DC Lights
Living off the grid, you conserve energy. We generate electricity using solar power, a wind generator, a thermoelectric generator on our wood stove, and a backup gas generator. Even with all these, our batteries don't last long in winter. We don't use large electric appliances or heaters, but even energy efficient AC lights (LEDs and fluorescents) drain a significant amount of power.
At Marine Traders, Jim, the owner, showed us some pre-assembled DC lights we could run off our battery packs in the cabin. We've used the DC LED emergency light that came with the pack for several years, but it doesn't provide as much general lighting as the new bulbs.
DC lights are low voltage, and use virtually no power. This is a perfect solution for long winter nights. For now, we've hung two of the new lights over the sofa. Maybe we'll install some more permanent fixtures in the future.
Do you use DC lights or other appliances? What works well for you? -- Margy
Labels:
Float Cabin Living,
Power
Posts
You two are amazing! I love your pioneer lives in this modern day. I cannot wait for your garden glories, though.
ReplyDeleteC'mon, summer!
Living the simple life! Good luck to you and your partner.
ReplyDeleteThank you. Love love, Andrew. Bye.
It must be cheaper living off the grid.
ReplyDeleteThanks everyone for stopping by and commenting this week. Yes Jenn, I can't wait for summer either, even though I do worry about having enough water, even on our great big lake. - Margy
ReplyDeleteI like your setup. I'm working on a wood stove invention called the Humid-i-Fire. It is an ornamental fountain and humidifier that operates on the top of wood or gas stoves without any power cord or batteries. The fountain's pump is powered by a thermoelectric generator. I've just started a 30 day Kickstarter campaign to test the market. I would love to know if your readers liked the product.
ReplyDeleteNever used DC but I am loving reading up on your stories of off-grid living! Thanks for sharing at the Homestead Blog Hop, hope to see you there again soon.
ReplyDelete