Going to order one of these today from you guys. Want to support the group of folks that inspired me to change scope of my solar project. Thank you guys!
looking forward to your review on this also. i would love to have this in my home but just a little pricey for me. i just received my 6500eg4 last week. start out with what i can afford and upgrade later. I enjoy both of your channels btw. keep up the good work.
Seems the manual transfer switch is important if the Sol Ark goes down or needs servicing. The internal bypass is great, but if you remove or service the Sol Ark, you'll need that manual transfer switch to redirect grid power from the Sol Ark's 200A bypass to the service panel. Otherwise, you are without power if the Sol-Ark is out of commission.
It is so nice. I have 3 months on it and a few software tweaks were made by Sol-ark. It is so great to have a company that will actually listen to the installer and end user!
Good video on a great product. 3+ months off-grid. 20.6kw, two 12k, 132kWh diy battery. Keeping the power shed a cool 64-72F with a Fujitsu 33 SEER 9000 btu.
What BMS did you do for your batteries? Is it talking back to the SolArk? 485 or CAN? I'm building my Winston Thunder Sky pack and trying to figure out options to my 12K.
Our 15 kw sol ark will arrive on the 13th if June via a LTL freight company. Our first attempt of powering off grid, alot to learn, watching your videos over the past years had a great influence on our decision to buy Sol-ark 15kw....I probably should have your team to make all the connections....after We set the system in place...."Stay your course" from East Tennessee
@@psu8782 We are running all the cables and mounting systems ourselves and thinking on contracting Engineer #775 to inspect and make final connections and commissioning the unit. It is a ton of work for my wife and I, right now we are building the Electric room / shed to house the batteries and the 15kw inverter. (Cement block building for fire protection)
How does this unit handle unbalanced loads (the problem the Sol-Ark 12k experiences)? I'd be interested in see a real world unbalanced load. Sol-Ark says it can go unbalanced to 6000w differential, and if so, this is great! Just want to see if it truly can handle that big of an unbalanced load for more than 30 seconds (or a few minutes would be better). Thanks for the video!
Ive heard and seen incredible things about the HomeGrid Battery. Such as it hands down beats all others out there. Also this Sol-ark and the HomGrid battery have FULL communication between the battery and inverter. Can you Please do the review and post it soon.
Awesomeness 775!!! I've always been impressed with Sol-ark and love the customer support. So glad you got to test out this next generation 15k. Not going to lie, I'm definitely jealous 😅. But in the end we all win with this beautifully designed & tested product. Thanks Sol-ark and thank you E775 for sharing with us!
I’m considering having the Solark 15K with the Home Grid stacked 38.4 KWH installed at my house. This video has given me great information as to what to expect from the installation. Thanks
Man those sol ark systems are the bees knees...one day I hope to afford to buy one so I don't have to depend on the grid any longer. My bill was 130 a month now it's 300 for the same amount used...I've lost faith in everything our infrastructure supplies. God help us...
I love this product. We need a utility disconnect and if the utility were to use it you need a bypass to repower you main panel with utility power. Otherwise i don't believe they would approve it.
Scott, Glad to see you got your 15k up and running. Must be nice. Over a year ago we purchased the 12k and a solar mini split from you. We spoke on the phone re you coming up here to install our panels and special order a pole mount for another system. You were to give us an estimate. Despite my sending emails and leaving voice mails, we never heard from you again! You got our money then ditched us. Thanks
Good afternoon, we see your comment and are concerned! We couldn't find you in our records by the name on your profile, could you reach out via email (info@practicalpreppers.com) and provide either your order number or name on the order? If the order wasn't fulfilled we will work immediately to correct the situation. Have a great day, take care.
Nice review. What is the model of that bypass you have and what did you find when you quit using it on other jobs you did? My thinking was that if the Sol Ark dies it would be nice to have that bypass so you can keep the property running from the grid while you swap units. For instance, if you had to ship it in for warranty work would be nice to not miss a beat and keep running off grid during that time. If it isn't a huge cost seems like a smart thing to keep using. I presume you kept the 200A disconnects?
Very nice system! Right now it’s m been up and running on twin Mpp 6548’s. I’m limited to ground array 4400w.(terra-cotta tile roof🤬!). I definitely am sold on the Sol-Arc 12 k inverters. My plan is to move from cookie CA to somewhere from the Chattanooga to So Carolina latitude. Off grid small home(just me now) but lots of land around me. I see twin Sol-arc!s and ten s as Eg4 batteries and lots of panels in my future. Thanks for the great videos. Great 4k resolution by the way.
Intro looked like Moorefield Memorial Hwy going up towards Rocky Bottom. Last year we sold our cabin at 1211 Moorefield which is just up past the switchbacks. That is a beautiful drive.
Hey brother, I have an old John Deere tractor that has sat in my shop for way too long. it needs a complete restoration and you're the man I would go to to get it done. I've done a few things on it but that is not my wheelhouse. Are you looking for another project? Lol
I love the whole concept of this 15k unit. But "transformerless" doesn't seem like an advantage to me. A transformer keeps the 120v legs balanced. I have a 12kW inverter/charger now that weighs 200 lbs. because of that transformer and it's been bullet-proof. But has nowhere near the features of this... not even close. Have you tested loading up individual legs to 6kW?
Thanks for all the videos. Have you done any of the bidirectional chargers that come with newer Ford electric (Lightning) pickup? I am looking at a Sol-Ark 15K and want to know how well they get along. Thanks
You mentioned you might do a video on the Homegrid you've been using. Looks like a nicely-conceived storage solution. Looking forward to your thoughts on it!
