HOMESTEADING. OFF THE GRID OR ON THE GRID? Things to Consider

Тәжірибелік нұсқаулар және стиль

On my channel you will find videos pertaining to homesteading, gardening and living off the grid with fun DIY projects for self-reliance and SHTF emergency preparedness situations, with some campfire cooking and good old backwoods humor thrown in. Sharing knowledge and stories from over 30 years of living in the woods.
LINKS TO ALL THE ITEMS, TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT THAT WE USE CAN BE FOUND IN ONE CONVENIENT LOCATION. FIND LINKS BELOW:
Homesteading Must haves: www.amazon.com/shop/thebossof...
Our Amazon Affiliate Link: amzn.to/2CZhNSs
As an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
FOR MORE CONTENT AND READINGS FROM MY PERSONAL MEMOIRS, COME JOIN OUR FRIENDLY CABIN LIFE COMMUNITY ON PATREON: / bossoftheswamp
FRIENDS OF FRANKIE AND THE BOSS page: frankieandtheboss.wixsite.com...
MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Q: How do you have internet at your cabins? A: I have cell service at both cabins but it is spotty due to foliage and cloud cover. I can access the internet from my cabins but have to drive to a local wifi location to upload videos.
Q: How old is Frankie? A: Frankie will be 10 in April of 2018
Q: What video editing software do I use? A: Presently, all I use is Windows Live Movie maker but I’m considering trying imovie, Adobe Elements or SONY VEGAS PRO.
Q: How do you get your water? Did you dig a well? A: Presently, I haul water to the NY cabin but at the NH cabin, I drop a kettle into an old well that was dug by hand by the settlers in the 1700’s.
Q:What is your favorite brand of cast iron cookware? A: I prefer using vintage cast iron. My favorites are BSR and Griswold. If I had to buy new I would buy a Lodge Brand. I plan to purchase this dutch oven in the future:
Q: What do you use for refrigeration? A: We have a small gas refrigerator that we salvaged from an old Shasta camper and a custom icebox that I built into the cabin wall. We make ice on site with a propane freezer.
Video of icebox:
Video of Gas Refrigerator:
Propane Freezer:
Q: What do you use for cooking and heating? A: We use a Kitchen Queen 380 for cooking and heating during the winter months but we also have an antique gas stove in the cabin for when we don't need the heat from the KQ.
All video content is protected by copyright. Any unauthorized reproduction or posting will be subject to a users fee. Copyright JC Desclos 2017 All rights reserved.

Пікірлер: 385

  • @lynnsavitz6892
    @lynnsavitz68928 жыл бұрын

    I totally agree with you , as we are on the grid but use our utilities wisely and frugally , as always enjoy your videos , and look forward to each new one , thank you .

  • @franl5585
    @franl55858 жыл бұрын

    Great ideas here. Being conscious of pwer use is key to living frugal on the grid, as you say. Thanks, JC.

  • @mxdmsgs
    @mxdmsgs7 жыл бұрын

    OMG! This video has brought tears to my eyes. I want to be off grid as much as possible but I am realistic to my dependence on certain modern amenities. This is the first video I have seen that embraces a hybrid of sorts. You have launched my dreams into a more attainable and realistic vision. Thank you so much!!! You don't understand how full my heart is right now. Thank you just isn't enough.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    7 жыл бұрын

    I made this video because I hear so many folks are dreaming about going "off grid" but then they bang their heads against the wall trying to have alternative methods of electric light. Electricity is awesome and can be very affordable with a conservative approach. Glad you found this beneficial Tabatha, I hope you'll share my channel with others who may enjoy my videos. Cheers :-)

  • @Owen4it
    @Owen4it8 жыл бұрын

    Sound advice Boss, good to see you back on the screen! When your not trying to impress anyone but yourself, you make choices for yourself that make you happy. Being able to role with life's punches is what it's all about! Looking forward to more on the NH cabin, thanks for your time!

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Owen4it Well said my friend :-)

  • @DeepSouthHomestead
    @DeepSouthHomestead8 жыл бұрын

    You are so right we do just what you are saying.We are not where we want to be yet.We have decided to ween ourselves off little by little.And make adjustments as we do so as not to be overwhelmed.Great info once again.

