I'm a 75 yoa DIYer who is starting my first conversion build. Along the way I found how this 'may' be applied to my home electrical savings to save some money. I am floored by the price some of the conversion experts put on their electrical products. I am so thankful that I found your channel...subscribed!!!
Wow, I am 61 ‘young man’ and just started getting into this stuff. Now in Aug, 2020, it is an absolute necessity for prepping though so I also included multiple gas and propane generators and stand alone Jackery and Ego power stations along with the solar arrays just to be redundantly safe.
Built this system at our of grid cabin and it is working wonderfully. Built a 24v 150ah battery from individual cells. Made a rookie mistake though....hooked to (4) 320W panels in series and didn't take into account the open circuit voltage, so it was over 150 volts a bit. Unhooked one panel until my Y branch connectors arrive and I can hook up in series and parallel. No harm done though. Thanks for all your videos man!
Thank you for tackling something 24V! There is a large community of folks that have ex-military vehicles that have either straight 24v or dual 12V/24V systems so this will be a big help. While I’m not making a camper on my truck, many other owners are so this would be helpful.
Will, as an idea. Maybe find people around where you are that are trying to setup a small system. Go there help them and video it. I think that would be most helpful to watch. Wish you were near Atlanta :(
Will, what can I say? You are my one stop shop for ALL things solar. I've been a subscriber for a long while and your videos, never disappoint. You're always to the point, tell us the stuff we really need to know AND understand. I have a need to fully understand things and you present things in a way that is fully understandable. Your website is packed with info that is 100% relevant and unbelievably helpful. From technical know-how to pricing, you cover it all! I wish you all the best and am so glad for the success you're enjoying, it is well deserved. I am in New Zealand and planning to go rural and off the grid, in the not too distant future. You are providing me, with everything I need, in terms of solar, to make this possible. Many thanks buddy, I truly appreciate it, as I am sure all your followers do! keep up the great work.
Hi all! I´m trying to build a "solar farm" I grow indoor whit led systems but the energy consumption increased a bit, I have a full house whit 7 divisions but i only use kitchen whit one indoor tent whit 2000w and the living room whit 2 screens and a desktop computer. When i used my irradiator before building the tent I was spending around 160 dollars per month only whit fridge, computer Heather and 3 lamps occasionally used, bathroom, bedroom and small lamp near computer. Now whit the tent the electric gear are bit more vast, fans, extractor, led lamps, weather control stuff, ac, fans. That´s why I found this channel I was thinking in have beside totally organic grows free energy! This system seams to be the best super cool solution!! Bless you! Brilliant!!. A system like this can be adapted to tent cultures and small gardens wonderful!. I would love to try this setup in a growing lab using only leds up to 4000w but the idea its save energy for those raining days to avoid a crop fiasco!. Super cool video!! Thank you for sharing!
I built this exact set up for a 500 s.f cabin and garage in NW Wisconsin. I have 1600W of panels and 2 BB batteries. I also added a charger and automatic transfer switch. Crazy power at the cabin. Fridge, vacuum, TV, Kurig, etc. On nice summer days, I charge our golf cart and have even charged our Tesla Model 3 when the sun is high. It is a beast. My board looks identical other than like I said I have added an automatic transfer switch and a 4 bank charger (I went with a 4 bank for future if I add 2 more BB batteries). It's amazing and I have never had a wire even get warm. The inverter fan rarley comes on. Maybe a few seconds when fridge kicks in or when Kurig reaches peak. So it's nice and quiet. The ll in one units form what i understand the fans run constant.
Will, love your vids, but please remember we are trying to keep up with you so when you say "This" and "That" as you move your hand quickly around the system (and you talk fast) then we don't always know what the "this" or "that" you refer to is. So we can miss a whole sentence that way. I love your explanations you really teach us well & I don't want to miss a thing you say! Another great video filled with information, education & inspiration. Thank you!
You are literally my solar hero ♡ thank you for these videos.... 5 years off grid and struggeling to understand my 12 volt solar and want to up to 24.... these vids help more than you know
Great videos - something I'd like to see more detail on is grounding the system. In some systems you seem to run a cable from the inverter to a negative busbar whereas in your 2000w system i don't see one
I'm learning alot from your videos. You're the best DIY solar power teacher on TH-cam! I love your battery vids too, I'm on a budget so building my own battery packs will really help out.
Thanks again for outstanding video on 24v. I used 12v systems for my home because it the only thing (12v) available for me at the auto parts store . I'm a many time seasonal hurricane survival, I am doing my best to keep up on Solar Energy. 🐵😀☺
*Video Table of Contents:* Total Cost of the system: 3:16 How to build it: 4:34 How to series connect battle born batteries: 5:58 Charge profile for battle borns used in a 24v system: 8:29 Final Installation!: 9:12 Taking apart my tesla battery: 9:35 Blueprint and parts list: www.mobile-solarpower.com/2000-watt-24v-solar-system.html The battle borns were provided for free to make this video.
DIY Solar Power with Will Prowse can you wire that inverter directly into a 110 v breaker distribution panel? I’d prefer to hardwire my cabin. Can the transfer switch be connected to a generator instead of the grid?
@@4philipp Many inverters , most of the larger ones have terminals to hard wire them in, I like the Vevor 24v 3500w inverter for a small cabin off grid.
@@mattg8787 Just string the panels in series to not have more voltage than what ever solar controller you have can handle , then you can parallel another string or two depending on what the Mttp will handle, check the specs.
Dude, youre a genius! ive been reseaching this for a while and your video is by far the best recap of all best practices. Plus, you give the parts and links. Im heading to your site now. You rock, man!
