Tag: LivingOffGrid

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Off-Grid RV Repairs: Fixing Power Cord Issues in the Desert!

Ka-Hoon Campground

**Off-Grid Living: Power Cord Repairs and Troubleshooting Electrical Issues** 

Yesterday, we tackled an important repair—**replacing the end of our RV power cord**. With **football starting at 10 AM** and company coming over to watch, the only time we had to make the fix was **early in the morning**. Despite a **chilly 30-degree temperature** (which our **Minnesota friends and family** would probably call warm), we got it done, and the RV is now **back up and running**.

 

### **What Caused the Issue?** 
The big question—what caused the power cord problem in the first place? 

After discussing it with a **licensed electrician friend**, we learned it could have been caused by several factors: 
– **Faulty manufacturing** – The plug might have been defective from the start. 
– **Physical damage** – It may have been **snagged or pulled loose**, possibly by **cattle, dogs, or cats** wandering around. 
– **Wear and tear** – Over time, connections can break down and lead to shorts. 
– **Environmental factors** – **Moisture, dust, or sand** could have gotten into the plug, creating a short. Living in the **desert**, it’s no surprise that **sand gets everywhere**. 

In the end, we couldn’t pinpoint one single cause—it might have been **one or a combination** of these possibilities. 



### **Lessons Learned** 
– Regularly **inspect electrical connections** for damage or signs of wear. 
– Keep connections as **sealed and protected** as possible, especially in **dusty or humid environments**. 
– Always have **backup parts** available to make quick repairs when living off-grid. 

### **Final Thoughts** 
While off-grid living comes with its **challenges**, it also builds **resilience** and **problem-solving skills**. We’re glad this fix was relatively simple, and we’re back to enjoying **power in the RV** without relying on the generator. 

Stay tuned as we continue sharing updates about **off-grid repairs, challenges, and solutions**! 


http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com

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#OffGridLiving, #RVRepairs, #DIYFixes, #SustainableLiving, #SolarPower, #DesertLiving, #LivingOffGrid, #TinyHouseLiving, #ElectricalRepairs, #EcoFriendlyLiving, #SelfSufficient, #RVLife, #OffGridChallenges, #AlternativeEnergy, #SolarEnergy

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Off-Grid Living Struggles: Troubleshooting Solar Power Issues

Ka-Hoon Campground

Living off-grid offers freedom and sustainability, but it also comes with its share of challenges—especially when it comes to maintaining power. Over the past month, we’ve been dealing with a frustrating issue—our **solar power system hasn’t been lasting through the night**. 

We initially checked everything—**solar panels, batteries, charge controller, and inverter**—and even made sure nothing extra was running or plugged in. Despite our efforts, we couldn’t find the source of the problem. 

### **Was It Increased Power Usage?** 
Since Anne has been working late nights, we thought maybe our extended use of lights, TV, and other electronics while waiting to pick her up was the culprit. Running more power after dark could have been enough to drain the system faster than usual. 

### **The Real Problem Revealed** 
Yesterday, we may have finally uncovered the real issue. After returning home from dropping Anne off, we sat down for dinner only to realize the **power had shut down**. Oddly enough, the **sun was still out**, but the **solar system was completely drained**. It even displayed a **low battery warning** indicating it had **pulled more power than it was generating**. 

Upon further inspection, we found the **power cord going into the RV was burnt**, melting part of the cord and **burning the shore plug** on the RV. What’s strange is that this cord was plugged into a **30-amp outlet with its own breaker**, yet the breaker didn’t trip. 

### **Expert Advice and Safety Precautions** 
We reached out to an electrician friend for advice through a video call. He suggested the issue was likely caused by a **slow but steady power draw**, which wasn’t enough to trip the breaker but was still strong enough to **drain the solar system**. 

Thankfully, a **major catastrophe was avoided**. However, the damage left us needing replacements. While we thought we had spare parts to fix the issue immediately, it turned out we had the **wrong connectors**. As a result, the RV is currently **unplugged** until the **new parts arrive**. 

### **Next Steps: Repairs and Improvements** 
We’re now in the process of replacing both the **power cord** and the **shore power plug** on the RV to ensure everything is safe and functional. We’re also considering additional **system upgrades** to prevent similar issues in the future. 

This experience has been a reminder that **off-grid living requires constant monitoring and maintenance**. It’s not always easy, but staying proactive can help avoid bigger problems down the road. 