  • @southpawbushcraft7522
    @southpawbushcraft75228 жыл бұрын

    Great advice, great video! Living off grid, or even rustic simple style of life is a LOT of work. I don't think people realize how much work is involved. Thanks for the great video, Dawn

  • @Barbarossa4U
    @Barbarossa4U8 жыл бұрын

    Great info and here I thought all along you carried candles and oil lamps with a hat and slippers

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Barbarossa4U Bah Humbug!

  • @andrewjackson692
    @andrewjackson6928 жыл бұрын

    Great info I have told everyone I know to look you up . To me and my wife you are a breath of fresh air! Keep up the good work and we will be here to view it.

  • @emickkart25
    @emickkart258 жыл бұрын

    I have done the same. I built a tiny house and went from a 1650sq ft house to 310 Sq ft. Consequently my electric bill went from $350 per month to just under $40 per month without a major change in lifestyle. Now I am working on efficiency. Love your channel as always.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Bobby James Simple and cheap. Love it :-)

  • @ChadMorgan709
    @ChadMorgan7098 жыл бұрын

    Great video bud. Very informative and inspiring. Keep up the good work and keep the videos coming. Oh and bucko says hi to Frankie.

  • @Brad1237202
    @Brad12372028 жыл бұрын

    I love this video JC! Not sure where you get the ideas for these videos, but I love all your life long experiences, and learn from them all. If most "Homesteaders" watch just half of your videos, they could get over a great "learning curve" much sooner than later. Getting the kids out on their own sooner than later can also reduce the electric bill significantly! :)

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Brad1237202 Thank you buddy. No joke on the kids and power :-o Certainly got that right.

  • @cokeman250
    @cokeman2508 жыл бұрын

    Great job boss keep passing on the wisdom God bless buddy

  • @jodysappington7008
    @jodysappington70086 жыл бұрын

    thank you for sharing....

  • @deewise552
    @deewise5527 жыл бұрын

    Cool. Thanks!

  • @wa4aos
    @wa4aos7 жыл бұрын

    Who needs cable or Sat TV with the incessant commercials when there is EXCELLENT programs on youtube such as this one. Personally, I am not interested in living in a cabin deep in the woods but Still, I have been encouraged by this video series and others like it to cut back with the unnecessary expenses and dream chasing. Most of us have way too much STUFF and much of it is seldom used. I am downsizing some of the excess and will be more careful on purchases going forward.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    7 жыл бұрын

    I don't know how we all accumulate so much crap. I'm constantly getting rid of stuff but it never seems to end :-/

  • @cillaloves2fish688
    @cillaloves2fish6888 жыл бұрын

    Thx for ur input... Lotsa good ideas

  • @shelleymessier1494
    @shelleymessier14948 жыл бұрын

    Good advice thank you. Using less is the smart thing, using smart is even smarter. You're a smart guy. Thank you for sharing

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Shelley Messier Thanks for the smiles Shelley :-)) Cheers.

  • @daniellegrandpa
    @daniellegrandpa8 жыл бұрын

    Yep, great advise.

  • @dannoquin7322
    @dannoquin73228 жыл бұрын

    Thanks JC, excellent information.

  • @gerardhaubert8210
    @gerardhaubert82108 жыл бұрын

    Great advice, thanks and please keep it up.

  • @troykirkland5368
    @troykirkland53688 жыл бұрын

    Another great food for thought video! Thanks for sharing your advice and tips & tricks!

  • @donnavaughn8813
    @donnavaughn88133 жыл бұрын

    Thanks you my friend 💕💕💕💗😘 merry Christmas and happy New year everyone here

  • @fannygitchyurgunspiritwind384
    @fannygitchyurgunspiritwind3848 жыл бұрын

    Yuppers, there's a whole lot of freedom that comes with frugal living. You explained this very well for those who aspire to a simpler life and I'm glad you pointed out why some fail. Great points and great video!

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +fannygitchyurgun spiritwind Going off grid for independence is great but it's not a money saver for most.

  • @lukehereiam9188
    @lukehereiam91888 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for your honesty and for sharing your life. You convey your knowledge so well. I think you would have been a great teacher. Cheers.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Luke Hereiam Thank you for your kind words. I appreciate your comment.

  • @johngodwin7902
    @johngodwin79028 жыл бұрын

    Wise advise. Another great Video.

  • @rodney12310
    @rodney123108 жыл бұрын

    Good advice there JC!!

