We already had an almost new set of four Trojan deep cycle batteries fitted and
I found myself wondering if there was any real benefit in fitting solar panels to our boat. The reason I pondered this was because of a trip we made three years ago to Boston in Lincolnshire. We had decided to take three weeks holiday and a good long trip would probably be appreciated by the boat's engine and transmission. In fairness we had a really good trip and enjoyed it.
The only fly in the ointment came when we stayed anywhere for more than one night. We found that we were having to run the boat's engine for several hours a day to 'top up' the leisure batteries. Our engine, although in excellent condition, is almost seventy years old. It is quite noisy, which made it somewhat irritating. Also of course, with the engine running we couldn't leave the boat unattended. Not ideal.
I did a lot of research before finally making the decision to go ahead and install solar.
We already had an almost new set of four Trojan deep cycle batteries fitted and I can't impress upon the reader enough that genuine deep cycle batteries are essential if you want success with a solar setup. Please be aware that batteries sold as starter / leisure batteries are generally anything but and are destined to be a terribly expensive mistake. Deep cycle batteries have much thicker internal lead compound plates than starter batteries and are specially designed to be discharged on a regular basis. Our Trojan batteries are very commonly fitted to electric golf carts, and are charged at night to provide motive power on the golf course for hours at a time the following day. A starter battery would be fatally damaged if used in this way.
The next thing to consider is how to regulate power from the solar panels to get the absolute maximum into the batteries without damaging them. There are many options available and it is a big subject. The reason a good quality solar controller is essential is because standard 12-volt solar panels do NOT produce 12 volts. It is common for solar panels to produce up to 22 volts each and this voltage will fry your batteries if not controlled properly. For this reason, we chose a Victron MPPT controller. Victron is universally accepted as a market leader renowned for its quality products and we have been delighted with ours. I'll begin another paragraph to explain why I am recommending this controller.
The Victron MPPT controllers are extremely cleverly programmed. They are fully functioning 'smart' chargers, and can also act as a direct power supply. The latest ones have a Bluetooth connection that allows charging regimes to be adjusted to suit all battery types. This is useful because our Trojans require a bulk charge higher than that available from a standard engine alternator. They utilise 'Maximum Power Point Tracking' technology (hence MPPT) to scrape every available electron from the solar panels. Now the best bit. We have three solar panels, each producing 22 volts in sunshine, and we have wired them in series. This has the effect of adding the voltage of each panel together. This means that we are often putting 66 volts into our controller! Far from doing damage, this is advantageous. The Victron cleverly takes the voltage from the panels, which is DC current, and turns it into AC current. The AC current is then reconverted to DC at the voltage required by the batteries and leftover power is converted into extra amperage for the batteries, speeding battery charging. Impressively clever in my opinion.
Of course, the one thing I've not mentioned yet is the actual solar panels! They are available in lots of different confusing sizes and forms. Many are rigid, some are flexible, other are Polycrystalline or Monocrystalline. So many options. My choice? Absolutely standard rigid monocrystalline with a 25-year guarantee. A boat with a curved roof may benefit from flexible panels, but I can tilt mine to make the most of winter sunshine. This is quite handy because the solar panels are more efficient at lower temperatures! If you'd like more information about my installation come and pay me a visit. Solar Installation Details Direct
If you've ever had the pleasure of going to a boat show, you'd know the variety of boats, accessories, and boat cleaning products you can find. When people think of buying a boat, they most likely think about cutting through waves and escaping their worries on a secluded island. It's an appealing fantasy and one that is certainly possible to live out with a boat. But these same people probably don't consider the maintenance that comes with a boat. Sure, you're cruising through water but that doesn't mean you don't need to clean it. Your hull, deck, seats, and other parts of your boat need regular attention if you want to keep it in good condition.
The ocean can be brutal. If you're not careful, it will deteriorate parts of your boat and you won't be living out your dreams for much longer if you don't maintain your boat. Luckily, there are boat cleaning products that can help preserve your dream. But you need to be careful about the products you use. Your boat might seem like a sturdy vessel, but with constant exposure to the sun and harsh conditions in the ocean, it needs all the care it can get. This means getting boat cleaning products that keep your boat looking pristine. It wouldn't hurt getting some that don't require too much work either, would it? Before we get too carried away, let's see the essential boat cleaning products you'll need for a sleek and clean boat.
