I build batteries and have been doing so for a while and I feel I better Chime In here.
- It is not that hard to do but it is not a simple slap-it-together deal, unless you want troubles.
There are tools required ! That costs money and a few things that can't be skimped on either such as a good quality Digital Multimeter (at least 2 decimal point accurate) with DC Clamp. Wire cutters, crimpers (Lugs & Terminals) and more... Of course a DC Charging Powersource to top balance etc... This stuff adds up FAST... some of us have the gear because we are into electronics etc but there is always something we don't have.
The Question, if you have the tools & equipment, then DIY is a great option, but if you do not have the tools etc, will that "investment" have more life beyond building the batteries or not ? That can only be answered by YOU !
Cells, Cases, BMS' etc are all easily obtained and there are Known Good Vendors that have been supplying the membership here for quite some time. You can build Larger Capacity batteries than those on offer by most vendors.
! Take 48V Rackmounts, they are mostly 100AH, a few get to 200AH but not beyond that.
A 48V/100AH Pack weighs 47kg (103.6lb) +/- Where a 48V/280AH weighs 135Kg (297lb) +/- a bit. and can't be mounted into a rack for obvious reasons.
Excellent points
@Steve_S! Having the right tools and skills are very important when creating a solution that can kill you or burn down your home if not done properly.
Certifications for insurance purposes may also very important. You would also need to pass any local inspections on code compliant Wiring, labeling, and fusing, especially if you are building a 280ah battery that may be staying with a property if selling down the road( those 14K batteries are freaking HEAVY!
You CAN rack mount them though for serviceability with the right tools and rack.
Another point is BMS comms with your inverter. You may want to check your inverter manufacturer for supported batteries for closed loop communications.
When Will first started this forum, LiFePo4 had just arrived on the scene, and everything was the wild west.
The industry has come a long way since then, mainly in my opinion due to feedback from all the smart folks on this forum, and also from a few good Youtube channels dedicated to Solar systems and Batteries.
There are a few good vendors out there now who have created solutions that are great, and provide great support, making the cost benefits of DIY less important.
For 12V mobile applications, the new batteries available now are almost on par with the cost of DIY(I like SOK for 12V).
I started building batteries to learn. I watched all of Will's uploads, and all the other Youtube channels on the subject( Andy at offgridgarage is my favorite, and I use the tools he lists on his website). Its a hobby for me, and while its fun, I learn a LOT from the folks here, and my own testing. If your not the hands on type, then absolutely commercially available batteries are the way to go.
If you like to learn everything about it, have the time and money for tools and build skills, then DIY will be your best bet. The good news is after the tools are bought, its just a matter of sourcing the parts from a trusted vendor from then on, which can save you a LOT of money and frustration down the road.
At a minimum, your asking the right questions on the right forum!
Can I get my money back?