I copied this system with 4 -12v battle born and 4 renogy 100 polys it is all i need in my 63 Airstream to boon dock . accept A/C thanks for the help i also made purchases thru ur links u r welcome thanks again oh ya bought the book as well.
I just read half your book. Your videos & your book is amazingly consistent and both keeps it simple as possible/practical. Thks I thinks I'll use a buck-boost DCtoDC converter so I can power just about any DC appliance and grid ACtoDC battery charger.
Thanks so much for the awesome information you're definitely gifted with the knowledge of how these systems work. We want to start a system that we can rely on to supply all our electrical needs. We are moving to the Philippines and I'm wondering if we can bring these items with us to the Philippines so that we can set it up over there for our home that is over in the Philippines. Do you think that we could have more than one system like the one you described in this video or should we just do one big system and have a bigger compliment of battery supply? Would love to have your feedback
Dude - your "on board" installs are getting cleaner and cleaner. Badass. Thank you for this one, this is exactly what I was looking for. I'm going to add four 305w Canadien Solar panels and call it a day. I'm saving the money until the next van build, then I'm buying it all and installing it all there. Thanks again, I'll be coming back to this video fo sho.....
Yeah Baby!! I've already sourced this at 1700 bucks and I haven't even looked at used or ebay components yet! Sahweet!! Thanks Will! X4- UB121000-45978 12v 100AH AGM Battery $600 X1- Power Bright 2300-Watt Power Inverter $200 X4- Canadian Solar CS6K-305MS Solar Panel $800 X1- Tuscom 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller $30 X1- ABS Solar Double Cable Entry Gland $13 X1- MC4 Connectors Y Connector in Pair MMF+FFM $10 X1- Voltage Converter Regulator 24V to 12V 40A $30 X1- DC 6.5-100V 0-100A LCD Display Digital Meter $20 total $1703
Fugate University Thanks for the shopping list. I was thinking I’d like to build the system first and just use it with an AGM and save up for the lithium
Love Blue Sea products. As a HAM operator I have set up a fairly extensive DC distribution system with emergency backup power systems. Blue Sea fuse boxes are really good quality, and use them in my go boxes. I use West Mountain products for my charge controller (epic pwrgate w/ solar, battery, and power supply inputs), power guard w/ monitor, and rigrunner (dc distribution fuse type box). In process of adding additional ah and a Giandel inverter
We need to get you addicted to Anderson Power Poles. Love them. I use them for everything in my emergency base station / radio room. AC to DC power supply for typical everyday use, battery backup with battery management system, small solar backup system, (unit takes in power supply, batteries, and solar, and manages it accordingly to supply power to equipment while either charging batteries or switching over to batteries when power goes out). From there it goes through a power guard system that shuts down the system for over or under voltage etc. from there it goes through a battery monitoring system that supplies all the desired analytics, and finally into a DC distribution panel. Also have a DC to AC inverter for small emergency uses....Giandel 1200/2400 Pure Sine Wave. Power Poles are a great choice for east connect/disconnect and compatibility within our systems
I am putting a system together and really would like your advise but it seems that you rarely comment. I do believe you are the best in the field and great educater but responses seem to be the lack of area I feel. I like most, just do not want to get things wrong and the questions I have are very simple that you would have the answers on top of your head I am 100% positive.
A quick question. If the 50A circuit breaker kicks, the batteries are, in affect, no longer connected to the charge controller. The solar panels are however. Does this harm the charge controller having the panels feeding into the controller while the batteries are no longer providing power to the controller. Many thanks for all of your videos, they are a great help to us.
Thank you so much Will! Great job contributing useful positive help...not just ingormation , but help. There's lots of data out there, but we regular people can't access it...you have a gift 🎁 and you've shared that gift. Virtue...that's a rare thing these days. Blessed is the man who hands are busy, who's mind is active, this is a blessing from God. It echos out into time space as goodness!!!
Thank you so much for all you do. I am a female and I am old but with your videos I am sure I’m going to attempt to create a solar generator. Is there anyway that you can create a portable solar generator with wheels? Thanks again for your knowledge.
Hey I'll , I saw you in J. Garcia's video at Rich's rebuilds ! It's cool that you know each other ... my favourite lithium project experts , that are sharing "the knowledge !
1)You will need 5 volt power for charging for smartphones and staff whit USB charger (put a buck converter from 24v to 5v and to charge the little devices so you will not need to start the inverter). 2) You can buy 24 volt light bulls for lighting the camper and hook them at the battery, so you will eliminate a lot off lost. 3) The system on 24volt has lower lost power in conversions and that make it more efficient. 4) Nice video. :)
Thank you, @Will for the helpful blueprints/plans. Could you please explain the battery protect and why it says "Do not use battery protect" in your plans? Thanks
Thank you so much for your channel Will..... this part of building my off grid house is literally giving me anxiety. Lol. It’s been the bane of my existence lately. Ok, bane is a strong word but still.... appreciate all of your solar brains. 👍
I have been watching a lot of your videos recently! Thank you for explaining everything in layman’s terms for those of us who aren’t the most electronically savvy! Do you have any videos where you set up a solar and wind combo system?
Thanks for the video. Would this be a good setup to run a washing machine once a day, 120 volt - 15 amp - 1800 watts? I think there are 3 eletrical basic minimum things most people need to get by with life mostly normal: small fridge freezer, communications / internet and washing machine. Cooking can be done in many non-eletric options so assuming your in city water, I think these are the three primary items most people need. If you could make a setup designed to cover these basics I think that would be awesome!
Thanks so much for your videos - I am hoping to build a similar system for an off grid cabin. My question is how to hook this to a AC distribution box/junction box instead of using the AC outlets on the inverter.
