Great Information 👍 my wife and I are in our late 50ies both on medical disability and not able to work but still living life. Selling everything and going off grid 🙏 Thank you
I get confused on these connections but you did a good job explaining it. I do understand it I just get mixed up sometimes and have to re-watch videos like this one. Thanks!
I swapped from in parallel to in series as you described. I'm shocked at the improvement from a max wattage of about 340 watts to 460 watts. I was a little nervous undoing my in parallel set facing South by connecting the 2 pannels positive to negative, leaving one positive and negative running to one of the two Xt60's on my new Delta 2 Max. The other XT60 is connected to the west facing solar pannel. Can't thank you enough as getting close to 500 watts is game a changer. Great video for giving me the confidence to follow your lead
Great info. It helped me decide on the best way to wire up 4 100watt panels for the Delta 2 which has limitations on voltage AND amperage. Series - Parallel works best for my setup. Thank you for your in depth instruction!
Thanks for explaining this in detail. I've been a Local 11 Union Electrician for 21 Years and have installed fields of solar arrays in the past. Once you get into combiners and Inverters transformers and in some cases bridge rectifiers it becomes more complex. But your video is a great basic understanding of the kind solar most home owners are interested in doing . Thanks Andrew love your channel and the great walkthroughs you do on your builds. I will be sending people this link when they ask me questions about home solar in the future.
You seem like you may have the answer I require, I'm a noob when it comes to solar power and am looking to find out if there something that I can use to reduce/step down the power supplied by my panels to match the Ecoflows allowed input? I have a river 2 with 2X 100W panels wired in series which exceeds the 30v/8A maximum that the river 2 can handle (wiring in parallel will exceed the allowed Amps too).
@@GearHead835 Can you just unplug one of them and use a single Panel? It looks like that would make it 8.33 Amps and that's if it's 100%The load calculation formula you're looking for is P/IxE P is Power measured in watts and I is Amps and E is Voltage. There are many ways to reduce amperage and voltage but based on what you're telling me if it's only to recharge your ecoflow you may want to get their panels. When dealing with recharging batteries to much or to little can cause fire or explosion and a charging regulator or transformer is going to cost you more than it's worth in your case.
Good video What people must understand is ohms law Voltage x Amperage equals Watts In other words ,20vdc panel at 5 amps equals 100 watts The higher the current, the bigger the gauge wire you need The higher the voltage, the lower the current needed, your wire size could be smaller, thus cheaper, for the same power. That's why power lines from the utilities carry high voltage on skinny wires.
I don't disagree, but what I was showing is these smaller power stations have specific voltage and amperage ranges you must work in. Almost always requires some kind of series parralell situation to stay in spec. Wattage never changes.
Waiting delivery for my delta pro 3 and delta pro 3 extra battery and I also bought a 4 pack of renogy solar panels. This has been a great tutorial preparing me how to configure the setup for optimal charging. Thanks!!
That had to be the clearest, easiest to understand starter solar video I've ever watched. Had I the $, I could solar charge my own solar powered generator. Perfect as always. Even Ruger trotted past in the background. 😍
I don't know where you are in Florida but we get the same cloud cover everyday in Plant City Fl. Those Renogy solar panels are very impressive. Like you said I need to look at my power stations and see what I need. Thank you for the video I became a sub today.
This won't apply to your setup there in the South but here's something other people may need to watch out for. I setup some solar this past fall and everything was working great until we got some really cold days this Winter. When it got down to about 10 F and less, the voltage of my panels actually went higher than the rated open circuit voltage and my system was shutting down because it was over voltage. It's not that cold very often so I'm making due with it as-is until Spring then I need to rewire them to lower the voltage since my system can handle the higher amperage.
That's exactly right and also why I undersized my system. I've already been seeing way over recommended specs. So it does apply here also. Video out soon!
One thing to Consider with Series Panels is Shading. Any part of a panel that is shaded effects the whole line in the string.. I think there are some newer Panels that correct this . Thanks Andrew.
Hi Andrew that was interesting as usual. I have never been good at that stuff, but you do make it understandable. Thank you. Andrew I think you could do just about anything. We can all save a fortune not relying on others. Take care. 👍👍❤️❤️🇨🇦
Great video. And I don't mind you repeating the information... sometimes it helps it all sink in. I am curious to watch the next one and see how you keep the combined panel output under the maximum ratings for amps/volts/watts. I have a remote storage container I use as a shop sometimes, and would love to know how to set up an inexpensive (by inexpensive, I want to use a battery bank and an inverter rather than one of these expensive systems like yours) to add some lighting and an outlet to run the occasional power tool. If anyone knows of a youtube video as easy to understand as this one was, send me a link please. As always, thanks for the simple and concise info!
next Time pay atention to your audio meter . distortion is to higth . keep your audio on green do not let hit the red dots .. just a reminder . so we can apreciate your video ,, keep it up , grate videos buddy thanx for the info for new ones on solar
i'm trying to learn this. you've done a great job and trying to take notes and drawings, i just wish you culd slow down a little on the wiring., its hard to take notes and miss something and have to keep going back.
Think of like this. If you want to get 2000 watts. From 120 volts you need 16.6 amps. From 240 volts you need 8.3 amps. As voltage increases amperage decreases for a desired wattage.
Thanks for your video it's very informative. So controlling the Amperage from the panel (by doing different connections) is to make sure that it will not exceed the amps required by the power station, right
Glad there's a video for this solar subject. Question; what type of will i use from my solar panel aray to the house - I will be needing to trench these wires thru conduit - Yes?
Want to run my house, total electric with well - I have 40 gallon hot water heater, stove, 2 ton with heat pump ac unit and a well. How many solar panels and delta pros will I need?
They make underground burial wire, but conduit is probably going to be required by your code. As for the panels, I would need to know the exact wattage pull of all appliances. I can tell you that your electric water heater is a major energy hog and will make going small solar impossible, so will the stove which has a huge pull when in use. You would be money ahead to convert both of those to propane or natural gas. You can then get away with a much smaller solar system and make it through normal day and emergencies far longer.
Great Video. Question: If you can increase the Amps or the Voltage depending how you connect the panels, what is better, to have more voltage or to have more amperage ? Meaning, you can have four panels at 80 volts with 5 amps or the same four panels at 40 volts with 10 amps. What is better to charge the Eco Flow ? Both combinations are good, but which one would be more efficient for the unit ?
Both accomplish the same thing, volts times amps equals wattage. Higher voltage and lower amperage allows you to use smaller and more affordable wire. The only time wiring in series really hurts you is if part of your panels are shaded and you have older panels that don't have bypass diodes.
Well put and easy to understand. When doing either type of wiring when does the need for inline fuses become necessary. I have two of the same panels and will need to wire them in parallel to keep voltage down for my Vtoman jump 600X which is a 30V max input.
