Got the ac200p yesterday. It can run the LG 174L 1440 watt unit. It draws 1100 watts on low fan, cooling AC, on high it dipped voltage to cooling system tripped compressor but ac200p ran fine. Could be me. Reset. Runs fine. I took jackery 500 on cig lighter to aviation yellow connector to pv/car input PV of the 200. It drew 110 watts input. It also used the ac brick same time at 450w input. 200 can run fridges. Mine 23.5 cuft draws 70-110 watts. BV little 53qt dc fridge test at same time as fridge sat. Not with A/C unit on. 2000(1600) runs fridge about 12-14 hours. But I took cig lighter to eb240 to run power from it into the ac200p. And the jackery500 at 110 w input. Fyi
I thought my unit was defective because it wouldn't charge with the solar panel. I bought 3 bluetti solar panels but only connected 1 to see if it would work. I learned watching your video that I need at least 2 panels in series to charge. Thank you so much. That answer is nowhere else on the internet! Why the hell bluetti's instruction manual doesn't explain this is a major fail on their part. Thanks again!!!
I am just getting into the learning phase of solar. Been binge watching your videos along with others. But I'm just going to have to dive in because I don't seem to retain stuff without hands on. But thank you for taking all this time putting out these videos
I look in the doc and the consumption formulas wth the safety and overhead loss of the inverter is listed below: Battery Capacity × DOD × η ÷ (load W) = charging time（unit：h） Note: DOD is the battery discharge depth, η is the local inverter efficiency AC200P: DOD=90%,η=88% 200wh is reserved and in addition 216wh are loss due to inverter efficiency. That left 1586wh usable.
Awesome follow-up!!! Thanks for covering a lot of information and backing it up with testing. It's great to see your channel grow, wish you continued success.
I learn a lot from every single one of your videos. Saying I appreciate that is an understatement. This video is no exception. Extra thanks for 3:00 - 5:45. Good explanation. Hugs and kissies for Odin and Thor.
Thanks for the update video. I just purchased the AC200 from indiegogo for the 1,199 pledge. I also got 4 of the 170 watt solar panels using your HOBOTECH code. I am looking forward to checking this stuff out. Thanks!!!
Mine just arrived. Was a long wait but I think it’s worth it. Now I’m trying to figure out which panels to get for it that are kinda cheap but still decent quality
Great video Tom. I love your videos, more so than Will. I've been answer some of these questions in the comment section but then I see you go through most of them too. Great job of answering your viewers.
Tom, I was looking through some customer reviews on Amazon and found one that may be a good test when you get the new product. This is what one customer found: "One of the biggest problems is that if a shadow passes over one of your panels and the power output of the panel decreases even for a second, the EB240 will not recover to the previous level of charging. I was charging it with two Rich Solar, 100watt panels. I placed a piece of cardboard over a panel and it decreased the output of the panel, normal. I watched the decrease on the EB240 display lower from 160 to 90 watts. It never recovered. I unplugged and then re-plugged the charging cable. The input power went back to 160 watts! Not cool to have to unplug and then re-plug the power cable." Please check this out on the AC200 with the Bluetti panels and with the AC50S also. Thanks in advance!
This is typical with how MPPT controllers work. When the voltage drops too low in the series of panels it doesn't always recover. Happens with Jackery and all the other brands. The shading has to be severe as in totally blocking enough cells to cause the voltage to go below the MPPT minimum. In the case of EB240 that's 16v. Solution: don't hard shade cells.
Thanks for doing what you do. I gave a shout out to Dr. Hannah for her solar build from scratch. She did well. You and Will should check it out if you haven't already.
Thanks! I bought the AC200 + 4 120w Bluetti panels. Pricey panels, I know but it’s ok. I need portability. I will make a video about my experience with it on my RUclips channel. You rock Hobo! Here’s to getting out of the desert 🌵 -Forest L.
Señor Hobotech, I have a question. In this video, you mentioned that you can charge the AC200 with 2 of the BougeRV 170 w panels. The volt spec is 12 volts meaning that in series they will combine to 24 v. However the minimum PV charge required is 35 v. Wouldn't one need 3 of these panels?
@@HOBOTECH What do you think is the best a/c fix for a power outage at home in 100 degree weather? In every economic crisis, power is rationed. Happening now in Lebanon. Happening in Venezuela.
Dude... Your awesome..at least you respond to us......love it.. Thing is I live in Northern Ontario and my power station will be sitting in my van while I work during the day..it gets 30 to 40 below cellcius... Can the ac200p be left out in the cold ?
I've got the Bluetti AC200P with two Jackery SolarSaga 100W panels. The Jackery Y adapter is currently rewired to be series instead of parallel. The AC200P will show 40+ V but always 0 A. Hence it never charges. It is configured for PV mode instead of Car. Might you know why there's no Amps?
Can one mix and match the solar panels. I want to get the new bluetti, but the extra panels are expensive. Can I get the panels that come with it and also purchase the rouge panels to add? The rouge panels are 170W. Or should I just get the etti and purchase several rouge?
I wonder what it would be like if you made a video of separate components put together that exists in this bluetti with price comparison of a all-in-one unit for $1199 versus the individual parts what do you think.
It's on my very long list of to-do videos. Needless to say it's near impossible to build something like this with this level of quality and features yourself for less.
very good review - how would this perform as a portable emergency HOME power station to run refrigerator, some lights, maybe heat. peak max load appears to be frig at 5.3 amp (610w). i also have SUV with 115 outlet - can that charge this unit
Thanks for the info! 😃👍🏻👊🏻 ...... Just ordered the trolley, previously ordered the AC200 with two panels and an additional two panels, then I ordered the AC50S with one panel.... First time solar generator purchase/experience, for right now it's main usage will be emergency backup for the refrigerator, some lights, and cellphones, glad to hear based on what you just said that I should be covered!
