Power Station vs Buying Separate Components

Hi Theresa.

Other than running lights, our trailer only had a single 12VDC dome light when we got it. Everything else was 120V AC. Having lived on a boat for years I was used to having most everything 12 VDC. We even had a 12V TV. It wasn't until we bought our first desktop computer that we added a full 120VAC system on the boat.

That said, one of the first things I did on our camper was to install a simple 3 circuit 12V system using a small fuse box, a few junction boxes, two cigarette lighter type outlets, two 12V fans, Fantastic fan, an Attwood furnace I got from a guy who was parting out a pop top camper, two really bright LED reading lights, and a bunch of "puck style" LED under counter lights. Two group 24 deep cycle batteries with a marine selector switch, and a little automatic trickle charger. I carry a portable automotive battery charger and have just one 50 watt solar panel that we put out when in a sunny campsite. It was an easy install that just needed some planning. Vikx and others' plentiful guidance helped me a lot. I haven't ever tallied up all of the receipts for all of the work I did on the trailer so can't really say how much it cost, but I'm guessing around $300 to $500 for the 12V system. Our goal was to keep it simple and to be able to camp comfortably for extended periods which we are able to do without any problems. Hope this might help.

I have a 200 watt solar system that goes to the 12 v storage through the charge controller and then into a PD 4045. I like the PD as clean, compact, and organized for output to 12v and 120v ac. It also takes care of the battery when I have it plugged in at home. The system is all under the seat road side at the front table. The PD access is under the table just off the floor. I’m not sure how, but If I was doing this all from scratch again I’d try and make it a little more accessible. It’s kind of a pain to lie on the floor under the table to check a breaker or fuse. I also put a new PD in an older Tab I have. Works well there too.

I've purchased nearly all of my components for my 110 system, as well as my 12V (Fantastic Fan and one light). I received my fuse block in the mail today from Amazon and it's HUGE! It may be way overkill for what I need, or maybe these are just larger than I expected them to be? Here's the link.  Fuse Block on Amazon   Is this ok for what I'm doing or would it be prudent to return this for a different one?  And if so what would you buy instead?  Thanks again all!

I agree, this particular block is for a big system. More of a battery bank system. It's an excellent company but for the simple safety block there must be a lot of options.

I'd need to uncover the Forester when it's not raining to see what amp safety block I used. It doesn't pop to mind right now. Based on the things you will be running, I'm sure vikx can give you the proper amps. vikx has done many campers with the system we've talked about.

For others who may look a this thread for info:

The Vette had a 3" diameter hole cut through the exterior wall into the kitchen overhead cabinet that they stuck an extension cord through for power, no seal, just an open hole.  Since there wasn't any type of wiring/box it made sense for us to get a Power Station.  I also think it made it a little easier for us with less experience.

This is our PD installed on the front end of the gaucho:

2018-01-14_09-55-28 by Corvett crzy, on Flickr

It is hidden on the front of the gaucho but inside the box that hides the back of the wheel well, so it isn't unsightly. Formica top is removable for access - box between gaucho and kitchen cabinet on RH side.

2019 updates by Corvett crzy, on Flickr

Note - for transparency:  We changed the design somewhat as there was a permanent bed in the back that covered the wheel wells originally.  We wanted added seating so we changed it to a gaucho.