When you put batteries in a flashlight the batteries are touching POS to NEG in series. (same capacity more volts) 2 batteries in series @ 1.5v = 3v If you have 6 batteries @ 1.5v, And connected all the POS to each other and All the NEG together (same volts 1.5v more capacity) Your solar panels work in a similar fashion. Volts is a measurement of voltage (Amount of Potential Energy, Pressure or Work that can be done) Amps is a measurement of how fast the current of elections are flowing/drawing through the wire and Device, Wire size & distance matters. Amp Hour is a measurement of Battery capacity. If you have a 2Ah battery, and all your Device(s) Draw a total of 1/2 amp the battery would be empty/dead in 4 hour. Remember for work to get done something must move.
I hope I may ask you something. I've been following your channel for a while. You are really by far the best of them all because of your calm and clear explanation on TH-cam. I bought a Renogy 200 Watt 12 Volt monocrystalline foldable solar case. After 6 days of testing I do not exceed a yield of 60 Watt. No shade but what I said a moderate sun in recent days. Should I be concerned? 60 watts on a 200 watt panel is bad right? I connect the panel to the AC network via inverter. Everything is connected properly. I've seen tests where this panel scored so well. I am really afraid that I have a bad purchase and now I still have warranty.
Even a little bit of sun can cause shading effects, especially if that panel set is wired in series without bypass diodes. I'd wait for a full sun day before assuming the panel is bad. Proper angle makes a big difference on those fold up panels.
I have a Eco-Flow Delta Pro and 6 each 160 Watt Eco-Flow solar panels. So, I can hook all 6 panels in series, my voltage will be 960 and my amperage will be low enough since it will be the same amperage as 1 panel - right? Also, I will have room for another 600 watts of panels as long as I connect them in series? I think I am missing something due to my lack of knowledge? I'm getting ready to attempt this setup live in the backyard as soon as I understand. Maybe there is a book you might recommend - Solar for Dummies? Thank you. I appreciate it.
Most modern panels already come with those diodes built in, these panels have them under the black plastic cover on the rear for the same reason you're discussing.
Hey Andrew. I love the content. I have a solar related question and I haven’t been able to get a clear answer. I have 6 solar suitcases that I want to connect to my Victron 250/85 solar controller. However, the combined OCV in series is 269 volts. Is it possible to connect 3 and 3 in series and then both in parallel which would effectively be 135 OCV volts and 21 amps. Thanks in advance. John
Great video, but I have a curve ball... Is there something that I can use to reduce/ step down the power supplied by my panels to match the Ecoflows allowed input? I have a river 2 with 2X 100W panels wired in series which exceeds the 30v/8A maximum that the river 2 can handle (wiring in parallel will exceed the allowed Amps too).
Yes here is part one and part two. I also have a much larger array to be built soon th-cam.com/video/a_FiFUCf9mg/w-d-xo.html th-cam.com/video/_YeucaSm9-s/w-d-xo.html
Great video. I want to connect two panels in series connected to one side of each input of a dual parallel connectors and a third panel connected to the second inputs on the parallel combiner. Can that be done through a dual parallel connector? The two panels would be in series and the third parallel. Would this combine the voltages of all three panels?
I guess I’m one of those that have to watch something twice! 😂 I have two solar generators that I have not yet hooked to solar panels because I get overwhelmed! 🤦🏻♀️
I want to run a 2S2P setup with my panels. What I want to know is can the parallel connected ones be aimed at different parts of the sky? Say one set for morning/mid day and one set for mid/later in the day.
Cani just hook five panels in a series for maximum power? I rarely get any clouds or rain where I'm at and want more power to continuously get me a negative bill each month.
Question: I have a truck camper with shore power ,after installing my solar panels to my charge controller can I just connect directly from controller to my batteries? Bypassing everything that’s already in place.. ( inverter , shore etc)just red to red , black to black. Should I worry about let anything?( lithium batteries)
Hmmmmmm, the only thing that concerns me there is if you connect to shore power and charge at the same time you are charging via solar. That could be a problem for your solar charger. I'd say you would have to be disciplined in disconnecting your solar charge controller anytime you connect to shore power. Otherwise you should be OK as long as your solar charge controller is rated for lithium batteries.
Been looking for the past month or so for panels and I'm surprised to see a 100 watt panel with a 23v output, normally it's 12v. I've also seen a Renogy 200 w panel with an output of 23 or 24v. It seemed on average I've seen 100w = 12v basicly. The Renogy panels put out 10 - 15% more than others.
If you have a positive and negative with each panel and they are all connected together , the one panel that goes to your control has no wires left? Is there a connector that lets you split and share?
That's not correct. Your left with a open wire/connector on your first and last panel. There will be a remaining positive and negative left available to run to your solar charger.
I don't like the 15 amp limit on the EcoFlow , it's fine for most everything a person is going to run but some things you need 20 amps. So did you wire your array 2 sets of 6 panels in series and the wire the 2 sets in parallel.
That's correct on how I wired them. I've been seeing 1200-1400 watts out of 12 panels during the peak of the sun. I'm very pleased with what I am seeing. Honestly the voltage has been a little more difficult to work with than the amperage. Overall it's worked out great for me staying a little under voltage and amperage, I'm still seeing excellent wattage from these panels.
I was kind of confused about series series parallel however with your video I’m more confident that I can do it I want to hook 400 W (100watt panels)series and another 400 W in series and string them together. I need to get some of those connectors are they what they call MC for connectors? if I do what you just did twice I would connect the leads from all 4??? I would have a total of eight100 W panels series series parallel???
To do what your saying you would need two Y branch solar parralell connectors to connect the remaining cables in parralell. Depending on panel spacing and location, you might need a short run of cable to finish your connections.
@@TKCL so I would need 4 Mc 4 (like they use for parallel connections and 2 y connectors ? can you use the flexible Y wire connectors that are a wire with the solar panel connections on the end of it? Sorry for so many questions however I think all my hardware is going to be here this weekend and I plan on getting started I appreciate your time please and 😊 thank you 🙏
@@TKCL so I would need 4 Mc 4 (like they use for parallel connections and 2 y connectors ? can you use the flexible Y wire connectors that are a wire with the solar panel connections on the end of it? Sorry for so many questions however I think all my hardware is going to be here this weekend and I plan on getting started I appreciate your time please and 😊 thank you 🙏
No, one you connect all pos and neg together of 4 panels your left with a single pos and neg. Same on the other 4 panels. So that leaves you with a total of two loose positives and two loose negatives that need connection. Two Y Branch adapters will take care of that and combine them down to one single and one positive which will connect to your wires and run to whatever inverter you're using.