OMG this video is intense! I really love how you explain everything. I have some basic knowledge about electronics but I really appreciate how you explain everything and it’s such a fun and entertaining video to watch!
As someone else from east county San Diego. I would love to hangout sometime im a full-time nomad currently I'm building a skoolie. Im planning a 220v ac mini split so this really helps
Thanks for the video in 5+ years I plan on grabbing a 25 foot e450 motorhome for 17-18 grand and live on the road traveling every few months from rv park area to park area around the country too. Your channel will be a helpful guide when the time comes for me to set up a solar system :P
Hello, Will 😊 You taught me electricity and solar power so thank you so much! How do you feel about the Tiny Watts Solar 500w solar panel roof deck being used in your 24v system??
I earned something in my experimenting with my Bioenno 12 Volt LiFePO4 Batteries. I have 560 Watts of Solar on our Storage Shed roof. I run the power from them into our living room, where I set up the Bioenno Charge Controller & the 100 Amp Battery. The 100 Amp Battery is connected to a SAMLEX 600 Watt PURE Sine Inverter. Using this setup in this way, the MOST I have ever been able to get into the 100 Amp Battery is 13.8 Volts. HOWEVER: If I make this change; I send the power to one of the 40 Amp Batteries, from there I go to a 350 Watt PURE Sine Inverter, and run one of the 6 Amp Chargers off of that Inverter and charge the 100 Amp Battery THAT way, using the solar setup in this manner, I can bring the the 100 Amp Battery all the way up to 14.2 Volts, although the 40 Amp Battery also will not charge above 13.8 Volts when running this way-exactly as the 100 Amp Battery behaves when charging via Solar only. I'm sure after doing this now for several Months that none of this has hurt either battery. I even tried it using the 12 Amp Battery to run the 350 Watt Inverter to charge the 100 Amp Battery-the 12 Amp Battery didn't like it, but it worked nonetheless. Because of the lower Amperage of the smallest battery and the draw pulled by the Inverter & the 6 Amp Charger, the 12 Volt Battery DOES drop to 12.9 Volts, but I CAN fully charge the 100 Amp Battery this way in a pinch. I will NOT do this as a rule-I just wanted to see if it would work. It does. What I think I WILL do however, is charge the 40 Amp Batteries this way if I need to. This is only being used as a stopgap measure until I can get some more Panels. But its good to know this is available in an emergency. Bruce A. Forster
Note: Using this method, a person CAN Build a "Hybrid" combo of Lead Acid and Lithium Batteries. Just be sure to isolate the two Chemistries from each other when charging by using an Inverter and battery-specific charger.
Just making this now, parts arrived today. But as I don’t own the house I’ll make some electric for a few hours then buy a van to stick it all on 😀 Will, you didn’t factor the van into the costs 🤣
just the information I need irt solar set up. Question: would any of the other components (in this set up) have to change if a 3000w inverter is used ??? Thankhz so much for sharing Will... Wholeness n Love ((-;
The inverter should be hooked up directly to the battery or the bus bar from the battery so everything else can stay the same. Higher power inverters will require thicker cables between them and the batteries and drain the batteries quicker though. Make sure to match the inverter voltage model to the battery set up. I have two 12v batteries connected in series so use a 24 volt inverter to step up to US 120 vac house current. I have a 2500 watt inverter at 24v so use a pretty hefty 2 gauge cable, which is little over kill.
2000W is enough, but with one small condition: Those things have AC motors in, which means they need a proper sine wave. A lot of cheap inverters don't provide a true sine output. So long as you don't cheap out on the inverter though, should be fine.
As always will your videos are amazing I have a specific question. My setup is a little different from what you have setup. I have four panels at 330 Watts a piece with a 3000w 24 volt inverter and a 60 amp charge controller with 6 lithium ion Nissan Leaf batteries holding 1500 watts and 370 amp hours. My question is if I'm going to actually need step down converter and if I hook it up correctly I shouldn't need a charger correct? I had to edit this and just read your form and said you're not here for consultation and I completely understand. You probably get a thousand questions a day. Either way thank you so much for your videos your wealth of knowledge is extremely helpful.
Mainly peace of mind. If anything goes wrong with Tesla, fire happens. Super rare in properly designed system, but I will be traveling soon and I don't want to worry about anything
Hey young man you are amazing .... I'm a lady building my van I want to go with your 24v System I bought your book but should I buy the one Battle 24v 50AH or 2 12 V 100AH ? Thank you
Hey Will, love your videos, you are my go to in offgrid. I really this system you have built, could you use this system to run a 240volt caravan (Trailer), lol I'm in Australia? I'm trying to set up a system so I can live offgrid. I run a fridge, air-conditioner and coffee machine, laptop, lights and for charging phones etc. Essentially I want a system that takes over and runs my entire van offgrid, but reverts back to AC when I'm in a park. Hoping you can facilitate with this or perhaps do a TH-cam video showing a build and blueprint. Thanks and keep putting these great videos. You are the Guru!
Ok, I want to build my first system for an RV. I know NOTHING about building a solar system. Your videos are awesome, and I am learning as I go with you. How do I find out exactly what I need to build to be off grid self sufficient, including refrigerator, and a/c ? Do you have a video just for this, or should I look on your website ? Please keep up the great work, you are one of the best channels on youtube
Really good job with these. Big fan. Learning a lot and more from every video, but still a novice. I seem to learn the most when you do side by side comparisons, so, How would this system compare with a Goal Zero 3000 @ around $3000? I have your books. Keep up the great work!