  • @amyring271
    @amyring2718 жыл бұрын

    I see well I have to remind myself I've never attempted it but as long as u keep making those videos u will be our guide in such ways to clueless folks like me lol

  • @stalmark
    @stalmark8 жыл бұрын

    Spot on advice. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Steen Talmark You're welcome.

  • @michellescolaro6159
    @michellescolaro61598 жыл бұрын

    So glad to see a video. I've missed seeing you on....love it.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Michelle Scolaro I'm working on several :-)

  • @jessamygoddard4112
    @jessamygoddard41128 жыл бұрын

    Excellent advice! Thankyou for sharing. Take care xxx

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Jessamy Goddard You're welcome Jessamy xxx '-)

  • @beaverrick9789
    @beaverrick97898 жыл бұрын

    That was a lot of good advice Boss. Thanks

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +BeaverRick Thanks buddy.

  • @EdKirkpatrick10
    @EdKirkpatrick108 жыл бұрын

    Super information, thanks JC

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Ed Kirkpatrick You're welcome :-)

  • @michaelguzzello5562
    @michaelguzzello55628 жыл бұрын

    great advice

  • @walters5235
    @walters52358 жыл бұрын

    Really good video! Great lessons, thanks for sharing!

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +walter s You're welcome.

  • @pamjones6465
    @pamjones64658 жыл бұрын

    Great video. Thank you for the excellent advice. It is greatly appreciated. Take care and stay safe.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Pam Jones You're welcome my friend.

  • @themanwiththecabin8523
    @themanwiththecabin85238 жыл бұрын

    Some really hopefully tips there jc. Thanks for the video and good look in the future

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +themanwiththecabin Thanks for commenting.

  • @ouroffgridlife8605
    @ouroffgridlife86058 жыл бұрын

    very well said

  • @maureenhaggerty6600
    @maureenhaggerty66008 жыл бұрын

    Good advise. We unplug everything possible and it saves tons of bucks. Love your videos Boss. Your the voice of reason!

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Maureen Haggerty WTG Maureen. Keep up the good work. The only thing running standby power here is the computers.

  • @Oldtimecarpenter
    @Oldtimecarpenter8 жыл бұрын

    That's good advice JC. Last year I built a cabin for a friend to retire into in northern Maine. All was well for awhile, until the long winter set in and was too much for him. Now he's living there part time and has a apartment closer to civilization and back to work to pay for both places. So, you nailed that one right on the head Ebenezer!! ( lol ). Well done boss as always!... Cheers, Pete.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Peter Stanhope I see similar scenarios all the time and although they may quit the lifestyle, I don't really consider it "failing" because the only true failure comes from not trying. It's a rewarding lifestyle for those that seek it.Cheers.

  • @dubehigh
    @dubehigh2 жыл бұрын

    Great information.👍👍

  • @OGfatherAbe
    @OGfatherAbe7 жыл бұрын

    Just what I was looking for. Thanks boss!

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    7 жыл бұрын

    You're welcome :-)

  • @backcountrypipe
    @backcountrypipe8 жыл бұрын

    Great common sense approach. Thanks for the tips. Regards Mark

  • @8869crysler
    @8869crysler8 жыл бұрын

    Another fantastic vid Boss. Great information. Take care my friend.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Steven.C. WHHI Than you buddy.

  • @Homesteadhow
    @Homesteadhow8 жыл бұрын

    Awesome information. Subscribed and following you. Have a great day!

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +HomeSteadHow Welcome to my channel and thanks for subbing.

  • @jhend8038
    @jhend80388 жыл бұрын

    Well said boss! Thank you

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +J HEND You're welcome.

  • @cjc9088
    @cjc90886 жыл бұрын

    Great video Boss! Those beautiful paintings behind you...I have a feeling that you painted them. Right?! It looks like there is Nothing you can't design and build! Wow...you're amazing!

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    6 жыл бұрын

    I only did pencil drawings, the paintings weren't mine :-)

  • @bobbyballengee6221
    @bobbyballengee62218 жыл бұрын

    Loved the video Boss as always. God Bless my friend

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Bobby Ballengee Blessings to you too Bobby. All the best.

  • @jjjvclub
    @jjjvclub8 жыл бұрын

    Great advice thanks!

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Jerry Hickey You're welcome.