I got a change more dual-zone 48qt with your recommendation, and also finally a Bluetti AC 200p when charged it up to 100% but only got 48hrs of use pulling around 32w the entire time with the Fridge side at 32 and the other at 0? seams like I should have gotten more no?
Thanks Professor, I just jumped over to the BOUGERV site and picked up 6 of the 170W panels. Delivery starting in August is fine with me. Putting them on an off grid cabin that still has some work to be done first.
Hi Sam. I was thinking the same thing, getting 4 or maybe 6 of the 170w panels for my cabin. What are you going to do for your setup? Series or parallel? I was thinking about series-parallel as Tom said in a previous video it's the best of both. I'm excited for the AC200!
Maybe a detailed AC50S review is coming too, but will it get the 3yr warranty extension? I think I'm leaning towards the AC50s with a panel for 3 and 4 day camping trips with a fridge, and maybe some around the house/outside stuff as I can think of it.
Great video! I was curious about adding a small battery bank to the Bluetti ac200p. What are your recommendations? I a camper van/ small rv that do a lot of “dry camping” in and I’m looking to expand on the solar generator’s battery. I have 4 180 watt panels connected to it.
Sorry I know you already mentioned 4 (or 6) in series. I should've asked: in your opinion , is that the best way to wire the panels? I am going to ground mount to a hard install at a cabin. A/C is most important. Too hot! Thanks again.
You need to put at least 2 in series to get pass the 35v minimum voltage needed but remember when you put themin series, they act as one so it 1 panel get shaded, you will lose a lot of energy. If you have 4, you can put 2 and 2 in series and then have those in parallel.
Hello… thank you for your knowledge… I’m a travel nurse and we are living in our 30%built box truck conversion truck. Problem? We bought the BLUETTI AC200L FOR POWER. It is sitting at 25 % and will not charge when plugged into a wall socket. We are getting a little of rain so we have very little solar. Can you help us find out how to get our AC 200L to charge
Quick question. I have 6 180W BougRV panels on the way, I will be wiring into series for the AC200. I am looking to have the panels about 40 to 50 Feet away from the AC200. Wire calculators are telling me I need 6AWG, but I'm reading 6AWG won't fit in a MC4 connector. Am I missing something?
10AWG is fine www.calculator.net/voltage-drop-calculator.html?material=copper&wiresize=3.277&voltage=132&phase=dc&noofconductor=1&distance=50&distanceunit=feet&eres=8&x=46&y=22
Thanks for this video. I am trying to figure out the best way to utilize my vehicle power to charge my AC200p. I have panels but I live where the sun is unreliable and it'll be hard for me to hit that 40v more than 5 min a day. I will be driving often but usually only a couple of hours at a time, so the slow car charge 12v mode is going to be suboptimal. Perhaps the bluetti isn't the best for me because of it's high power charging minimums. But it's perfect for my needs once it's charged (I need to use it outside the vehicle half the time, so an RV instal doesn't work). I'm brainstorming about ways to crank up the power I can get from direct wires from the starter battery. 2 thoughts and maybe they're both silly. 1) Can I use a DC to DC controller to step up from 12v to 48v(or more) and then plug into the AC200p in PV mode? So, battery>converter>charge controller>BluettiPVmode. Essentially tricking it into thinking that my car is solar input. Maybe I don't need the controller but I feel like I need to be able to limit the amps that it'll draw directly from the starter battery. or 2) Car to AC inverter into Bluetti power brick into AC200. I know this will work but I get confused when calculating watts through inverters. Am I doing the math right that I would need an inverter over 900w? And is it ok to pull 80something A from my car battery? I'm picturing driving down the road with the fan noise of both the inverter and the brick screaming at me and taking up as much space as a custom build. I guess I like the 1st plan better. But are all my assumptions accurate here? I often get confused when calculating current around inverters. I'm using the specs on the power brick.
how long will the battery of the BLUETTI AC200 Portable Power Station last ( expiration date ) and when expire how much does the battery replacement cost
can you connect another inverter to the cigarette adapter to hook up things like a maxx fan, esper diesel heater... since there are no battery terminal on this unit?
AC200’s screen is constantly on, even when the AC and DC outputs are off but the unit is left on. Is there a way to switch off the screen on a timer and wake it up when it’s required? Also, if the unit is off, it doesn’t charge unless it is turned on. Other models wake up and charge even if the unit was off, as soon as a charge is provided, is there a way to change that setting?
I'm in Arizona as well, so my question when not in use can the ac200 be stored in garage where summer temps can be 120, also what cables are needed to extend from panels to in the house 30 to 40 ft, Thanks
It is not recommended to store over 113F. Keep it in a cooler place and only charge it to 90% when not in use. You can use MC4 extensions for the panels. I have them on my Amazon page and BougeRV also sells them.
10 ga or 12 ga? I was going to run mine about 50 ft from 2 BougeRV 170W panels in series. Figured 12 was ok for just the 2 panels, but was going to get 10 in case of expansion to 680W in series/parallel. Thoughts?