I really like this simple system design and the Battle Born lithium batteries, but I want to scale it up. It seems to me if I wanted a higher output inverter and more solar, I would need higher capacity battery bank to work well with the higher charge and discharge rates. Have I missed something? The other question is about grounding and surge suppression since I won't be doing this on an RV, but a small system to tinker with at home. If I have a combiner box for the panels, would I just connect the surge suppressor to the negative bus bar and also the earth ground using the same bus bar terminal for both? Thanks
I will have this exact system but my panels are 12v 100w in series for 72v into an mppt charger with 2000w pure sine inverter running off a 25.6v lifpo4 with 100ah. I will have some fuses too for added protection.
what about if I am to hook up my RV to shore power? it seems like I'd be completely disabling that with this system? I love what your doing keep it up!!
this system looks like what I have been looking for. It is going to be in my house to help with some of my electricity but also for emergencies. I am going to build this so I can grab and go in case of emergency. do you think this could run a normal side by side frig and a upright freezer and one 50 watt light bulb (that is about what my pellet stove uses once it is lit) I am thinking 4 300 watt panels because I live in Pa and it is really not the best place to live for solar. What do you think. Thank you for posting videos I have learned a lot from your videos.
Yeah absolutely, should run those no problem. Only issue I could see is needing soft start for the fridge. Should work great. And thanks!! You will love the system when it's all built up. And the more solar panels the better haha
Hey thanx for all your videos I’m trying to built my own system on my school bus conversion trying to go 24v with 6 battleborn battery’s but I don’t know what I’m doing ha
I'm building this system using the exact components with exception of using (2) SOK SK12V100 batteries instead of battleborns. I would think the battery charging parameters are the same as mentioned charging limit 29.2 and float charge is 27.2 as I'm looking at the SOK datasheet.
It seems like you would want to leave a little air space between your batteries and also between the inverter and charge controller to facilitate cooling. Probably not much of an issue, but it would be easy to do. I'm curious what your thoughts are on that? Your videos are really helpful and entertaining.
Please explain battery protect. Your website says do not use. Also how do you wire battery protect for lithium batteries? Thank you also will this system work with 400 watts of solar panels?
Great videos ... really good job ! I'm building a small, off grid, B and B in the Dominican Republic. (Amazing views and sunrises). I happen to have a couple of Xantrex 24V 2000W inverter/chargers. Can I safely incorporate this into this system via the charge controller. I couldn't find a video that explains this. Again .... great job. Michael
Your videos are awesome! Does anyone know....I have made 2 12V LifePO4 batteries with 4 3.2V cells and 4s BMS'ss. Both batteries are identical. Can I put those 2 batteries in serial to make them 24V or would you recommend I use an 8s BMS and put all the cells in serial?
You do a real good job on your videos. My question is I put a battery switch into the 25ft camper I use as a camp because there is soo much hidden draws. Where does the electricity go once the batteries are on float? Is this an ok situation
I wonder if this would run my truck? I'm about to start converting a 15 foot box truck to be my main living space. Need a small fridge and an a.c. from time to time. Would this do the trick? I'm new at all this but your videos are such a big help
I bought this guys book on Amazon. Just to give him my money. He has taught me so much.
I'm a 75 yoa DIYer who is starting my first conversion build. Along the way I found how this 'may' be applied to my home electrical savings to save some money. I am floored by the price some of the conversion experts put on their electrical products. I am so thankful that I found your channel...subscribed!!!
I will be 50 this year and I am learning something new.Thank you young man.
Wow, I am 61 ‘young man’ and just started getting into this stuff. Now in Aug, 2020, it is an absolute necessity for prepping though so I also included multiple gas and propane generators and stand alone Jackery and Ego power stations along with the solar arrays just to be redundantly safe.
you old bastards screwed us over, drugs, destroying the nuclear family unit, oh and thx for the bush and clinton regimes….
I’m 70 and love to learn from this man! 😊
Well I’m 74 ,lol. Or should I say 47 with dyslexia 😂
Built this system at our of grid cabin and it is working wonderfully. Built a 24v 150ah battery from individual cells. Made a rookie mistake though....hooked to (4) 320W panels in series and didn't take into account the open circuit voltage, so it was over 150 volts a bit. Unhooked one panel until my Y branch connectors arrive and I can hook up in series and parallel. No harm done though. Thanks for all your videos man!
Thank you for tackling something 24V! There is a large community of folks that have ex-military vehicles that have either straight 24v or dual 12V/24V systems so this will be a big help. While I’m not making a camper on my truck, many other owners are so this would be helpful.
Will, as an idea. Maybe find people around where you are that are trying to setup a small system.
Go there help them and video it.
I think that would be most helpful to watch.
Wish you were near Atlanta :(
Will, what can I say? You are my one stop shop for ALL things solar. I've been a subscriber for a long while and your videos, never disappoint. You're always to the point, tell us the stuff we really need to know AND understand. I have a need to fully understand things and you present things in a way that is fully understandable. Your website is packed with info that is 100% relevant and unbelievably helpful. From technical know-how to pricing, you cover it all! I wish you all the best and am so glad for the success you're enjoying, it is well deserved. I am in New Zealand and planning to go rural and off the grid, in the not too distant future. You are providing me, with everything I need, in terms of solar, to make this possible. Many thanks buddy, I truly appreciate it, as I am sure all your followers do! keep up the great work.
When I build my own conversion I'm gonna use this, I'll feel safe go off grid for EVER!!
Hi all! I´m trying to build a "solar farm" I grow indoor whit led systems but the energy consumption increased a bit, I have a full house whit 7 divisions but i only use kitchen whit one indoor tent whit 2000w and the living room whit 2 screens and a desktop computer. When i used my irradiator before building the tent I was spending around 160 dollars per month only whit fridge, computer Heather and 3 lamps occasionally used, bathroom, bedroom and small lamp near computer. Now whit the tent the electric gear are bit more vast, fans, extractor, led lamps, weather control stuff, ac, fans. That´s why I found this channel I was thinking in have beside totally organic grows free energy! This system seams to be the best super cool solution!! Bless you! Brilliant!!. A system like this can be adapted to tent cultures and small gardens wonderful!. I would love to try this setup in a growing lab using only leds up to 4000w but the idea its save energy for those raining days to avoid a crop fiasco!. Super cool video!! Thank you for sharing!