  • @davidstocke6217
    @davidstocke62178 жыл бұрын

    hey JC I love your stuff! I wish it were that simple. my power company charges the monthly delivery charge of $50/month. I have a $600 bill before I start using any juice. They are gonna get our money one way or another. I love what you do and appreciate your insights.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +David Stocke Wow! I'd be unplugged in no time :-o

  • @cheryltomlin6761
    @cheryltomlin67618 жыл бұрын

    nice to see you back. keep the videos coming.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Cheryl Tomlin More on the way :-)

  • @amyknox5349
    @amyknox53498 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the video...as always, I enjoyed it! Practical and informative...food for thought

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Amy Knox Thanks Amy :-)

  • @ChileExpatFamily
    @ChileExpatFamily8 жыл бұрын

    I live totally off grid here in Chile. It was $5,700 to hook to the grid and $4,500 to buy a solar system. If I was hooked to the grid I would have $400 to $600 / month power bills. I do have a generator for running my high power consumption items like my welder, and when we have had a long spell with little sun, but I still love living off grid. Yes the power costs more here in Chile. If I were to return to the former USA, and I do not see that happening, then I would live off the grid there as well. The satisfaction of not having a power bill is priceless. Jim

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +ChileExpatFamily I much prefer the off grid lifestyle too. I enjoy my independence and even enjoy the challenges. Both lifestyles have their pros and cons. Cheers :-)

  • @marcofonseca4511
    @marcofonseca45118 жыл бұрын

    Thank' s for advise ...... looking for the next video.. great job..

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Marco Fonseca Thank you kindly.

  • @jean-noelleger9061
    @jean-noelleger90618 жыл бұрын

    Yes brother you are a smart man my camp is 500 yards from the main road and i had it since 1992 and have no power i love it like that i have a nice Springs water and i have a old barbecue and good woodstove i love the smell of burning wood i like working in the woods in the summer or fall and I have a old Colman stove to it works well for it like camping all over again so i love it God bless you 2

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Jean-Noel Leger Sounds like you've got a good thing going for yourself. Sounds like heaven :-)

  • @backyardmeat
    @backyardmeat8 жыл бұрын

    Always keeping it real, great info as always Boss.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +backyardmeat Good to hear from you buddy. Haven't seen you post vids in a while.

  • @backyardmeat

    @backyardmeat

    8 жыл бұрын

    thebossoftheswamp It's planting season around here, so not to many free hours.....but hopefully I'll be able to ditch the 9-5 job after this season. Trap all winter and farm all summer, seems just about right :)

  • @johngusmano387
    @johngusmano3878 жыл бұрын

    Wow! Great information! Really good stuff!!! I cannot express my gratitude enough to you for making this vid (and all your other ones too!)

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Johnny G Thanks Johnny. I've got some vids coming up I think you will enjoy.

  • @johngusmano387

    @johngusmano387

    8 жыл бұрын

    +thebossoftheswamp Sounds good to me!

  • @Wintersnow147
    @Wintersnow1478 жыл бұрын

    Great advice thanks

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Wintersnow147 You're welcome.

  • @Sheila6325
    @Sheila63258 жыл бұрын

    Couldn't agree more! I've been working toward self sufficient living for some time now, and you sure told everyone the right way to go. I knew I wasn't ready to go "All Out" until I had several things worked out too, and boy does it ever make it easy to live in a "place" when your actually ready for it. My 12 x 32 finished garage took a while, but today it is comfortable, and has what I need. I have most of my solar ready to put in, but have electric too. When I had to stay in it for a few months, it was a relief to have the electric available to me, but the wood stove kept us warm without electric, and a huge bill. I do have to use lamps sometimes, but never use the electric unless I have to. I have many "off grid machinery" ready to install, but it was really good to do it without having to rush and worry about living so hard, that I would have given up. My electric bill was less than $16.00 this month, (I forgot to unplug my cleaned out my refrigerator) but after this month, it will be next to nothing. I'm working on getting the materials to make your refrigerator too. Hopefully it will be in by this fall. I also have a window refrigerator, and that will be in this summer. Great video, and now I know that I'm not the only one that took their time, and considered their real needs, before going totally off grid. Bless, Sheila

  • @kareywhaley2526
    @kareywhaley25268 жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much for the advice, very helpful! I just love your video's. Just saw my first video of you about a week ago and oh my goodness, I'm hooked. Subscribed, started watching and catching up nightly. You really are awesome. :)

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Karey Whaley Glad you are enjoying them Karey. Thank you.

