RE: [a/s] Elegant Airstream Power

["MyAirstream" <myairstream@xxxxxxxx>]

Dear Boojum,

    Just coming off of 18 months of boondocking from Vancouver to Puerta Vallarta with my camper van.  The electrical and gas systems are not that different.  As you point out a frugal nature is a must when using alternative power.  I don't burn everything at once and don't power things when I am not actively using them.  In my van I use the built in CD radio in the dash.  In the Airstream I have a unique old Model 11 Cambridge that takes its power directly from the DC wires.  A small CD walkman powers directly from the Cambridge.  I will add a second deep cycle battery to the Safari in the near future to give me extended time, but I can run a day and a half with the single battery and usage as described.  An efficient solar panel would be mandatory for extended stays in one location but 300 miles on the road will charge all batts.

 

I particularly love gas appliances.  They are so efficient.  Heating with gas is no problem.  Heating with DC electrical is impractical.  The gas light in the Airstream is very bright and old fashioned . . . romantic.

 

With the price of grid electrical going up 100 fold this season contemplating these elegant Airstream power systems is a good use of time :)