Q: How do I choose the right type of power for my Overland trips?
When planning power for your overlanding adventure, do you need AC or DC power?
To simplify: if you only need to operate lights and equipment that run on 12V, you're dealing with DC loads. If you're planning to use household appliances that need more power, like induction cookers or Nespresso machines, these are typically AC loads.
AC loads usually require an inverter to change DC power to AC power, which is generally more costly to set up. Essentially, 12V or 24V (DC) can be converted to 120V or 230V (AC).
Determine the power you need
Calculate the total power consumption of all the devices you plan to use during your overland journey.
Consider peak loads such as compressors, which need maximum power during startup, as well as devices that consume power continuously.
After determining your total power needs, you'll face a decision. 12V systems with an inverter usually handle up to 1200W. Larger systems can reach up to 3000W but will require 24V or 48V systems.
Q: What considerations are important when buying an inverter?
Continuous Wattage vs. Surge Wattage
After determining your power needs, focus on the wattage rating.
Wattage ratings are generally categorized into Continuous Wattage and Surge Wattage.
Continuous Wattage refers to the power the inverter can provide consistently over time.
Surge Wattage is the maximum power it can supply briefly, useful for devices with high startup power requirements like refrigerators and air conditioners.
Pure Sine Wave vs. Modified Sine Wave
Pure Sine Wave (PSW): Ideal for sensitive electronics, refrigerators, and induction cooktops. Though more expensive, it is recommended.
Modified Sine Wave (MSW): Suitable for basic devices like lights and non-sensitive chargers, but may cause problems with motors and electronics.
Match the inverter to your battery system
Will you use a 12V or 24V system?
Consider Efficiency & Features
Idle draw: Some inverters use power even when not in use.
Remote on/off switch: Useful for easy control.
Integrated charger: Some inverters also charge your batteries when plugged into 230V and can act also as a DC to DC charger
Q: Which is preferable, portable or modular power solutions?
At Tusck Overland, we've discovered that portable units are just as effective as fixed modular setups.
Companies like Ecoflow, Bluetti, and Jackery offer excellent power station solutions. However, since all components are integrated into a single unit, if one part fails, the entire system is compromised.
This is the last thing you need during an expedition! That's why we at Tusck Overland favor the Ammo Box solution.
The Ammo Box solution typically includes: 2 x 120 amp-hour lithium batteries, separate MPPT solar input, DC to DC chargers, and AC to DC chargers, and battery monitor.
This allows you to easily move the Ammo Box from trailer to vehicle, maintaining its functionality as a portable power station.
If you have an additional fridge in your vehicle, we usually connect it to the tub power source while driving.
This also enables the replacement of individual components if one fails, unlike fixed modular systems.
However, if your vehicle lacks a dual battery system, you'll need a portable power station when the vehicle isn't running.
Fixed modular installations can provide better redundancy, tidier wiring, and onboard features like rock lights and floods, allowing direct control from your vehicle.
Your vehicle can typically power a trailer or caravan, but if you don't have dual power systems installed (for both trailer and vehicle), you'll be stuck if they are separated.
Q: Which type of battery is the best?
Each battery type needs a specific battery management system (BMS) for optimal safety and performance. While this article won't delve into battery technology, here's a brief overview of various battery types:
AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat): Cost-effective but heavier with a shorter cycle life.
Lithium (LiFePO4): Lightweight, allows deeper discharge, has a longer lifespan, but is more expensive and can be hazardous if not properly managed.
Lead-Acid: Most economical but requires frequent maintenance and has a limited lifespan.
Note: The battery storage capacity should be adequate to meet your needs for at least 1–2 days without recharging.
Q: How do I charge the batteries?
Charging from your alternator
Generally, you would need to run wiring from your vehicle's alternator to the rear compartment of your vehicle.
This setup requires at least a 60 amp fuse near the power source, using 16mm2 wire. However, the proper method to determine your wire size is to calculate the amps needed (including potential future additions) in relation to the cable length (plus 20%).
At this point, you would proceed with a 20A DC to DC charger or a Smart Alternator Charger, which can typically provide 800W of power.
Note: Voltage drops exceeding 3% may lead to safety concerns.
Charging via Solar
Solar charging is excellent for off-grid overlanding, but it requires ample sunlight and a high-quality charge controller.
The battery type you select will dictate the necessary charge controller: MPPT or PWM.
Additionally, you typically need to determine the solar panel capacity. This decision includes choosing between a fixed solar installation on top of the vehicle or using one or two flexible solar blankets.
The solar panel's capacity will then affect the time it takes to charge the batteries.
Note: When using a flexible solar panel, always ensure you close the panel before disconnecting the connectors to avoid electrocution. Flexible solar panels usually lack protection to an isolator like in fixed modular installations, so this is the recommended practice.
Charging via AC mains or Generator
If you have access to ground power, this is generally the simplest method. However, it requires converting AC power to DC power. You can usually purchase a standard battery charger from a reputable brand like Victron, CTek, or Red Arc, and connect it to the main systems linked to your battery.
For modular setups, you might consider buying a separate unit to integrate into your existing system.
Note: When specifying your systems, be aware that some AC to DC chargers can also function as DC to DC chargers. Ensure your equipment's capabilities during the specification phase before making any purchases.
