BaseCamp WNC

DIY Vintage-Style Wash Stand: A Step-By-Step Guide Welcome back to Base Camp WNC. Today, we embark on a nostalgic journey to build a classic wash stand, incorporating modern conveniences and a sprinkle of vintage charm. This wash stand is not only a functional piece but also a nod to simpler times. Gathering the Essentials The primary components for this project are wash tubs and a hand wringer. While some DIY enthusiasts might choose to install a drain for the wash tubs, our approach is more traditional: simply lift the tub and pour out the water. If you're wondering where to source these essential items, the wash tubs were conveniently found online at Home Depot. The ringer, on the other hand, was sourced from a trusted vendor on Amazon. I recommend ensuring that the ringer comes with assembly directions for ease of installation. The Foundation: Reclaimed Redwood The foundation of our wash stand is made from reclaimed redwood – wood that once adorned the deck of a h...

Energizing Wells in Power Outages: The Generator Solution Welcome back to Base Camp WNC! Today, we embarked on an enlightening journey at a local property where the water system presented challenges. Upon our visit, we diagnosed an issue with the bladder tank five, stemming from a recent well installation. While the homeowners had previously invested a considerable amount to replace the well, pump, and tank, a critical component – the $40 pressure switch – was overlooked. This switch had worn out contacts, which were likely the culprit for the malfunction. The key concern of the homeowners was ensuring the well remained operational during power outages, especially to water livestock. This brought us to a unique solution: setting up a system to run the well using a generator. To establish this, we integrated a NEMA 14-30 P plug and 1114 R 30 amp receptacle into the line between the house and the pressure switch. This plug-and-receptacle system allows for the well pump to be po...