Anyway if I ever move back to Georgia I'll have you decide a system for me. Living in Texas right now it's great to be in Texas but no one where I live there's anything about solar. Or how to put in grounds I could do most everything myself except for the grandmas love you process.
I feel you there. I'm in West Texas and ending up talking an outfit that usually sticks with EnPhase in to doing their first Sol-Ark install. And even if you're willing to trade experience for expedience, it's hard to find solar installers willing to do something outside of their comfort zone.
ENGINEER 775, WE ARE IN THE PROCESS OF MAKING A DECISION ON A SOLAR SYSTEM. HERE MOST OF THE LOCAL VENDORS QUOTE ENPHASE. WE HAVE ALWAYS LIKE THE SOL-ARK BECAUSE OF THE VERSATILITY AND LIKE YOU WAITING ON THE 15k. THANK YOU! WE LOOK FORWARD TO FURTHER VIDEO UPDATES SO WE CAN MAKE THE BEST DECISION FOR OUR SMALL COTTAGE
Great vid. My understanding from SolArk is that it will pass through 100% of the AC coupled PV power, with no limits. The limitation is 15kW exportation of the DC coupled PV and/or batteries.
@@engineer775 Ah, right. But it will still produce an additional 15kWh through its own inverter, so a maximum of 34kWh can be pushed out for grid export.
So with 2x 15k and enough 410 watt panels, plus those easy starts on two AC units, this sounds like full house running off grid with NO critical load panel as this can run everything. Thoughts? That’s the dream by the way. Has anyone used an easy start on a pool pump? Sounds like an interesting test.
You don't need two. It is cheaper to buy microinverters (Sol-Ark is about to release them) to supply AC directly to the 15k unit. That way the 15k can supply both the battery power and the AC from the microinverters, it will essentially double your available power, assuming you have like a 20+ kwh battery. Then if you add the Sol-Ark Smart Load box (about to release), you will essentially triple your available power.
Wow, having that 200 amp bypass and bigger knockouts is a real game changer for this inverter, but the redundancy of that separate bypass/transfer is nice. When adding a system like this to an older home with a tight meter main where do you like to place the CT units ?
PLEASE BE SO KIND and answer following: -Does it shut down anytime on inductive loads like other sol arks? Is it shut down when reaching close to the rating of one phase towards neutral when slightly imbalanced or at the half rated power? Can I run 2 different battery chemistries since there are 2 battery inputs??
We spoke on the phone several months ago. I am building an off grid homestead in SE Missouri with 14k solar array and planning to have one Sol-Ark 15, 18-36kWHr battery ( either Fortress or Homegrid). Saw a video of SolArk15 vs Schneider pro and the Schneider won. But that adds several more components. What are your thoughts on Schneider vs Sol-Ark? Also planning on a Cummins 17-20 kW generator (propane) just in case summer AC (mini split) or days of winter storms start to drain the system in early mornings. Thanks for your advise and these videos!
How will your new solar inverter do in an EMP blast - will the wire, inverter, batteries be shielded enough to survive? - Is the 8 guage wire from the solar arrays large enough guage for the long distances you are running them 200 to 400 feet - do you see alot of voltage loss from the Array to the inverter? Do you need to step up the guage of the wire with long distances??
When your are talking about the energy production of this equipment I think it’s important to use the correct terminology. When you say “the most I made is 100 kilowatts in a day” I’m pretty sure you really mean 100 kilowatt-hours in a day, otherwise it’s confusing and suggests the system is producing 100 kilowatts of power at one moment in time. Watts is power- instantaneous/ Watt hours is energy produced/ consumed over a period of time.
I have not but I am planning to test my hydro system and run it into one of the MPPTs. My hydro unit is about a thousand feet away so it's going to be a while and a lot of trenching and planning as I have a lot of other gear that needs to go in the trench for other cool projects
I’m about to do a new fully off grid personal home. 20kw solar array. 30kw battery bank. 22kw backup generator, no grid tie. I plan to use the 15k. Anything else you think I should consider?
I’ve been back and forth and can’t decide between Solark, Schneider or Outback. Have a deep well pump which uses 9600w surge and 1700w run. Selling back to grid is not an option. Average usage during a 24hr day is 13kw for critical loads including pump. Peak usage at any point in time, not surge, is 4.5kw.
They all work but you will fill the wall with outback and Schneider products to do what this 15k will do. And add enough solar to compensate for little lack of efficiency in the outback and Schneider products. I have a stacked 8048a radian system that doesn't even come close.
@@engineer775 Thanks for the reply. So what you’re saying is just get the Solark. Lol. Surprised two stacked Radians can’t compete. Thinking of paying for a consult with you. Have a cabin up in Roan Mountain, TN at about 5k elevation that I want to take ‘mostly’ off grid. 90 mph winds are typical in storms all year long at that elevation
When you said it has a max of 50 amps, did you mean that if solar is down and the grid is down the max you can pull from your batteries is 50amps? For example trophy batteries have a 200amp bms and wondered if your batteries were the limit you were talking about? Thanks
@Engineer775 Buying one next month. Can't wait. I also have a charge point EVSE. My Mach E pulls 11.5KW on it set to 48A (60A breaker) what is yours set up to do?