@@brianq7225 If you can afford the additional expense, definitely get the 10 Gauge Wire. You'll transfer more power (a few more watts) and give yourself more headroom to add more panels later on. When you add more panels later on that additional wire efficiency will get more power from those extra panels you buy to the other end of the wire. ;-)
@@LordTimelord The BougeRV panels are Max. power current(Imp): 8.91A , Open circuit voltage(Voc): 22.5V, Short circuit current(Isc): 9.44A. Not sure to use max power or short circuit current, but I am assuming 2 panels in series, 45V and 8.91A (340W). If I add the second set and series/parallel them, I think I will be at 45V and 17.82A (680W). Does that sound about right? The best I can figure out is that the 12 ga can handle about 20 amps ideally, and the 10 ga can handle 30. I am still getting the 10 for efficiency sake, but does that math sound right? Please correct and educate. So much info online but much of it is conflicting and not all related to solar I am sure. Main goal is to make some power and not burn down my house :)
@@HOBOTECH I thought so, but wanted to make sure. I think I watched a different review you did of a power station where you made mention that you would also need a MPPT controller... or misunderstood something you said....
HOBOTECH simple question HOBO, Have you tried with any fridge? I would just like to know the estimate time of this AC200 using a regular fridge? Thanks
Hello I'm just learning about solar panels and solar generators. I bought 2 of the BOUGERV 170w solar panels. Could you do a video of what you need and step by step hooking them up to the Bluetti? Also I only bought the panels what else should I get? This would be for emergency or recreation use. Thank you
Great review...question: Unless I misunderstood I heard you say that you need at least 35 W going in from solar to even begin charging but then I looked at the monocrystalline panel that you're advertizing as well from BougeRV for 170 W and those are only rated at 12 V... so I'm not sure if I'd need two of those minimum or 6 or... what? Thx
Did I understand correctly that it needs at least 35 volts solar to charge or will this device run on one Renogy 300 Watt 24 volt Monocrystalline panel? Or is it 12 volt solar only? I'm really new to solar charge tech and I've got an AC200 on the on the way and need to charge that bad-boy. Thanks for your insight!
Hi! I was wondering if you know where I can purchase a replacement XT90 to Aviation plug for the AC200. I can't find it anywhere. =( Without that you can't charge the AC200. Thank you!! =)
Thank you for your review. Based on it I purchased an AC-200. It arrived this week. Very excited. Van application. What temp. range does it have? Can it go down below freezing w/o damage?
You stated the AC200 has to have a solar panel voltage minimum of 35V in order to function. I'm looking at a 310W panel that has specs of Open Circuit Voltage (VOC) 40V and Max Power Voltage (VMP) 32.6V. So which voltage number should I be looking at and will this work with the AC200? Thank you.
@@HOBOTECH I thought about two of them on the roof of my van but I don't have room for a conventional layout. I had an idea of mounting two panels on the roof with some heavy duty piano hinges connecting the two of them so that it opens like a book. It wouldn't charge while I was driving because the solar surface is would be covered up, but that's okay because I have an inverter off the alternator that charges while I drive. When I'm stationary I could get on a ladder and open up the book and expose 620 watts to the Sun.
2 Questions - 1- If you power up the Bluetti to fully charged, how long will it hold the charge for? A week? A month? A year? 2- Can you charge the Bluetti and draw off of it at the same time? For instance, can you run an appliance while it's being charged with solar? Looking forward to your reply! Thanks!
More questions please: Does the AC200 replace the need for a battery bank completely? If not and I have an additional battery bank, does the AC200 power it? Or, do I need to use solar or shower power to charge the battery bank separately from the AC200 and if so - will I need a MPPT installed? I hope these questions make sense!!!
If you mean by "battery bank" your house batteries, no it doesn't replace your house system but supplements it. You can for example plug cooking appliances like instant pot, microwave, etc or run a TV or 12v fridge without killing your house batteries. You can charge this from shore power or solar and has a built in MPPT.
Thank you for the info on all your videos there always very very informative you do a great job always. I’m loving this product from them in need of another good one let’s see when they start producing them for sale waiting on one be safe and stay cool 😎
How do i hook power to multiple 12v things from the AC200? I finally received my AC200 and I am not quite sure what some of the outlet plug types are and the manual doesnt really say much in regards to using an expensive unit or how to get the best from it in different applications. Their solar panels are 21.7v so I guess you are forced to buy two of them to reach the 35v min for charging. I found this problematic and it should be referenced in detail in the manual, which it is not. Check your third-party panels to be sure they have the correct specs. So how do i hook power to multiple 12v things for the AC200?
Hi, do you know if the bluetti solar panel considered portable compared to the bougrv? I'm more into overlanding. To properly charge the unit, how many panel should I need if I decide to get the bluetti solar? TIA
I am on continuous oxygen (350 watts) and recently experienced a prolonged power outage. I had to call 911 for O2 tanks, it sucked. You mentioned that the AC200 is capable of pass-through charging so I could have this charged via solar and/or AC 24/7 so I don't have to start the gas generator. Approximately how long would the AC200 last using this set up with moderate use (;et's say, 12 hours a day)? I am researching to be sure I am getting a reliable source of power. Thanks for all your informative videos!
AC200 has 1440wh usable via AC power. You take 1440wh / 350w = 4 hours. Of course you can extend this with solar. If you were to get 4 x 120w Bluetti panels with it you could last as long as the sun is shining + 4 hours.