I built this exact set up for a 500 s.f cabin and garage in NW Wisconsin. I have 1600W of panels and 2 BB batteries. I also added a charger and automatic transfer switch. Crazy power at the cabin. Fridge, vacuum, TV, Kurig, etc. On nice summer days, I charge our golf cart and have even charged our Tesla Model 3 when the sun is high. It is a beast. My board looks identical other than like I said I have added an automatic transfer switch and a 4 bank charger (I went with a 4 bank for future if I add 2 more BB batteries). It's amazing and I have never had a wire even get warm. The inverter fan rarley comes on. Maybe a few seconds when fridge kicks in or when Kurig reaches peak. So it's nice and quiet. The ll in one units form what i understand the fans run constant.
Will, love your vids, but please remember we are trying to keep up with you so when you say "This" and "That" as you move your hand quickly around the system (and you talk fast) then we don't always know what the "this" or "that" you refer to is. So we can miss a whole sentence that way. I love your explanations you really teach us well & I don't want to miss a thing you say! Another great video filled with information, education & inspiration. Thank you!
For subtitles Touch the cc square located on the top right side😺
Will, just finished wiring mine 30 mins ago copying yours except Renogy batteries. Even precharged the capacitors 😉 Thanks a bunch.
You are literally my solar hero ♡ thank you for these videos.... 5 years off grid and struggeling to understand my 12 volt solar and want to up to 24.... these vids help more than you know
I'm glad I can help 😊
Solar hero😁
Lol he ignores most replies but jumps on the hot woman calling him a hero 🤣🤣🤣
Can you blame him Ken? Lol
Is the battery bank limited to 24.4 kWh and what is 24.4 kWh.
Any one out there that can help a solar dummy?
Will, I like the use of the Battle Born batteries. This is something us common folk can use and build our system with.
Glad you have $800 for a battery, crazy 🤪,
My friend the fact you share this knowledge is selfless.
Thank you.
Great videos - something I'd like to see more detail on is grounding the system. In some systems you seem to run a cable from the inverter to a negative busbar whereas in your 2000w system i don't see one
I feel smart when I watch your videos. I try so hard to understand it too !! LOL Great video
I'm learning alot from your videos. You're the best DIY solar power teacher on TH-cam! I love your battery vids too, I'm on a budget so building my own battery packs will really help out.
Thanks again for outstanding video on 24v.
I used 12v systems for my home because it the only thing (12v) available for me at the auto parts store .
I'm a many time seasonal hurricane survival, I am doing my best to keep up on
Solar Energy. 🐵😀☺
*Video Table of Contents:*
Total Cost of the system: 3:16
How to build it: 4:34
How to series connect battle born batteries: 5:58
Charge profile for battle borns used in a 24v system: 8:29
Final Installation!: 9:12
Taking apart my tesla battery: 9:35
Blueprint and parts list: www.mobile-solarpower.com/2000-watt-24v-solar-system.html
The battle borns were provided for free to make this video.
DIY Solar Power with Will Prowse can you wire that inverter directly into a 110 v breaker distribution panel? I’d prefer to hardwire my cabin.
Can the transfer switch be connected to a generator instead of the grid?
what are the solar panels and what's the configuration of them
@@4philipp Many inverters , most of the larger ones have terminals to hard wire them in, I like the Vevor 24v 3500w inverter for a small cabin off grid.
@@mattg8787 Just string the panels in series to not have more voltage than what ever solar controller you have can handle , then you can parallel another string or two depending on what the Mttp will handle, check the specs.
Dude, youre a genius! ive been reseaching this for a while and your video is by far the best recap of all best practices. Plus, you give the parts and links. Im heading to your site now. You rock, man!
I copied this system with 4 -12v battle born and 4 renogy 100 polys it is all i need in my 63 Airstream to boon dock . accept A/C thanks for the help i also made purchases thru ur links u r welcome thanks again oh ya bought the book as well.
Nice, Will! How bout taking a shot at this setup with a 6000w inverter😎
Why did you change from Tesla batteries to LiFePO4 ?
love the channel!
I just read half your book. Your videos & your book is amazingly consistent and both keeps it simple as possible/practical. Thks
I thinks I'll use a buck-boost DCtoDC converter so I can power just about any DC appliance and grid ACtoDC battery charger.
why are you ditching the tesla batterys thanks great info
What type of solar panels are best for this set up? Also, would a high voltage alternator, 200 amp, work better with this?
You discussed doing a Victron Inverter review. I’d love to see those two Battle Born batteries in a 24V Victron setup.
You're an amazing young man. I have learned so, so much. Thanks!!!!!!!!
Captian Sanders same!
U
Thanks so much for the awesome information you're definitely gifted with the knowledge of how these systems work. We want to start a system that we can rely on to supply all our electrical needs. We are moving to the Philippines and I'm wondering if we can bring these items with us to the Philippines so that we can set it up over there for our home that is over in the Philippines. Do you think that we could have more than one system like the one you described in this video or should we just do one big system and have a bigger compliment of battery supply? Would love to have your feedback
It does look good. i'd suggest putting the fuse/connector on the side at top for easy access.