I am an Electrical Engineer - Something is not passing the smell test here - If this is a true 15KW Inverter at 240VAC is 62.5 Amps - Not the 50 Amps discussed in the video for the larger circuits - For 62.5 Amps the wire gauge must be greater than 4 gauge for runs over 10 feet to the battery, generator, etc!! Those long runs will require 2 gauge and/or 1/0 gauge cable depending on how long they are? Will the 15KW inverter accept these larger cable sizes at the cable input terminals???? Using 8 Gauge wiring will definitely is not big enough for the solar array wiring so far away 200 to 300 feet from the house - since their will be huge voltage drops from the solar array to the inverter input if only 8 Gauge wire used - probably should be 1/0 gauge or larger wire size. It was said there is 3 MPPT for interfacing to the solar array - each is at 6500 watts at 48 volts - 8 gauge wire will not handle that power need - since it is only good to 50 amps. Need 1 (1/0) Gauge wire to handle that. If 8 gauge wire was used to the solar array - Need to measure the voltage at the solar array and at the inverter input - double check the voltage drop on very long runs - I bet it was significant power loss. I would tend to think the solar array connections will require heavy power connectors also - like the battery power input. Plus if the inverter switches 200amp service - 4 Gauge wire will not cut it - need wiring for 3/0 Gauge to handle the 240VAC/ 200 Amp Load - Each House is different in solar design. I recommend a fully certified electrician to review the solar system design and cabling to all the components to the electrical code for your area - for all wire sizing based on amperage and Length of cable to be compliant to the electrical code. Last question - is this a Pure Sine-Wave Inverter - will it output clean sine wave power for computers, network, TVs and Power Sensitive Devices? Or is it a Square wave inverter? Need an Oscilloscope to look at the AC output wave coming from the inverter output?? Is this 15KW Inverter UL Listed and Tested - before we put this on our House Power 200 AMP Mains?? Do Not want to void our Homeowners Insurance??
I think you're misunderstanding when I was saying. I totally trust the internal bypass as it meets UL 1741. What I don't like is having to rely on the bypass working when there is any type of inverter failure. If any part of the inverter fails, I still need to remove it from the system and when I do that that will take the house down for an unknown period of time. By putting in a manual bypass, you have peace of mind that you can put the house back on grid while you make your repairs. This takes nothing away from the 200 amp pass through which makes this inverter better than any on the market. So there are three topics here, transfer switches, internal bypasses and external manual bypasses.
I'm always a bit jealous of people who have the money to have that much land where they can have open space for solar panels. And can afford to do things right. I built a system but I only got about 3 hours of sunlight a day to work with so I have to get all of my charge between 11:00 and 2:00 p.m.
So it has been a year since this video, and in the newer videos you are putting the bypass back in. Could you address that, and could your recommend the model bypass if that is what you are recommending?
Me. Want. I like my magnum MS4448PAE and its been working fine with some quirks. Its annoying when I need to kill all power to reset certain faults. I keep liking these Solark units the more I see it. I want to build a utility shed like you have. I want to bring all the utilities into it and go underground from there to my house and pole building.
Enjoyed your video as always. Keep up the good work and btw what upgrades did you add to the F-450 platinum. I may have missed it one of the other videos.
I’m interested to see what two of these can do in parallel! I will have two 200 amp panels and a 320amp meter base. I’m interested to see how this will interface with their critical loads panel as well.
We will be doing that soon. Great is already combined at the meter base so we will be combining the output and with two of these inverters and 200 amp pass through for each, there's no reason to put in a critical loads panel
@@engineer775 Interesting. I misspoke earlier I was thinking of the new solark smartload 14. I think that might still be necessary when you are only running on battery right?
What do you mean forget about a generator? How long would your batteries last of there were no power or back to back rainy days? Im in Florida and need to run my AC
This is absolutely awesome, so pumped this has come to market before our home build so we can go this route! If using a solar shed in this way, what would you say is an ideal range/distance to keep the home and other outbuildings in to receive AC power? Thanks Scott.
@@practicalpreppers7798 I do plan to add batteries, but I'm currently waiting on installation of a 21kW grid tied system at my house and trying to figure out if I should add this 15k to the install. and then I can wait to add batteries later $$. Thank you for these videos
I've asked the same question, waiting for an official response from Sol-Ark or an installer who's actually tested it. AC-coupling was a non-starter for off-grid until the IQ8s arrived.
As a LF inverter, can the 15K start multiple AC's (4.5T, 2T both with micro-air soft starts)? Pool pumps? If it's also supplied with grid AC, will it just bypass smoothly if those things all chose to start at once?
Hello , awesome Videos!!! It would be awesome if you do a comparison and compatibility video for Storz batteries? Can you use Storz 5.12 kWh batteries with other server rack batteries? Are Storz batteries better than other LiFePO4 Server rack batteries for off and home backup use?
I like the idea that it has a 200 amp transfer switch built in. But that would require a license electrician to install it and that would mean building permits which would mean higher taxes.
@@basspig Yes, your location. This is not the same everywhere, licensed electricians are not strictly required by the National code, just local ones. Grid tied with a service passthru would not only require permits and inspections but the Utility approval as well. But just because it has a feature does not mean it must be used-if the inverter does everything else you want but you do not want tied, just dont.
Is this an EMP hardened system? Any idea if they will make something for the EU market, looking at solar for off grid with the addition of wind power for the winter. Interesting thing is I run a 120vac system here in the house for American equipment I brought with me but everything else is 220vac.
I have a question about parallel stacking the 15k. The specs say 50a continuous output off-grid, if I stack two together will I get 100a continuous, if I stack 3 together will I get 150a continuous? Also, what is the limit to this? If I stack 12 of the units together will I be able to get 600a continuous? Also, are there any 48v batteries out there can handle a 600a discharge rate? What is the highest discharge rate you can find in a 48v battery or does it even matter? What I am trying to find out is what is the maximum off-grid capability of a 48v system?