What I'm having trouble with and would be great 4 you to cover. Changing old system with xantrex c35 pwm to lifepo. Can it be done and what settings to use on charge controller
Love your videos! How has this been holding up over the past few months? Mine is arriving this week and I’m mainly concerned about the inverter insufficiency/parasitic losses. How effective is the draining it to 0% and then recharge to 100%? Is it a major difference or just help out a little? If could provide any numbers regarding your inverter efficiency since you made this video I would sincerely appreciate it! We lose power about once a month in the summer due to storms, anywhere from 15 min to a full a day. I’m planning on using this for those days. Now I’m worried if it’s been sitting for a month or so and then the power goes out and it has lost all of its stored charge I am going to be completely screwed and there’s no point in me buying it if it can’t hold a charge in store for a month or longer
Thank you Hobotech great video💕💕 I bought the AC200. !! Can’t wait. ! I thought I could use one 120 wt Solar panel. ? For camping an off grid living in my 2015 Subaru Outback. And I am an older woman so I don’t know of 2 affordable panels that will fit in or on my car. I do have a yakima rocket box. That’s with all my other camping stuff.??? I Do hope it gets a quick ChargePort!! I’m running 2 small fans , iPad Pro , 85 w Mac Pro, iPhone 11 max and 12 volt Dominic CFX3 55IM fridge In the end. #update I bought 3 200 watts panels. 2 work ok but 3 are better. The wireless charging overheats the phone so I don’t use that portion. With my iPhone 11 max pro. But it works fine with other devices just not the Bluetti.
I've found out that for me, in a small car, solar panels and batteries is not the way to go, would need a bigger vehicle for it to be practical, not enough room, even with flexible suitcase solar, the sunshine is not nearly as reliable as the places that sell gasoline. I do not like having to wait till then sun is up to charge my devices.
You don't specify how much power you need or what you need to charge, so it's difficult to answer your question. But I would assume your best bet is a flat-folding suitcase style solar system of maybe 100 watts combined with a 500 watt portable power station. This is strictly a guess. Don't carry more power than you need.
I wanted to use two of the 170 watt panels in parallel because of the shading issue. apparently that will not work to charge the bluetti? they have to be in series?
@itsdatruff yes, the way I understand it, the volts won't change when you put the panels in parallel and doesn't look like that's enough volts for the bluetti. If I'm wrong would someone please correct me.
Yes, you have to have a minimum of 35 volts (32 per Hobo's tests) for the solar panels to charge the AC200. And a max of 150 volts. So for these 12v panels to work, you would need at least 2 of them hook in series.
"The shading issue" really isn't a big deal. Almost all the time when you park you'll either be in full sun or partial shade which is going to affect all your panels anyway. Running in parallel has drawbacks such requiring thicker cable and the lower voltage makes MPPT less effective. Running series for higher voltage is almost always the way to go. I have 3 solar controllers in my RV running a total of 10 solar panels all in series because I A-B tested and I get a lot more power from series. You can run series-parallel though if you have 4 panels. Some do that.
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Got the ac200p yesterday. It can run the LG 174L 1440 watt unit. It draws 1100 watts on low fan, cooling AC, on high it dipped voltage to cooling system tripped compressor but ac200p ran fine. Could be me. Reset. Runs fine. I took jackery 500 on cig lighter to aviation yellow connector to pv/car input PV of the 200. It drew 110 watts input. It also used the ac brick same time at 450w input.
200 can run fridges. Mine 23.5 cuft draws 70-110 watts. BV little 53qt dc fridge test at same time as fridge sat. Not with A/C unit on. 2000(1600) runs fridge about 12-14 hours. But I took cig lighter to eb240 to run power from it into the ac200p. And the jackery500 at 110 w input. Fyi
I thought my unit was defective because it wouldn't charge with the solar panel. I bought 3 bluetti solar panels but only connected 1 to see if it would work. I learned watching your video that I need at least 2 panels in series to charge. Thank you so much. That answer is nowhere else on the internet! Why the hell bluetti's instruction manual doesn't explain this is a major fail on their part. Thanks again!!!
Plus, u have to go into the menu and select PV, to charge from SP to AC200P.
I ordered in August. It was delivered today! December 15th. My order was in the low 700's. Now I learn to use it.
Just placed my order with the perk of 2x 120 watt solar panels, thank you for all the info!
So do the 2 120w panels charge the AC200? If so how long did it take to 100%?
Very thankful for your videos, they're something I look forward to every time!
I am just getting into the learning phase of solar. Been binge watching your videos along with others. But I'm just going to have to dive in because I don't seem to retain stuff without hands on. But thank you for taking all this time putting out these videos
I just bought one this week with a 200watt panel. Love it so far but still learning the features.
Constantly impressed, You're always welcome here at my house. with 3 acres. Mooresville, NC.
Just got mine and I got alot to learn on how to use it
I look in the doc and the consumption formulas wth the safety and overhead loss of the inverter is listed below:
Battery Capacity × DOD × η ÷ (load W) = charging time（unit：h）
Note: DOD is the battery discharge depth, η is the local inverter efficiency AC200P: DOD=90%,η=88%
200wh is reserved and in addition 216wh are loss due to inverter efficiency. That left 1586wh usable.
Awesome follow-up!!! Thanks for covering a lot of information and backing it up with testing. It's great to see your channel grow, wish you continued success.
I learn a lot from every single one of your videos. Saying I appreciate that is an understatement. This video is no exception. Extra thanks for 3:00 - 5:45. Good explanation. Hugs and kissies for Odin and Thor.
Just ordered mine with all the accessories thanks to your videos.
Thanks for the update video. I just purchased the AC200 from indiegogo for the 1,199 pledge. I also got 4 of the 170 watt solar panels using your HOBOTECH code. I am looking forward to checking this stuff out. Thanks!!!
Is 4 of the 170w panels the optimal number? Looking to get some myself, thanks.
I'm still trying to figure out if I can wait until the end of September for one of these...
