Recent content by SolarOhio

Another inside view.

2 years update: Station had performed well until a recent low voltage disconnect. I believe my setup with lights and small inverter continuously connected caused a slow drain that the battery monitor did not pickup on. LVD occurred with monitor showing 80%. Currently, battery pack will not...

My AC outlets are also GFCI protected just in case. Some codes appear to permit GFCI in lieu of a wired ground for "portable job site power stations."

Both the charge controller and inverter have designated ground connects by the manufacturer. They’re connected with a single piece of solid 12g. Note that I’m using a single-phase inverter.

The two panel application is just for a small solar shed. I was wondering if I should pony up for about 4kw of matching panels now even with my primary residential application at least a year away. But it seems like I should be able to find a better deal if I hold out.

Typo! I meant 500wh — just enough to eek by in a no-sun situation for another half day or so. I assume most power tool batteries do have a basic BMS to prevent over discharge; 40v batteries have an SOC readout as well.

I have an Epever Tracer 40A charge controller on a 2.4kw 24v lifepo4 portable power station. I’d like to be able to use my 500kwh of 40v cordless mower/chainsaw batteries as backup in case of an emergency. If I use a battery adapter and run it to the solar-ins on my Tracer, will that work...

Is mono glass panel technology really at a point where I should just focus on price per watt and brand doesn’t make too much of a difference in performance or lifetime?

I have an opportunity to snag some new Grade A 300w Hyundai panels by driving a few hours away. I don’t really see enough reviews/prices on them to know if they’re worth the effort, but $180 +tax each seems pretty tempting. I have plans for future residential application. Anyone familiar with...

Space is a big consideration, and I want to stick with dry cells if at all possible. But I have some other projects where a good low-temp FLA could be ideal.

Appreciate the input, especially as we might relocate to a colder climate. I've heard LTO cell voltages can be tricky/unconventional— but also that if you do the math right for the operational ranges of your equipment there are usually no problems.

What is the best lithium battery chemistry for cold environments? I’m in northeastern Ohio, and our winters aren’t brutal, but every few years we end up with 3-5 days of sub-zero temps in a row. I want to setup an insulated solar shed with a grid-tie + battery bank of 5-10KW. Will lifepo4 with a...

Here’s a super lightweight and cheap adjustable stand design that I use for 100w flex panel pairs. Each unit costs <$15 to make and weighs <2 lbs. The tilt/kickstand adjusts with a wing nut and bolt — it can go from about 25-80 degrees and also fold in to lay the whole thing flat. All non-moving...

Very nice! Does it have any sort of grounding for the inverter or charge controller?

You might consider an all-in-one portable power station with built-in solar charging. That + a 50-100w panel could handle your lighting and device charging needs and maybe even a 12v refrigerator. Calculate your expected power consumption and then see reviews on YouTube.