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At the risk of confusing things............for us the real bonus came through having solar panels fitted. I can't see whether you have any on the van, if so forgive me because I will be preaching to the converted.
The panels have done their job, and have tranformed our ability to stay off grid. I would say that we are moderate power consumers.
Pre 'solar', we could manage a couple of days without plugging in, and now, depending on the time of year, we can go weeks. In winter, maybe a week to 10 days. You still need to plug in for 24 hours every now and then in order to recondition the batteries.
That said !!!!!!!
A couple of years ago, we invested in a Honda EU20i as a contingency. Even with Solar, over wintering, with short days and long nights can challenge your batteries, that is unless you like sitting in the dark. The 'genny' takes away the 'shall I, shan't I'...... switch that light on for 5 mins/watch TV for a while. It also gives us the option of 'firing up' some 240v options like the electric Pizza cooker. I know, I know.
We see it as an investment as we've got it for the long term. Costco are selling them at just over £1k. I can't comment on the Kippor.
Without solar (or plugging in.... or running the MH engine) you'll be firing the 'genny' up several times a week, maybe most nights if you watch TV. With Solar, you'll hardly ever need it, but it's a pain if you haven't got it.
We looked at the Efoy and the Gasperini but they were more expensive.
Personally, I love to hear the sound of a generator running. I associate it with pleasant memories from my youth, such as the candy floss stalls at the funfair. For reference, the Honda or Kipor 2000W models generate 53-69 dB. People talking and laughing in a nearby awning, around 60-65 dB. Dogs barking over 100 dB.
I'll get my (asbestos) coat . . .
______________________________________________________________ cheers
Roger
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I´m not really as paranoid as everyone thinks I am
Hi Grassc
having been a narrowboater for years and having none too fond memories of being in the middle of nowhere with no heat or light and only a gennie to rely on I feel a certain kinship with them.
If I was travelling far I would be inclined to have one (unless I had some excellent solar provision - which I have)
They do make you feel reassured - but the weight of the ones worth having is quite over the top.
We have the Honda 10i tho hardly use it as we have solar as well, will say that the 2kw version is much heavier than the 10i do you really want to hump that extra weight around?
Chris
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Italy
I know, I know.