When it comes to the essentials, there are a few that you should always carry with you on your boat. If you plan on fishing a lot, get a fish box deodorizer. Unless you don't plan on having passengers that don't mind a fishy smell, this is one of those necessary items you need. A deck cleaner keeps dirt and stains from becoming a permanent part of your boat. Of course, you want your deck to look its best for you and your passengers. Keep your deck pristine with a non-toxic formula and a scrub brush so you can really get those stains out.
If you really want to keep your boat looking great all the time, you really need two boat cleaning products: a boat hull cleaner and a boat seat cleaner.
Essential #1: A Boat Hull Cleaner
The first thing others will see is your hull. That's why it's important to invest in a boat hull cleaner. There's no way to prevent your hull from getting dirty or from getting covered with algae and scum lines. Instead of keeping your boat docked and sitting pretty, use a boat hull cleaner that easily gets rid of the rust and fish blood after a long day. Regardless of your surface, you can find a boat hull cleaner that instantly cleans fiberglass, metal, and gelcoat surface. Aesthetics aren't the only reason to get a boat hull cleaner. Regular maintenance of your hull reduces drag and helps you navigate the water more efficiently.
You can find a boat hull cleaner that is safe to use and won't require too much work on your end. We know that the last thing you want to do when you dock after a long day is clean your boat, but it's something you just have to do. Make it bearable with high quality products.
Essential #2: A Boat Seat Cleaner
Don't wait until you're out in the water to notice your dirty seats. If you have passengers with you, you want them to be comfortable and enjoy the ride. Finding droppings or residue from your last fishing trip won't be appealing. Even worse, not keeping your boat seat cleaner can eventually wear out your seats. A boat vinyl cleaner for your seats can keep them clear and ready for your next ride. In addition to that, the right kind of boat seat cleaner can prevent the inner foam of your seats from deteriorating and unsightly cracking.
Once you're making your way out onto the water, you and your passengers want to have a great time. Cracked or stained seats can affect the experience. So, get a boat vinyl seat cleaner to make your adventure memorable for all the right reasons.
Don't Wait To Get Marine Cleaning Products
Now that you know the importance of marine cleaning products and the essentials for a pristine boat, it's time to act! Don't have your go-to products yet? There's no better time than now! With a variety of dedicated brands offering their marine cleaning products, there's no doubt that you'll find everything you need.
There is nothing like going out on the water and spending a few days floating by. Far from the din and bustle of urban life, a boating trip could rejuvenate your mind and body in the most comprehensive way. Since the start of the human civilization, people used live close to the waters. Egyptian civilization had started on the banks of the river Nile, Indus Valley civilization opened its eyes on the banks of the river Indus. Men have unquestionable affinity with water and boating is one of the oldest skills that he acquired.
Our hectic work-schedule prevents us to remain circled in the polluted and populous city life, but our craving to break free the urban bondage is undying and that's why whenever we got the chance we set to sail. From fishing on a tranquil river to have a noisy party on the boat, from Sunbathing on the deck to grill a fish, there are countless adventure options at hand during your stay in the boat. I am going to offer you the information about what should be your ideal boating lifestyle.
Single or in a group-
You can go to a boating holiday either with your friends and family or completely alone. The best way of spending your time on the boat could differ according to the number of people you are accompanied with. I am providing guidance about both, how a single person can live in a boat and what the people in a group can do.
The best time to enter into the boat-
I would suggest you to rent the boat one or two months ago and schedule your boarding at night. You must be curious why I am suggesting you to make a nocturnal entry to the boat. The first reason is, after making a long road journey, it is quite possible that you will be tired. If you enter the boat during afternoon or late evening, the chances are high that you will be so tired that you can't enjoy the sightseeing. So it is better to arrange a night entry, have a good sleep, take a proper rest, restore your strength and wake up early in the morning. It is suggested for both, the single traveller and the people who are travelling in a team.
Wake up on the boat with music-
The best way to wake yourself up in the boat is with music. It would be excellent if you could manage to tune your alarm with a local song, I mean the song of the place you are visiting. It will give you an excellent start of the day. No matter whether you are floating on the sea, river or a lake, make sure you are not missing the Sunrise from your ship. I am sure it will be an experience of a lifetime watching the Sun rising out from the water. A perfect start of the day.