  • @kareywhaley2526

    @kareywhaley2526

    8 жыл бұрын

    +thebossoftheswamp You're very welcome! Be safe ☺

  • @9aspengold5
    @9aspengold58 жыл бұрын

    Unable to go off the grid completely, but have put 55 gallon barrels under rain spouts to collect rain water that we use in garden, washing cars, bird baths, dog washes and even for the first part of the laundry wash. Have saved $20.00 to $30.00 per water bill. Getting it free from rain is good. Thank you for your tips. Love your site.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +9aspengold5 Every little bit helps. Keep up the good work :-)

  • @homesteadbeginner
    @homesteadbeginner8 жыл бұрын

    Another great video Boss. I always appreciate your simple, yet logical explanations. Many people make these decisions way more complicated than they need to be! Thanks again and God Bless my friend.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Jeff Schweiger Lots of people make lots of things way more complicated than need be. Check out some of the comments on my rocket stove ha ha

  • @sunnylandcamper
    @sunnylandcamper8 жыл бұрын

    camp oven is on my wish list now.....I have been able to keep my power bill down also but not quite that low.....good job

  • @alanj7306
    @alanj73063 жыл бұрын

    I like how you think. Just because you have electricity from the power company doesn’t mean you aren’t off grid. Off grid to me means being off a city grid. You can easily be 10-20 miles from the city or town and still have access to the electric system. A lot of farms are off grid and still have access to electricity. Under $400 a year for power is dirt cheap. What a bargain! You couldn’t run a generator for that, not to mention the purchase price. Though I’m certain you have one for backup, which would be a necessity. The LED lights make a huge difference. I spent about $35-40 on them to change out the bulbs we use the most. They’re saving me about $35-40 a month, around $450 a year. That’s some good suburban logic lol 😆. Boss, God bless you and yours! Stay safe and healthy my friend and love from the Judge!

  • @Gonzo3780
    @Gonzo37808 жыл бұрын

    Catching up on videos all day, drinking beer and watching the Kentucky derby...Wow am I behind, lol... People think its easy to live off the grid...not a chance, if you are not a woods man, cant make adjustments, dont have some sort of a few bucks coming in, have no COMMON SENSE for the great outdoors etc??? So many things to consider...What a great video my friend...Great advice for many that may want to consider living off of the grid...Take care,, Gonzo...

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Heith Gagnon I've got lot of catching up to do as well buddy. I don't watch vids when i'm at my cabin cause my internet is through my phone and I have to be frugal with my data. Always good to hear from you my friend.

  • @cindyoquinn7924
    @cindyoquinn79248 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for another quality video and the very helpful tips :-)

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Cindy O'Quinn You're welcome Cindy :-)

  • @melodycapehartmedina2264
    @melodycapehartmedina22648 жыл бұрын

    As always just good common sense. I really enjoy these videos. Well I enjoy all of the but these give lots of food for thought. Thanks for sharing.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Melody Capehart Medina Thank you Melody. Nice to hear from you.

  • @alicelewis7261
    @alicelewis72618 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for sharing you are a smart man blessings to you.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Alice Lewis Thank you and blessings to you as well.

  • @robertkadow3367
    @robertkadow33672 жыл бұрын

    Enjoy your videos - you are very pleasant and have something to say. Saw your video concerning you tube problems. I will watch you & support you. So many presentations are click bait. They barely talk about their title & others use their female companion to create interest.

  • @raptor6616
    @raptor66168 жыл бұрын

    Wise words Boss. We use our toaster oven all the time especially during the summer. Thanks for sharing!!!!

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Raptor66 Toaster ovens are great and such a money saver.

  • @barbarakegebein1800

    @barbarakegebein1800

    5 жыл бұрын

    When we were full time RVers, the toaster oven lived out side in the hot weather, as did the slow cooker. Saved our ac a lot of work in Vegas and other hot places we worked. Now I want to save up for an All American Solar Oven!

