diy solar

diy solar

Recent content by jesfl

  1. J

    Adding Additional RV Roof Solar Panels Both Series + Parallel?

    Thanks for responding. Yes, I know the larger panels would be better, and I drooled for them. But, I say sadly, I already had 8-100 watt panels roof-flat-mounted (2 of the 8 were not wired, long story). The only affordable-for-me panels back in 2019 were the 100-watt panels. Fast forward to...
  2. J

    Adding Additional RV Roof Solar Panels Both Series + Parallel?

    Good afternoon Forum participants, Given the consistent problems I’ve managed with nearly every previous phase of my RV solar system installation and upgrades over the past 3 years, I am herewith trying to avoid another self-inflicted headache, if not a wound. Right now my system is running...
  3. J

    Upgraded solar system, puzzled by the remaining limitation(s)?

    I just wanted to say thank you, once again, to everyone who contributed to helping me solve my inverter power limitation problem. The sharing of your time and knowledge so graciously and helpfully is astounding to me, to say the very least. That's been true every time I've confronted problems...
  4. J

    Upgraded solar system, puzzled by the remaining limitation(s)?

    Wow! I've just studied your system photos (via your link, thank you) several times. And, as always with new things electrical, it's a bit scary. If I go over your system slowly maybe 6-dozen times, or more, I may fully understand it. That's if I do other reading/research along the way. Your...
  5. J

    Upgraded solar system, puzzled by the remaining limitation(s)?

    Thanks. I'm beginning to figure out the cheapest-fastest construction techniques on my 20-year-old fifth wheel and the problems that creates. About 18 months ago, I removed the useless automatic transfer switch and put in a Blue Sea 3-way selection switch. I never used the old transfer switch in...
  6. J

    Upgraded solar system, puzzled by the remaining limitation(s)?

    Surprise, SURPRISE! My microwave ran at FULL POWER ! ! ! I got some lifting help and was able to connect the microwave directly to one of the AC outlets on the WindyNation VertaMax 3000 watt inverter. I started testing at the microwave's "Level 7" power and then one-by-one through the power...
  7. J

    Upgraded solar system, puzzled by the remaining limitation(s)?

    Zwy: Thank you so much. I am not surprised by your suggestion, and it is appreciated. I wondered about the 24-volt system as I've noticed it mentioned here on the Forum numerous times. However, at my low level of beginner knowledge, I didn't even let my thoughts go there. I don't even...
  8. J

    Upgraded solar system, puzzled by the remaining limitation(s)?

    TacomaJoe: Thanks./ I get what you are saying. When I first read your comment here (and others similar), I reacted "that makes sense." Then I tested, and it does not seem to be the issue. I don't understand what voltage drop would be considered a major problem? But 0.01v to 0.08v (under load...
  9. J

    Upgraded solar system, puzzled by the remaining limitation(s)?

    Quattrohead: Thanks to you once again for this idea. I understand the concept, but I'm not exactly sure how to wire to bypass the BMS units. And, trying that is slightly frightening to me at my beginner/novice/unskilled technical level. My very small solar compartment (RV basement storage)...
  10. J

    Upgraded solar system, puzzled by the remaining limitation(s)?

    50ShadesofDirt: Thank you. to your helpful points. 1. The batteries and individual cells certainly read "full" on my AiLi battery monitor and on my multimeter when I test at the individual batteries. Individual cells typically are 3.30-3.35 when the bluetooth app and the AiLi meter read fully...
  11. J

    Upgraded solar system, puzzled by the remaining limitation(s)?

    Quatrohead: Thank you. The numbers are here from my latest tests per your suggestions. There was no huge/serious voltage loss at the 250-amp breaker on the 4/0 cable into the inverter. Or, on the shunt. (I forgot to write the test numbers from across the shunt, but they were the same...
  12. J

    Upgraded solar system, puzzled by the remaining limitation(s)?

    I am mostly past my other time-draining matters, and I am back to focusing on my battery/inverter/microwave power issue. This is very long. My apology. It is a brain dump about most of the points from previous exchanges. If you have the patience for my list, I will value your thoughts. I also...
  13. J

    Upgraded solar system, puzzled by the remaining limitation(s)?

    First, an apology to to those participating herer. Today, I must stop my attempt to understand this inverter/power problem because of other pressing matters. To me, this issue is just another electrical “rabbit hole” with no clear, single answer (at least that I can understand). I sincerely...
  14. J

    Upgraded solar system, puzzled by the remaining limitation(s)?

    Thank you to everyone who has commented. I will run suggested tests later this morning after sunrise. I am now guessing the Windy Nation (VertaMax) inverter could be the culprit. Quick facts: The inverter manual says low voltage warning beeps @ 11.0 volts, shutdown at 10 volts. The manual only...
  15. J

    Upgraded solar system, puzzled by the remaining limitation(s)?

    Thanks for responding, Madco. The inverrter turns itself off. After several minutes it turns itself back on. I assume that is an internal switch of some sort. I can see the 4 BMS units on my phone and they do not shut down. I have a basic AiLi shunt meter installed. I've tested the inverter...
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