ideal for what you are doing. I'm planning on getting one just like it when I do my build. Great video!

[@sallysavage3879]

Thanks Bob. I'm trying to educate myself on the how-to's of solar, as well. This video helped me understand things more. I have a long way to go, but this really helped! Great video :)

[@allgood4729]

Awesome videos Bob. Thank you. 👍

[@h7oslo]

Good information here, Bob ! I especially like fastening everything firmly in place. A car drove into me recently, and Everything in the cab moves, Fast ! rc I'm still searching for Jim's cheap internet video !

[@algray2604]

nice bob well thought out. thanks for sharing.

[@RJsadventures]

Looks Good ! You have a Awesome new Home.

[@VANESSASVANLIFEJOURNEY]

*wow that’s a great system*

[@andor8635]

Great video well done If I buy a van I do the same thing. Definitely think about it. Good job bob.

[@PatsTreasuresNCrafts]

I'd love to hire you and Terry to do the wiring in my rig when I get it. However, my husband has been watching your videos and feels he can do it. I'm sure he could. He does wiring for big trailers at work. I guess I just appreciate your attention to detail. Thanks for another awesome, informative video!

[@robertputnam6324]

I do not see the ladder rack in the listings below and I do not see them on Amazon,Rob

[@tikilee7172]

Beautiful job, boys

[@allenwilson2395]

Thanks for sharing Brother.

[@douglasfreebirdphotography8473]

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

[@theoldfarmerswife5915]

Very impressive video. Thanks

[@geraldhenrickson7472]

Love that gland. I didnt even know what those widgets were called. Thanks!

[@grandmapatty1493]

That's a great set up.

[@edt2378]

Thanks Bob!

[@wendelljohnson1884]

Nice build BOB GOD BLESS

[@vincenz0]

This is well done. Thank you!

[@sallyanne8815]

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

[@klouism1]

Great information. Thanks

[@danhold1]

Great video

[@cherbradley1085]

Your wonderful Sir!!!!

[@megaleadjp]

I've been in my van for 6 years and am doing my first solar install this Saturday.

[@tikitiki7610]

y'all are so smart !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@janicepeck4828]

THANK YOU BOB !

[@reginarowe1217]

great video

[@russellb5643]

Nice job!

[@vibelife5133]

kick ass setup

[@littleopie8761]

great job well done

[@HappyHighVanGirl]

Good video I was looking for the van racks. Now I know what to buy thank you

[@kerencollins1548]

awesome Bob, good job :)

[@bobbycason3958]

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

[@larrygrasso6032]

wow super job...when your all finished that will be a $50,000 van.

[@MarieSmith-hn3qt]

truely awesome

[@visualtraveler5263]

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

[@lorismith3072]

I made it through 9 minutes. LOL. I'm betting this made a lot of sense to a lot of people but I have a mental block when it comes to solar install. I don't know why. Managed physics classes and linear equations, no problem. But this stuff makes me scratch my head. I was sooooo hoping your video would clear the fog but I guess I need it dumbed down more. Still 'n all, good video!

[@annettesmith6241]

Lori Smith Me too but I'm hoping if I keep exposing my brain to solar panels and batteries it will eventually make sense lol. Sorta working a bit. Still a ways to go though.

[@patriciafunk3065]

Lori Smith In this case, not wrong in this approach, just mistaken about combining different voltage panels. Overall presented as done a very good job. The only thing observed: Would do differently would be to series all of the solar panels into the MPPT charge controller and use only one controller. It is mistaken that a person can't combine low voltage and high voltage panels. You can if you run them in series. That adds their voltages together. In his case, a 30 volt panel and two 18 volt panels equals 66 volts. The MPPT controller would have no problem handling it as most MPPT controllers can handle up to 150V. In fact, if a person were to run the panels in series and use just one charge controller, their solar system would be more efficient.

[@videomagictv6403]

don't feel alone on this one @Lori Smith I have tried and tried to understand this stuff, watch it over and over. Once Bob said these are the 4 new cart battery's I bought ....that's where he lost me.

[@PatsTreasuresNCrafts]

Lori Smith I watched the whole thing. I too am scratching my head. lol Thank goodness my husband understands!