  • @charlesvincett84
    @charlesvincett843 жыл бұрын

    Sage advise....😎👍💯

  • @Hatch61
    @Hatch618 жыл бұрын

    Great video Boss, thanks for sharing. I enjoy seeing how low that I can get my utility bills, some months, it's not much more than the service charges, but f I need it, it's there.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Hatch61 I wish some women would think like you do. Life would have less struggles ha ha :-D

  • @happilyretiredmark2964
    @happilyretiredmark29648 жыл бұрын

    Great advice Boss! You should rent out one of your "off the grid" cabins for a week at the time and call it "Test your Off The Grid Ability"! They get to meet you and Frankie then they're on their own for a week or so!!! Take care buddy!

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Happilyretiredmark That would work but I don't have much desire to have strangers in my stuff. The cabins are stocked and I travel light :-))

  • @happilyretiredmark2964

    @happilyretiredmark2964

    8 жыл бұрын

    +thebossoftheswamp LOL I hear ya man!!

  • @vs74ralph
    @vs74ralph8 жыл бұрын

    We looked into putting electricity into our camp in the early 50 ths, it was several thousand to extend to lines. That is why there is no grid next to your NH cabin. Great vid very good info for folks. Butch G

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Butch Guilmain I hope power never makes it up that road. Looking forward to visiting with you folks this summer.

  • @crow4319
    @crow43198 жыл бұрын

    well boss you sure are a very wise man you have a beautiful home ready for any emergency you sure know your carpentry skills also thanks terry

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +crow 43 Thank you Terry.

  • @vlogmylifetobyrobinson9050
    @vlogmylifetobyrobinson90508 жыл бұрын

    awesome video! very helpful :)

  • @davidclarke4040
    @davidclarke40408 жыл бұрын

    hi good video all so very true bud

  • @woodspirit98
    @woodspirit985 жыл бұрын

    can't believe I just found this video Dec 31, 2018.

  • @Biglandtrapper
    @Biglandtrapper8 жыл бұрын

    Great advice there Boss, very practical. Couple nice caribou racks there, I have a chance for caribou tags this fall, fingers crossed....

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +William Larkham Jr (Bigland Trapper) Good luck with the tags buddy. Cheers.

  • @themanwiththecabin8523
    @themanwiththecabin85238 жыл бұрын

    *helpfull

  • @huntnfishnuts5880
    @huntnfishnuts58808 жыл бұрын

    I just recently switched all my lights to led. Great advice as usual boss.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Huntnfishnuts LED's are great :-)

  • @davebarr9378

    @davebarr9378

    8 жыл бұрын

    +thebossoftheswamp Call me slow, but how do you change from standard light bulbs to LEDs? They have them that are made for regular size light sockets? I'm new at this....

  • @huntnfishnuts5880

    @huntnfishnuts5880

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Dave Barr yes they have led light bulbs that fit standard screw in fixtures. They are really bright with good white light and use way les power than regular bulbs. They are more expensive though. About $8 each but they are supposed to last a long time.

  • @Downzig
    @Downzig8 жыл бұрын

    good video....

  • @garywhelton9304
    @garywhelton93048 жыл бұрын

    Keep it simple !

  • @EdiblePlants
    @EdiblePlants8 жыл бұрын

    you're right on brother I am the same hybrid lifestyle for me

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Pinetar And Robyns Homestead Hybrid Lifestyle sums it up pretty good buddy :-)

  • @dianehall5345
    @dianehall53458 жыл бұрын

    Well presented JC. You have struck a balance that works for you. Our homesite is also 400' in. We are currently trying to tie into the grid. And I already have my propane summer kitchen stove picked out > to go along with the kitchen wood stove.We like to have all the non-electric counterparts in place,.but I really enjoy using the oil lamps and cookin on the Home Comfort :-)Just feels good to take care of ourselves mostly bu our own hand. All the best my friend.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +diane hall I share your thoughts Diane. Couldn't agree more my friend.

  • @Scale_Slotcars_Latvia
    @Scale_Slotcars_Latvia8 жыл бұрын

    another great post my friend , its nice to see not everybody banging on about off grid , some of the channels I watch have so many problems with batteries not charging properly , solar panels scattered all over the place , fume emitting batteries indoors , ugly wireing etc . Ile be most likely on grid when we move to Latvia , but for me its about getting out of the city , learning to farm , building a cabin , enjoying the forest , Its funny how some people think ........some of my friends have gas heating in their houses and said it the electric fails they would still have heat ......I had to remind then about heating control panel (electric) and without their electric water pump that hot water was not going anywhere , like you explained put a little thought and planning into things , Keep safe ..........................Harry

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Balvi small farm Homestead Couldn't of said it better myself Harry. Best of luck with your move. I think you've got the right idea for sure. Cheers :-)

  • @Markam248
    @Markam2488 жыл бұрын

    you could build a ice house. collect your ice in the winter and store and use it all summers. just a thought.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Mark Thomas Hobbies I may do that. I saved several 2.5 gallon jugs for that purpose.

