When it comes to off grid, you generally have limited options on how to heat your water and the hut, here at MoonLight shepherd huts we have the solution. The first and obvious choice for heating is a wood burning stove, luckily these are installed as standard in most of our huts. When it comes to hot water the most commonly used method is LPG, This can be done in a couple of ways, the first being a simple water heater which is installed out side of the hut, this doesn't require any power to work, simply opening the tap will activate the boiler and you'll get instant hot water that will run a shower and your hot water taps in your WC and kitchen sink. These units are relatively cheap to buy, but do have their limitations, the main one being that because they're located externally, they will need winter maintenance during the frost, they will need to be drained down to stop water freezing and damaging the internals of the boiler. Unfortunately these unit don't have a very long life span and typically only last around 2 years, but as mentioned are cheap to replace at around £400 and very easy to swap. The unit is included as standard in our off grid huts. We are unable to offer a guaranty on any LPG units.
another option is to get a rinnai water heater which have ceramic heated plates inside which keep the appliance warm during any cold snaps and are a higher quality unit to the one mentioned above, but there is a catch, those ceramic plates need power, 80 watts of power to be exact, so in order to run this you'd need to have a bigger battery system to the one fitted on our standard off grid huts. bigger batteries means more solar panels so the cost will likely be around £6000 extra including the rinnai water heater. Most of our customers opt for the standard version with the view of winterising the unit during the frost to prolong its life.
Cooking is done via LPG on a 2 ring hob, Fridge is powered using solar.
Water is the question we get asked about most, there is options for rain water harvesting, although in order to collect enough to shower in and flush the WC you'd need a rain water collect area of at least 25 SM. This would also need to be channelled into an IBC container.
Waste is processed using a vermi compost system. Inside the hut, you flush just like at home, the waste drops into the vermi compost IBC container located somewhere of your choice, (if located directly behind the hut, the toilet will need to be raised inside to let gravity work), the waste exits the hut and drops into a specially designed tank filled with worms, the worms will the process the waste. This is a maintenance free solution. The compost only requires emptying once every 18 months, Any nutrient rich liquid can be directed to a flower bed or hedge. More information can be found at MoonLight Shepherd Huts.
An IBC container is a great way to store water if you have access to a hose pipe but not a permanent connection, a 12v pump can be fitted to then get the water to the hut.
Our standard solar set up is a 12v 280AH lifepo4 battery, this is great for running a fridge, TV, Lights, charging phones etc. How many solar panels you'd require would depend on your power consumption, as standard we supply a 12v 280ah battery, a 12v 1000w inverter, which can power 240v items such as a laptop, a gaming console, music stereo, and other low watt items. With 400 watts of solar panels.
MoonLight shepherd Huts
The Ultimate Guide to LPG Boilers: Everything You Need to Know
Introduction
Are you considering installing a new heating system in your home? LPG boilers are a popular choice for many homeowners. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about LPG boilers, from how they work to their benefits and drawbacks.
What are LPG Boilers?
LPG boilers are a type of boiler that runs on Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) instead of natural gas or oil. They are a versatile and efficient heating solution that can be used in homes that are not connected to the gas grid. LPG boilers work by burning LPG to heat water, which is then circulated around the central heating system to provide warmth.
Benefits of LPG Boilers
One of the main benefits of LPG boilers is their versatility. They can be used in a variety of settings, from rural homes to commercial buildings. LPG is a clean-burning fuel, which means that LPG boilers produce fewer emissions than traditional oil-fired boilers. Additionally, LPG boilers are highly energy-efficient, helping to reduce energy bills in the long run.
Drawbacks of LPG Boilers
While LPG boilers offer many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider. One of the main drawbacks is the cost of LPG fuel, which can be higher than natural gas in some areas. Additionally, LPG boilers require a storage tank to store the fuel, which can take up space in your home or garden.
Is an LPG Boiler Right for You?
If you are not connected to the gas grid and are looking for a clean-burning, energy-efficient heating solution, an LPG boiler may be the right choice for you. However, it is important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks carefully before making a decision.
Conclusion
In conclusion, LPG boilers are a versatile and efficient heating solution for homes and businesses that are not connected to the gas grid. By understanding how LPG boilers work and their benefits and drawbacks, you can make an informed decision about whether an LPG boiler is the right choice for your heating needs.