I have a 48 panel Enphase solar system. Have been considering battery backup. Can the Sol-Ark 15k take the place of one IQ 10 battery plus smart switch?
I do believe that to reach the next level battery voltage will be going up and that the 48 volt systems have been maxed out. I don't know the timing of it though.
I’d like to add a Simple Pump to my well head, but I’m 80 and am afraid I’d do something wrong. Do you think I could do it myself? I live near Ft. Myers Fl.
I am hard to impress after close to two decades of photovoltaic and battery inverter/controller installations… the Sol Ark 15k is a marvel. I have never seen any machine work on this level. If you want a solar battery backup, you want this machine. It’s worth the price and then some.
Please mention how long you have used one….? Seems like multiple company’s are offering similar features …but efficiency and ratings differ….I’ve been running (4) outback’s for 15 yrs and not one failure except a fan… I’d rather try programming a pair for 120/240….and limit charge current…..
@@offgridmangogrower I worked alongside Scott putting in the one from the video. Outbacks are good machines. That’s awesome that you’ve had a system for that many years.
@@willistisdale4293 that’s a wonderful Endorsement…how long has the sol arc 15 been out thereworking and how many have failed.? A few years back I was researching solar inverter driven pumps….lots of china supplied failures due to our hot afternoon temps. Went with water cooled immersed solar pumps. Let’s face it ambient and insitu heat kills them.
@@offgridmangogrower The 15k Sol Ark is a very new product so I can’t answer you empirically. I’m impressed with it, and have been impressed with the years long performance of other SolArk inverters I have worked with. The amount of service required on Solark machines has been less than or equal to any other battery back up equipment I’ve worked on and the performance/flexibility is next level. The customer satisfaction level has been high.
practicalpreppers.com/product/sol-ark-15k-the-ultimate-off-grid-solar-inverter/
@@texasguy6207 me as well. Could not find his email
Going to order one of these today from you guys. Want to support the group of folks that inspired me to change scope of my solar project. Thank you guys!
@@wadebrewer7212 we appreciate that Wade!
@@texasguy6207 practicalpreppers@gmail.com
@@BigBobbyK practicalpreppers@gmail.com
That thing is insane. The 200A bypass makes install so simple. Will get mine in a few days. Can't wait to play with the settings. It does everything!
Just does everything. Such a capable unit. Nice setup engineer775
@@WillProwse Thanks Will! I look forward to seeing what you think of it.
looking forward to your review on this also. i would love to have this in my home but just a little pricey for me. i just received my 6500eg4 last week. start out with what i can afford and upgrade later. I enjoy both of your channels btw. keep up the good work.
Wow. I can't believe I got the Sol-Ark 15k before Will Prowse.
If only I had his knowledge to install it myself.
I can't wait for mine, only gripe is not being able to keep it LAN only with Z-wave + Home Assistant.
Everything else is perfect!
Seems the manual transfer switch is important if the Sol Ark goes down or needs servicing. The internal bypass is great, but if you remove or service the Sol Ark, you'll need that manual transfer switch to redirect grid power from the Sol Ark's 200A bypass to the service panel. Otherwise, you are without power if the Sol-Ark is out of commission.
It's nice that Scott can test these systems at his home before selling them to the customers.
It is so nice. I have 3 months on it and a few software tweaks were made by Sol-ark. It is so great to have a company that will actually listen to the installer and end user!
@@engineer775 can you email me for rough costs
It’s awesome
Good video on a great product. 3+ months off-grid. 20.6kw, two 12k, 132kWh diy battery. Keeping the power shed a cool 64-72F with a Fujitsu 33 SEER 9000 btu.
Awesome! I added the cooling yesterday with a DIY MR cool 12k. It's freezing in there.
Would love to see a video of your install, sounds legit. Please upload one, it’s super easy!
What BMS did you do for your batteries? Is it talking back to the SolArk? 485 or CAN? I'm building my Winston Thunder Sky pack and trying to figure out options to my 12K.
Cool to see that you test the stuff you sell in your own place!
I agree! It is cool to be able to test all the equipment!
Our 15 kw sol ark will arrive on the 13th if June via a LTL freight company. Our first attempt of powering off grid, alot to learn, watching your videos over the past years had a great influence on our decision to buy Sol-ark 15kw....I probably should have your team to make all the connections....after We set the system in place...."Stay your course" from East Tennessee
Keep us updated on your progress! Really jealous but looking to jump in the deep end with this!
Did you get the unit installed yourself and how does it look now? I am also looking at the system in E. TN.
@@psu8782 We are running all the cables and mounting systems ourselves and thinking on contracting Engineer #775 to inspect and make final connections and commissioning the unit. It is a ton of work for my wife and I, right now we are building the Electric room / shed to house the batteries and the 15kw inverter. (Cement block building for fire protection)
How does this unit handle unbalanced loads (the problem the Sol-Ark 12k experiences)? I'd be interested in see a real world unbalanced load. Sol-Ark says it can go unbalanced to 6000w differential, and if so, this is great! Just want to see if it truly can handle that big of an unbalanced load for more than 30 seconds (or a few minutes would be better). Thanks for the video!
Hope this is answered in public!
Ive heard and seen incredible things about the HomeGrid Battery. Such as it hands down beats all others out there. Also this Sol-ark and the HomGrid battery have FULL communication between the battery and inverter. Can you Please do the review and post it soon.
I'd like to see some more setups with zero export. Would love a 15k set up for zero export with AC and DC coupled solar.
