toocoys
Scraping Paint
We've been living aboard for a year and two months now. Over the summer we experienced a lot of power outages, and discomfort as a result. We do not cruise as we work full time, so the extent of our needs is limited to short days out on the water, or weekend cruises to other bayside marinas etc. We currently DO NOT have a generator, or battery bank, and any 12v appliances run directly off of the engine starter batteries. I've received quotes for generators ranging form $4k for used/rebuilt to $10K for brand new installed. I've also received quotes for battery banks with and inverter/charger for $3300, but that doesn't include the power to run the A/C's.
I currently own a Honda 2000 portable generator, and since our needs are not THAT overwhelming, I'm trying to figure out a way to create comfort during the few short times we need it.
My current train of thought is that I can get two Group 31 AGM batteries, a second battery charger, and move the house 12v load to these. I can then install the Dometic Smart Start or Supco capacitors on my Webasto 16K A/C and run it on my portable generator. The generator could be moved between the A/C unit, or the house battery charger as needed.
Problem:
Auxillary power needed for short cruises, or extended power outtages at dock.
Possible Solutions:
Generator
Battery bank with inverter
Additional batteries, charger, and portable generators
Appliances needed:
Refrigerator – 12v/120v
Air Conditioners (2)
Fans 12v/120v
Costs:
Generator $5K - $10K
Battery Bank w/ inverter - $3300
Additional batteries, /inverter charger, portable generator - $1800 (gen already owned)
Any thoughts, opinions, advice, or tips provided while I think this through would be greatly appreciated.
I currently own a Honda 2000 portable generator, and since our needs are not THAT overwhelming, I'm trying to figure out a way to create comfort during the few short times we need it.
My current train of thought is that I can get two Group 31 AGM batteries, a second battery charger, and move the house 12v load to these. I can then install the Dometic Smart Start or Supco capacitors on my Webasto 16K A/C and run it on my portable generator. The generator could be moved between the A/C unit, or the house battery charger as needed.
Problem:
Auxillary power needed for short cruises, or extended power outtages at dock.
Possible Solutions:
Generator
Battery bank with inverter
Additional batteries, charger, and portable generators
Appliances needed:
Refrigerator – 12v/120v
Air Conditioners (2)
Fans 12v/120v
Costs:
Generator $5K - $10K
Battery Bank w/ inverter - $3300
Additional batteries, /inverter charger, portable generator - $1800 (gen already owned)
Any thoughts, opinions, advice, or tips provided while I think this through would be greatly appreciated.