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...

Restoring a Classic: The Journey of Reviving an Old Woods Backhoe Welcome to Base Camp WNC! Today, we're excited to delve into an incredible restoration journey. Not long ago, we stumbled upon an old gem: a Woods three-point hitch backhoe that had seen better days. This relic, previously owned by a friend's uncle, lay abandoned in a field for two long decades, waiting for a fresh lease on life. Though we hadn't initially planned to document this project, we've collected a series of photographs and a few videos to share our progress. Discovering the Backhoe When we first came across this backhoe, it was evident that time and neglect had taken their toll. The bucket and stick photos probably highlight its condition best. Though rusty and worn, we saw potential in this forgotten machine. The initial inspection showed missing hoses — we replaced a whopping 22 of them! And while the task was challenging, it was also deeply rewarding. As we stripped the backhoe d...

Solar Shack on a Shoestring: Innovations in Homestead Power While most people may see an old 275-gallon water tote and dismiss it as trash, for some, it represents an opportunity to innovate. At Carolina Homestead Planners , we recently embarked on an exciting venture to transform such a tote into the most cost-effective solar shack ever devised. The water tote in question was initially food-grade, but having been used for other purposes, it was unsuitable for storing water. Instead, the team decided to retrofit it with solar equipment, making it an efficient temporary power source. On the exterior, we installed an RV outlet, with plans to add a box for generator input once the client's generator is determined. Opening the tote reveals a tech haven: a magnum sine inverter accompanied by eight impressive 420 amp-hour 6-volt batteries. Four of these batteries are arranged in series, and the other four in parallel, culminating in a 24-volt, 4000-watt split phase 220 inverte...

Mastering the Art of DIY Spring Heads: The Tale of Mr. Robert's Spring in Pennsylvania Welcome to Base Camp WNC! If you're intrigued by owner-built spring heads, you're in the right place. Today, we're diving into a unique project headed by Mr. Robert from Pennsylvania. We aim to inspire budding DIY enthusiasts by showcasing a variety of approaches to these builds. Mr. Robert chanced upon a natural spring in his area and embarked on the journey to harness its potential. To capture the water flow efficiently, he initially attempted to channel it through a pipe. This would not only measure the water output but also prevent the area from becoming too soggy. A special shout-out goes to Lucas, his neighbor, who lent a hand (and a shovel) to dig a trench ensuring the water had a streamlined flow path. Employing some creative techniques, Mr. Robert repurposed a blue barrel. He converted it into a strip and drilled 1.25-inch holes using a hole saw. Through these, a w...

Revitalizing Spring Water: Innovations in North Carolina's Base Camp Nestled in the serene landscapes of western North Carolina lies an intriguing water project. At this base camp, our focus is on spring water, but with a twist that sets it apart from the norm. Upon arriving, you'd first encounter the water collection setup located up the slope. It uses a spring box where water flows seamlessly, and on certain days, you can observe the overflow when the flow is shut off. Underground is a fascinating element – a thousand-gallon tank. This tank is a response to the challenges of the region's low-producing well, which often struggles to meet household water demands during the summer months. Therefore, it is complemented by the spring water. However, this spring presents its unique challenges. The water carries with it a significant amount of suspended material, hinting that its source is more earth than rock. Over time, the accumulated debris and dirt mean that the ...

Installing a UV Water Purification Light: Step by Step Guide Welcome back to Base Camp WNC. Today, we embark on an informative journey on how to seamlessly install UV lights in your existing water systems. UV lights are essential for purifying water, ensuring that it is free from harmful microorganisms. Getting Started with the UV Light System The UV light system we're focusing on today is a 55-watt, 110-volt unit, designed specifically for the United States. It comes equipped with two holes at each end, accommodating water fittings. Versatility is key with this design; it can be mounted horizontally, vertically, or at any desired angle. The kit includes a slender glass tube, reminiscent of an elongated test tube. When assembling, slide this tube into the provided ring until it slightly protrudes from the other end. Ensure the ring's pyramid-shaped fixture is correctly aligned to secure the tube. This is a delicate procedure, and I have some tips to prevent the glass...