Most reacted posts

I like painters tape. Helps me scribe and cut the insulation. This was supposed to be tinned copper but I decided to use another supplier for this application.

Do you have a weight for this unit empty?

OK. So this is a mobile unit. How to wire it in. I wrestled with this quite a bit. I didn't want separate strands of wiring laying around. I considered 10 awg which is a standard for panels. However I will be utilizing parallel input by design. If I decide to change to serial I can rewire at...

Thank you for the update

There are some good videos on adding a subpanel. We added one earlier but it was for a new circuit. My concern with moving circuits over to a subpanel was probably something silly. I simply wasn't sure how to extend the existing wiring to to the new box. There seems to be some discussion about...

About $40. Yes did buy from Amy. I asked if they could consider adding another inch height at the top to permit a little more room.

Agreed. I spent a considerable amount of time unraveling my cord this morning after using it. Granted it wasn't the highest quality. Having said that, using the wrong technique for coiling it for so many years likely bent wires in a way that can no longer be fixed. I found it humbling to hear...

I contacted three different possible vendors who carried the Victron line. Of all the responses I received it appeared that the responses from this particular vendor were very good. I am just curious about the experience of others who may have used this supplier. Thank you

Another possible option is to go with 24v. There are dc to dc converters which can take you to 12v. Wires will be smaller and less expensive than 12v. If you are DIY you can later switch to 48v with same wiring although would need to upgrade inverter charger and BMS. With changes in technology...

Don’t know if it’s the case here but soy oil has been used in car wires and can be a mouse magnet.

Typically the capacity is different than the discharge rate. It is common for a discharge available amount to be a fraction of 100 percent. If your capacity is 100 amps then typically you would have access to 80 amps leaving a 20 amp reserve. It is common that batteries can only discharge at .5...

This is for all those crazy ideas you had which would defy the laws of physics. We have all heard of the perpetual motion machine. That is one example. I will start. A self charging system. Output from an inverter charger fed by batteries would be used to charge a second battery fed inverter...

Really appreciate the excellent replies. Thank you very much. Perhaps this was already said above. Since I am new to this world I have much to learn. This crude diagram tries to present what I was trying to say. Perhaps you have already said it.... Solar -->> Charge controller [if current...

I can both applications at the same time with a catch. It doesn’t share batteries. When I am looking at pack 1 on one application I can see pack 2 on the other and inversely.

I can appreciate picking up extra working parts. Picked up extra lugs along the way. Prices are not going down and it never hurts to have extras in case a repair or system change or update is needed. I also buy shrink wrap in rolls. Same reason.

Its a thought. Will probably update my portable solar panel to input to this unit.

Really enjoyed the video. It gives a very good visual description to what Will and others have been saying for a while now. I don't know if it is possible, but it would be interesting to see what the "safety margins" are on common BMS units, eg. Jk, Overkill, etc. Naturally, going with a higher...

Good advice here. Multiple batteries allows the system to "share" the load as well as provide redundancy. A well designed system will allow one to take one or more batteries "off line" for maintenance if needed. Sharing the load reduces the actual draw from each pack, extending the time they...

That is an interesting idea. Two 45s to get a 90. I also like the suggestion of putting the attachment terminal closer to the positive on the battery. It would allow for a straight run and could simply things considerably

Certainly not a new topic. It is so difficult to find a solar calculator that is not linked to a provider. I know there is one that has been presented here. I found this interactive tool and it looked fairly interesting. Wanted to get your opinion on it. Again, not an endorsement of any...

Thank you for your input. I found it interesting that the power in unit can handle 4 batteries (at least looks that way), ties into this nicely, and actually cost less than the two Victron bus bars I was originally considering. The reason I had put the other configuration was because a vendor...

Here are two photos showing the battery attached. The first photo shows the metal bracket attached to the carrying box. The second shows the battery in the box.

Glad it worked out for you.

Actually in rereading the forum response I can get this by simply inserting a 3 pole switch. Since I am only interested in 2 of these poles, I would simply need a switch that could be turned on and off so my guess that voltage would not be considered here. So when the power goes off, it would...

Sometimes it may be helpful to do a multimeter walk through at the lead connection terminal if it can be accessed. The lead terminal is gently removed from the Bms. For a diy the negative lead of the multimeter goes on the metal lead for black. One then walks away from the black lead with the...

If I understand. Please forgive me if I state this incorrectly. The main from my grid feed has the N-G bond. When this is detached (switched off) the Victron does this internally when the generator is attached. At least this is my understanding from another thread. The challenge with a lot of...

And get ready for the influx of orders!

This is AC

Got my Induction hotplate today. Put on a pot to make some tea. I thought the old electric stove was good. In the past I would put hot water in the pot and it usually took 5 to 10 minutes to warm the water. This thing did it in half the time with cold water to start. Very impressive technology.

https://diysolarforum.com/threads/trench-and-conduit-advice.69118/#post-873842

OK. I took another look at this. Channel locks and lineman pliers are very handy tools. I made sure the crimp connections were solid. Then with careful gentle movement was able to adjust the lug ends just enough to ensure a solid connection.

