Van Life Solar and Battery for a Remote Work Setup Calculator

The Van Life Solar and Battery Calculator is a tool designed to help digital nomads, remote workers, and van lifers estimate the optimal solar panel size and battery capacity needed to power their mobile workstations off-grid.

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How to Use the Calculator

Follow these steps to get accurate energy setup estimates:

1. Daily Power Usage (Wh)

• Add up the watt-hours (Wh) you use in a typical day.
• Include devices like your:
  • Laptop (e.g., 60W × 5 hours = 300 Wh)
  • Wi-Fi router/hotspot
  • Lights
  • Fridge
  • Phone charger
  • Any tools or appliances
• Example: 1200 Wh

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2. Average Sun Hours/Day

• This is how many full-sun hours your solar panels receive per day.
• It varies by location and season.
• Use 4–6 for most temperate regions, or check [solar maps online].
• Example: 4 hours

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3. Days of Backup Battery

• How many days do you want your battery to last without sunlight?
• More days = bigger battery bank.
• Example: 2 days

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4. Click “Calculate”

• The calculator will display:
  • Minimum Solar Panel Size in watts (W)
  • Required Battery Bank Size in watt-hours (Wh)

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Example Output

Input:

• 1200 Wh/day usage
• 4 sun hours/day
• 2 days of backup

Result:

• Solar Panel Size: 300 W
• Battery Bank: 2400 Wh

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Why Use This Calculator?

• Avoid underpowered setups that kill productivity.
• Save money by not overbuying.
• Plan for cloudy days and remote areas.
• Build a reliable off-grid remote work station.

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FAQ – Van Life Solar and Battery Setup

Q: What’s a watt-hour (Wh)?

A watt-hour is a measure of electrical energy. 100W used for 1 hour = 100 Wh.

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Q: What if I work at night or during bad weather?

Add more battery days for cloudy conditions. For heavy winter use, consider doubling your estimates.

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Q: Can I use this for AC-powered devices?

Yes. Just ensure you include the inverter’s efficiency losses (~10–15%).

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Q: Do I need lithium batteries?

Lithium is lighter and lasts longer, but AGM/lead-acid can work if the budget is tight.

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Q: What about charging from my alternator?

Alternator charging is great as a backup, but it isn’t included in this estimate.