Awesomeness 775!!! I've always been impressed with Sol-ark and love the customer support. So glad you got to test out this next generation 15k. Not going to lie, I'm definitely jealous 😅. But in the end we all win with this beautifully designed & tested product. Thanks Sol-ark and thank you E775 for sharing with us!
Thank you for the very kind comment!
Could you do a general video on how you size a system, and what options there are?
I like it -- all those big terminals and 3 mppt !! -- its got the guts !!
I’m considering having the Solark 15K with the Home Grid stacked 38.4 KWH installed at my house. This video has given me great information as to what to expect from the installation. Thanks
Man those sol ark systems are the bees knees...one day I hope to afford to buy one so I don't have to depend on the grid any longer. My bill was 130 a month now it's 300 for the same amount used...I've lost faith in everything our infrastructure supplies. God help us...
We are bombarded with similar stories of utility price hikes.
I love this product. We need a utility disconnect and if the utility were to use it you need a bypass to repower you main panel with utility power. Otherwise i don't believe they would approve it.
That wouldn’t be a problem to add that if the utility requires that type of switch
Scott,
Glad to see you got your 15k up and running. Must be nice.
Over a year ago we purchased the 12k and a solar mini split from you. We spoke on the phone re you coming up here to install our panels and special order a pole mount for another system.
You were to give us an estimate. Despite my sending emails and leaving voice mails, we never heard from you again!
You got our money then ditched us. Thanks
Good afternoon, we see your comment and are concerned! We couldn't find you in our records by the name on your profile, could you reach out via email (info@practicalpreppers.com) and provide either your order number or name on the order? If the order wasn't fulfilled we will work immediately to correct the situation. Have a great day, take care.
Hope SolArk will build some quality off grid inverters that will also handle solar ,wind and hydro.Great review on the 15k
To say your system is awesome is an understatement!
Thank you! it is a blessing and I enjoy being able to test every feature and all possible installation scenarios.
Nice review. What is the model of that bypass you have and what did you find when you quit using it on other jobs you did? My thinking was that if the Sol Ark dies it would be nice to have that bypass so you can keep the property running from the grid while you swap units. For instance, if you had to ship it in for warranty work would be nice to not miss a beat and keep running off grid during that time. If it isn't a huge cost seems like a smart thing to keep using. I presume you kept the 200A disconnects?
Very nice system! Right now it’s m been up and running on twin Mpp 6548’s. I’m limited to ground array 4400w.(terra-cotta tile roof🤬!). I definitely am sold on the Sol-Arc 12 k inverters. My plan is to move from cookie CA to somewhere from the Chattanooga to So Carolina latitude. Off grid small home(just me now) but lots of land around me. I see twin Sol-arc!s and ten s as Eg4 batteries and lots of panels in my future. Thanks for the great videos. Great 4k resolution by the way.
We love to see that HomeGrid Battery!
Intro looked like Moorefield Memorial Hwy going up towards Rocky Bottom. Last year we sold our cabin at 1211 Moorefield which is just up past the switchbacks. That is a beautiful drive.
It is a great ride but I think this snip was from a ride up Caesars head.
As long as I have been watching you it's still all Greek to me. But I know who to call if I can ever get to a point of installing solar.
Hey brother, I have an old John Deere tractor that has sat in my shop for way too long. it needs a complete restoration and you're the man I would go to to get it done. I've done a few things on it but that is not my wheelhouse. Are you looking for another project? Lol
Awesome. My installer isn't getting mine in stock until end of June so can't install until July but I'm really looking forward to it.
Have him check again as they are available now.
I love the whole concept of this 15k unit. But "transformerless" doesn't seem like an advantage to me. A transformer keeps the 120v legs balanced. I have a 12kW inverter/charger now that weighs 200 lbs. because of that transformer and it's been bullet-proof. But has nowhere near the features of this... not even close. Have you tested loading up individual legs to 6kW?
Thanks for all the videos. Have you done any of the bidirectional chargers that come with newer Ford electric (Lightning) pickup? I am looking at a Sol-Ark 15K and want to know how well they get along. Thanks
I have been looking forward to this. Thanks for covering it.
Dang.. Wish you could do it for us in Jupiter... Can't find experienced electricians right now down here.
Jupiter FL? If so shoot me a message I’m in CA but have a buddy who regularly installs these in FL.
Love your Videos, Sir. Thank you for sharing :)
Awesome!! Wish I had the money to do that at the house we’re building.
Thanks
You mentioned you might do a video on the Homegrid you've been using. Looks like a nicely-conceived storage solution. Looking forward to your thoughts on it!
Im waiting for the load shed. Then putting it in my home being built.
So excited to get my 15K. Now I can't wait to see about that smart load 14
I just turned on the beta smart load today! But I was told to wait a bit as the software isn't quite ready.
@@practicalpreppers7798 is there a ETA for the smart load panel?
@@practicalpreppers7798
Cool. What about the microinverters?
@@dialecticalmonist3405 I am hoping to get my hands on the micro inverters for a fun test and review in August.
Anyway if I ever move back to Georgia I'll have you decide a system for me. Living in Texas right now it's great to be in Texas but no one where I live there's anything about solar. Or how to put in grounds I could do most everything myself except for the grandmas love you process.
I feel you there. I'm in West Texas and ending up talking an outfit that usually sticks with EnPhase in to doing their first Sol-Ark install. And even if you're willing to trade experience for expedience, it's hard to find solar installers willing to do something outside of their comfort zone.
Impressive and thanks.
Can you faraday cage those batteries ?