That's very hard to say since there are so many available with different specs. It's probably going to be difficult to achieve 1600 watts with the voltage and amperage limitations of these units.
Yes, my current array has 12 5 amp panels, so that's very easy to do. Even with the 4 panels I showed in this video, you can parallel them all and hit 20 amps.
I dont know much solar panels but if I have two 100 watts solar panels and I get someone to connect them for me in parallel for usage on my solar generator, after connecting them in parallel will I get a total of 200 watts coming from the sun to charge my solar generator? My solar generator has maximum amp of 8.5. If the amps double after connecting in parallel will this damage my solar generator??
It doesn't matter if you connect parallel or series, your wattage will always increase. Most panels are at least 5 amps, so if you connect in parallel you are going to go over the maximum for your generator. You need to connect in series doubling your voltage, but always refer to the generators specs first.
I need advice, please: How is it better to connect two solar panels, power of 450W each to a 12v battery; 160ah....The panels are located in two different locations of my mountain house? Thank you very much
I know a lot about solar panels but you make things so easy to understand. Thank you. But I have to ask how many retakes did you have to take because you got tongue tied with all the positive and negative lol I know I would have tried to explain it.
Would the voltage and amperage limitations(for charging) change if you had two delta pros tied together using the double voltage hub? Didn’t know if it would be best to run two sets of wires from solar panels back to each delta pro,so they would receive the same amount of recharge, or just one set of wires to one unit and let the system decide how to divide up the solar input.
Thanks for the reply and I’ll be watching for a video on that.😁 I really enjoy your videos and content. You seem to have a genuine desire to help others! Keep up the great work..
I have a delta max 2000 800watt max, 13amps max, 11-100Volts max Renogy panels 200w, open circuit is 27v, 9.66Amp What is the best way to wire my panels?
You've only got one option with those specs. 3 Renogy panels wired in series for 9.66 amps and 81 volts. Be aware that in cool weather or odd cloud conditions you can see spikes above rated voltage. That's why you need to stay under the maximums.
Hello Andrew, big fan here, have 10.8 kw dp, want to build solar array with renogy 100w, can I use 16 panels to get the 1600 watt input to DP wo exceeding 150v and 15 amps? TIA, love your videos!
1200 watts is where I have found my comfort zone with those panels. Reason being is I've experienced significant voltage spikes on cool days. If I had anymore panels than that, I'd be over the units limits. The good news is that those panels are performing very well for me. I just bought 40 more because they are on the best sale I've ever seen. If the sale is still running on Amazon I'll come back and post my affiliate link. You must be a prime member for the sale.
I have 2 600 w panels, Voc= 52.8V, Isc=14.99A, Vmp= 44V, Imp= 13.63A, each, how do I reduce the amps down to 12amps to run a minis-spilt A/C unit? 12 amps is the maxium for the mppt on the mini-split. The specs for the mini-split is: Electrical Specifications Rated Voltage 115VAC | 90VDC-380VDC Rated Current AC: 8.3A | DC: 9.1A-2.4A VOC of PV
You can't reduce those panels to any less than a single panels rated amperage. Those are huge residential panels, what you need are 5 or 10 amp rated 100-200 watt panels.
Thanks for you quick reply, what do you think of an idea of putting a 12amp breaker in front of the mini-spilt MPPT, so if the current ever went over 12 amps it wouldn't get to the mppt?@@TKCL
It looks like you need two sets of series to parallel. I've tried one set of series three panels in series. Then I tried to go parallel on that and it doesn't work. So I'm going to have to build two sets of series it looks like
There is always wires left. When in series the last panel on each end will have one wire remaining for a total of two wires. If going the parallel route with Y adapters, you go from two sets of panel wires, combine with the Y adapters and are left with one positive and one negative to connect to your machine.
If you have 3 panel as demonstrated on video why did you incorporate an additional panel for total of 4 panel in a series parallel combination? what would happen if two panels are in parallel connection and connected in series with the one panel what will happen? to current and voltage using only thre panels? ther are two many videos using four panels but none demonstate using 3 panels in that configuration? This is part of a learning channel in youtube?
To keep things uniform you could wire all 4 in series OR parralell with the information you provided. No need for a combination of both. However all in series alone will be close to your maximum voltage. Wire all in parallel unless wanting to go with smaller power wire. Then do a series/combination as shown in this video.
@@TKCL SOLAR POOL PUMP (€ ISO9001 Model: ZJP21/19-D72/900 Q.Max. 21 m"h H.Max: 19 M NOM. VOLTAGE: 72V In/Outlet: 48mm POWER: 0.9 KW 1.2 HP IP 54 ICL. B
@@TKCL right just wanted to make sure it wasn’t just me I try calling the company they don’t have no answer either thanks for your time keep the video coming love the content from y’all happy new year to you an tiff
To be honest, I struggle putting flashlight batteries in correctly. I know upcoming videos will provide a great backup system. I’m lucky to own a NG 22K Generac.
Question I have 2 Harbor Freight 100 watt solar panels with pig nose connections both are connected to a splitter wire going to my jackery Explorer 1000 at the most I get 120 watts reading at midday how can I increase it with the wiring?
Wattage wont increase with wiring configurations, just amperage or voltage. You need to make sure you are getting the correct angle to sun for your area. Sounds like those panels might not be as efficient as they claim.
The issue with the all in one systems like the jackery and the delta pro is that they do limit amperage in from a solar string. The HF panels are excellent, and each will make more than its 100w rating even using the built in legs. I don’t know the voltage input or amperage limit of the jackery, but I assume it’s around 6a or so. Wiring in parallel will hit that 6a limit with just over one panel. 20v x 6a = 120w. You would limit anything above that 6a. 8 panels in parallel would still result in 120w. To get more wattage, you have to increase the voltage using series wiring. If the jackery is safe to at least 45v solar input, then wiring two panels in series will yield that 200w that you are looking for out of those oabels. There is no issue ever having more amperage than the controller is spec’ed for. It will stop at it max amp limit. The ecoflow delta pro has a 15a limit. To max out that 15a input, you will need to supply it with an operating voltage above 106v, but below 150v. I wouldn’t allow it to get above 145v in the coldest weather when panel voltage rises. 106x15a= 1600w. It would take a combination of series- parallel 100w panels to get the voltage above 106v, and the amperage above 15a to get the most of your ecoflow delta pro.
I'm currently running 12 renogy 100 watt panels and last check showed open circuit voltage of 138 volts. Wired in series parralell to 10 amps. I routinely see 1250-1400 watts out of this setup during mid day sun. I am extremely pleased to consistently get over factory spec out of these panels, especially for the $85 price tag.