Indulge in various activities-
Living on a boat comes with loads of adventure activities. As soon as you finish your breakfast you can start your day simply by watching exotic beauty of the surrounding areas. If you are sailing on the river or lake, you could get the chance of seeing the greeneries, the wildlife or even the river-side localities. You could take pictures, spend the time in paintings or just listening to music or reading your favorite book. Boat rental companies also offer their clients special arrangements for engaging with the locals. In case you are floating on the sea, you could feel the vastness of the ocean. It is magical experience to see water everywhere. It gives you inspiration, motivation and unparalleled joy. People who are traveling in a group could participate in fishing, parasailing, kite flying and other breathtaking activities.
Local food, must be in your lunch menu-
Missing the local delicacies of the place you are sailing is unacceptable for any boating expedition. Ask the chef to cook local specialties, it will be fantastic. Tickle your taste buds with something you haven't tested before. Sharing lunch with others on the boat and having a rollicking conversation will give you extra enthusiasm. For single travelers, enjoy your meal in the midst of the nature. A lunch in the tranquil and serene environment will be the most fantastic thing in your life. Be sure you are not going for a siesta while you are on the ship, otherwise you could miss a lot of beautiful things.
Be ready for a memorable evening-
Evening is perhaps the most finest time in your boat life. People who are in a group could arrange an evening boat party and dance with the popular songs of Shakira or Spears. For those who cherished a calm and quiet atmosphere, could have a glass of wine and simply enjoy the seamless beauty of the sea or river. Just as you have seen the Sunrise, it is the time to witness it is going down noiselessly in the heart of the water. A dreamlike setting, that will leave a lasting impact on your mind.
An unforgettable night on the boat-
While on the boat, most people have noticed that time passes so quickly you can't even get a hint of it. If your evening party turns into a late night party, you don't need to worry, as there is no hurry to go home. You could enjoy each and every moment of your time on the ship. For those who are traveling alone, a night on the water is the time to retrospect the memorable events of life. On the boat, you can afford to remain awake late, as you don't have to reach office early next day. Go for a sleep whenever you like, and you could plan your tomorrow in a different way.
Staying in a sailboat is much more luxurious than living in the hotel room. A boating life even for a few days, could breathe a fresh lease of life to your otherwise drab and dull daily routine.
The only fly in the ointment came when we stayed anywhere for more than one night. We found that we were having to run the boat's engine for several hours a day to 'top up' the leisure batteries. Our engine, although in excellent condition, is almost seventy years old. It is quite noisy, which made it somewhat irritating. Also of course, with the engine running we couldn't leave the boat unattended. Not ideal.
I did a lot of research before finally making the decision to go ahead and install solar.
We already had an almost new set of four Trojan deep cycle batteries fitted and I can't impress upon the reader enough that genuine deep cycle batteries are essential if you want success with a solar setup. Please be aware that batteries sold as starter / leisure batteries are generally anything but and are destined to be a terribly expensive mistake. Deep cycle batteries have much thicker internal lead compound plates than starter batteries and are specially designed to be discharged on a regular basis. Our Trojan batteries are very commonly fitted to electric golf carts, and are charged at night to provide motive power on the golf course for hours at a time the following day. A starter battery would be fatally damaged if used in this way.
The next thing to consider is how to regulate power from the solar panels to get the absolute maximum into the batteries without damaging them. There are many options available and it is a big subject. The reason a good quality solar controller is essential is because standard 12-volt solar panels do NOT produce 12 volts. It is common for solar panels to produce up to 22 volts each and this voltage will fry your batteries if not controlled properly. For this reason, we chose a Victron MPPT controller. Victron is universally accepted as a market leader renowned for its quality products and we have been delighted with ours. I'll begin another paragraph to explain why I am recommending this controller.
The Victron MPPT controllers are extremely cleverly programmed. They are fully functioning 'smart' chargers, and can also act as a direct power supply. The latest ones have a Bluetooth connection that allows charging regimes to be adjusted to suit all battery types. This is useful because our Trojans require a bulk charge higher than that available from a standard engine alternator. They utilise 'Maximum Power Point Tracking' technology (hence MPPT) to scrape every available electron from the solar panels. Now the best bit. We have three solar panels, each producing 22 volts in sunshine, and we have wired them in series. This has the effect of adding the voltage of each panel together. This means that we are often putting 66 volts into our controller! Far from doing damage, this is advantageous. The Victron cleverly takes the voltage from the panels, which is DC current, and turns it into AC current. The AC current is then reconverted to DC at the voltage required by the batteries and leftover power is converted into extra amperage for the batteries, speeding battery charging. Impressively clever in my opinion.
