**Desert Weather Challenges: Wind, Cold, and Staying Prepared**
Over the past few days, the **weather forecast** predicted **high winds** and **cold temperatures**. We made sure to **notify our members and campers** about the potential weather conditions so everyone could be prepared.
Fortunately, the winds didn’t hit as hard as predicted, but we still experienced **strong gusts**—enough to send **tumbleweeds rolling** across the campground. Along with the winds came **cold temperatures**, but we managed to **stay warm inside**, even after **turning off the heat overnight**.
### **Clouds, Cold, and the Chance of Snow**
The changing weather also brought in **cloud cover** and the **possibility of snow**, leaving us **limited on outdoor activities** for now. Living **off-grid** means always keeping an eye on the weather and being ready to **adjust plans** when conditions change.
### **Staying Prepared**
While the weather can be unpredictable, having a **warm and cozy space** to retreat to makes all the difference. Whether it’s **wind, snow, or cold**, we’re always prepared to **weather the storm** and make the most of life **off-grid**.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to **navigate off-grid living challenges** and share tips for **staying prepared in any weather**!
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#OffGridLiving, #DesertLife, #WeatherPreparedness, #RVLiving, #SustainableLiving, #WinterWeather, #WindyDays, #ColdWeather, #TinyHouseLiving, #SelfSufficient, #EcoFriendlyLiving, #RVLife, #OffGridChallenges, #SurvivalTips, #LivingOffGrid
Tag: #SustainableLiving
Off-Grid RV Repairs: Fixing Power Cord Issues in the Desert!
**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
Off-Grid Living Struggles: Troubleshooting Solar Power Issues
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
Living Off-Grid in the Desert – Embracing Nature and Community
Life in the desert, off-grid, is a unique and often challenging experience. It’s not for everyone, but for those who choose it, the rewards can be immeasurable. Out here, you encounter all kinds of people—some who embrace the lifestyle, some who want solitude, others who have no other option, and even a few who seem to be running from something.
Why We Chose Desert Life
For us, living off-grid wasn’t a last resort—it was a conscious choice. Sure, the affordable land was a big draw, but more than that, we believe in living closer to nature and respecting the earth. We’re not necessarily what you’d call tree huggers, but we do appreciate the balance and beauty of the natural world.
We’re also not vegans or vegetarians—I’ll take a good slab of meat any day—but we respect those who choose those lifestyles for their own reasons. Everyone has the right to live according to their beliefs, and we don’t judge. Out here, you quickly learn that acceptance and mutual respect go a long way.
Meeting People Off-Grid
One of the most interesting parts of desert living is the variety of people you meet. Some are out here because they love the solitude, others enjoy building a small community, and some are simply trying to survive. Then there are those who find themselves completely out of their element, struggling to adapt.
Not everyone is easy to welcome, though. Some prefer to keep to themselves, and that’s fine. Others thrive on connection and community, enjoying shared meals, campfires, and conversations under the stars. And, of course, there are a few you wish you’d never crossed paths with—just like anywhere else.
Finding Balance in Desert Living
Living off-grid means learning how to balance independence with connection. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it. Out here, the lines between friend and stranger can blur, and you have to trust your instincts while keeping an open mind.
The desert may be desolate, but it has a way of revealing truths—about others and about yourself. It forces you to appreciate the simple things, respect the elements, and find joy in small victories, whether it’s starting a fire, fixing a water pump, or sharing a laugh with a neighbor.
Final Thoughts
For us, desert living isn’t just about surviving—it’s about thriving in an environment that challenges you and rewards you in equal measure. It’s about respect for nature, building community, and embracing the unexpected.
So, whether you’re visiting, curious about off-grid life, or considering making the move yourself, remember that the desert has a lot to teach—about resilience, respect, and the beauty of living simply.
Follow our journey and explore more about desert living:
Website: http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OffGridLiving #DesertLife #SustainableLiving #MinimalistLifestyle #SelfSufficiency #NatureLovers #SimpleLiving #AlternativeLifestyle #RuralLiving #EcoFriendlyLiving #CommunityBuilding #DesertVibes #HomesteadingLife #BackToBasics #SurvivalSkills
Living Off-Grid: Solar Challenges, Desert Life, and Prepping for HORRORDAZE with Advocatus Diaboli!
**Life Off-Grid: Balancing Busy Days, Solar Projects, and Event Prep**
Living off-grid in the New Mexico desert means constant adjustments, planning, and a bit of trial and error, especially when juggling daily responsibilities with larger projects.
### Busy Days on the Road
May days include a 90-minute trip to take Anne to work, navigating the desert terrain. Depending on whether we take the car or the pickup, the trip takes longer as we manage the dirt roads: the car averages 20-25 mph, while the pickup handles it slightly better at 30-35 mph. These drives are a reminder of how even the simplest routines are more time-consuming when living off-grid.