ENGINEER 775, WE ARE IN THE PROCESS OF MAKING A DECISION ON A SOLAR SYSTEM. HERE MOST OF THE LOCAL VENDORS QUOTE ENPHASE. WE HAVE ALWAYS LIKE THE SOL-ARK BECAUSE OF THE VERSATILITY AND LIKE YOU WAITING ON THE 15k.
THANK YOU! WE LOOK FORWARD TO FURTHER VIDEO UPDATES SO WE CAN MAKE THE BEST DECISION FOR OUR SMALL COTTAGE
Great install, but Why are your panels so far away?
Great vid. My understanding from SolArk is that it will pass through 100% of the AC coupled PV power, with no limits. The limitation is 15kW exportation of the DC coupled PV and/or batteries.
The limit on the AC coupled side is 19kw
@@engineer775 Ah, right. But it will still produce an additional 15kWh through its own inverter, so a maximum of 34kWh can be pushed out for grid export.
So with 2x 15k and enough 410 watt panels, plus those easy starts on two AC units, this sounds like full house running off grid with NO critical load panel as this can run everything. Thoughts? That’s the dream by the way. Has anyone used an easy start on a pool pump? Sounds like an interesting test.
We are living the dream! We have several homes running stacked 12ks but stacked 15ks with 200 and 400 and 600 amp pass thru is a new world!
You don't need two.
It is cheaper to buy microinverters (Sol-Ark is about to release them) to supply AC directly to the 15k unit. That way the 15k can supply both the battery power and the AC from the microinverters, it will essentially double your available power, assuming you have like a 20+ kwh battery.
Then if you add the Sol-Ark Smart Load box (about to release), you will essentially triple your available power.
Get a variable rate pool pump, takes almost nothing to run those.
@@dialecticalmonist3405 Most micro-inverters, actually all that I've seen, won't handle the new 450W+ panels to their full ability
@@michiganengineer8621
The Sol-Arks are rated at 600W
Hi, Scott. Nice video.
Are you interested in testing solark with seplos pusung battery?
Wow, having that 200 amp bypass and bigger knockouts is a real game changer for this inverter, but the redundancy of that separate bypass/transfer is nice.
When adding a system like this to an older home with a tight meter main where do you like to place the CT units ?
Still the best thing to have when you need to swap or replace an inverter.
How much continuous load can you draw off each leg?
I think it's 6k.... But check the manual
PLEASE BE SO KIND and answer following:
-Does it shut down anytime on inductive loads like other sol arks?
Is it shut down when reaching close to the rating of one phase towards neutral when slightly imbalanced or at the half rated power?
Can I run 2 different battery chemistries since there are 2 battery inputs??
Thanks for showing us the cutting edge. Since the install seems so straight forward to get up and running do you have any plans for 15k diy systems.
Incredible…
I feel like you’re information is toward pros !
We spoke on the phone several months ago. I am building an off grid homestead in SE Missouri with 14k solar array and planning to have one Sol-Ark 15, 18-36kWHr battery ( either Fortress or Homegrid). Saw a video of SolArk15 vs Schneider pro and the Schneider won. But that adds several more components. What are your thoughts on Schneider vs Sol-Ark? Also planning on a Cummins 17-20 kW generator (propane) just in case summer AC (mini split) or days of winter storms start to drain the system in early mornings. Thanks for your advise and these videos!
Actually it would be two 15kw Sol-Ark inverters in parallel V.S. four EG4 6.5KW inverters in parallel?
How will your new solar inverter do in an EMP blast - will the wire, inverter, batteries be shielded enough to survive? - Is the 8 guage wire from the solar arrays large enough guage for the long distances you are running them 200 to 400 feet - do you see alot of voltage loss from the Array to the inverter? Do you need to step up the guage of the wire with long distances??
AH MAN your killing me, candy store!!
When your are talking about the energy production of this equipment I think it’s important to use the correct terminology. When you say “the most I made is 100 kilowatts in a day” I’m pretty sure you really mean 100 kilowatt-hours in a day, otherwise it’s confusing and suggests the system is producing 100 kilowatts of power at one moment in time.
Watts is power- instantaneous/
Watt hours is energy produced/ consumed over a period of time.
Scott thanks so much for the review on the 15k. Have you ever tested the Sol-Ark using solar and wind or hydro inputs?
I have not but I am planning to test my hydro system and run it into one of the MPPTs. My hydro unit is about a thousand feet away so it's going to be a while and a lot of trenching and planning as I have a lot of other gear that needs to go in the trench for other cool projects
I’m about to do a new fully off grid personal home. 20kw solar array. 30kw battery bank. 22kw backup generator, no grid tie. I plan to use the 15k. Anything else you think I should consider?
Why do we need a fusible disconnect instead of a regular disconnect?
I’ve been back and forth and can’t decide between Solark, Schneider or Outback. Have a deep well pump which uses 9600w surge and 1700w run. Selling back to grid is not an option. Average usage during a 24hr day is 13kw for critical loads including pump. Peak usage at any point in time, not surge, is 4.5kw.
They all work but you will fill the wall with outback and Schneider products to do what this 15k will do. And add enough solar to compensate for little lack of efficiency in the outback and Schneider products. I have a stacked 8048a radian system that doesn't even come close.