Dude - your "on board" installs are getting cleaner and cleaner. Badass. Thank you for this one, this is exactly what I was looking for. I'm going to add four 305w Canadien Solar panels and call it a day. I'm saving the money until the next van build, then I'm buying it all and installing it all there. Thanks again, I'll be coming back to this video fo sho.....
hahaha - just got to the tear down part. I wonder how much you could get if you just sold the board and all??
Awesome!! And thank you!
Oh man I agree. I was thinking of building a system and selling the whole thing. You are totally right.
Yeah Baby!! I've already sourced this at 1700 bucks and I haven't even looked at used or ebay components yet! Sahweet!! Thanks Will!
X4- UB121000-45978 12v 100AH AGM Battery $600
X1- Power Bright 2300-Watt Power Inverter $200
X4- Canadian Solar CS6K-305MS Solar Panel $800
X1- Tuscom 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller $30
X1- ABS Solar Double Cable Entry Gland $13
X1- MC4 Connectors Y Connector in Pair MMF+FFM $10
X1- Voltage Converter Regulator 24V to 12V 40A $30
X1- DC 6.5-100V 0-100A LCD Display Digital Meter $20
total $1703
Fugate University Thanks for the shopping list. I was thinking I’d like to build the system first and just use it with an AGM and save up for the lithium
Love Blue Sea products. As a HAM operator I have set up a fairly extensive DC distribution system with emergency backup power systems. Blue Sea fuse boxes are really good quality, and use them in my go boxes. I use West Mountain products for my charge controller (epic pwrgate w/ solar, battery, and power supply inputs), power guard w/ monitor, and rigrunner (dc distribution fuse type box).
In process of adding additional ah and a Giandel inverter
We need to get you addicted to Anderson Power Poles. Love them. I use them for everything in my emergency base station / radio room. AC to DC power supply for typical everyday use, battery backup with battery management system, small solar backup system, (unit takes in power supply, batteries, and solar, and manages it accordingly to supply power to equipment while either charging batteries or switching over to batteries when power goes out). From there it goes through a power guard system that shuts down the system for over or under voltage etc. from there it goes through a battery monitoring system that supplies all the desired analytics, and finally into a DC distribution panel. Also have a DC to AC inverter for small emergency uses....Giandel 1200/2400 Pure Sine Wave.
Power Poles are a great choice for east connect/disconnect and compatibility within our systems
hi! would you be able to do an updated video of this connecting more batteries?
I am putting a system together and really would like your advise but it seems that you rarely comment. I do believe you are the best in the field and great educater but responses seem to be the lack of area I feel. I like most, just do not want to get things wrong and the questions I have are very simple that you would have the answers on top of your head I am 100% positive.
I get over 100 emails a day. It is literally impossible for me to keep up. Sorry.
As soon as I win the lottery Im having you build me a system for my trailer :) God I hate paying electric bills.
I asked you a question in your most recent video but you pretty much answered it all in this video! Thanks for all the info. Great video!
thanks for your time. istalling on my boat i hope over current protection for 12 volt works well
A quick question. If the 50A circuit breaker kicks, the batteries are, in affect, no longer connected to the charge controller. The solar panels are however. Does this harm the charge controller having the panels feeding into the controller while the batteries are no longer providing power to the controller. Many thanks for all of your videos, they are a great help to us.
Would you be selling these PRE made
@@kelhawk1 PRE = pretty ridiculously expensive
I can do that
Thank you so much Will! Great job contributing useful positive help...not just ingormation , but help. There's lots of data out there, but we regular people can't access it...you have a gift 🎁 and you've shared that gift. Virtue...that's a rare thing these days. Blessed is the man who hands are busy, who's mind is active, this is a blessing from God. It echos out into time space as goodness!!!
Thank you so much for all you do. I am a female and I am old but with your videos I am sure I’m going to attempt to create a solar generator.
Is there anyway that you can create a portable solar generator with wheels? Thanks again for your knowledge.
He's Captain of Solar Energy. Awesome.
Hey I'll , I saw you in J. Garcia's video at Rich's rebuilds ! It's cool that you know each other ... my favourite lithium project experts , that are sharing "the knowledge !
Hey Will is what it said before auto correct . Can we fix that ...? LOL ....
Love when I catch one of your pre-home vids. "Future progect storage area" dude, you slay me sometimes!
1)You will need 5 volt power for charging for smartphones and staff whit USB charger (put a buck converter from 24v to 5v and to charge the little devices so you will not need to start the inverter). 2) You can buy 24 volt light bulls for lighting the camper and hook them at the battery, so you will eliminate a lot off lost. 3) The system on 24volt has lower lost power in conversions and that make it more efficient. 4) Nice video. :)
Thank you, @Will for the helpful blueprints/plans. Could you please explain the battery protect and why it says "Do not use battery protect" in your plans? Thanks
Do you have video on how to choose cable wiring and circuit breakers?
This is my issue too! I have no idea what are the specks. I didn’t catch that in video
Can you please explain why you put “don’t use battery protection” on blueprint. Thanks! Love your channel!
Thank you so much for your channel Will..... this part of building my off grid house is literally giving me anxiety. Lol. It’s been the bane of my existence lately. Ok, bane is a strong word but still.... appreciate all of your solar brains. 👍
I have been watching a lot of your videos recently! Thank you for explaining everything in layman’s terms for those of us who aren’t the most electronically savvy! Do you have any videos where you set up a solar and wind combo system?
Would this system support a 1400 BTU air conditioner in a travel trailer as well as the 6cu foot refrigerator and for how long?
Thanks for the video. Would this be a good setup to run a washing machine once a day, 120 volt - 15 amp - 1800 watts? I think there are 3 eletrical basic minimum things most people need to get by with life mostly normal: small fridge freezer, communications / internet and washing machine. Cooking can be done in many non-eletric options so assuming your in city water, I think these are the three primary items most people need. If you could make a setup designed to cover these basics I think that would be awesome!
