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Post by paulward on Oct 17, 2005 15:06:43 GMT 10
Hi All
I am looking for advice regarding the best type of generator (LP gas or 4 stroke) to buy that will run a Fridge, TV, Microwave and appliances like toasters and kettles, etc.
Any help would be appreciated.
regards
Paul
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Post by cobber on Oct 17, 2005 20:19:08 GMT 10
G’Day Paul, Nice to have you with us. If you are talking about the fridge, TV, Microwave and other appliances in your Vintage caravan I would suggest you use a generating system something like the one pictured below, especially if you come to Coledale next year. Cobber.
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Post by belinda on Oct 18, 2005 8:13:47 GMT 10
Generators aren't always popular because of the noise (even the new quiet ones) and there are lots of alternatives these days. You only have to look at caravan magazines to see a huge number of ads for solar panels and LCD TV's
My advice would be to do without a generator if you can, and if you really need one run it for as few hours as possible.
Do some homework and work out the most energy-efficent ways of doing everything: - solar panel technology is going ahead in leaps and bounds, as is the range of deep-cycle batteries. I'm impressed with those flexible panels that roll up into a bag when not in use - are electric kettles and toasters the best way to boil water and cook crumpets? The gas stove might be better. - a laptop with a TV tuner card would probably use less power. Our kids watch DVD's on our laptop when we are away, and we have a lead that plugs into a cigarette lighter. Our next modification for the van is a cigarette lighter socket, so for the next trip we are going to try to run the computer from the 12v and top up the battery during the day with the solar trickle charger. - use other people's energy whenever possible. Cook on electric BBQ's. Heat water in one of those black bag thingies and store it in an insulated drink container - you will use less gas boiling a kettle filled with hot water than cold water, plus you'll have hot water on tap for cooking and washing-up. - buy high-efficiency 12v globes. We are delighted with the one we got from the Rainbow Power Company (see thread "12v lights and stuff")
The Rainbow Power Company are very helpful and have lots of information on their site. I'd also look at magazines for the alternative lifestyle market such as "Earth Garden".
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Post by paulward on Oct 20, 2005 9:05:30 GMT 10
Hi Belinda
Thanks for the advice.
We have decided to have our van totally electric. Shock, horror the purists will say! The only gas will be outside with the BBQ.
Hence the search for options when 240v is not available.
regards Paul
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