A visit to Top of the Hill Solutions is an eye-opening experience for anyone thinking of solar power for recreation properties and homes, or for recreational vehicle (RV) needs. It is no longer just a place to stop for groceries, lottery tickets or a fresh-made sandwich; it is all that, and now so much more.
In addition to the convenience store, Top of the Hill also houses the largest solar-energy-system inventory north of Vancouver, full-on RV accessories and appliances and, to top everything off, recently introduced and began selling a line of electric scooters and bicycles.
Everything contractors and do-it-yourself vacation homeowners require to power off-grid appliances and equipment is available in stock, along with advice about this clean, alternative-energy option.
“A number of people can walk in to buy full systems and we will still have more in our inventory, everything from small to large systems; charge controllers, inverters, batteries and cables,” says managing partner Andy Vestering.
Most sales and services are directly related to off-grid living, in locations without access to power, such as Savary Island, Powell Lake and other areas with no service. A growing grid-tie market also exists for homeowners with hydro connections thinking of green and renewable energy alternatives.
“People are wanting their recreation homes and RVs to be able to perform similar to their family home,” says Andy. “Top of the Hill can make that happen.”
As a cabin owner on Powell Lake for the past 25 years, Andy has installed and tested many off-grid accessories, enabling him to share the acquired knowledge and experience with his customers.
“I have lived it for years, so I know what people expect for off-grid living,” says Andy.
It is common for people to think they need more equipment than necessary. A conversation with Andy often results in cost savings for customers.
With increased demands for off-grid power, more battery options are required for customers. Top of the Hill stocks all types of batteries: golf cart, 2-volt, 6-volt, and L16s. All off-grid inverters are also kept in stock. Inverter cables are custom-made using a new bench crimper recently acquired for the process.
“Inverter cables are expensive, so buying in bulk and having us custom-make them is more cost-effective,” says Andy.
For customers who still use propane, Andy has been working on and repairing propane fridges for over 20 years. Also, a licensed gasfitter and air-conditioning mechanics on staff service propane and electric accessories, not only for customer’s vacation homes, but also for the RV market. Top of the Hill also repairs, services and sells RV fridges, hot water tanks, furnaces, water pumps, toilets, fittings, electrical plug-ins, cleaners, vent, vent covers and more.
RV owners are invited to drop in at 6105 Lund Street and ask for a Top of the Hill corporate RV catalogue to take home and peruse at their convenience.
“Top of the Hill is your new one-stop RV accessory, parts and service centre,” says Andy.
Top of the Hill is proud to complement its solar line with bicycles and electric scooters, including a three-wheeled mobility unit and two-wheeled versions; each equipped with signal lights and headlights. The Gio-brand scooters have pedals in addition to electric motors, which classifies them as bicycles. As a result, a driver’s licence and insurance is not required for operation.
“You just get on them and go; you can ride for 50 kilometres before needing to recharge,” says Andy. “We do the warranty work, if needed, and have all of the parts available in the service centre.”
Top of the Hill Solutions is open seven days a week from 7 am-10 pm, with full service Monday through Friday from 8 am–5 pm. For more information, call 604.483.9006 or 604.414.4212.