Haha i am on the same boat
october and december for some ppl
Mine just arrived. Was a long wait but I think it’s worth it. Now I’m trying to figure out which panels to get for it that are kinda cheap but still decent quality
I have 2 Jackery 1000's, Bluetti 2400 and a goal zero 3000 with a 1600 tract home and I still want this!
You got a problem. Lol
You are a wattaholic.
Great video Tom. I love your videos, more so than Will. I've been answer some of these questions in the comment section but then I see you go through most of them too. Great job of answering your viewers.
Tom, I was looking through some customer reviews on Amazon and found one that may be a good test when you get the new product. This is what one customer found: "One of the biggest problems is that if a shadow passes over one of your panels and the power output of the panel decreases even for a second, the EB240 will not recover to the previous level of charging. I was charging it with two Rich Solar, 100watt panels. I placed a piece of cardboard over a panel and it decreased the output of the panel, normal. I watched the decrease on the EB240 display lower from 160 to 90 watts. It never recovered. I unplugged and then re-plugged the charging cable. The input power went back to 160 watts! Not cool to have to unplug and then re-plug the power cable."
Please check this out on the AC200 with the Bluetti panels and with the AC50S also. Thanks in advance!
This is typical with how MPPT controllers work. When the voltage drops too low in the series of panels it doesn't always recover. Happens with Jackery and all the other brands. The shading has to be severe as in totally blocking enough cells to cause the voltage to go below the MPPT minimum. In the case of EB240 that's 16v. Solution: don't hard shade cells.
Thanks for clarifying the wind turbine issue. Was thinking about putting one along with the solar. Just Incase if foggy days.
Thanks for doing what you do. I gave a shout out to Dr. Hannah for her solar build from scratch. She did well. You and Will should check it out if you haven't already.
Thanks! I bought the AC200 + 4 120w Bluetti panels. Pricey panels, I know but it’s ok. I need portability. I will make a video about my experience with it on my RUclips channel. You rock Hobo! Here’s to getting out of the desert 🌵 -Forest L.
You found yourself a good gig and you do it very well!
Not to mention all them free solar generators to review. Professor Hobo is livin da dream!!
Señor Hobotech, I have a question. In this video, you mentioned that you can charge the AC200 with 2 of the BougeRV 170 w panels. The volt spec is 12 volts meaning that in series they will combine to 24 v. However the minimum PV charge required is 35 v. Wouldn't one need 3 of these panels?
You go by the Voc spec which is about 22v per panel.
@@HOBOTECH Thanks for the clarification. I knew I was missing something.
@@HOBOTECH What do you think is the best a/c fix for a power outage at home in 100 degree weather? In every economic crisis, power is rationed. Happening now in Lebanon. Happening in Venezuela.
Good stuff, watched some of your first video's, you have found your nitch, stay strong!
Dude... Your awesome..at least you respond to us......love it..
Thing is I live in Northern Ontario and my power station will be sitting in my van while I work during the day..it gets 30 to 40 below cellcius... Can the ac200p be left out in the cold ?
Your vids just keep on getting better Tom. Best to Miss H. Michael in Houston
You are always fun... I just ordered 3 180 panels and wires ..Sorry , I ordered the ac200 last month off Wills site ...
Would you recommend getting one or 2 of the 200Watt solar panels from bluetti to charge the AC200P?
I've got the Bluetti AC200P with two Jackery SolarSaga 100W panels. The Jackery Y adapter is currently rewired to be series instead of parallel. The AC200P will show 40+ V but always 0 A. Hence it never charges. It is configured for PV mode instead of Car. Might you know why there's no Amps?
Can one mix and match the solar panels. I want to get the new bluetti, but the extra panels are expensive. Can I get the panels that come with it and also purchase the rouge panels to add? The rouge panels are 170W. Or should I just get the etti and purchase several rouge?
You're always better off using all of the same panel.
I wonder what it would be like if you made a video of separate components put together that exists in this bluetti with price comparison of a all-in-one unit for $1199 versus the individual parts what do you think.
It's on my very long list of to-do videos. Needless to say it's near impossible to build something like this with this level of quality and features yourself for less.
Question!. Can you plug thus straight into a second suitable fuse board in the home to work the led lights ect....
Excellent review as usual!
what do you think bout the Titan solar generator?
very good review - how would this perform as a portable emergency HOME power station to run refrigerator, some lights, maybe heat. peak max load appears to be frig at 5.3 amp (610w). i also have SUV with 115 outlet - can that charge this unit
That's what it is designed for.
Thanks for the info! 😃👍🏻👊🏻 ...... Just ordered the trolley, previously ordered the AC200 with two panels and an additional two panels, then I ordered the AC50S with one panel.... First time solar generator purchase/experience, for right now it's main usage will be emergency backup for the refrigerator, some lights, and cellphones, glad to hear based on what you just said that I should be covered!
I got a change more dual-zone 48qt with your recommendation, and also finally a Bluetti AC 200p when charged it up to 100% but only got 48hrs of use pulling around 32w the entire time with the Fridge side at 32 and the other at 0? seams like I should have gotten more no?
How loud is it for a living room or bedroom? Is the fan on constantly or does it only come on when pushed hard?
Thanks for the answers. TAKE CARE..
Thanks Professor, I just jumped over to the BOUGERV site and picked up 6 of the 170W panels. Delivery starting in August is fine with me. Putting them on an off grid cabin that still has some work to be done first.
Hi Sam. I was thinking the same thing, getting 4 or maybe 6 of the 170w panels for my cabin. What are you going to do for your setup? Series or parallel? I was thinking about series-parallel as Tom said in a previous video it's the best of both. I'm excited for the AC200!
