Using Vehicle to Charge Devices While Off Grid

[montijo505]

Hi guys- Turns out the only other electrical draw when the ignition is in the ACC position is the illumination behind the function window, i.e. time, temp, etc. Nothing major.

If you just need to charge electronics like a phone or tablet, I would look into something like this. I don’t have one but worth a shot, you can return it if it doesn’t do great for you.

Solar Power Bank, Qi Portable Charger 10,000mAh External Battery Pack Type C Input Port Dual Flashlight, Compass, Solar Panel Charging (Orange) Amazon.com: Solar Power Bank, Qi Portable Charger 10,000mAh External Battery Pack Type C Input Port Dual Flashlight, Compass, Solar Panel Charging (Orange)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Ripper238]

Hi guys- Turns out the only other electrical draw when the ignition is in the ACC position is the illumination behind the function window, i.e. time, temp, etc. Nothing major.

That may be true, but if the radio is on it will also be drawing power. Same with the dome light.

If you keep whatever it is you are charging under an hour or so it should be okay. But like what others have said get a Anker battery bank, or better yet get this: Amazon.com: GOOLOO 4000A Peak SuperSafe Car Jump Starter (All Gas, up to 10.0L Diesel Engine) 12V Auto Battery Jumper Booster with USB Quick Charge and Type C Port, Portable Power Pack for Trucks, SUVs: Automotive

Now you can charge anything plus you can jump your car if you do kill the battery.

 

[sport2004]

If you just need to charge electronics like a phone or tablet, I would look into something like this. I don’t have one but worth a shot, you can return it if it doesn’t do great for you.

Solar Power Bank, Qi Portable Charger 10,000mAh External Battery Pack Type C Input Port Dual Flashlight, Compass, Solar Panel Charging (Orange) Amazon.com: Solar Power Bank, Qi Portable Charger 10,000mAh External Battery Pack Type C Input Port Dual Flashlight, Compass, Solar Panel Charging (Orange)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Thanks, that looks kinda neat, worth a try, but wouldn't be surprised if it doesn't work without direct sunshine.

 

[sport2004]

That may be true, but if the radio is on it will also be drawing power. Same with the dome light.

If you keep whatever it is you are charging under an hour or so it should be okay. But like what others have said get a Anker battery bank, or better yet get this: Amazon.com: GOOLOO 4000A Peak SuperSafe Car Jump Starter (All Gas, up to 10.0L Diesel Engine) 12V Auto Battery Jumper Booster with USB Quick Charge and Type C Port, Portable Power Pack for Trucks, SUVs: Automotive

Now you can charge anything plus you can jump your car if you do kill the battery.

Yeah, I make sure the radio and interior lights are off. I charged the phone for up to an hour like this, didn't prevent the vehicle from starting up.

 

[sport2004]

I would resort to using the car battery power as a last resort. The small battery packs from Anker and the like are inexpensive and very versatile. My wife and I each have one in our EDC backpack and a car jump start battery in each car.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Will check that out, thanks.

 

[4r-4ever]

i went to a drive in movie watching 2 movies in ACC mode listening to the movie audio through my 4runner's audio system. let's say for around 3 hours. it started right up. the audio system of the 4runner probably used a lot more amps. in your case, charging a cell phone and other devices for 2 hours should not discharge your battery assuming your battery is at least 3 years old. if it's older, might be different.

 

[sport2004]

Update - I'm thinking of one of these for the upcoming season, which itself is chargeable with the lighter plug. Would come in handy around the house, too.

Amazon.com : Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240, 240Wh Backup Lithium Battery, 110V/200W Pure Sine Wave AC Outlet, Solar Generator (Solar Panel Not Included) for Outdoors Camping Travel Hunting Emergency : Patio, Lawn & Garden

 

[johnnygraphic]

Update - I'm thinking of one of these for the upcoming season, which itself is chargeable with the lighter plug. Would come in handy around the house, too.

Amazon.com : Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240, 240Wh Backup Lithium Battery, 110V/200W Pure Sine Wave AC Outlet, Solar Generator (Solar Panel Not Included) for Outdoors Camping Travel Hunting Emergency : Patio, Lawn & Garden

Those are great and very popular with the over landing/camping crowds for this exact purpose. It gives you the flexibility to keep it charged while you drive and then use as a charger for your other needs overnight.

*IF* you ever plan on getting a portable fridge (think Dometic or Iceco), you may want to go up to at least a 500 watt unit. They had good sales during Black Friday (on both).

We’re planning on such a setup. Maybe in the next year or so. Depending on how things go.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[johnnygraphic]

Another thing I thought of, is use during the “Planned Public Safety Power Shutoff” crap we’re getting every year now once the winds get over 10 mph. I’m in California so the craziness is on another level.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[sport2004]

Those are great and very popular with the over landing/camping crowds for this exact purpose. It gives you the flexibility to keep it charged while you drive and then use as a charger for your other needs overnight.

*IF* you ever plan on getting a portable fridge (think Dometic or Iceco), you may want to go up to at least a 500 watt unit. They had good sales during Black Friday (on both).

We’re planning on such a setup. Maybe in the next year or so. Depending on how things go.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

No appliances, just phone, camera batteries, small scale lighting, and maybe limited laptop use, this smaller size should do it. Sometimes I cover a lot of roadway sightseeing away from the campsite, so there is some more charging. Not gonna bother with getting solar panels, will try this for starters and see how it goes.

Charging just the phone off the parked vehicle was no problem. Not sure you could do the same charging this battery pack, but it will be interesting to try. For that matter, should probably get a new vehicle battery...duh LOL

 

[johnnygraphic]

No appliances, just phone, camera batteries, small scale lighting, and maybe limited laptop use, this smaller size should do it. Sometimes I cover a lot of roadway sightseeing away from the campsite, so there is some more charging. Not gonna bother with getting solar panels, will try this for starters and see how it goes.

Charging just the phone off the parked vehicle was no problem. Not sure you could do the same charging this battery pack, but it will be interesting to try. For that matter, should probably get a new vehicle battery...duh LOL

I wouldn’t try charging it with the car battery while it’s off. I would leave it plugged into the jack in the back. You’ll have plenty of juice for your needs.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[sport2004]

K that's not what I meant