  • @debbytomlinson9970
    @debbytomlinson99707 жыл бұрын

    Lots of valuable insight on Every video you share. I appreciate it more than you know. I am single by choice, raising my last child and two grand children. So many people are trying to achieve some degree of simple living. I just don't know the best way to go about it alone. The plan is simple... Debt reduction first. My debt was around $16,000, down to $5,500. That is the extent of my plan at this point. Pay off debt and then I draw a blank. No adult male relatives. Makes me really value your insight because men just Know Things !!! You do a fantastic job of explaining and teaching.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    7 жыл бұрын

    Debt reduction is a must. Congrats on what you've accomplished so far.

  • @orangpendek1024
    @orangpendek10248 жыл бұрын

    It is much cheaper to stay on the grid and just cut your power consumption. My power bill is the only utility bill I have and it's usually around $30 a month in the winter and about twice that in the summer. Solar power is expensive if you want to have everything you have when on the grid. I have a little solar power, but it's mostly for emergencies when the power is off during a storm.

  • @alanj7306

    @alanj7306

    3 жыл бұрын

    Solar power can be (and usually is) ridiculously expensive. And then most houses are still hooked up to the electricity from the company. Live in Vegas now and it would be nearly impossible to only have solar in the summertime. AC units use tons of power and solar just doesn’t cut it when it’s 115 degrees out. They also don’t tell you that solar panels are about 20% less efficient once they’re 10 years old. They’re are a lot of ways to lower your power bill, but solar really isn’t one of them..

  • @CaptianConstruction
    @CaptianConstruction8 жыл бұрын

    April and a little chilly? You make me sick JC, ha ha! Here in Alabama it's been anywhere between 80-90 degrees with very high humidity(70-100%!). Looking on the bright side of things; I don't have to pay for a sauna, just go outside! Always a pleasure to watch your vids, all the best to you and Frankie!!! God bless! Jason M

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +CaptainConstruction It dropped to the high 30's last night. Your 80 degree weather sounds nice right now.

  • @dadgad68
    @dadgad688 жыл бұрын

    Excellent video JC. I agree if you can be hooked to the grid you should take advantage but being able to conserve and being prepared for down grid situations is the key. Last week i got my power bill and thanks to the coil heating my domestic water on my wood stove my bill was $0.00. Turns out they hadn't been reading my meter and based it on previous usage. They owe me $210.00. That's a first for me and i'll take it lol. I have you to thank for that as well for inspiring me with your channel. I also did your salt water ice bottles in the deep freeze and shut off my fridge. No need running it to keep a couple of things cold for one person. Anyway my friend great advice. It also may inspire others to conserve which helps with the environment. We are such a wasteful society this day and age. Great job. Gonna share this one on FB. Regards. D. Cote.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +dadgad68 You've got a good thing going for yourself over there buddy. Keep up the good work :-)

  • @isaiahmayer
    @isaiahmayer8 жыл бұрын

    the best set up is to pump electricity into the city and use the reliable city power and if shit hit it just flip the switch and you are off the grid

  • @fredmoller1675
    @fredmoller16756 жыл бұрын

    In Ontario, due to Lieberal government mismanagement we pay the highest electricity in North America, and more and more people are going the off grid route. I can't since I live in an apartment that has electric heat, but I use as little as possible, mainly by using only two of six baseboard heaters, and all LED lighting.

