2005 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

*HEATER*
The van has an ESPAR Heater that keeps it toasty even in winter. The heater can be activated as an add-on, and will heat the van up to 85*F on 10*F+ days. If you expect temperatures below 45*F, I recommend either purchasing this add-on, or bringing temperature appropriate sleeping bags and clothing, in addition to the comforter that is included with the van. If you'd like to use the heater, let me know before departure as you will need to learn how to use it and troubleshoot it in case of emergency. If the battery is allowed to dip below 80% charge, the heater may not function properly and it is up to the guest to properly and safely deal with the cold.
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*KEEPING COOL*
The van has a powerful Maxxair Maxxfan permanently installed on the ceiling, which helps keep it cool in the warmer months. I recommend opening one or two of the window vents, and setting the fan to Exhaust mode -- this will create a nice wind-tunnel-like breeze, pulling in fresh air from outside the van. If you prefer, you can also set it to regular fan mode, or have it automatically adjust its speed to attempt to maintain 78*F. The ceiling fan must be closed and locked before the van is in motion.
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There's also a secondary Caframo fan that can be moved and clamped to anywhere in proximity to a 12v DC outlet. It's very powerful for its tiny size, and can make for a chilly night if placed in the sleeping area at night.
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*ELECTRICITY & SOLAR PANELS*
The van has a large 230ah AGM battery powered by a 300 Watt Solar Panel that collects energy from the sun. There are two sets of lights on dimmers throughout the van, 4 different USB outlets to charge your phone and electronics, and several car-style 12v DC outlets to power other items.
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The battery will be fully charged at the beginning of the rental, and should never be allowed to dip below 70% (or you risk permanent damage to expensive equipment). If the battery dips below 80%, the heater may not function properly. The battery also powers the water pump for the sink and the fridge. There is a handy battery monitor easily visible from the kitchen so you always know where you stand. Please park in full sun whenever possible so that the battery is constantly being topped off (and minimize use of any electric items in the van if the battery dips below 75% until you can get above 80%, with a full charge preferable).
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The van also has a 1000 Watt Inverter, which turns 12v DC into 120V AC energy. Turning it on allows you to power electronics using the regular 3-prong "house style" charging plug located on the kitchen wall. Since use of the inverter drains the battery fairly quickly, and since any item being used has to be inspected to ensure it uses a maximum of 1000 watts, use of the inverter and its corresponding plug is only available as an add-on. You must be willing to learn how and when to use it before departure, and clear each item you plan to use with it during the trip.
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*BATHROOM*
Your rental can include a C-Head Composting Toilet as an add-on, which will be located inside the closed for added privacy. The toilet can be set up for #1, #2, or both, with each material going to a separate compartment to be dealt with. Since material is separated, the toilet is essentially odor-free. It is easy to use and dispose of waste (I find it much more pleasant than a toilet that mixes everything together), and If added-on, must be returned empty.
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*OUTDOOR SHOWER*
The kitchen sink faucet is flexible and extendable, and rotates to face the outside of the van for whenever you want to take an outdoor shower!
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*WASHTUB*
Under the front teal couch, you will find a japanese-style soaking tub that drains to the outside of the van. I've only used it 5 times for quick showers, but is great in a pinch if it's too cold outside for the outdoor shower.
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*MECHANICS*
The van has 125,000 miles, which is young for a Sprinter with a Diesel engine, which often live upwards of 500,000 miles.
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The van ONLY accepts DIESEL fuel. Please triple check when pumping, as using anything else will damage the vehicle permanently, holding you responsible for the damage.
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Do not drive on loose sand or mud as the van only has front-wheel drive and can get stuck. While there is a tow strap in the van, there are no other recovery devices if you get stuck -- if for any reason you take this risk, you will be responsible for getting it unstuck and returning it safely. While the tires have aggressive 3-season tread, you must provide your own chains if you plan to drive in snowy or icy conditions.
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*FULL KITCHEN*
The van has a beautiful, easy to use kitchen, where you can prepare full meals. It includes:

-2 Propane Burners and oven with 2 small racks.
-2.3 cu ft fridge with small freezer compartment. Fits a weeks worth of perishables or 2 cases of beer.
-Sink with flexible faucet and running water. Has an automatic water pump to keep it flowing by turning the handle.
-Two easily removable 14 gallon fresh water storage tanks and one 7 gallon grey-water tank for sink water drainage. Grey water tank has an easy to use valve to direct water flow to the outside the van instead of to the tank (only use this feature when deemed safe to the environment).
-Built-in dish-soap dispenser and geometric tile backsplash
-Plenty of over and under-head storage for dry goods and utensils.
-Pots and pans, cutlery, basic spices, bowls and plates for 2, are all included but must be returned clean and in great condition to avoid any charges.
-Smoke detector
-Only use propane if you know how to do so safely and have proper ventilation. I always turn the exhaust fan on and leave the sliding door open if I plan on using the burner or the oven. The propane tank valve must be completely shut off before sleeping or putting the van in motion.
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*PETS*
Pets will be approved on a case by case basis. A $200 refundable Pet Deposit will be charged at the beginning of the trip, and will be refunded if the van is returned in pristine condition with no odors, dog hairs, or other pet related damage. Otherwise, your deposit will cover any time or material expenses incurred by having had pets in the van. Damages above $200 will be taken from your main security deposit. If evidence of a pet is found in the van, and no pet was approved ahead of time, $400 will be automatically deducted from your main security deposit.

Pets are not allowed on the couches (unless you bring a cover to protect the couches), and must be safely in a crate when the vehicle is moving. Crate should be secured and not free-floating. All pet litter, food and water must be put away when the van is in motion. NEVER leave your pet alone in the vehicle, even for just 5 minutes. You are responsible for the safety of your pet, the proper temperature regulation inside the van, and making sure your pets stay healthy, happy, and alive!
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