Thanks so much for your videos - I am hoping to build a similar system for an off grid cabin. My question is how to hook this to a AC distribution box/junction box instead of using the AC outlets on the inverter.
OMG this video is intense! I really love how you explain everything. I have some basic knowledge about electronics but I really appreciate how you explain everything and it’s such a fun and entertaining video to watch!
Hi Will.
I love this system. How do I charge these batteries from shore power ? Can you recommend a simple charge controller.
Thanks.
Walker Baba i guess no replies here. Which one did u get?
This looks massively useful! How do LiFePo4 batteries do in year round 100F? Thanks.
As someone else from east county San Diego. I would love to hangout sometime im a full-time nomad currently I'm building a skoolie. Im planning a 220v ac mini split so this really helps
Hey, I've got 2 lithium battery 100ah and a victron mppt 100/30 and a 550watts solar can they work together to make 24v system????
Thanks for the video in 5+ years I plan on grabbing a 25 foot e450 motorhome for 17-18 grand and live on the road traveling every few months from rv park area to park area around the country too. Your channel will be a helpful guide when the time comes for me to set up a solar system :P
So what happens to all the equipment you review? I’d be willing to pay shipping on some of your leftovers.
24v200 lifepo4 would be nice.
Hello, Will 😊 You taught me electricity and solar power so thank you so much! How do you feel about the Tiny Watts Solar 500w solar panel roof deck being used in your 24v system??
I earned something in my experimenting with my Bioenno 12 Volt LiFePO4 Batteries. I have 560 Watts of Solar on our Storage Shed roof. I run the power from them into our living room, where I set up the Bioenno Charge Controller & the 100 Amp Battery. The 100 Amp Battery is connected to a SAMLEX 600 Watt PURE Sine Inverter. Using this setup in this way, the MOST I have ever been able to get into the 100 Amp Battery is 13.8 Volts.
HOWEVER:
If I make this change; I send the power to one of the 40 Amp Batteries, from there I go to a 350 Watt PURE Sine Inverter, and run one of the 6 Amp Chargers off of that Inverter and charge the 100 Amp Battery THAT way, using the solar setup in this manner, I can bring the the 100 Amp Battery all the way up to 14.2 Volts, although the 40 Amp Battery also will not charge above 13.8 Volts when running this way-exactly as the 100 Amp Battery behaves when charging via Solar only.
I'm sure after doing this now for several Months that none of this has hurt either battery. I even tried it using the 12 Amp Battery to run the 350 Watt Inverter to charge the 100 Amp Battery-the 12 Amp Battery didn't like it, but it worked nonetheless. Because of the lower Amperage of the smallest battery and the draw pulled by the Inverter & the 6 Amp Charger, the 12 Volt Battery DOES drop to 12.9 Volts, but I CAN fully charge the 100 Amp Battery this way in a pinch. I will NOT do this as a rule-I just wanted to see if it would work. It does.
What I think I WILL do however, is charge the 40 Amp Batteries this way if I need to.
This is only being used as a stopgap measure until I can get some more Panels. But its good to know this is available in an emergency.
Bruce A. Forster
Note: Using this method, a person CAN Build a "Hybrid" combo of Lead Acid and Lithium Batteries. Just be sure to isolate the two Chemistries from each other when charging by using an Inverter and battery-specific charger.
Can you do more 24v diy videos. Not a lot of content on the tube for 24v. Love your channel and your book btw.. Very detailed and informative.
Just making this now, parts arrived today. But as I don’t own the house I’ll make some electric for a few hours then buy a van to stick it all on 😀 Will, you didn’t factor the van into the costs 🤣
just the information I need irt solar set up. Question: would any of the other components (in this set up) have to change if a 3000w inverter is used ??? Thankhz so much for sharing Will... Wholeness n Love ((-;
Ditto. Will? Do you have a video on going to 3000w or 4000w inverters? And Pure Sine also?
TIA!
The inverter should be hooked up directly to the battery or the bus bar from the battery so everything else can stay the same. Higher power inverters will require thicker cables between them and the batteries and drain the batteries quicker though. Make sure to match the inverter voltage model to the battery set up. I have two 12v batteries connected in series so use a 24 volt inverter to step up to US 120 vac house current. I have a 2500 watt inverter at 24v so use a pretty hefty 2 gauge cable, which is little over kill.
can this work if I have dishwasher, laundry machine, oven etc? and btw your videos are all amazing and well instructed
2000W is enough, but with one small condition: Those things have AC motors in, which means they need a proper sine wave. A lot of cheap inverters don't provide a true sine output. So long as you don't cheap out on the inverter though, should be fine.
How long can those two batteries power 1500 watts ? Thank you
As always will your videos are amazing I have a specific question. My setup is a little different from what you have setup. I have four panels at 330 Watts a piece with a 3000w 24 volt inverter and a 60 amp charge controller with 6 lithium ion Nissan Leaf batteries holding 1500 watts and 370 amp hours. My question is if I'm going to actually need step down converter and if I hook it up correctly I shouldn't need a charger correct? I had to edit this and just read your form and said you're not here for consultation and I completely understand. You probably get a thousand questions a day. Either way thank you so much for your videos your wealth of knowledge is extremely helpful.
Why did you choose the LiFePO4 Batteries over the sweet Tesla battery you configured? 24V rocks!
Thanks!
Mainly peace of mind. If anything goes wrong with Tesla, fire happens. Super rare in properly designed system, but I will be traveling soon and I don't want to worry about anything
Hey young man you are amazing .... I'm a lady building my van I want to go with your 24v System I bought your book but should I buy the
one Battle 24v 50AH or 2 12 V 100AH ? Thank you
Nice video sir. 👍 thanks for helping people with this solar gen info. Everybody needs to learn how to speak watts someday.