Of course, the one thing I've not mentioned yet is the actual solar panels! They are available in lots of different confusing sizes and forms. Many are rigid, some are flexible, other are Polycrystalline or Monocrystalline. So many options. My choice? Absolutely standard rigid monocrystalline with a 25-year guarantee. A boat with a curved roof may benefit from flexible panels, but I can tilt mine to make the most of winter sunshine. This is quite handy because the solar panels are more efficient at lower temperatures! If you'd like more information about my installation come and pay me a visit. Solar Installation Details Direct
If you've ever had the pleasure of going to a boat show, you'd know the variety of boats, accessories, and boat cleaning products you can find. When people think of buying a boat, they most likely think about cutting through waves and escaping their worries on a secluded island. It's an appealing fantasy and one that is certainly possible to live out with a boat. But these same people probably don't consider the maintenance that comes with a boat. Sure, you're cruising through water but that doesn't mean you don't need to clean it. Your hull, deck, seats, and other parts of your boat need regular attention if you want to keep it in good condition.
The ocean can be brutal. If you're not careful, it will deteriorate parts of your boat and you won't be living out your dreams for much longer if you don't maintain your boat. Luckily, there are boat cleaning products that can help preserve your dream. But you need to be careful about the products you use. Your boat might seem like a sturdy vessel, but with constant exposure to the sun and harsh conditions in the ocean, it needs all the care it can get. This means getting boat cleaning products that keep your boat looking pristine. It wouldn't hurt getting some that don't require too much work either, would it? Before we get too carried away, let's see the essential boat cleaning products you'll need for a sleek and clean boat.
When it comes to the essentials, there are a few that you should always carry with you on your boat. If you plan on fishing a lot, get a fish box deodorizer. Unless you don't plan on having passengers that don't mind a fishy smell, this is one of those necessary items you need. A deck cleaner keeps dirt and stains from becoming a permanent part of your boat. Of course, you want your deck to look its best for you and your passengers. Keep your deck pristine with a non-toxic formula and a scrub brush so you can really get those stains out.
If you really want to keep your boat looking great all the time, you really need two boat cleaning products: a boat hull cleaner and a boat seat cleaner.
Essential #1: A Boat Hull Cleaner
The first thing others will see is your hull. That's why it's important to invest in a boat hull cleaner. There's no way to prevent your hull from getting dirty or from getting covered with algae and scum lines. Instead of keeping your boat docked and sitting pretty, use a boat hull cleaner that easily gets rid of the rust and fish blood after a long day. Regardless of your surface, you can find a boat hull cleaner that instantly cleans fiberglass, metal, and gelcoat surface. Aesthetics aren't the only reason to get a boat hull cleaner. Regular maintenance of your hull reduces drag and helps you navigate the water more efficiently.
You can find a boat hull cleaner that is safe to use and won't require too much work on your end. We know that the last thing you want to do when you dock after a long day is clean your boat, but it's something you just have to do. Make it bearable with high quality products.
Essential #2: A Boat Seat Cleaner
Don't wait until you're out in the water to notice your dirty seats. If you have passengers with you, you want them to be comfortable and enjoy the ride. Finding droppings or residue from your last fishing trip won't be appealing. Even worse, not keeping your boat seat cleaner can eventually wear out your seats. A boat vinyl cleaner for your seats can keep them clear and ready for your next ride. In addition to that, the right kind of boat seat cleaner can prevent the inner foam of your seats from deteriorating and unsightly cracking.
Once you're making your way out onto the water, you and your passengers want to have a great time. Cracked or stained seats can affect the experience. So, get a boat vinyl seat cleaner to make your adventure memorable for all the right reasons.
Don't Wait To Get Marine Cleaning Products
Now that you know the importance of marine cleaning products and the essentials for a pristine boat, it's time to act! Don't have your go-to products yet? There's no better time than now! With a variety of dedicated brands offering their marine cleaning products, there's no doubt that you'll find everything you need.
