Need Help, Not Enough Sun :(

upnorthandpersonal said:

I'm not at all familiar with Suaoki, but I guess it doesn't have a 'wind' input, does it? This means you're off to the same issue: convert wind power to something the Suaoki can take - and I'm guessing you intend to get it hooked up to the regular AC input? This is just as 'complex' as converting solar panel output to AC. It's possible, but it won't be straight forward and will likely require an additional battery to act as a buffer.

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Bob142 said:

I understand your frustration with the lack of LiFePO4 options on the market. You've already seen my solution to that. That Suaoki is really limited with the solar input: I've shared my thoughts on it in this thread.

I might be able to cancel my order on the Suaoki.

Maybe it's worth looking at the small all-in-one systems? I know you said you're not skilled for a DIY, but those are about as entry level as it gets. Check out Will's info on it below (specifically the Van Life 12V System). There are instructional videos and lots of forum members have gone with the all-in-one systems and can offer a ton of advice and support. For example, @screebo just shared a cool hand-truck mounted build using the 24V version.

The handtruck build looks interesting! I have some skils for building but lack the electrical knowledge. If I bought a Battleborn to start with and a Hybrid Charge controller would that be the best way to have dual charging for low sun situations? Thanks for the reply!

All-in-One Solar Power Packages

MPP and a few other manufacturers now sell a "complete off grid system in a box" that has: AC Inverter Solar Charge Controller AC Battery Charger Automatic Transfer Switch (if grid power is...

www.mobile-solarpower.com

Hand Truck 24 volt portable system

It Lives! I solved the infamous “no lower mounts” problem by carefully drilling one additional hold in the lower boss. It required moving the circuit breaker to access. Mounted on Douglas DC-10 cargo panels: aluminum skinned close cell balsa core. And yes! The new model has very quiet fans ?✌

diysolarforum.com

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SunFun1 said:

Hello, Can anyone give me some advice about Solar Generators charging options? I have watched several videos and I'm not sure how to proceed. I live in upstate NY where sun isn't favorable, especially during the winter.

Will I be able to charge a Solar Generator with supplemented Wind power? Not only for lack of sun but also due to limitations most generators offer with solar input. I am not currently skilled for a DYI and want something yesterday!

I look forward to all replies and welcome any links!

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Small $100 "gateway drug" Hobby solar system

I needed an excuse to get started so, not having a man cave shed, I thought I'd start with the existing 110vac Christmas lights on the shrub in the backyard! And then I'll look at some of those 12v garden spotlights in the spring. So far I have these parts: 25W PV panel panel to be mounted on...

diysolarforum.com

45North said:

I live just north of you and while I only have a hobby toolbox solar setup, I can attest to the fact that it's been a rough month for solar: snow, rain, and overcast days did not help power the PV cells.
And I don't think it's been particularly windy either: so I wouldn't count on that either. Mebbe you should just accept the fact that you can't rely on solar power for part of the year around here.
Here's my show and tell string if you're interested:

Small $100 "gateway drug" Hobby solar system

I needed an excuse to get started so, not having a man cave shed, I thought I'd start with the existing 110vac Christmas lights on the shrub in the backyard! And then I'll look at some of those 12v garden spotlights in the spring. So far I have these parts: 25W PV panel panel to be mounted on...

diysolarforum.com

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SunFun1 said:

Should I start another thread for help or keep this going?

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SunFun1 said:

I believe I can come under 25' from an array setup to battery. Can someone help with my wire specs that I should use?

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Part 1: Choosing the Correct Wire Size for a DC Circuit - Blue Sea Systems

Engineering high quality marine electrical components for safety, reliability and performance

www.bluesea.com

SunFun1 said:

Okay, UPDATE;

After watching a few more videos and weighing out the options and replies, I'm thinking of trying a Battleborn battery, MPPT Controller, and Pure Sine Wave Inverter. I believe the cost will exceed the Suaoki G1000 but I'm concerned about if one part fails in the Suaoki it will be difficult to replace, ship, and the warranty is only one year and turn around time wouldn't be good.

Comparing that to swapping out a DYI system part I'm leaning to getting some learning!

Plus I could expand later. I like Will's video on the MPPT controller and will probably go that way with the 40a. I bought Will's book last week and read through it once and will do so again.

Should I start another thread for help or keep this going?

My thoughts are complete the solar first and add wind later with a seperate battery.

I have 6 100w panels that I want to use. I'm also leaning to the 2200w power inverter Will used in one of his builds as that should cover any future needs.

I believe I can come under 25' from an array setup to battery. Can someone help with my wire specs that I should use?

Again, if it would be better to start another thread please let me know. Thank you!

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Bob142 said:

Might as well keep this thread going.


Check out the site below. Remember when sizing the wire that the distance is the circuit round trip. So if your panels are 25 feet away, you've got a 50 foot circuit length. When looking at the chart, consider your circuit a "Critical circuit".

Part 1: Choosing the Correct Wire Size for a DC Circuit - Blue Sea Systems

Engineering high quality marine electrical components for safety, reliability and performance

www.bluesea.com

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