@@TKCL That mathematically makes sense. 20v that you found with your meter x 6 in series will be 120v operating voltage. Each string you measured is 6a. 120x 12a is 1400w. It’s hard to max out the 1600 watts limit on the delta pro with the 100w panels just because the amps and voltage combo is hard to get just just right without exceeding 150v open circuit voltage. To get to 1600w with the delta pro, you would need another 6 panels in series connected in parallel to what you already own. That would put you at 1800w but can only use 1600w. That’s ok. It’s just an example of over paneling. I also use 100w panels. $85/each is about as cheap as I have seen them too. Most are $100/ea.
Delta pro 2? I am only familiar with the Delta pro? They sponsored me a while back, with that said I've always been a huge fan of their products and constant improvements. The other big reason I like the Delta pro is its one of the few that offer 240v capability. I desire that!
Not of a comparable model, I own both. Now when you start talking their big stackable units, things do improve on the input side. My gut says Ecoflow is due for and updated system and they are typically the leaders in this space.
@@TKCL Yeah, I'd love to buy an updated model, but unfortunately, I'm not in that position financially (yet). I have to figure out which battery power station I should buy... I have 4 x 405w panels. With the EcoFlo, even if I was to put 2 in series and then the 2 sets in parallel, it'd still be more amperage than what the EcoFlo can handle, what do I do? I'd still like to use all 4 panels, which would be handy on cloudy days, would this be possible?
@alpachino468 my gut says if you can hang in there a few more months without making a purchase, you're going to see some new models that can handle crazy amounts of solar input. Most of these companies launch their new products in January at the CES show.
So I did three panels in series for 99 volts. Then I tried to parallel to increase my wattage capacity to 3000 but so I connected the next two panels in parallel and connected it to the three series. I checked the voltage and the voltage was 33 volts. So somehow the voltage decreased. Again, I had three panels in series for a total of 99 volts that I went the neck next to in parallel and the voltage dumped to 33 volts in. I'm shaking my head. What is going on???
Wouldn’t you want to put the whole 15 amps in due to unreliable sun, clouds, haze, whatever, just to make sure it’s getting all it can take? Sorry if it was mentioned
All of this should have started with Ohm’s law. That explains the entire relationship between volts amps and watts. You can’t change one one without changing the other. You stated “you change voltage but leave amperage alone”. It doesn’t work that way, the two are tied together. Example 10a@100v=1000w. Now, let’s half the voltage. 1000w/50v=20a. Still 1000w. Just as 5a@200v=1000w. Assuming each panel is 12v and puts out 100w, let’s run the math. 2 panels in series would be 24v 200w which would be 8.3A. 2 panels wired in parallel would be 12V 200w which would be 16.6A. Just remember they are all related. Where this also becomes important is wire size. You can run more wattage over smaller wires at higher voltages, which is why power lines run thousands of volts. So, if you need to run a long wire from your panels, you can do it with smaller wire at a higher voltage.
The one doesn't change the other was referring to either series OR parallel. Yes in the end by combining both in series AND parallel I affected both voltage and amperage. At the end of the day wattage is wattage. The purpose of the demonstration is to show how you have to manipulate both amperage and voltage to stay within a manufacturers recommended range. It's flawed thinking by individuals and manufacturers to put a wattage only maximum on converters when in reality you have other parameters to stay within.
Great Information 👍 my wife and I are in our late 50ies both on medical disability and not able to work but still living life. Selling everything and going off grid 🙏
Thank you
I get confused on these connections but you did a good job explaining it. I do understand it I just get mixed up sometimes and have to re-watch videos like this one. Thanks!
Thanks for watching!
I swapped from in parallel to in series as you described. I'm shocked at the improvement from a max wattage of about 340 watts to 460 watts. I was a little nervous undoing my in parallel set facing South by connecting the 2 pannels positive to negative, leaving one positive and negative running to one of the two Xt60's on my new Delta 2 Max. The other XT60 is connected to the west facing solar pannel. Can't thank you enough as getting close to 500 watts is game a changer. Great video for giving me the confidence to follow your lead
Glad you enjoyed it
You brought me back to my Electrical Engineering course, I'm an Industrial and Systems Engineer. Well explained bro...
Thank you for watching
As someone who knows what you are talking about I can honestly say that was a really good explanation and a really good example. Thank Andrew.
Thank you very much, I'm still learning all this myself. But I'm also very familiar with wiring batteries this way, it's the same principles.
Great info. It helped me decide on the best way to wire up 4 100watt panels for the Delta 2 which has limitations on voltage AND amperage. Series - Parallel works best for my setup. Thank you for your in depth instruction!
Glad you enjoyed it
Thanks for explaining this in detail. I've been a Local 11 Union Electrician for 21 Years and have installed fields of solar arrays in the past. Once you get into combiners and Inverters transformers and in some cases bridge rectifiers it becomes more complex. But your video is a great basic understanding of the kind solar most home owners are interested in doing . Thanks Andrew love your channel and the great walkthroughs you do on your builds. I will be sending people this link when they ask me questions about home solar in the future.
Thank you for watching
You seem like you may have the answer I require, I'm a noob when it comes to solar power and am looking to find out if there something that I can use to reduce/step down the power supplied by my panels to match the Ecoflows allowed input?
I have a river 2 with 2X 100W panels wired in series which exceeds the 30v/8A maximum that the river 2 can handle (wiring in parallel will exceed the allowed Amps too).
@@GearHead835 Can you just unplug one of them and use a single Panel? It looks like that would make it 8.33 Amps and that's if it's 100%The load calculation formula you're looking for is P/IxE P is Power measured in watts and I is Amps and E is Voltage. There are many ways to reduce amperage and voltage but based on what you're telling me if it's only to recharge your ecoflow you may want to get their panels. When dealing with recharging batteries to much or to little can cause fire or explosion and a charging regulator or transformer is going to cost you more than it's worth in your case.
Good video
What people must understand is ohms law
Voltage x Amperage equals Watts
In other words ,20vdc panel at 5 amps equals 100 watts
The higher the current, the bigger the gauge wire you need
The higher the voltage, the lower the current needed, your wire size could be smaller, thus cheaper, for the same power.
That's why power lines from the utilities carry high voltage on skinny wires.
I don't disagree, but what I was showing is these smaller power stations have specific voltage and amperage ranges you must work in. Almost always requires some kind of series parralell situation to stay in spec. Wattage never changes.
Waiting delivery for my delta pro 3 and delta pro 3 extra battery and I also bought a 4 pack of renogy solar panels. This has been a great tutorial preparing me how to configure the setup for optimal charging. Thanks!!
You are starting with a nice setup, I have a DP3 and love it.
Thank you for the detailed but yet, oh so easy explanation of how to wire multiple panels.
Thank you for watching
This was super helpful! Thank you! This helps me figure out the number of panels I need for my new Bluetti AC 180 for going off grid camping.