There is nothing like going out on the water and spending a few days floating by. Far from the din and bustle of urban life, a boating trip could rejuvenate your mind and body in the most comprehensive way. Since the start of the human civilization, people used live close to the waters. Egyptian civilization had started on the banks of the river Nile, Indus Valley civilization opened its eyes on the banks of the river Indus. Men have unquestionable affinity with water and boating is one of the oldest skills that he acquired.
Our hectic work-schedule prevents us to remain circled in the polluted and populous city life, but our craving to break free the urban bondage is undying and that's why whenever we got the chance we set to sail. From fishing on a tranquil river to have a noisy party on the boat, from Sunbathing on the deck to grill a fish, there are countless adventure options at hand during your stay in the boat. I am going to offer you the information about what should be your ideal boating lifestyle.
Single or in a group-
You can go to a boating holiday either with your friends and family or completely alone. The best way of spending your time on the boat could differ according to the number of people you are accompanied with. I am providing guidance about both, how a single person can live in a boat and what the people in a group can do.
The best time to enter into the boat-
I would suggest you to rent the boat one or two months ago and schedule your boarding at night. You must be curious why I am suggesting you to make a nocturnal entry to the boat. The first reason is, after making a long road journey, it is quite possible that you will be tired. If you enter the boat during afternoon or late evening, the chances are high that you will be so tired that you can't enjoy the sightseeing. So it is better to arrange a night entry, have a good sleep, take a proper rest, restore your strength and wake up early in the morning. It is suggested for both, the single traveller and the people who are travelling in a team.
Wake up on the boat with music-
The best way to wake yourself up in the boat is with music. It would be excellent if you could manage to tune your alarm with a local song, I mean the song of the place you are visiting. It will give you an excellent start of the day. No matter whether you are floating on the sea, river or a lake, make sure you are not missing the Sunrise from your ship. I am sure it will be an experience of a lifetime watching the Sun rising out from the water. A perfect start of the day.
Indulge in various activities-
Living on a boat comes with loads of adventure activities. As soon as you finish your breakfast you can start your day simply by watching exotic beauty of the surrounding areas. If you are sailing on the river or lake, you could get the chance of seeing the greeneries, the wildlife or even the river-side localities. You could take pictures, spend the time in paintings or just listening to music or reading your favorite book. Boat rental companies also offer their clients special arrangements for engaging with the locals. In case you are floating on the sea, you could feel the vastness of the ocean. It is magical experience to see water everywhere. It gives you inspiration, motivation and unparalleled joy. People who are traveling in a group could participate in fishing, parasailing, kite flying and other breathtaking activities.
Local food, must be in your lunch menu-
Missing the local delicacies of the place you are sailing is unacceptable for any boating expedition. Ask the chef to cook local specialties, it will be fantastic. Tickle your taste buds with something you haven't tested before. Sharing lunch with others on the boat and having a rollicking conversation will give you extra enthusiasm. For single travelers, enjoy your meal in the midst of the nature. A lunch in the tranquil and serene environment will be the most fantastic thing in your life. Be sure you are not going for a siesta while you are on the ship, otherwise you could miss a lot of beautiful things.
Be ready for a memorable evening-
Evening is perhaps the most finest time in your boat life. People who are in a group could arrange an evening boat party and dance with the popular songs of Shakira or Spears. For those who cherished a calm and quiet atmosphere, could have a glass of wine and simply enjoy the seamless beauty of the sea or river. Just as you have seen the Sunrise, it is the time to witness it is going down noiselessly in the heart of the water. A dreamlike setting, that will leave a lasting impact on your mind.
An unforgettable night on the boat-
While on the boat, most people have noticed that time passes so quickly you can't even get a hint of it. If your evening party turns into a late night party, you don't need to worry, as there is no hurry to go home. You could enjoy each and every moment of your time on the ship. For those who are traveling alone, a night on the water is the time to retrospect the memorable events of life. On the boat, you can afford to remain awake late, as you don't have to reach office early next day. Go for a sleep whenever you like, and you could plan your tomorrow in a different way.
Staying in a sailboat is much more luxurious than living in the hotel room. A boating life even for a few days, could breathe a fresh lease of life to your otherwise drab and dull daily routine.
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