Even though it was only two rooms, the bach proved to be quite roomy and comfortable. In addition to the self-contained water system, the bach is electrically self sufficient. Tom has been equipping peoples houses for solar power and it just makes sense that he should walk the walk, especially since there is no electric service at the bach anyway.
Power is provided by an 400 watt bank of solar panels on the roof. These feed via a electronic controller into four huge deep-discharge lead-acid batteries providing 12 volts at 600 ampere/hours. Most everything in the house- lights, stereo, cordless phone- runs off 12 volts, but if you want to run the clothes washer, toaster or blow dryer, the 1500 watt inverter puts out conventional mains power.
Tom is involved with high efficiency lighting fixtures. He must get lots of samples because everything around the bach is illuminated, even the jungle surrounding the bach can be lit up.
 |
| Angie checks out the kitchen area. Even the refrigerator runs from power from the solar cells. To the left is the dining area. |
 |
| Cozy little dining nook. |
 |
Bedroom. There is a small sink
and mirror on the right. This is also where the cordless phone
and answering machine are located. Check out my outgoing answering
machine message.  |
Next: Check out the outside amenities.