How Do I Clean My Solar Panels?
So, you just bought solar panels, and now you’re wondering how to take care of them. Luckily, solar panels are pretty low-maintenance, but that doesn’t mean you can skip out on cleaning them. After all, dirt and grime will reduce their efficiency and keep you from getting the most bang…
What is a Group 24 Battery?
Even the basics of dealing with larger batteries like those found in RVs and boats can feel daunting if you’re not familiar with them. It can seem like there’s a lot to consider–style, capacity, voltage, and, of course, the battery’s group size. But what exactly does group size mean? And…
What Is Peukert’s Law and What Is Its Effect on Batteries?
Have you ever wondered why your batteries don’t last quite as long as you hoped when using large loads? If you have lead-acid batteries, it’s common for them to only put out a percentage of the energy they’re storing in this scenario. Part of the reason for this is something…
How Does a Soft Start for RV AC Work?
Your RV air conditioner can make the difference between a cool, comfortable trip and a sweltering nightmare, which is why many RVers rely on a soft start for AC. An RV’s electrical system isn’t always conducive to running AC regularly. Due to the combination of how air conditioners function and…
Why Does Energy Density Matter In Batteries?
Battery energy density is the amount of energy a battery contains compared to its weight or size. We call this the specific energy density when comparing to weight and volumetric energy density when comparing size. For example, we measure a battery’s energy in watt-hours (watts per hour, the equivalent of…
How Long Do Solar Panels Last?
You might be considering a solar power system for your home, boat, or RV. Or you could have an aging system already. Either instance might put a critical question on your mind–how long do solar panels last? After all, they’re certainly not cheap. And the frequency of potential replacements can…
Is Home Battery Backup Power Really Possible?
No one likes to sit in a dark home during a power outage without heat or A/C. But traditional generator systems can be expensive, a pain to set up or put away, and harmful to the environment. That’s why many homeowners are turning to home battery backup systems. These power…
What Happens If A Lithium-Ion Battery Gets Punctured In An Accident?
Lithium-ion batteries are increasing in popularity as a powerful, lightweight, versatile energy storage solution. But along with all these benefits come some rare but potentially severe risks–we’re talking about lithium-ion battery punctures. You’ve likely heard a horror story about a battery-related fire, so what should you do if you get…
Lithium Batteries Dominate Liveaboard Sailboats
A liveaboard sailboat offers the freedom of RV or van life combined with the beautiful scenery and exhilarating travel of a sailboat–and they’re becoming more popular every day. Like other full-time travelers, liveaboard sailboaters have to tangle with the problems of maintaining various home systems on the go–including their power…