Glad you enjoyed it
That had to be the clearest, easiest to understand starter solar video I've ever watched. Had I the $, I could solar charge my own solar powered generator. Perfect as always. Even Ruger trotted past in the background. 😍
Thank you for watching
In the process of getting my eco flow plus! It great to know about wiring parallel & series wiring’s on solar panels!
Glad you enjoyed it, let me know when you are buying your Ecoflow and I'll see if I have a discount code to share.
I don't know where you are in Florida but we get the same cloud cover everyday in Plant City Fl. Those Renogy solar panels are very impressive. Like you said I need to look at my power stations and see what I need. Thank you for the video I became a sub today.
Thank you for the support
Nice explanation of the various ways to wire panels up. Thanks
Thank you- very clear explanation. I may have to watch again.
Thank you for watching
This won't apply to your setup there in the South but here's something other people may need to watch out for. I setup some solar this past fall and everything was working great until we got some really cold days this Winter. When it got down to about 10 F and less, the voltage of my panels actually went higher than the rated open circuit voltage and my system was shutting down because it was over voltage. It's not that cold very often so I'm making due with it as-is until Spring then I need to rewire them to lower the voltage since my system can handle the higher amperage.
That's exactly right and also why I undersized my system. I've already been seeing way over recommended specs. So it does apply here also. Video out soon!
This is going to get interesting when you add in the total array. Love the video, as always.
Testing the array now, I'm extremely impressed with the results.
One thing to Consider with Series Panels is Shading.
Any part of a panel that is shaded effects the whole line in the string..
I think there are some newer Panels that correct this .
Thanks Andrew.
Almost all do with bypass diodes if I understand this correctly, mine have these.
@@TKCL I'd figured so. the older Panels it was a problem.
I know very little about this and I understood it. Thanks
Glad you enjoyed it
Thanks for another well thought out video!
Thank you for watching
looking forward to see where you end up with the solar.
Hi Andrew that was interesting as usual. I have never been good at that stuff, but you do make it understandable. Thank you. Andrew I think you could do just about anything. We can all save a fortune not relying on others. Take care. 👍👍❤️❤️🇨🇦
Thank you for watching, take care.
Watched a lot of videos, this was the best.
Glad you enjoyed it
Thanks for the info
Glad you enjoyed it
Thanks
COOP
...
Great video. And I don't mind you repeating the information... sometimes it helps it all sink in. I am curious to watch the next one and see how you keep the combined panel output under the maximum ratings for amps/volts/watts.
I have a remote storage container I use as a shop sometimes, and would love to know how to set up an inexpensive (by inexpensive, I want to use a battery bank and an inverter rather than one of these expensive systems like yours) to add some lighting and an outlet to run the occasional power tool. If anyone knows of a youtube video as easy to understand as this one was, send me a link please. As always, thanks for the simple and concise info!
You are getting pretty good at this TH-cam thang brother. Makes perfect sense to me while you are explaining it 🤣
Great explanation! Thank you.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thank you for this!
Dang that a great explanation video..... I didn't think about making groups into series and parallel 👍🏽👍🏽.... Can't wait to see the next videos
Thank you for watching
next Time pay atention to your audio meter . distortion is to higth . keep your audio on green do not let hit the red dots .. just a reminder . so we can apreciate your video ,, keep it up , grate videos buddy
thanx for the info for new ones on solar
i'm trying to learn this. you've done a great job and trying to take notes and drawings, i just wish you culd slow down a little on the wiring., its hard to take notes and miss something and have to keep going back.
Thank you
Awesome educational video. Love the content. 🤠
Great video
Thanks!
Think of like this. If you want to get 2000 watts. From 120 volts you need 16.6 amps. From 240 volts you need 8.3 amps. As voltage increases amperage decreases for a desired wattage.
very well done
Thank you for watching
Thanks for your video it's very informative. So controlling the Amperage from the panel (by doing different connections) is to make sure that it will not exceed the amps required by the power station, right
That will save you lots of money now okay and I am very happy for both of you okay
Thank you for watching
Very helpful👍
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks so much
Any time
Glad there's a video for this solar subject. Question; what type of will i use from my solar panel aray to the house - I will be needing to trench these wires thru conduit - Yes?
Want to run my house, total electric with well - I have 40 gallon hot water heater, stove, 2 ton with heat pump ac unit and a well. How many solar panels and delta pros will I need?
They make underground burial wire, but conduit is probably going to be required by your code. As for the panels, I would need to know the exact wattage pull of all appliances. I can tell you that your electric water heater is a major energy hog and will make going small solar impossible, so will the stove which has a huge pull when in use. You would be money ahead to convert both of those to propane or natural gas. You can then get away with a much smaller solar system and make it through normal day and emergencies far longer.
I am a little confused in frame 12:18 or so you said the same thing about + and - for both types of connections.
Great Video. Question: If you can increase the Amps or the Voltage depending how you connect the panels, what is better, to have more voltage or to have more amperage ? Meaning, you can have four panels at 80 volts with 5 amps or the same four panels at 40 volts with 10 amps. What is better to charge the Eco Flow ? Both combinations are good, but which one would be more efficient for the unit ?
Both accomplish the same thing, volts times amps equals wattage. Higher voltage and lower amperage allows you to use smaller and more affordable wire. The only time wiring in series really hurts you is if part of your panels are shaded and you have older panels that don't have bypass diodes.
Well put and easy to understand. When doing either type of wiring when does the need for inline fuses become necessary. I have two of the same panels and will need to wire them in parallel to keep voltage down for my Vtoman jump 600X which is a 30V max input.
If running into a structure or through wall, I suggest adding a pv combiner box with fuses and a breaker at a minimum.
When you put batteries in a flashlight the batteries are touching POS to NEG in series. (same capacity more volts)
2 batteries in series @ 1.5v = 3v
If you have 6 batteries @ 1.5v, And connected all the POS to each other and All the NEG together (same volts 1.5v more capacity)
Your solar panels work in a similar fashion.
Volts is a measurement of voltage (Amount of Potential Energy, Pressure or Work that can be done)
Amps is a measurement of how fast the current of elections are flowing/drawing through the wire and Device, Wire size & distance matters.
Amp Hour is a measurement of Battery capacity. If you have a 2Ah battery, and all your Device(s) Draw a total of 1/2 amp the battery would be empty/dead in 4 hour.
Remember for work to get done something must move.
Hello,
I hope I may ask you something. I've been following your channel for a while. You are really by far the best of them all because of your calm and clear explanation on TH-cam.
I bought a Renogy 200 Watt 12 Volt monocrystalline foldable solar case. After 6 days of testing I do not exceed a yield of 60 Watt. No shade but what I said a moderate sun in recent days. Should I be concerned? 60 watts on a 200 watt panel is bad right? I connect the panel to the AC network via inverter. Everything is connected properly. I've seen tests where this panel scored so well. I am really afraid that I have a bad purchase and now I still have warranty.