Maybe a detailed AC50S review is coming too, but will it get the 3yr warranty extension? I think I'm leaning towards the AC50s with a panel for 3 and 4 day camping trips with a fridge, and maybe some around the house/outside stuff as I can think of it.
If this is cycled everyday how long do you think the ac200 would last for ?
How do you reset the output when the unit trips or faults? Is it fused, push button reset? How does it recover?
Some faults reset automatically, some you have to turn off/on the button.
Great video! I was curious about adding a small battery bank to the Bluetti ac200p. What are your recommendations? I a camper van/ small rv that do a lot of “dry camping” in and I’m looking to expand on the solar generator’s battery. I have 4 180 watt panels connected to it.
Sorry I know you already mentioned 4 (or 6) in series. I should've asked: in your opinion , is that the best way to wire the panels? I am going to ground mount to a hard install at a cabin. A/C is most important. Too hot! Thanks again.
Wire them in series.
You need to put at least 2 in series to get pass the 35v minimum voltage needed but remember when you put themin series, they act as one so it 1 panel get shaded, you will lose a lot of energy. If you have 4, you can put 2 and 2 in series and then have those in parallel.
Hello… thank you for your knowledge…
I’m a travel nurse and we are living in our 30%built box truck conversion truck. Problem? We bought the BLUETTI AC200L FOR POWER. It is sitting at 25 % and will not charge when plugged into a wall socket. We are getting a little of rain so we have very little solar. Can you help us find out how to get our AC 200L to charge
I need to know if its possible to connect fixed solar panels to a Power Oak Portable 2000 watt Generater? Thank You
Might I has what you use for your DC capacity test?
I have two of these and I love them!
Quick question. I have 6 180W BougRV panels on the way, I will be wiring into series for the AC200. I am looking to have the panels about 40 to 50 Feet away from the AC200. Wire calculators are telling me I need 6AWG, but I'm reading 6AWG won't fit in a MC4 connector. Am I missing something?
10AWG is fine www.calculator.net/voltage-drop-calculator.html?material=copper&wiresize=3.277&voltage=132&phase=dc&noofconductor=1&distance=50&distanceunit=feet&eres=8&x=46&y=22
@@HOBOTECH Thanks!!
Thanks for this video. I am trying to figure out the best way to utilize my vehicle power to charge my AC200p. I have panels but I live where the sun is unreliable and it'll be hard for me to hit that 40v more than 5 min a day. I will be driving often but usually only a couple of hours at a time, so the slow car charge 12v mode is going to be suboptimal. Perhaps the bluetti isn't the best for me because of it's high power charging minimums. But it's perfect for my needs once it's charged (I need to use it outside the vehicle half the time, so an RV instal doesn't work). I'm brainstorming about ways to crank up the power I can get from direct wires from the starter battery. 2 thoughts and maybe they're both silly. 1) Can I use a DC to DC controller to step up from 12v to 48v(or more) and then plug into the AC200p in PV mode? So, battery>converter>charge controller>BluettiPVmode. Essentially tricking it into thinking that my car is solar input. Maybe I don't need the controller but I feel like I need to be able to limit the amps that it'll draw directly from the starter battery. or 2) Car to AC inverter into Bluetti power brick into AC200. I know this will work but I get confused when calculating watts through inverters. Am I doing the math right that I would need an inverter over 900w? And is it ok to pull 80something A from my car battery? I'm picturing driving down the road with the fan noise of both the inverter and the brick screaming at me and taking up as much space as a custom build. I guess I like the 1st plan better. But are all my assumptions accurate here? I often get confused when calculating current around inverters. I'm using the specs on the power brick.
how long will the battery of the BLUETTI AC200 Portable Power Station last ( expiration date ) and when expire how much does the battery replacement cost
There is no expiration date and the battery can't be replaced.
can you connect another inverter to the cigarette adapter to hook up things like a maxx fan, esper diesel heater... since there are no battery terminal on this unit?
Tom, on your next series of tests, you can use the clamp to charge the AC200 from a lead acid. Curious to see what the rate of charging.
AC200’s screen is constantly on, even when the AC and DC outputs are off but the unit is left on. Is there a way to switch off the screen on a timer and wake it up when it’s required?
Also, if the unit is off, it doesn’t charge unless it is turned on. Other models wake up and charge even if the unit was off, as soon as a charge is provided, is there a way to change that setting?
I'm in Arizona as well, so my question when not in use can the ac200 be stored in garage where summer temps can be 120, also what cables are needed to extend from panels to in the house 30 to 40 ft, Thanks
It is not recommended to store over 113F. Keep it in a cooler place and only charge it to 90% when not in use. You can use MC4 extensions for the panels. I have them on my Amazon page and BougeRV also sells them.
10 ga or 12 ga? I was going to run mine about 50 ft from 2 BougeRV 170W panels in series. Figured 12 was ok for just the 2 panels, but was going to get 10 in case of expansion to 680W in series/parallel. Thoughts?
@@brianq7225 If you can afford the additional expense, definitely get the 10 Gauge Wire. You'll transfer more power (a few more watts) and give yourself more headroom to add more panels later on. When you add more panels later on that additional wire efficiency will get more power from those extra panels you buy to the other end of the wire. ;-)
@@LordTimelord The BougeRV panels are Max. power current(Imp): 8.91A
, Open circuit voltage(Voc): 22.5V, Short circuit current(Isc): 9.44A. Not sure to use max power or short circuit current, but I am assuming 2 panels in series, 45V and 8.91A (340W). If I add the second set and series/parallel them, I think I will be at 45V and 17.82A (680W). Does that sound about right? The best I can figure out is that the 12 ga can handle about 20 amps ideally, and the 10 ga can handle 30. I am still getting the 10 for efficiency sake, but does that math sound right? Please correct and educate. So much info online but much of it is conflicting and not all related to solar I am sure. Main goal is to make some power and not burn down my house :)
What about reports regarding phantom discharges?