  • @tomyot77
    @tomyot778 жыл бұрын

    I love my toaster oven and two burner LP gas surface units. Working on getting LED lights as old type burn out. I have timer on hot water heater. My wishlist is for small solar power setup. I have small chest freezer which does not use much power. AC in summer a major power expense. Use wood burner stove and LP for heat in winter. You have encouraged me to look at more options to decrease power bills. Just more lifestyle changes Thanks for a honest evaluation.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Thomas Thompson This is the kit I bought. It got great reviews and everything is included except batteries. I haven't installed it yet but will film the process when I do. I thought this was very affordable.. amzn.to/1To4pb9

  • @rexbear9756
    @rexbear97567 жыл бұрын

    Great video, you are the first person I have heard speak in real terms about this. A few years ago we had a ice storm in my area, I was without electric for 10 days. I got firsthand experience with living off the grid. I constantly caught myself flipping light switches, ha, they don't work. I heated my house with my wood stove and cooked on my propane stove, I used the generator to pump water from the well to charge the captive air tank so I could take a shower and wash dishes. I made do but I learned it was a lot of trouble. The local hotels were full, I felt a pride in not having to rely on a hotel.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    7 жыл бұрын

    I may do a follow up on this subject. If people plan to live off the grid o save money, they'll get a rude awakening as they bang their heads against the wall struggling to power their electric things. The accumulated power bill for my NY homestead for 2016 was only 404.00 and that's on National grid. All it takes is adjustments in your lifestyle to live cheap. Unplugging isn't the answer.

  • @rexbear9756

    @rexbear9756

    7 жыл бұрын

    You make a good point about using electric frugally, a person can make real changes by scaling back on usage but it is also a mindset as you have stated. You don;t mind some hard work to make things happen, that is a big difference in mindset in my opinion. I like to wilderness camp, I think this might be a good test for people to find out if the off grid life is for them. I think I could do it but I suspect I would be happier at a cabin with electric, propane and a well, that is how I have lived for the last twenty years. For me it is not about proving anything, I know what my comfort level is and I stay within it. So I open the windows when the weather is nice and burn wood when it is cold, I have central air but don't turn it on, rather I have a window unit in my bedroom. If I lived in Maine or northern WIs. then maybe I would get by without the window unit.

  • @lewbates7765
    @lewbates77658 жыл бұрын

    At my age I would have to keep the homestead and sell the cabins. It seems you are happy there and keeping it up isn’t costing that much. Hope you keep your health and continue doing what you love doing.

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Lew Bates Have 3 places is just too much. I like it here but don't love it. I love my cabins though :-))

  • @SuperJackmeeks
    @SuperJackmeeks8 жыл бұрын

    as usual, a great video

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Jack Meeks Thank you kindly.

  • @t.w.milburn8264
    @t.w.milburn82648 жыл бұрын

    'mornin, Boss & 'Lil-Frankie; Great advice as always & That Red & Black Mackanaw is the Bomb ! Thanks 4 taking the time of your explanations Boss. Always great 2 set & have a cup a Joe while watch'n ya, Friends ! Scratch 4 Frankie ! ATB Terry God Bless

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +T.W. Milburn (skillet210) Mornin my friend. Once you go red & black, you never go back haha :-D All the best and God Bless.

  • @kirkhobbs9003
    @kirkhobbs90038 жыл бұрын

    Good day again Boss - another great vid on living a simple life ; you have the message that most people should hear - you are bang on & very concise again - I really appreciate that in you & you do an excellent job in your vids so thks again & please keep up the good work my man ; it is always my pleasure to watch what you have next & I for one look forward to keeping up with your story - nothing less than awesome when honesty prevails as you are as real as you are & we can all take a lesson in being more grounded - thks again >> Great job JC ;) - Quick question - how was your trapping session this yr & where's Frankie that wee lad ; I pray all is good with you & spring treats ya fine as > it's new birth of life brings & it's many blessings come to all of us once again & that we can all still enjoy the tasks that come with - lets getter done & have some fun ** take care - JC - blessings to you - have a great day man - Kirk out for now

  • @thebossoftheswamp

    @thebossoftheswamp

    8 жыл бұрын

    +Kirk Hobbs Thank you for your kind words my friend. Your comment is much appreciated.

  • @tonydivine2551
    @tonydivine25518 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the advice well I made it 1 step closer being disabled I don't get that .Must money it's taking forever it seems to get the wood I needed still have to get some but I on my way 335 bored ft is a good start be making a 24x24 cabin on 100 acres keep you in my mind as I go

  • @tmdavidson1478
    @tmdavidson14788 жыл бұрын

    Good advice as always. Look before you leap. Thanks :)

  • @bigmacmik3534

    @bigmacmik3534

    8 жыл бұрын

    Sup dude lol

  • @tmdavidson1478

    @tmdavidson1478

    8 жыл бұрын

    +TM Miner 👍

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