Jolly Wrenchers
New Member
- Joined
- Sep 10, 2022
- Messages
- 7
I’ve been a lurker on here for a bit now and have totally immersed myself in trying to learn more about this energy source and how I can make use of it. That being said, I really want to build my first system, but keep getting hung up on size, efficiency, cost etc.. So far I’m not able to settle on supplier(s), array wattage/voltage, battery voltage/capacity, all-in-one style inverters or separate components.
I was hoping to build a small (approximately 2000W) system first to get to know the technology and build some relationships and resources along the way. With better knowledge in hand I’d then build a larger system to power perhaps a light usage shop that would have occasional high load (240V Mig Welder), or maybe a whole home system to take it off grid (home is in a very remote area).
My challenge seems to be this first step, the smaller wattage (and voltage) system. Would I have less idle power draw on separate components? Build batteries or buy complete? I like the Victron components, but am having some difficulty understanding their verbiage compared to others.
I’m sure others have been down this path, what recommendations would you have for some one who really wants to understand the entire system, and has some time and money to invest? I’m a “hands on” person so reading and watch video’s only take me so far. I would call myself a more knowledgeable beginner on the electrical comprehension side. I’ve got a lot of low voltage DC (automotive) experience and a fair amount of 110/120 experience, less on split phase 240V.
Where to start? I don’t want to waste money re-inventing the wheel when possible.
Appreciate any thoughts.
I was hoping to build a small (approximately 2000W) system first to get to know the technology and build some relationships and resources along the way. With better knowledge in hand I’d then build a larger system to power perhaps a light usage shop that would have occasional high load (240V Mig Welder), or maybe a whole home system to take it off grid (home is in a very remote area).
My challenge seems to be this first step, the smaller wattage (and voltage) system. Would I have less idle power draw on separate components? Build batteries or buy complete? I like the Victron components, but am having some difficulty understanding their verbiage compared to others.
I’m sure others have been down this path, what recommendations would you have for some one who really wants to understand the entire system, and has some time and money to invest? I’m a “hands on” person so reading and watch video’s only take me so far. I would call myself a more knowledgeable beginner on the electrical comprehension side. I’ve got a lot of low voltage DC (automotive) experience and a fair amount of 110/120 experience, less on split phase 240V.
Where to start? I don’t want to waste money re-inventing the wheel when possible.
Appreciate any thoughts.