That is the ten thousand dollar issue. While it shows resting in the photo, it is the threads of the stud that are holding it in place. I am curious though. The Victron distributor has a dedicated fuse for every battery. The positive cable to the battery goes directly to the fuse before getting...

How are the Envision 305s working out?

This has been discussed a number of times. I have watched videos which talk about the use of a cable to usb adaptor, using the orange and orange white wires for the the positions on the adaptor. I have watched videos, attached the unit and checked and rechecked the connections. Alas the...

Got things up and running today. Today was a nervous day as I checked and double checked things. Then there was trouble shooting to make sure that the AC wiring was proper and up to snuff. All wiring from the batteries to the Victron Distributor is 1/0. Everything after the Distributor is 2/0...

Have a friend who sometimes would say “Did I just say that out loud?”

From what I understand keeping a charge shouldn’t be a problem provided they are cycled periodically

I was very fortunate in that I could borrow an amazing torque wrench from my mechanic. Lucked out on this.

Has anyone actually used one of these? Effective or marketing hype? https://www.amazon.com/Fluke-IRR1-Solar-Irradiance-Meter/dp/B08NFLSY7R

Battery Scc with grid backup charging. 24v system. If will be running some separate off grid circuits.

Verified with two multimeters. Second one is a Klein. Do not own a fluke

Well this spring looking to update this build to interface with another project:

It is best to establish an equal top range. That is the purpose of a top balance. Otherwise there may be an increased risk of runners which are basically cells that charge faster

There are a number of units which have been in use for some time. A number completely off grid. Top brands that have been discussed include Samlex, Snyder, Solark, Victron, Midnite. EG is a relatively new player and shows potential. I am not trying to power my entire home which made my...

Good point. @Nami has been quiet for a while. No answers to questions regarding updates or plans. Agreed. Honda as a car manufacturer typically has a good reputation. However they have made some poor decisions regarding component decisions. To "save face" they have extended warranties on...

Am actually doing this. Have separate independent circuits off its own breaker. When done there will be two outlets, one grid and one not. The inverter circuits will have red outlets. Not for entire house. That would be too expensive. Basically for basic lighting, fridge and freezer.

This morning I activated both batteries. I then ran a multimeter test for each battery at: 1. The battery itself 2. The output from the Distributor 3. The bus bars after the distributor I was able to test each battery since I was able to turn each on and off with its switch. The readings at...

These are great ideas! Was looking at Induction hotplates this morning...

And if you need any volunteers for field testing while we “borrow “ the unit…

We have spent so much time considering a waterproof design. Why not simply build one and put it where it is needed. If rain is coming slip it into a camping tent. They have mesh sides for air circulation covered by a rain fly. If it is warm and dry open the windows and doors. They roll up into...

I am considering heat shrink for the sections of the bar that don’t have the bolt connection. This is used on the overkill Bms and in the engine compartment of vehicles so it is effective in very harsh conditions. It will double as a an insulator in case accidental contact is made. Admittedly...

We got a similar letter from the gas company. We typically have low usage in the winter because of our primary heating method. Has been that way for seven years. Now they probably have a software program that compares our usage to others and automatically triggers a letter if we are less than...

One of the benefits of mass production vs custom.

I have read a number of threads about available terminals that can be used for battery boxes. My challenge is space. The first photo shows how the wire currently comes in. While this will be a stationary install I am concerned about lateral stresses on the terminal over time. The second photo...

OK. That makes sense. Let me recap to see if I am understanding correctly. Typically a subpanel is fed by two circuits, thus the 2 hots. Then depending upon whether you are going with 120 (10/2) or 220 (10/3) determines the wire to the inverter/charger or all in one. Considering the...

Thank you. Very nice! Really enjoy how the dongle feature sets are presented within the Multiplus settings.

A great deal has been discussed regarding precharge circuits when attaching to an inverter charger. I will be including one in my build. My question regards connecting depleted batteries (eg after capacity testing). Since the Bms essentially has turned the battery off are there any risk factors...

Perhaps 15.24 is still the way to go for now? If so is it still available? Just asking

So let me be more direct. Would I anticipate any wire warming for a 1/0 awg wire with a maximum of 100 amps?

OK. There are plenty of 12v lighting systems available and emergency lightning systems that are used to mark exits in buildings. That got me thinking. So in the process of building DIY batteries I find myself with a number of cells that work but due to aging, resistance, etc are not well suited...

Sadly our house was built in the 80s by a "builder" who built to spec, not a penny more. Have been spending time updating things, electrical, etc to be up to proper spec. In a different time in my life, knowing what I know now, would love to start over and utilize some the the design gems...

Some very nice looking units! I am trying to keep a low form factor with mine. Really appreciate the other work presented though.

Had not decided on the fuses from the batteries yet. I am considering 2/0 cables from the batteries with a 125 amp fuse (fuse intended as weak link on purpose). Would the Class-T provide better protection? One source stated these are hard to find right now. Other than the batteries, nothing has...

Have even considered using marine grade wire in plastic shroud as used in automotive. Can replace shroud as needed

Typically accuracy improves with additional cycles of charge discharge

Sometimes I see one of those old antique ice boxes. No where as big as what is available, but a little bigger than a dorm fridge. Makes me wonder how a well insulated model would work?