@@engineer775 Thanks for the reply. So what you’re saying is just get the Solark. Lol. Surprised two stacked Radians can’t compete. Thinking of paying for a consult with you. Have a cabin up in Roan Mountain, TN at about 5k elevation that I want to take ‘mostly’ off grid. 90 mph winds are typical in storms all year long at that elevation
When you said it has a max of 50 amps, did you mean that if solar is down and the grid is down the max you can pull from your batteries is 50amps? For example trophy batteries have a 200amp bms and wondered if your batteries were the limit you were talking about? Thanks
That’s super cool… I hope my job is the one that’s close to your house 🤓
Okay so new to solar question. So how will it run a whole home if it only goes out to a 50amp breaker? When most homes are 200amp breaker?
@Engineer775 Buying one next month. Can't wait. I also have a charge point EVSE. My Mach E pulls 11.5KW on it set to 48A (60A breaker) what is yours set up to do?
I am an Electrical Engineer - Something is not passing the smell test here - If this is a true 15KW Inverter at 240VAC is 62.5 Amps - Not the 50 Amps discussed in the video for the larger circuits - For 62.5 Amps the wire gauge must be greater than 4 gauge for runs over 10 feet to the battery, generator, etc!! Those long runs will require 2 gauge and/or 1/0 gauge cable depending on how long they are? Will the 15KW inverter accept these larger cable sizes at the cable input terminals???? Using 8 Gauge wiring will definitely is not big enough for the solar array wiring so far away 200 to 300 feet from the house - since their will be huge voltage drops from the solar array to the inverter input if only 8 Gauge wire used - probably should be 1/0 gauge or larger wire size. It was said there is 3 MPPT for interfacing to the solar array - each is at 6500 watts at 48 volts - 8 gauge wire will not handle that power need - since it is only good to 50 amps. Need 1 (1/0) Gauge wire to handle that. If 8 gauge wire was used to the solar array - Need to measure the voltage at the solar array and at the inverter input - double check the voltage drop on very long runs - I bet it was significant power loss. I would tend to think the solar array connections will require heavy power connectors also - like the battery power input. Plus if the inverter switches 200amp service - 4 Gauge wire will not cut it - need wiring for 3/0 Gauge to handle the 240VAC/ 200 Amp Load - Each House is different in solar design. I recommend a fully certified electrician to review the solar system design and cabling to all the components to the electrical code for your area - for all wire sizing based on amperage and Length of cable to be compliant to the electrical code. Last question - is this a Pure Sine-Wave Inverter - will it output clean sine wave power for computers, network, TVs and Power Sensitive Devices? Or is it a Square wave inverter? Need an Oscilloscope to look at the AC output wave coming from the inverter output?? Is this 15KW Inverter UL Listed and Tested - before we put this on our House Power 200 AMP Mains?? Do Not want to void our Homeowners Insurance??
The two videos now where he sings the praises of the Solark Unit & its capacities but hesitates to "trust" the built-in transfer switch?
I think you're misunderstanding when I was saying. I totally trust the internal bypass as it meets UL 1741. What I don't like is having to rely on the bypass working when there is any type of inverter failure. If any part of the inverter fails, I still need to remove it from the system and when I do that that will take the house down for an unknown period of time. By putting in a manual bypass, you have peace of mind that you can put the house back on grid while you make your repairs. This takes nothing away from the 200 amp pass through which makes this inverter better than any on the market. So there are three topics here, transfer switches, internal bypasses and external manual bypasses.
I'm always a bit jealous of people who have the money to have that much land where they can have open space for solar panels. And can afford to do things right. I built a system but I only got about 3 hours of sunlight a day to work with so I have to get all of my charge between 11:00 and 2:00 p.m.
I'm sold! Now I just need to be able to afford it! :)
Am I correct in thinking that this is a standalone 240v output system?
Yes, you are correct
So it has been a year since this video, and in the newer videos you are putting the bypass back in.
Could you address that, and could your recommend the model bypass if that is what you are recommending?
Me. Want. I like my magnum MS4448PAE and its been working fine with some quirks. Its annoying when I need to kill all power to reset certain faults. I keep liking these Solark units the more I see it. I want to build a utility shed like you have. I want to bring all the utilities into it and go underground from there to my house and pole building.
HOWdy E-775,
15 K --- thanks ...
COOP
...
Enjoyed your video as always. Keep up the good work and btw what upgrades did you add to the F-450 platinum. I may have missed it one of the other videos.
I haven't made any upgrades to the 450 though I have contemplated wheels and tires. The truck is doing awesome.
What do you mean by "AC coupled" and "DC coupled"? Solar array is AC coupled?
What disconnect and wireways are you using?
The ones that I am finding are crazy on the price,.. $800 for a wireway wtf?
I wish it was a low frequency inverter.
I wish I had that! Nice
I have it, but I wish I had someone to install it.
I’m interested to see what two of these can do in parallel! I will have two 200 amp panels and a 320amp meter base. I’m interested to see how this will interface with their critical loads panel as well.
We will be doing that soon. Great is already combined at the meter base so we will be combining the output and with two of these inverters and 200 amp pass through for each, there's no reason to put in a critical loads panel
@@engineer775 Interesting. I misspoke earlier I was thinking of the new solark smartload 14. I think that might still be necessary when you are only running on battery right?
What do you mean forget about a generator? How long would your batteries last of there were no power or back to back rainy days? Im in Florida and need to run my AC
This is absolutely awesome, so pumped this has come to market before our home build so we can go this route! If using a solar shed in this way, what would you say is an ideal range/distance to keep the home and other outbuildings in to receive AC power? Thanks Scott.
With the cost of things the closer the better but within 200ft is good.
How do you feel about the SolArk after living with it over an OutBack Radian setup? Is it worth being worried about reliability?