Even a little bit of sun can cause shading effects, especially if that panel set is wired in series without bypass diodes. I'd wait for a full sun day before assuming the panel is bad. Proper angle makes a big difference on those fold up panels.
I have a Eco-Flow Delta Pro and 6 each 160 Watt Eco-Flow solar panels. So, I can hook all 6 panels in series, my voltage will be 960 and my amperage will be low enough since it will be the same amperage as 1 panel - right? Also, I will have room for another 600 watts of panels as long as I connect them in series? I think I am missing something due to my lack of knowledge? I'm getting ready to attempt this setup live in the backyard as soon as I understand. Maybe there is a book you might recommend - Solar for Dummies? Thank you. I appreciate it.
hey friend, you must use blocking diodes on the panels in parallel and not allow the shading of one board over the other, as I saw in the tests.
Most modern panels already come with those diodes built in, these panels have them under the black plastic cover on the rear for the same reason you're discussing.
Hey Andrew. I love the content.
I have a solar related question and I haven’t been able to get a clear answer.
I have 6 solar suitcases that I want to connect to my Victron 250/85 solar controller. However, the combined OCV in series is 269 volts. Is it possible to connect 3 and 3 in series and then both in parallel which would effectively be 135 OCV volts and 21 amps.
Thanks in advance.
John
Great video, but I have a curve ball... Is there something that I can use to reduce/ step down the power supplied by my panels to match the Ecoflows allowed input?
I have a river 2 with 2X 100W panels wired in series which exceeds the 30v/8A maximum that the river 2 can handle (wiring in parallel will exceed the allowed Amps too).
Not that I know of, you'll need less panels.
Great video😁 how can I connect 3 90w 20 volt panels in both series and parallel?
You'll need a even number to achieve that.
I noticed you didn't put a fuse in before plugging in..my kit came with one
Thanks for the your video but I'm still trying to learn this and why does it seem like everybody is on 10 cups of coffee. I'm still confused
Have you done the video of the much larger solar array yet?
Yes here is part one and part two. I also have a much larger array to be built soon th-cam.com/video/a_FiFUCf9mg/w-d-xo.html
th-cam.com/video/_YeucaSm9-s/w-d-xo.html
Great video. I want to connect two panels in series connected to one side of each input of a dual parallel connectors and a third panel connected to the second inputs on the parallel combiner. Can that be done through a dual parallel connector? The two panels would be in series and the third parallel. Would this combine the voltages of all three panels?
I guess I’m one of those that have to watch something twice! 😂 I have two solar generators that I have not yet hooked to solar panels because I get overwhelmed! 🤦🏻♀️
No worries, you got this!
I want to run a 2S2P setup with my panels. What I want to know is can the parallel connected ones be aimed at different parts of the sky? Say one set for morning/mid day and one set for mid/later in the day.
That's usually not a problem unless in series and it your panels don't have bypass diodes. You'll experience what's called a shading effect.
question ,,,,, so if we assume that you had only 2 panels 100W each ... what will charge the ecoflow faster ? 12-14V /200W or 24-28V 100W ?
It charges the same, but you must pay attention to some units requirements. Some need a minimum voltage to start charging.
Cani just hook five panels in a series for maximum power? I rarely get any clouds or rain where I'm at and want more power to continuously get me a negative bill each month.
Question: I have a truck camper with shore power ,after installing my solar panels to my charge controller can I just connect directly from controller to my batteries? Bypassing everything that’s already in place.. ( inverter , shore etc)just red to red , black to black. Should I worry about let anything?( lithium batteries)
Hmmmmmm, the only thing that concerns me there is if you connect to shore power and charge at the same time you are charging via solar. That could be a problem for your solar charger. I'd say you would have to be disciplined in disconnecting your solar charge controller anytime you connect to shore power. Otherwise you should be OK as long as your solar charge controller is rated for lithium batteries.
Been looking for the past month or so for panels and I'm surprised to see a 100 watt panel with a 23v output, normally it's 12v. I've also seen a Renogy 200 w panel with an output of 23 or 24v. It seemed on average I've seen 100w = 12v basicly. The Renogy panels put out 10 - 15% more than others.
I've been highly impressed with the output of these. So much so that I just bought 40 more. I now own 67 of them.
If you have a positive and negative with each panel and they are all connected together , the one panel that goes to your control has no wires left? Is there a connector that lets you split and share?
That's not correct. Your left with a open wire/connector on your first and last panel. There will be a remaining positive and negative left available to run to your solar charger.
General comment/ request. Can you either put in or review using solar for a well…
Hi thanks for video. I see 4 supports on the Renogy panels to attach to the roof or otherwise. Where did you buy this? Thanks again !!
I bought the panels and supports off of Amazon.
@@TKCL Ok Thanks
You need to do a closeup of how to do the series/paralele setup. Its a bit confusing and a visual would be easier to understand.
I don't like the 15 amp limit on the EcoFlow , it's fine for most everything a person is going to run but some things you need 20 amps. So did you wire your array 2 sets of 6 panels in series and the wire the 2 sets in parallel.
That's correct on how I wired them. I've been seeing 1200-1400 watts out of 12 panels during the peak of the sun. I'm very pleased with what I am seeing. Honestly the voltage has been a little more difficult to work with than the amperage. Overall it's worked out great for me staying a little under voltage and amperage, I'm still seeing excellent wattage from these panels.
What gauge extension cable would you use?
Depends on the amperage and length of the run. There are good online calculators for wire size. Make sure it's a DC calculator.
What would happen if all 3 panels are different sizes and different voltages or different amps?
I'd take the same approach as batteries, I never mix match.
I was kind of confused about series series parallel however with your video I’m more confident that I can do it I want to hook 400 W (100watt panels)series and another 400 W in series and string them together. I need to get some of those connectors are they what they call MC for connectors? if I do what you just did twice I would connect the leads from all 4??? I would have a total of eight100 W panels series series parallel???
To do what your saying you would need two Y branch solar parralell connectors to connect the remaining cables in parralell. Depending on panel spacing and location, you might need a short run of cable to finish your connections.
@@TKCL would I have to use inline fuses for every pos + panel?
@@TKCL so I would need 4 Mc 4 (like they use for parallel connections and 2 y connectors ? can you use the flexible Y wire connectors that are a wire with the solar panel connections on the end of it? Sorry for so many questions however I think all my hardware is going to be here this weekend and I plan on getting started I appreciate your time please and 😊 thank you 🙏
@@TKCL so I would need 4 Mc 4 (like they use for parallel connections and 2 y connectors ? can you use the flexible Y wire connectors that are a wire with the solar panel connections on the end of it? Sorry for so many questions however I think all my hardware is going to be here this weekend and I plan on getting started I appreciate your time please and 😊 thank you 🙏
No, one you connect all pos and neg together of 4 panels your left with a single pos and neg. Same on the other 4 panels. So that leaves you with a total of two loose positives and two loose negatives that need connection. Two Y Branch adapters will take care of that and combine them down to one single and one positive which will connect to your wires and run to whatever inverter you're using.