When you mentioned the BougeRV panels you also mentioned getting an MPPT controller. I thought that the AC200 already had an MPPT controller in it....
It does, but people buy the panels for their DIY setups too.
@@HOBOTECH I thought so, but wanted to make sure. I think I watched a different review you did of a power station where you made mention that you would also need a MPPT controller... or misunderstood something you said....
I just posted the following to the AC200 Indegogo site
What is the estimate time using AC200 this with a Fridge? Would like to know, thanks!
That's like asking "what's the MPG of a car" without stating make and model.
HOBOTECH simple question HOBO, Have you tried with any fridge? I would just like to know the estimate time of this AC200 using a regular fridge? Thanks
Can this unit be used in a day van. To run a small fridge, a diesel heater and to charge some gadgets? Thanks
Yes, easily. The Bluetti AC200P is heavy though at 61 lbs. The Jackery 1000 will also fit your needs and weighs 22 lbs.
Hello I'm just learning about solar panels and solar generators. I bought 2 of the BOUGERV 170w solar panels. Could you do a video of what you need and step by step hooking them up to the Bluetti? Also I only bought the panels what else should I get? This would be for emergency or recreation use. Thank you
I covered solar panel hookups in previous videos. Watch the Bluetti 2400wh video and the other video on using any solar panel on solar generators.
Hi, newbie to solar & Bluetti. If 100 watt solar panels only have 12v, how can 2 panels charge the Bluetti if it needs a minimum of 32-35v to charge?
You need to look at the Voc spec on the solar. Most 12v solar has a Voc of 22v. Times 2 thats 44v needed to charge the AC200.
Yep, a 12v solar panel actually isn't 12 volts at all. It's typically 20-23v. So you need to use two in series or one big 24v residential panel.
How is pass through charging different from a UPS feature like that in the Leoch?
Great review...question: Unless I misunderstood I heard you say that you need at least 35 W going in from solar to even begin charging but then I looked at the monocrystalline panel that you're advertizing as well from BougeRV for 170 W and those are only rated at 12 V... so I'm not sure if I'd need two of those minimum or 6 or... what? Thx
Voc of each panel is 22.5v so double that.
Can’t order currently and wondering when I can order this battery.
Did I understand correctly that it needs at least 35 volts solar to charge or will this device run on one Renogy 300 Watt 24 volt Monocrystalline panel? Or is it 12 volt solar only? I'm really new to solar charge tech and I've got an AC200 on the on the way and need to charge that bad-boy. Thanks for your insight!
Hey anyone know where to get the 25Amp 12volt DC aviation outlet cable for this? It’s not included in the bundle anymore. Great Videos Tom.
I noticed you can choose between 50Hz and 60Hz, can you also choose the voltage from 120V to 220V?
Hi! I was wondering if you know where I can purchase a replacement XT90 to Aviation plug for the AC200. I can't find it anywhere. =( Without that you can't charge the AC200. Thank you!! =)
Thank you for your review. Based on it I purchased an AC-200. It arrived this week. Very excited. Van application. What temp. range does it have? Can it go down below freezing w/o damage?
Hello, can I use 3 100 watt 12volt renogy solar panels to charge the ac200p? Im new to the solar system.
hoping they listen to all of your suggestions...
You stated the AC200 has to have a solar panel voltage minimum of 35V in order to function. I'm looking at a 310W panel that has specs of Open Circuit Voltage (VOC) 40V and Max Power Voltage (VMP) 32.6V. So which voltage number should I be looking at and will this work with the AC200? Thank you.
Voc ... that panel will work just fine. In fact two of them in series would be perfect.
@@HOBOTECH I thought about two of them on the roof of my van but I don't have room for a conventional layout. I had an idea of mounting two panels on the roof with some heavy duty piano hinges connecting the two of them so that it opens like a book. It wouldn't charge while I was driving because the solar surface is would be covered up, but that's okay because I have an inverter off the alternator that charges while I drive. When I'm stationary I could get on a ladder and open up the book and expose 620 watts to the Sun.
Have you looked into super capacitors? Can I build a system cheaper than a already built system?
What panels would you recommend for this unit on a trailer, space not issue, looking for at least 600 watts.
See my latest video for portables or watch the 4 AC200 videos in the description.
2 Questions -
1- If you power up the Bluetti to fully charged, how long will it hold the charge for? A week? A month? A year?
2- Can you charge the Bluetti and draw off of it at the same time? For instance, can you run an appliance while it's being charged with solar?
Looking forward to your reply! Thanks!
Lithium batteries hold charge for >1 year no problem. This supports pass through charging like stated in the original review video.
@@HOBOTECH Thank you so much! Mine is on order.
Tom, I am desperate to learn who’s double Bouge panels framing are you using? Is that Newpowa? Do you have that available on your site?
Has there been any update on the background draw of 10-23w for DC output?
Unchanged.
Need help.with solar and batteries . I have cargo 5 by 8 for now but love solar currently have the jackery 290. Solar
I can’t find where it says on the indiego website how long the warranty is for? Excellent vid and I’m signing up today.
3 years. It's at the bottom.
More questions please: Does the AC200 replace the need for a battery bank completely? If not and I have an additional battery bank, does the AC200 power it?
Or, do I need to use solar or shower power to charge the battery bank separately from the AC200 and if so - will I need a MPPT installed?