What's your utility? What state? I'm in Alabama. AKA residential solar and hybrid micro grid hell.
So would this give a grid tied system with Enphase IQ8s instant daytime power from the panels if the grid goes down even without batteries?
Yes, but why would you do it without batteries?
@@practicalpreppers7798 I do plan to add batteries, but I'm currently waiting on installation of a 21kW grid tied system at my house and trying to figure out if I should add this 15k to the install. and then I can wait to add batteries later $$. Thank you for these videos
Just wait for the Sol-Ark microinverters and Smart Load. Don't use the Enphase stuff.
th-cam.com/video/NQv258kqHgs/w-d-xo.html&ab_channel=altEStore
I've asked the same question, waiting for an official response from Sol-Ark or an installer who's actually tested it. AC-coupling was a non-starter for off-grid until the IQ8s arrived.
8:29
How about a 12 kW load for 30 minutes.
(Charging an EV car, Air Conditioner going, and what ever else on and operating normally)
As a LF inverter, can the 15K start multiple AC's (4.5T, 2T both with micro-air soft starts)? Pool pumps? If it's also supplied with grid AC, will it just bypass smoothly if those things all chose to start at once?
Hello , awesome Videos!!! It would be awesome if you do a comparison and compatibility video for Storz batteries? Can you use Storz 5.12 kWh batteries with other server rack batteries? Are Storz batteries better than other LiFePO4 Server rack batteries for off and home backup use?
AC could be air conditioning or AC power ?
@engineer775 Is it the same template for the 15k as for the 12k? You mention larger diameter holes, and that the unit itself is deeper?
different template. working on it.
I like the idea that it has a 200 amp transfer switch built in. But that would require a license electrician to install it and that would mean building permits which would mean higher taxes.
Requirements vary by location-a Licensed Electrician may not be required everywhere.
@@balrog006 in our area, anything that touches the mains coming into the building requires a licensed electrician to install.
@@basspig Yes, your location. This is not the same everywhere, licensed electricians are not strictly required by the National code, just local ones. Grid tied with a service passthru would not only require permits and inspections but the Utility approval as well. But just because it has a feature does not mean it must be used-if the inverter does everything else you want but you do not want tied, just dont.
@@balrog006 To install a transfer switch, that means the utility company must come out and disconnect at the pole.
@@basspig Never implied they wouldn't have to?
Is this an EMP hardened system?
Any idea if they will make something for the EU market, looking at solar for off grid with the addition of wind power for the winter. Interesting thing is I run a 120vac system here in the house for American equipment I brought with me but everything else is 220vac.
EMP on the 15k looks like late summer 2022 and I am still waiting on the cost of it.
What is the best batteries for the battery bank - how large should it be sized for the 15K inverter
I have a question about parallel stacking the 15k. The specs say 50a continuous output off-grid, if I stack two together will I get 100a continuous, if I stack 3 together will I get 150a continuous? Also, what is the limit to this? If I stack 12 of the units together will I be able to get 600a continuous? Also, are there any 48v batteries out there can handle a 600a discharge rate? What is the highest discharge rate you can find in a 48v battery or does it even matter? What I am trying to find out is what is the maximum off-grid capability of a 48v system?
Can the 12k be mounted horizontally if needed? Would love to put a 12k in my RV. Thoughts? How noisy is the 15k with the case closed?
How does the 15k Sol Ark compare to a Dual EG4 6.5kw EX-48 (13KW OUT/16KW PV)?
I have a 48 panel Enphase solar system. Have been considering battery backup. Can the Sol-Ark 15k take the place of one IQ 10 battery plus smart switch?
What are you landing on MPTTs? These are from solar panels? 240 volt?
What a great video, thx!
They're still only offering 48V? At that capability, why do they not jump to 96V?
I do believe that to reach the next level battery voltage will be going up and that the 48 volt systems have been maxed out. I don't know the timing of it though.
Yes , missed opportunity .
I’d like to add a Simple Pump to my well head, but I’m 80 and am afraid I’d do something wrong. Do you think I could do it myself?
I live near Ft. Myers Fl.
I am hard to impress after close to two decades of photovoltaic and battery inverter/controller installations… the Sol Ark 15k is a marvel. I have never seen any machine work on this level. If you want a solar battery backup, you want this machine. It’s worth the price and then some.
Please mention how long you have used one….?
Seems like multiple company’s are offering similar features …but efficiency and ratings differ….I’ve been running (4) outback’s for 15 yrs and not one failure except a fan…
I’d rather try programming a pair for 120/240….and limit charge current…..
@@offgridmangogrower I worked alongside Scott putting in the one from the video. Outbacks are good machines. That’s awesome that you’ve had a system for that many years.
@@willistisdale4293 that’s a wonderful
Endorsement…how long has the sol arc 15 been out thereworking and how many have failed.?
A few years back I was researching solar inverter driven pumps….lots of china supplied failures due to our hot afternoon temps. Went with water cooled immersed solar pumps.
Let’s face it ambient and insitu heat kills them.
@@offgridmangogrower The 15k Sol Ark is a very new product so I can’t answer you empirically. I’m impressed with it, and have been impressed with the years long performance of other SolArk inverters I have worked with. The amount of service required on Solark machines has been less than or equal to any other battery back up equipment I’ve worked on and the performance/flexibility is next level. The customer satisfaction level has been high.
I have a hardened 12k. What is the difference between a hardened vs a non hardened? What does Sol-Ark do that makes an inverter EMP hardened?
Scott, I'm ready to buy a 15K, who has the best pricing? Great video, TY!
what are you going to do with your old 12K's