[@csssevierco]

Bob mentioned in other videos that these "cart battery's" are actually batteries designed for Golf Carts. They are the best in my opinion. I do understand how it can be confusing if this was the only video watched of Bob's OR only video of Solar Installation. It sounds complicated and if you were going to install Solar Systems on a regular basis it would be easily learned. However, doing this every 5 years or more, it's best to leave it up to a professional.

[@csssevierco]

Bob, Awesome video! I am closer and closer to doing my own install (having it looked at a couple of times - in stages). I am sorry but I do laugh at some that do not get it. Like so many others, I will benefit from your wisdom. Thank you

[@jeenabittenbender7205]

Very helpful video!!! Thank you

[@dirktenhaaf100]

Good job !!! Thanks !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@msshoeka5573]

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

[@grandmamaonthego2849]

love your post..thanks for all you do!! will there be an RTR this January? dates?

[@kiwicomposer]

Bob. I see the cables out the front of the fridge unit. Why didn't you put a socket at the back wall of the space the fridge is in under the bench so the connection and cables were out of the way? Would be much tidier and the cable length would still allow the fridge to slide in and out. I would think adding a socket in there would be really easy considering the proximity of the power system!

[@jimthvac100]

You should use a wrench at the bottom of the post while tightening that battery cable that will keep the post from twisting inside the battery and damaging it.

[@stevenclark7048]

Bob, I noticed a year ago, someone asked about the missing link to the gutter mounted ladder rack and I didn’t see a response to his request but I would also like that link.

[@phillipraskosky9466]

Where's the link for the ladder rack manufacturer Bob?

[@genipaisley4340]

I don't see a link for the gutter brackets. They're what I'm most interested in.

[@walking_with_andy]

Amazing

[@stewmiller778]

Why not hook the two 12V panels in series? The MPPT controller should handle that Voltage and treat them as one large panel.

[@Blakehx]

Great setup, thanks for sharing! You said you need the pure sine wave inverter to run the microwave but why do you also use the modified sine wave inverter?

[@thim8009]

Half way through vid very well done. Question want to run 12 volt everything water pump, whynter 95 quart freezer, lights, laptop, charge smart phone, and a fantastic fan. How many batteries would you use for 2 days and not drain more than 50 percent.

[@toad731]

Maybe it's just me but that guy reminded me of Gunny, the guy that used to do mail call on the history channel I think, oh and enjoying the series, thank you

[@robinengland5799]

Thanks for the clear information on your electric system, I learned alot!

[@debbiefieldsdourte6842]

I've watched 3 times, and I'm feeling awfully dim, but how did you attach the wood to the roof brackets? It's late at night and I may just be spacing out, but if you can clarify I'd be grateful! LOVE these videos, I am learning SO much!

[@beemrdon52]

Don't feel bad. This was just an overview.. They didn't go into details.

[@attackchawa4615]

Hello, love all your vids and the info you provides us. Please keep up all the great work. My question has to do with the gutter rack mount. I have a Ford e350 shuttle bus and I have no idea how to mount a roof rack to it. I very much want one but I don’t know what to use or how to use it. If you any ideas or suggestions please share with me. Thank you.

[@kathrynkenyon785]

GREAT VIDEO BOB! I'm making preparations to do my Solar Install, so this is perfect timing. 2 Questions: 1. What kind of paint do you recommend for the treated lumber. and 2. Do the gutter mounts come with the metal cross bar that the 2x4s connect to? Love your positive energy...you're lookin great! :-)

[@csitech7245]

More power to you! Literally, you must run your microwave 24/7. Mine runs a whopping 6 minutes per day and my Champion generator handles it with ease. I'm guessing you want to use the sun for 100% of your needs. That's cool.

[@starringchristopher]

thank you for this video!!!............c

[@local_treasures815]

Very much have been enjoying all the careful information you are conveying. Also, what's a free life without microwave popcorn?!? Plus I have to say your beard is looking super nice!

[@kiddiescripterkiller]

You don't paint pressure treated lumber until it fully dries out... Clean the wood with a deck cleaner and let it dry. And you have to use a primer and 2 coats of latex paint not oil based. If you don't wait for the water proofing chemicals to evaporate from the wood, any paint will just peel off.

[@jamesnellis2867]

I have live in an RV the last 6 or 7 years an I'm going to try to get out there to meet you

[@a206h]

4:20 hopefully your negative terminals are closest to the metal divider... you don't want to short your wrench to metal while touching a positive terminal!! As we say in the telecom world..."Tape up your Tools!"