Hi Will have you done the video on how to wake up the lithium battery please I’ve been following but not seen it yet
Hey Will, love your videos, you are my go to in offgrid. I really this system you have built, could you use this system to run a 240volt caravan (Trailer), lol I'm in Australia? I'm trying to set up a system so I can live offgrid. I run a fridge, air-conditioner and coffee machine, laptop, lights and for charging phones etc. Essentially I want a system that takes over and runs my entire van offgrid, but reverts back to AC when I'm in a park. Hoping you can facilitate with this or perhaps do a TH-cam video showing a build and blueprint. Thanks and keep putting these great videos. You are the Guru!
Ok, I want to build my first system for an RV. I know NOTHING about building a solar system. Your videos are awesome, and I am learning as I go with you. How do I find out exactly what I need to build to be off grid self sufficient, including refrigerator, and a/c ? Do you have a video just for this, or should I look on your website ? Please keep up the great work, you are one of the best channels on youtube
Awesome! And I think you will find what you need on my website at www.mobile-solarpower.com
Really good job with these. Big fan. Learning a lot and more from every video, but still a novice.
I seem to learn the most when you do side by side comparisons, so,
How would this system compare with a Goal Zero 3000 @ around $3000?
I have your books. Keep up the great work!
I'm looking to build something in the 2000w range by slowly adding panels. Great video.
Just a thought, putting the inverter upside down means things can fall into the fans and also dust settles inside.
I really like this simple system design and the Battle Born lithium batteries, but I want to scale it up. It seems to me if I wanted a higher output inverter and more solar, I would need higher capacity battery bank to work well with the higher charge and discharge rates. Have I missed something? The other question is about grounding and surge suppression since I won't be doing this on an RV, but a small system to tinker with at home. If I have a combiner box for the panels, would I just connect the surge suppressor to the negative bus bar and also the earth ground using the same bus bar terminal for both? Thanks
Very good comparison touching all aspects of the system (performances and costs). Thanks
When doubling two more battle born batteries like this do you need to balance again?
I will have this exact system but my panels are 12v 100w in series for 72v into an mppt charger with 2000w pure sine inverter running off a 25.6v lifpo4 with 100ah. I will have some fuses too for added protection.
Fuses and breakers. And shut off switches in-between every connection.
My 1 battery costs 1500 dollars
what about if I am to hook up my RV to shore power? it seems like I'd be completely disabling that with this system? I love what your doing keep it up!!
Well organized and hope we can buy the premade one. There would be alot of people buy that premade one
this system looks like what I have been looking for. It is going to be in my house to help with some of my electricity but also for emergencies. I am going to build this so I can grab and go in case of emergency. do you think this could run a normal side by side frig and a upright freezer and one 50 watt light bulb (that is about what my pellet stove uses once it is lit) I am thinking 4 300 watt panels because I live in Pa and it is really not the best place to live for solar. What do you think. Thank you for posting videos I have learned a lot from your videos.
Yeah absolutely, should run those no problem. Only issue I could see is needing soft start for the fridge. Should work great. And thanks!! You will love the system when it's all built up. And the more solar panels the better haha
Hey thanx for all your videos
I’m trying to built my own system on my school bus conversion trying to go 24v with 6 battleborn battery’s but I don’t know what I’m doing ha
Hi, nice video, I have question, which is the charging time, suppose that you use all the battery power?
I'm building this system using the exact components with exception of using (2) SOK SK12V100 batteries instead of battleborns. I would think the battery charging parameters are the same as mentioned charging limit 29.2 and float charge is 27.2 as I'm looking at the SOK datasheet.
Hey Will, great vid. If you wanna get rid of the Tesla I'll flip ya for it. Heads I win, tails you lose. You can flip the coin.
Interesting marketing concept and it works!
It seems like you would want to leave a little air space between your batteries and also between the inverter and charge controller to facilitate cooling. Probably not much of an issue, but it would be easy to do. I'm curious what your thoughts are on that? Your videos are really helpful and entertaining.
I’d love to see a solar set up and how to wire for different lengths from the batters let’s say 10 feet to 35 feet.
Please explain battery protect. Your website says do not use. Also how do you wire battery protect for lithium batteries? Thank you also will this system work with 400 watts of solar panels?
This would be a great template for young entrepreneurs here in Yuma to start a mobile solar installation business.
Great videos ... really good job ! I'm building a small, off grid, B and B in the Dominican Republic. (Amazing views and sunrises). I happen to have a couple of Xantrex 24V 2000W inverter/chargers. Can I safely incorporate this into this system via the charge controller. I couldn't find a video that explains this.
Again .... great job.
Michael
Dude... You're awesome .. I applaud your ingenuity ...
Your videos are awesome! Does anyone know....I have made 2 12V LifePO4 batteries with 4 3.2V cells and 4s BMS'ss. Both batteries are identical. Can I put those 2 batteries in serial to make them 24V or would you recommend I use an 8s BMS and put all the cells in serial?
You do a real good job on your videos. My question is I put a battery switch into the 25ft camper I use as a camp because there is soo much hidden draws. Where does the electricity go once the batteries are on float? Is this an ok situation
I wonder if this would run my truck? I'm about to start converting a 15 foot box truck to be my main living space. Need a small fridge and an a.c. from time to time. Would this do the trick? I'm new at all this but your videos are such a big help
Amazing how much things have advanced in 4 years. Now we just need an all-in-one inverter and a rack mount battery and save all that extra wiring,
Thank you so much for making this video I did almost the same thing and as a noob to this it really helped a lot.