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Is Victron easy to set up?

tonyg

tonyg

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Apr 5, 2022
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Hello!

I've been toying with the idea to use Victron equipment for an off grid solar system, but I heard quite unpopular stories how hard it is to configure them because of the very convoluted/confusing/buggy software. Most of the times it seems that there is a need for their engineer to come around and change values themselves in their software.

That's not something I'd like...

Anyone relates or has different experiences with Victron?

Many thanks,
Tony
 
Individual components are trivial to setup. The only time I've heard of there being some complications is when trying to setup multiple inverters in parallel.

What components and setup are you considering?
 
I truly appreciate everyone's advice, thank you for taking your time to advise.

I currently ordered the solar panels: 12x400w monos Trinas Vertex S - so that's first part done. But looking to buy other different panels in the future, so the possibility to add Smart Solar chargers when needed was very tempting.

The setup would look similar to Will's video on "Victron made easy". I was thinking of one or two smart solar chargers, a multiplus 2 or phoenix inverter, all connected through VE can and through a distributor and a shunt (all Victron) with a 48v LifePo4 battery made from separate 3.2v cells - again, looking at Will's videos and educating myself with books and on forums.
 
As MisterSandals alluded to, the "after the sale" support for users is very good. There are updates to add new features, fix bugs, etc that you typically don't see from other manufacturers. It's also extremely easy to update by just using an app (or just setting it to auto-update) that is available on multiple different platforms. Some of their software is also open source which is even more unusual in this market. It is obviously more difficult putting all the pieces together compared to an all-in-one but there are trade-offs with all-in-ones.
 
One thing you need to do is look for your local Victron dealer. Buy the stuff through them. Have them look over your plans before buying.

The local dealer may even be able to cut deals. For example, I had just added solar on my MotorHome, and one week before we were to leave for Alaska, I found out the original inverter was dying. I contacted my dealer with the order and he shipped the inverter (Multiplus 3000 plus GGCX) out second day air for no extra charge! That was great!

If you need a dealer www. Continuous resources.com is mine! He is a half a state away and the only time I have seen him was at the Quartsite trade show (in a different state).

Much better than just using Amazon.

P.S. unless you are doing something really complicated and using assistants (programming), the Victron stuff is really easy to use and has GREAT data.
 
That's very useful, I started googling for local dealers now!

Do I need an active internet connection at the system to be able to set it up, or is Bluetooth enough and do it through my phone?
I can also connect with a laptop if needed, but would like to know what's best and if active internet is needed all the time. I supposed not, given it is an off-grid solution. :)
 
Bluetooth is all you need if the Victron devices have Bluetooth. Anything with "Smart" in the name will have Bluetooth and can be setup using the VictronConnect app on your phone or computer. Some devices without "Smart" in the name may also have Bluetooth.

For some devices you need extra cables or adapters. Many of the inverters require a MK3-USB adapter to connect to a computer. Or you can get a separate Bluetooth adapter.

FYI - you don't need a local dealer. Any Victron dealer can provide support if needed. Obviously if you can drive nearby to a local dealer that is the best option. I bought online from a reputable dealer and they were very helpful answering a few questions.
 
Active internet is not needed…
However, if you have a GX device (Cerbo - or roll your own with a RassPi), and an active internet connection you can log into the VRM and see what is happening 24/7. You can also setup your system virtually and then download all the settings directly into the devices through VRM. (I haven’t done that yet). Or just program them via Bluetooth and your smartphone. (All except the inverters).

If you want to see how easy it is to change settings download VictronConnect on your smart phone - then in Demo library - you can select the device you are thinking of buying. And go and change the settings
 
tonyg said:
Do I need an active internet connection at the system to be able to set it up, or is Bluetooth enough and do it through my phone?
Click to expand...
You can and should do it thru your phone. The app will check if it is the latest and if not ask if you to press ok to update. Then it will check firmware on the controller or whatever devices you have. After 2 minutes you are all up to date and ready to config.
 
Great stuff, sounds easy, I don't know why some people had negative reviews regarding setup and changing settings.
They seemed knowledgeable, but then I'm a beginner myself.

@Rocketman , you said above all "except solar inverters", what would I need to configure an inverter and how?

Would the components themselves within a Victron system communicate through Bluetooth or should they use the VE Can cables (smartsolars are more expensive with VE Cans it seems)? Like for example multiple smartsolar chargers to synchronise charging. Or what about an inverter, wouldn't it need to communicate with the charger?

Thank you
 
Rmaddy posted at the same time I did and mentioned the MK3-USB is needed to program the Multiplus inverters.
 
tonyg said:
Would the components themselves within a Victron system communicate through Bluetooth or should they use the VE Can cables (smartsolars are more expensive with VE Cans it seems)? Like for example multiple smartsolar chargers to synchronise charging. Or what about an inverter, wouldn't it need to communicate with the charger?
Click to expand...
All devices with Bluetooth can be setup to communicate via Bluetooth. Setup each to use VE.Smart Networking. No wires needed for this.

Most inverters will require the extra Bluetooth dongle to participate.

Or everything can communicate through a GX or Raspberry Pi running Venus OS. Each device would be connected with appropriate cables.
 
If you are getting a bunch of Victron gear - shunt, MPPT’s and Inverter, look closely at getting the Cerbo (or another GX device).
Watch a couple of YouTube videos on the Cerbo.
I think it is worth it to have my CCGX (older GX device), the information all on one screen, and remote viewing on the VRM. It is worth it to me - but I live full time in my MotorHome.

Don’t use VE.Can unless you need to (distance or number of devices). The MPPT’s and Smartshunt have VE.direct ports - use that to connect to the Cerbo. The Multiples will use a VE.bus - which is a standard Ethernet cable.

When I got one more MPPT (all my VE.Direct were already used), I got a VE.direct to USB adapter, and used USB for the extra port.
 
Rocketman said:
One thing you need to do is look for your local Victron dealer.
Click to expand...
Is there such a thing? I am in the fifth biggest metropolitan area in the US and all solar equip is ordered on line. If you have one you’re lucky!!

————-

I have found Victorville easy to set up. I use SCCs and a battery monitor. I have 2.5 kw of panels and have produced up to 15 kw of power a day. My build is in my signature block.

Bigger than that, the equipment gets more complicated especially with remote monitoring. I think I could set that up, but I’d be saying a lot of words I could not type on the forum without getting banned.
 
Yea “ local Victron Dealer” is a stretch. Mine has his shop a four hour drive from me. I do order on-line from him. I guess my real point is before you place your big order call them and have them go over everything - they can suggest missing items (cables) or possibly better ways of doing something. Then if/when you have an issue - you know who to call/text/email.
 
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