We’ll know in the coming days if the replacements solve the issue—and we’ll be sure to share an update soon! 

**If you’re living off-grid or thinking about it, let us know about your experiences and tips for troubleshooting solar power problems.**

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#OffGridLiving, #SolarPowerIssues, #RVLife, #SustainableLiving, #OffGridChallenges, #SolarEnergy, #TinyHouseLiving, #RVRepair, #SolarPanelMaintenance, #OffGridSolutions, #EcoFriendlyLiving, #DIYRepairs, #OffGridLifestyle, #SustainableEnergy, #LivingOffGrid

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Vibria’s Desert Adventures: Growing Up Off-Grid in New Mexico and Learning the Ropes

Ka-Hoon Campground

Vibria’s Desert Adventures: Growing Up Off-Grid in New Mexico

Life off-grid in New Mexico comes with its unique set of challenges, and raising a puppy like Vibria adds a whole new layer to the adventure! Our little rescue pup is growing fast, learning daily, and making big strides in potty training. She’s definitely in her “push boundaries” stage, exploring everything she can find. But all things considered (knock on wood), she’s not too mischievous—just a spirited pup enjoying her new desert life.

Living in the arid New Mexican desert, water is a precious commodity, yet Vibria doesn’t seem to mind tipping over her water dishes at every opportunity. And while her energy is a joy to watch, there’s a bit of caution needed. Vibria is small enough to slip through the fence, and with the presence of coyotes and large birds of prey, keeping her safe is our priority. For now, we have her tied up in a way that lets her play with the other dogs and explore a bit, with supervised time outside the fenced area when we’re around.

Every day with Vibria is a new adventure. Watching her grow and adapt to the desert lifestyle—learning her boundaries while exploring her independence—has been a joy. Soon enough, she’ll be big enough to roam more freely, and until then, we’re cherishing every moment of her puppyhood and her spirit for desert life.

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http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com

#RescuePuppy #PuppyAdventures #OffGridLiving #DesertLife #NewMexicoLife #LivingOffGrid #PuppyTraining #DesertPuppy #RaisingAPuppy #WaterConservation #LifeInTheDesert #CoyoteAwareness #LifeWithDogs #PuppyLove #VibriaThePuppy

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Off-Grid Life with Vibria the Puppy: Warm Hearts and Cozy Paws in the New Mexico Desert

Ka-Hoon Campground

Warm Hearts and Cozy Paws: Vibria the Off-Grid Puppy

*”Warm hearts and cozy paws, even the smallest bundles can bring the greatest joy.”*

There’s nothing quite like the love of a puppy, and for us, that bundle of joy is Vibria. Living off-grid in the New Mexico desert comes with its challenges, but having a playful, fearless puppy like Vibria makes it all the more rewarding.

#### Vibria’s Off-Grid Adventure

Vibria may be small, but she’s full of life. As we navigate life off-grid, she’s right there with us, embracing the freedom of wide-open spaces. There’s something magical about watching her run around with the sun setting over the desert, completely unfazed by the rugged terrain. From her tiny paws padding across the sandy ground to her excited barks echoing in the vast wilderness, Vibria has adapted beautifully to her new environment.

#### The Joy of Living Off-Grid with a Puppy

Life off-grid means no bustling city noises, just the quiet hum of nature. It’s a simple, peaceful existence that suits Vibria’s adventurous spirit. Every day, we’re reminded that the greatest joys in life often come in the smallest, furriest packages.

Whether she’s wrapped in a blanket for a cozy nap after a day of play or exploring the land around us, Vibria brings warmth and comfort to our lives, proving that even in the most remote locations, love and companionship can thrive.

#### Lessons from Vibria

Vibria has taught us a lot about resilience and adaptability. Despite the challenges of living off-grid, she’s unbothered, always ready to explore and enjoy each moment. Her enthusiasm for life is contagious, reminding us to find joy in the simple things.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to live off-grid with a puppy, Vibria is the perfect example of how even in the most unexpected places, love, and happiness can flourish. In her, we’ve found a constant source of joy, reminding us daily that no matter where we are, home is where the heart—and the paws—are.

http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com

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#OffGridLiving, #PuppyLove, #DesertLife, #LivingOffGrid, #VibriaThePuppy, #WarmHeartsCozyPaws, #AdventurePup, #LifeInTheDesert, #PuppyJoy, #SmallButMighty, #CozyMoments, #DogLife, #PetAdventures, #NatureAndPuppies, #OffGridAdventure