OK. Have a Victron Smart shunt and like it. However getting ready to place a Midnite Classic 150 into operation. Yes, like features of both Victron and Midnite. I was initially planning on placing the 2 shunts in series. The Whizbang talks to the Classic, at least the board part of it. Was...

I am planning on running two 4 awg wires and a 6 awg ground in metal conduit. Originally I was planning on using one inch conduit since this is the outlet size from the breaker box. My original plan was to fish the wire through a little at a time as I piece things together primarily because...

Being portable the ability to run power tools or an appliance or two would be nice along with low power lighting in case of a power failure.

Ok so this idea came to mind after the second cup of coffee went to work. Perhaps this already exists. Victron has cloud access. What if one could turn off their panels remotely with a smartphone app at or before the combiner box. I could envision a number of possible benefits. Then again...

A spare, just in case the neighbor borrows one LOL

It might be cool if a head to head comparison was made between vendors for Scc capabilities. I remember older videos where solar panels were compared.

So I utilize a basement type LED lighting system. These are the two bank 48 inch variety. I will be utilizing these in the build. Here is a Kill A Watt reading for one of them:

Aka 465, 470 depending upon the speed limit and number of windows open.

If I am reading the documentation correctly for unit number one the switches would be on-off-off-off? Or am I backwards?

Ok. Basic schematic one. Grid input into the main panel, neutral bonded to ground per code. Transfer switch is connected to breakers 1 and 3 on the main. When the transfer switch is on "line" then input comes from the grid. When the transfer switch is on generator, the input comes from the...

Unless one of the components says “universal “ then it is only two trips lol

So the thinking is to run a low power inverter to run these from the battery. Something like this is a consideration. I may opt to purchase one which delivers a bit more power but this is for illustration purposes: https://www.donrowe.com/Samlex-SAM-800-12-p/sam-800-12.htm

Sometimes McMaster-Carr has things nobody else has.

Lightly used, I mean bruised…

I am considering using Trade Assurance. Amy, one who has been spoken of very well in the forum suggested this option since I don't use Paypal. Given previous discussion in this forum, buyers have been very satisfied with this source so that is not the question My question is security of the...

I did try this without a ferrule. It would NOT hold. Unfortunately I destroyed my copper rings and had to pick up some new ferrules. I used a crimper to secure them. If memory serves me correctly @Steve_S shared what worked for him. Just can’t put my finger on the post. My apologies in advance...

OK. So I am sure many of us have a spare parts bin, shelf, room, whatever. Once and a while I find myself looking things over and finding a bit or piece that can be used for a current or future project. One of the benefits of buying a spare with lower priced items. For example, when I was...

Finally, this is for utilitarian purposes and not a permanent install. I will need to run cords from the inverter to the two lights in question. Since I have no desire to rewire my house at this time am considering this "light switch" which will operate the outlets. Still deciding the logistics...

Just got done reading another thread or two or more on this. I read input from some of the top minds on this topic. My takeaway is this is not an easy topic. At the end of the day it is worth considering an approach which is supported by the local inspector.

And my guess is this will dramatically impact sales in the US and Canada

This reminds me of stereo systems when they first hit the market. All in ones existed and so did systems with individual components. There was something cool about the latest amplifier and or turn table. From what I can see the quality of both AIO and components continues to improve. Like...

Yes. There are three leads from what I have read. One source said that two leads can be used to form an on off switch. I am considering running outside speaker wire in my metal conduit with the other lines.

My pv is in metal conduit. Asking for indoor 6awg

OK. I missed this as well. As @GXMnow indicated, cells make up a battery. 4 cells in series 12 volts, 8 cells in series 24 volts and 16 cells in series 48 volts. The cells are connected by a BMS, or battery management system. The goal is to combine like capacity cells. This allows the battery...

I have been following this discussion on a number of threads. I have the Victron Multiplus. However my understanding is that they recommend an external separate ground fault which as I understand it is a separate issue from arc fault. There supposedly are combiner boxes that promise both ground...

A smaller version of what I have done should work. Link below

Again, according to what I have watched on the videos, grid input is still permitted but output from a generator or inverter goes into the transfer switch and then on to the circuits that have been hard wired.

OK. Was participating in another thread. I mentioned creating a UPS like battery for my Freezer. Not that hard, inverter, charger and a battery less assembling and wires, etc, etc. Then I went out and looked a the Samlex inverter. A very nice unit. Just for grins and giggles, I went out to...

Funny how these projects work out. It reminds me of the old 20-80 rule. 20 percent of the project takes 80 percent of the time. I purchased the Overkill BMS with the leads attached to the negative wires. So far so good. However the lug on the end of the negative lead is just a little smaller...

Along those lines, I was also considering the use of breakers. This would combine the feature of a fuse and a switch. Again, I defer to those with more experience.

If your lighting and appliances are 12v then the advantages for 12v and 24v are less pronounced. If you will be going with 120v then 48v seems to be the current sweet spot. Smaller wires and a growing list of products which support it With higher volt systems it is still possible to step down...