What would be the best panels to buy to get close to 1600w with my delta pro?
That's very hard to say since there are so many available with different specs. It's probably going to be difficult to achieve 1600 watts with the voltage and amperage limitations of these units.
Can your solar array exceed the 15 amp limit? Say 20 amps? Thank you.
Yes, my current array has 12 5 amp panels, so that's very easy to do. Even with the 4 panels I showed in this video, you can parallel them all and hit 20 amps.
I dont know much solar panels but if I have two 100 watts solar panels and I get someone to connect them for me in parallel for usage on my solar generator, after connecting them in parallel will I get a total of 200 watts coming from the sun to charge my solar generator? My solar generator has maximum amp of 8.5. If the amps double after connecting in parallel will this damage my solar generator??
It doesn't matter if you connect parallel or series, your wattage will always increase. Most panels are at least 5 amps, so if you connect in parallel you are going to go over the maximum for your generator. You need to connect in series doubling your voltage, but always refer to the generators specs first.
I need advice, please: How is it better to connect two solar panels, power of 450W each to a 12v battery; 160ah....The panels are located in two different locations of my mountain house? Thank you very much
It really depends on your solar charger, you don't directly hook panels to the battery, they go to a solar charger first.
@@TKCLThanks a lot... I need some advice: how many amps or volts does the controller need to run properly? Thanks
I know a lot about solar panels but you make things so easy to understand. Thank you. But I have to ask how many retakes did you have to take because you got tongue tied with all the positive and negative lol I know I would have tried to explain it.
Lol a couple
Would the voltage and amperage limitations(for charging) change if you had two delta pros tied together using the double voltage hub? Didn’t know if it would be best to run two sets of wires from solar panels back to each delta pro,so they would receive the same amount of recharge, or just one set of wires to one unit and let the system decide how to divide up the solar input.
I was just wondering that, I do not know if one will charge the other. I will be testing that very soon as I just got a second Delta pro.
Thanks for the reply and I’ll be watching for a video on that.😁 I really enjoy your videos and content. You seem to have a genuine desire to help others! Keep up the great work..
Thank you for watching and the support.
Can you mix different size panels together, like 100w with a 200w etc??
I am not sure, I would think no. You don't do that with batteries.
Yes you can, as long as you don't exceed maximum voltage and wattage for your inverter charger
I have a delta max 2000
800watt max, 13amps max, 11-100Volts max
Renogy panels 200w, open circuit is 27v, 9.66Amp
What is the best way to wire my panels?
You've only got one option with those specs. 3 Renogy panels wired in series for 9.66 amps and 81 volts. Be aware that in cool weather or odd cloud conditions you can see spikes above rated voltage. That's why you need to stay under the maximums.
Great video. Even a Yankee like me could get it. lol
Hello Andrew, big fan here, have 10.8 kw dp, want to build solar array with renogy 100w, can I use 16 panels to get the 1600 watt input to DP wo exceeding 150v and 15 amps? TIA, love your videos!
1200 watts is where I have found my comfort zone with those panels. Reason being is I've experienced significant voltage spikes on cool days. If I had anymore panels than that, I'd be over the units limits. The good news is that those panels are performing very well for me. I just bought 40 more because they are on the best sale I've ever seen. If the sale is still running on Amazon I'll come back and post my affiliate link. You must be a prime member for the sale.
Just checked, the sale has ended 😕
Thank you very much Andrew, you Rock!
I have 2 600 w panels, Voc= 52.8V, Isc=14.99A, Vmp= 44V, Imp= 13.63A, each, how do I reduce the amps down to 12amps to run a minis-spilt A/C unit? 12 amps is the maxium for the mppt on the mini-split. The specs for the mini-split is: Electrical Specifications
Rated Voltage
115VAC | 90VDC-380VDC
Rated Current
AC: 8.3A | DC: 9.1A-2.4A
VOC of PV
You can't reduce those panels to any less than a single panels rated amperage. Those are huge residential panels, what you need are 5 or 10 amp rated 100-200 watt panels.
Thanks for you quick reply, what do you think of an idea of putting a 12amp breaker in front of the mini-spilt MPPT, so if the current ever went over 12 amps it wouldn't get to the mppt?@@TKCL
@gator-freda1938 not a good idea, you can't trust that the breaker will trip. It's also not a good idea to put more the 80 percent load on a breaker.
It looks like you need two sets of series to parallel. I've tried one set of series three panels in series. Then I tried to go parallel on that and it doesn't work. So I'm going to have to build two sets of series it looks like
Does my voltage or amperage double if i have two of the same ecoflo
It sure what you mean by two ecoflows? You can't combine units.
@@TKCL I can combine and it gives you 240. And with a soft start you can actually run your central ac.
What about fuses? 😮
Is it okay to leave the meters in all the time?
I guess you could, but I wouldn't just incase they fail.
@@TKCL thank you
I must’ve missed something here… Once you connect the panels together, how do you connect to the machine if there’s no more wires left
There is always wires left. When in series the last panel on each end will have one wire remaining for a total of two wires. If going the parallel route with Y adapters, you go from two sets of panel wires, combine with the Y adapters and are left with one positive and one negative to connect to your machine.
If you have 3 panel as demonstrated on video why did you incorporate an additional panel for total of 4 panel in a series parallel combination? what would happen if two panels are in parallel connection and connected in series with the one panel what will happen? to current and voltage using only thre panels? ther are two many videos using four panels but none demonstate using 3 panels in that configuration? This is part of a learning channel in youtube?
That's because you need an even number to series AND parralell as shown. You can use an odd number to series or parralell only, not both.
12V Can I connect two 100W parallels panels with two 100W panels wired in series? My controller handles 100V 50 amps
To keep things uniform you could wire all 4 in series OR parralell with the information you provided. No need for a combination of both. However all in series alone will be close to your maximum voltage. Wire all in parallel unless wanting to go with smaller power wire. Then do a series/combination as shown in this video.
@@TKCL thank you this helps
👍👍
So I bought a 900 watt 72 volt solar pool pump an 10 of the 100 watt solar panel you use how would u wire that up series or parallel
Is there an amperage rating for pool pump? We need to make sure you get the correct voltage and don't exceed the amperage rating of the pump.
@@TKCL SOLAR POOL PUMP
(€ ISO9001
Model: ZJP21/19-D72/900
Q.Max.