[@a206h]

Mike Mead I "welded" a washer to an adjustable wrench when working on a DC fuse panel. It was hung up as a trophy in our office for years. 😶

[@a206h]

Mike Mead haha. Ouch 220!

[@royalkings15]

Hey Mr. Wells ive been watching your videos on youtube for quite sometime and it has really helped! I have been living out of my truck with a camper shell for 2 months now. I recently purchased a EGO 56V 3000-Watt Nexus Power Station Portable Generator for half price and was wondering if there would be a way to charge it via solar. I know you are very knowledgeable with solar energy and was wondering if you could provide any tips or guidance with my current dilemma. Thank you!

[@Him57]

another great video. thanks Bob. one question why 4-6 volt batteries and not 2 or more 12 volt batteries?

[@TamisNomadicRVLife]

Is the positive one that comes with the kit you recommend the one that I should use I need to order in the next day or two

[@StaceyBillsAdventures]

Bob, are there any installation techniques or possibilities to a grand caravan that has NO roof racks or even the side bars?

[@alexcarrn28]

I'm with you I don't understand I'm going to have to watch this later so that I can try to make sense of it. I couldn't follow if we were inside or outside and I just need to watch it at a different time where I can make sense of it. I need it more common language I don't know I kept getting lost from the camera switching. and the language I also didn't understand from one to the other.

[@noahcount3556]

The microwave in your van is intriguing. What is the output (cooking) wattage and what is the actual power consumption? Also, what is the brand and what is the advertised cubic footage of the food prep cavity? Knowing the brand, power output and power consumption of your microwave will be of great value in my quest for one.

[@NoProGoPronto]

Bob, you bought $1000 worth of batteries to run a $49 microwave? LOL! Great job gentleman. Thank you :-)

[@NoProGoPronto]

@Darrell Wampler LOL! Good point. I was just teasing Bob. That van is his full time home and he should have all of the creature comforts that make him happy :-)

[@johnbergholm]

NoProGoPronto what does the price of the microwave have to do with it? It's not how much it cost but what it can do for you. Your observation is simple-minded.

[@RemusKingOfRome]

Would it run a split system AC unit ? to keep the van cool in summer ? noisey compressor out the back on a stand

[@kentmccoy8334]

likely Bob had a lot more than just his microwave ---with his 2 x12v agm batts he can have a very decent power supply for all his needs--agm batts was a great choice--nice work Bob

[@chevyvantravel9735]

i think he feels that he can save money that way rather than paying for propane and having to run into town every two weeks to get the propane. i thihk

[@sevengrey2408]

Bob, I enjoyed the video, but don't see a link to the ladder rack that you show in the video. could you please include the link? thanks much!

[@barrychapman6249]

Hi Bob it would work out much cheaper to run all your power from from the grid lol

[@carl2591]

i got racks like this at home depot

[@jesuscross9]

Just curious what your thoughts are on deep cycle marine batteries --which is what I use. Right now I just have one but considering in the future doing a solar install and going to at least two in parallel.

[@robine6337]

bob, you are speaking gibberish to me! its like algebra

[@raysater4083]

Bob you should show adventure van man how to do a quality build on a quality van.

[@12kfh]

Hi! Just wondering about the exact brand for the roof racks here? I've found multiple sellers - Maxx Haul, Bully, Pro-Series - that all look exactly the same and am wondering if they all manufactured their own in the same style or if this is really the same rack distributed be various vendors... But either way would love to know which brand you used as you have experience with it. I even tried to screen grab the manual you showed but didn't see a legible brand name!

[@candeffect]

Two 6v 224 AH batteries in series = 12v 224 AH Two 12v combos in parallel = 12v 448 AH 50% usage before full recharge = about 224 AHs. More usage can shorten the battery life. 4 66 lb. batteries = 264 lbs.

[@ChemtrailsAreKillingUs]

Very interesting. Thanks!

[@WhiteEagleVideos]

Hi Bob, Can you recommend a place to install solar on my Class C RV in North Carolina? Or should I wait until I get out west and see someone you recommend out there? I'm not able to do it myself due to an injury!!! I have been subscribed several months and enjoy your videos!!! Very informative... Thanks for sharing!!! Gary