### Preparing for HORRORDAZE
Amid our daily tasks, we’re also getting Advocatus Diaboli and the Grim Leafer Band ready for their upcoming performance at the ** HORRORDAZE Extravaganza** on December 21 at Black Wall Arts & Productions . Rehearsals, equipment prep, and fine-tuning animatronics are all part of the process to ensure a memorable show.
### Tackling Solar System Challenges
One of our biggest ongoing projects is setting up a new solar system. Yesterday, Brent and I spent hours cleaning and reorganizing the Greenroom to prepare for Thanksgiving dinner with neighbors, but this effort also served as a reminder of the solar build we’ve been putting off.
We’ve debated several locations for the new system, each with its pros and cons:
– **Battery House Option:** Keeping the batteries in their current house avoids moving them (each over 100 lbs!) but makes it tricky to find a sunny spot for the panels without shading.
– **Anne’s Battery Setup Location:** This option means reorganizing the trailer and moving the heavy batteries again, a task we’ve already done more than once.
– **Behind the RV:** Placing the system behind the RV sacrifices some of our stunning views, which feels like a significant tradeoff.
– **Existing Panel Stand:** Adding the panels to the current stand may overload the structure and prevent us from adjusting them for optimal sunlight.
Another idea we’ve considered is creating a mobile solar system. Folding panels into a trailer would allow us to transport them as needed, but we’re cautious about adding unnecessary weight to our RV.
### The Balancing Act
Decisions like these take time, especially when weather, schedules, and other priorities like running Anne to work keep interfering. The key is committing to a solution and sticking with it, but with so many factors to consider, the decision hasn’t been easy.
For now, we’re focusing on small wins—like getting the Greenroom ready for Thanksgiving—and tackling one challenge at a time. Living off-grid may not always be simple, but the rewards of self-sufficiency and freedom make it all worthwhile.
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If you’re interested in off-grid living, solar power solutions, or unique challenges in the desert, stay tuned for more updates on our journey!
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OffGridLiving, #SolarPower, #SustainableLife, #DesertLiving, #RenewableEnergy, #GreenEnergy, #SelfSufficiency, #TinyHomeLife, #SolarSetup, #EcoFriendly, #RVLife, #SustainableLiving, #SolarPanels, #MinimalistLifestyle, #Homesteading
Ka-Hoon Campground: A Desert Oasis for Unique Living & Off-Grid Adventures in New Mexico
**Finding Strength and Staying True: Lessons from Living Off-Grid in the New Mexico Desert**
Every day, we try to share inspiring moments from our life here in the New Mexico desert. But the reality is, not everything is perfect, and sometimes, things can be incredibly challenging. Living off-grid has brought both incredible rewards and tough moments, and while we don’t often open up about our private struggles, we know they’re part of this journey too.
When we moved out here, we expected challenges, but it’s been harder than we imagined. We’ve faced setbacks and at times even felt like walking away. Growing up in a tough environment taught me resilience. My family didn’t have much, but we made do, even in houses that barely kept the elements out. My parents worked hard to give us what they could, and they never gave up. That upbringing has given me the grit to survive and thrive here in the desert, to appreciate the simple things, and to push through when life gets tough.
### Building Inner Strength: A New Chapter in the Desert
One of the most surprising challenges out here hasn’t come from nature, but from dealing with people who are quick to judge, criticize, or put others down. Growing up poor, I know what it feels like to be ridiculed for being different. I was teased, tormented, and belittled for things beyond my control, and it left me feeling like I needed to hide who I was.
Moving here has taught me to stand up for myself and embrace who I am. It’s helped me find a voice to speak out against judgment, whether it’s against those who are different or against those who simply don’t fit into society’s mold. It’s shown me that not everyone is like the bullies I once faced, and that there are people out there who truly accept others for who they are.
### Embracing Differences and Respecting Each Other
Living off-grid, close to nature, has reminded me of a simple truth: we’re all part of nature, not above it. I care deeply about people and feel strongly that no one should be judged for simply being who they are. So often, people focus on others’ differences—whether it’s religion, lifestyle, financial status, or anything else. But why judge? If it doesn’t harm you or your life, why let it matter so much?
Ask yourself: Does someone else’s way of life really affect you? If not, maybe it’s time to let go of those judgments and let people live as they are. This journey off-grid has taught me to embrace life in all its diversity, and to welcome the differences that make us all unique.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#KaHoonCampground, #DesertOasis, #OffGridLife, #UniqueLiving, #CampgroundCommunity, #NewMexicoLife, #RVLiving, #DesertCamping, #FreedomToBe, #NatureLovers, #SolarLiving, #SupportLocal, #OffGridCommunity, #BeYourself, #DesertAdventures
Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center 