21 m"h
H.Max: 19 M
NOM. VOLTAGE: 72V
In/Outlet: 48mm
POWER:
0.9
KW
1.2 HP
IP 54
ICL. B
Just trying to get your thoughts it doesn’t come with clear instructions
No that isn't very clear, I can't say how to wire based on that info. There should be a minimum and maximum voltage range, as well as amperage.
@@TKCL right just wanted to make sure it wasn’t just me I try calling the company they don’t have no answer either thanks for your time keep the video coming love the content from y’all happy new year to you an tiff
😎
To be honest, I struggle putting flashlight batteries in correctly. I know upcoming videos will provide a great backup system. I’m lucky to own a NG 22K Generac.
Lol 😂 I get it.
Question I have 2 Harbor Freight 100 watt solar panels with pig nose connections both are connected to a splitter wire going to my jackery Explorer 1000 at the most I get 120 watts reading at midday how can I increase it with the wiring?
Wattage wont increase with wiring configurations, just amperage or voltage. You need to make sure you are getting the correct angle to sun for your area. Sounds like those panels might not be as efficient as they claim.
The issue with the all in one systems like the jackery and the delta pro is that they do limit amperage in from a solar string. The HF panels are excellent, and each will make more than its 100w rating even using the built in legs. I don’t know the voltage input or amperage limit of the jackery, but I assume it’s around 6a or so. Wiring in parallel will hit that 6a limit with just over one panel. 20v x 6a = 120w. You would limit anything above that 6a. 8 panels in parallel would still result in 120w. To get more wattage, you have to increase the voltage using series wiring. If the jackery is safe to at least 45v solar input, then wiring two panels in series will yield that 200w that you are looking for out of those oabels. There is no issue ever having more amperage than the controller is spec’ed for. It will stop at it max amp limit.
The ecoflow delta pro has a 15a limit. To max out that 15a input, you will need to supply it with an operating voltage above 106v, but below 150v. I wouldn’t allow it to get above 145v in the coldest weather when panel voltage rises. 106x15a= 1600w. It would take a combination of series- parallel 100w panels to get the voltage above 106v, and the amperage above 15a to get the most of your ecoflow delta pro.
I'm currently running 12 renogy 100 watt panels and last check showed open circuit voltage of 138 volts. Wired in series parralell to 10 amps. I routinely see 1250-1400 watts out of this setup during mid day sun. I am extremely pleased to consistently get over factory spec out of these panels, especially for the $85 price tag.
@@TKCL That mathematically makes sense. 20v that you found with your meter x 6 in series will be 120v operating voltage. Each string you measured is 6a. 120x 12a is 1400w. It’s hard to max out the 1600 watts limit on the delta pro with the 100w panels just because the amps and voltage combo is hard to get just just right without exceeding 150v open circuit voltage. To get to 1600w with the delta pro, you would need another 6 panels in series connected in parallel to what you already own. That would put you at 1800w but can only use 1600w. That’s ok. It’s just an example of over paneling. I also use 100w panels. $85/each is about as cheap as I have seen them too. Most are $100/ea.
They have been staying $85 on Amazon recently, best price I could find.
Any reason you chose that brand? I am using Delta Pro 2.
Delta pro 2? I am only familiar with the Delta pro? They sponsored me a while back, with that said I've always been a huge fan of their products and constant improvements. The other big reason I like the Delta pro is its one of the few that offer 240v capability. I desire that!
Or did you mean the panels? I have a lot of reasons I chose those panels, video out this week. I am very impressed!
@@TKCL it was the panels.
@@isoakfires gotcha! Yeah a lot of reasons, price, efficiency ect. My tests have confirmed my choice, I'm very happy.
I think you're thinking of the Delta 2. Delta Pro 2 does not exist, at least not yet.
what's the link to next video?
What video are you looking for? I have over 1000.
I believe a Bluetti can handle a lot more solar input than the EcoFlo's; so my first choice would be one of those instead...
Not of a comparable model, I own both. Now when you start talking their big stackable units, things do improve on the input side. My gut says Ecoflow is due for and updated system and they are typically the leaders in this space.
@@TKCL Yeah, I'd love to buy an updated model, but unfortunately, I'm not in that position financially (yet). I have to figure out which battery power station I should buy...
I have 4 x 405w panels. With the EcoFlo, even if I was to put 2 in series and then the 2 sets in parallel, it'd still be more amperage than what the EcoFlo can handle, what do I do? I'd still like to use all 4 panels, which would be handy on cloudy days, would this be possible?
@alpachino468 my gut says if you can hang in there a few more months without making a purchase, you're going to see some new models that can handle crazy amounts of solar input. Most of these companies launch their new products in January at the CES show.
So I did three panels in series for 99 volts. Then I tried to parallel to increase my wattage capacity to 3000 but so I connected the next two panels in parallel and connected it to the three series. I checked the voltage and the voltage was 33 volts. So somehow the voltage decreased. Again, I had three panels in series for a total of 99 volts that I went the neck next to in parallel and the voltage dumped to 33 volts in. I'm shaking my head. What is going on???
You cannot parralell odd sets. Your series sets must contain the same amount of panels and be the same voltage.
Wouldn’t you want to put the whole 15 amps in due to unreliable sun, clouds, haze, whatever, just to make sure it’s getting all it can take? Sorry if it was mentioned
No, because at times you will run over the 15 amps, especially on cool days. I don't want to risk tripping the unit. I never run anything to the max.
@@TKCL Ok. So it has to be set up that way because the unit itself won’t govern the input. Cool.
Most will govern wattage, most will not necessarily tolerate over voltage or amperage.
All of this should have started with Ohm’s law. That explains the entire relationship between volts amps and watts. You can’t change one one without changing the other. You stated “you change voltage but leave amperage alone”. It doesn’t work that way, the two are tied together. Example 10a@100v=1000w. Now, let’s half the voltage. 1000w/50v=20a. Still 1000w. Just as 5a@200v=1000w.
Assuming each panel is 12v and puts out 100w, let’s run the math.
2 panels in series would be 24v 200w which would be 8.3A.
2 panels wired in parallel would be 12V 200w which would be 16.6A.
Just remember they are all related. Where this also becomes important is wire size. You can run more wattage over smaller wires at higher voltages, which is why power lines run thousands of volts. So, if you need to run a long wire from your panels, you can do it with smaller wire at a higher voltage.
The one doesn't change the other was referring to either series OR parallel. Yes in the end by combining both in series AND parallel I affected both voltage and amperage. At the end of the day wattage is wattage. The purpose of the demonstration is to show how you have to manipulate both amperage and voltage to stay within a manufacturers recommended range. It's flawed thinking by individuals and manufacturers to put a wattage only maximum on converters when in reality you have other parameters to stay within.