I hope these questions make sense!!!
Shore Power???
If you mean by "battery bank" your house batteries, no it doesn't replace your house system but supplements it. You can for example plug cooking appliances like instant pot, microwave, etc or run a TV or 12v fridge without killing your house batteries. You can charge this from shore power or solar and has a built in MPPT.
It's October 5th, 2020 and the AC200 is still out of stock everywhere. Does anyone know when they're going to be available again? Thanks!
Hi there pls do a review for eb70...new one from bluetti..
Thank you for the info on all your videos there always very very informative you do a great job always. I’m loving this product from them in need of another good one let’s see when they start producing them for sale waiting on one be safe and stay cool 😎
Can you connect 2 Bluetti together to make one larger system. Thanks for your reply.
I may not know much, but I do know your channel !!! 🙂
thanks for your Time and efforts I really appreciate👍🏽
How do i hook power to multiple 12v things from the AC200?
I finally received my AC200 and I am not quite sure what some of the outlet plug types are and the manual doesnt really say much in regards to using an expensive unit or how to get the best from it in different applications.
Their solar panels are 21.7v so I guess you are forced to buy two of them to reach the 35v min for charging. I found this problematic and it should be referenced in detail in the manual, which it is not.
Check your third-party panels to be sure they have the correct specs.
So how do i hook power to multiple 12v things for the AC200?
Hi, do you know if the bluetti solar panel considered portable compared to the bougrv? I'm more into overlanding. To properly charge the unit, how many panel should I need if I decide to get the bluetti solar? TIA
I cover the Bluetti panel in the follow up video to this,.
Great review Tom. Hey, what are your thoughts on using 2 strings of 2 panels in series-parallel with this? Thanks.
That'll work just fine.
Can the wireless charge feature be turned off?
Or is it always “on”.
Hey Hobotech How do i hook up my thunderbolt 100 w panel help im going on a road trip in two weeks
I am on continuous oxygen (350 watts) and recently experienced a prolonged power outage. I had to call 911 for O2 tanks, it sucked. You mentioned that the AC200 is capable of pass-through charging so I could have this charged via solar and/or AC 24/7 so I don't have to start the gas generator. Approximately how long would the AC200 last using this set up with moderate use (;et's say, 12 hours a day)? I am researching to be sure I am getting a reliable source of power. Thanks for all your informative videos!
AC200 has 1440wh usable via AC power. You take 1440wh / 350w = 4 hours. Of course you can extend this with solar. If you were to get 4 x 120w Bluetti panels with it you could last as long as the sun is shining + 4 hours.
@@HOBOTECH Thanks for clarifying! You're the best!
If the batteries are fully charged how long will it run a household refrigerator/ freezer?
Depends on the fridge. Take 1440wh / your fridge watts * 3 for about the number of hours it should run.
HOBOTECH not sure what * 3 means. The refrigerator/freezer uses 425 watts.
What I'm having trouble with and would be great 4 you to cover. Changing old system with xantrex c35 pwm to lifepo. Can it be done and what settings to use on charge controller
Sure. Drop in some Battleborns and set your controller to AGM, turn off temperature compensation and equalization modes.
can you runa big air compressissor on the power station
Love your videos!
How has this been holding up over the past few months? Mine is arriving this week and I’m mainly concerned about the inverter insufficiency/parasitic losses. How effective is the draining it to 0% and then recharge to 100%? Is it a major difference or just help out a little? If could provide any numbers regarding your inverter efficiency since you made this video I would sincerely appreciate it!
We lose power about once a month in the summer due to storms, anywhere from 15 min to a full a day. I’m planning on using this for those days. Now I’m worried if it’s been sitting for a month or so and then the power goes out and it has lost all of its stored charge I am going to be completely screwed and there’s no point in me buying it if it can’t hold a charge in store for a month or longer
Thank you Hobotech great video💕💕
I bought the AC200. !! Can’t wait. !
I thought I could use one 120 wt Solar panel. ? For camping an off grid living in my 2015 Subaru Outback.
And I am an older woman so I don’t know of 2 affordable panels that will fit in or on my car. I do have a yakima rocket box. That’s with all my other camping stuff.???
I Do hope it gets a quick ChargePort!! I’m running 2 small fans , iPad Pro , 85 w Mac Pro, iPhone 11 max and 12 volt Dominic CFX3 55IM fridge In the end. #update I bought 3 200 watts panels. 2 work ok but 3 are better. The wireless charging overheats the phone so I don’t use that portion. With my iPhone 11 max pro. But it works fine with other devices just not the Bluetti.
I've found out that for me, in a small car, solar panels and batteries is not the way to go, would need a bigger vehicle for it to be practical, not enough room, even with flexible suitcase solar, the sunshine is not nearly as reliable as the places that sell gasoline. I do not like having to wait till then sun is up to charge my devices.
You don't specify how much power you need or what you need to charge, so it's difficult to answer your question. But I would assume your best bet is a flat-folding suitcase style solar system of maybe 100 watts combined with a 500 watt portable power station. This is strictly a guess. Don't carry more power than you need.
You'll want a 2nd matching 120w panel to charge the AC200.
Renea Dooserider
I see The Professor just answered your comment. In the video, he says u need 2 panels at about 16:10. Good luck. Cheers.
Monna Provost Thank you.
I wanted to use two of the 170 watt panels in parallel because of the shading issue. apparently that will not work to charge the bluetti? they have to be in series?
parallel gives you more power in the shade? or are you referring to something else? sorry, trying to learn!
@itsdatruff yes, the way I understand it, the volts won't change when you put the panels in parallel and doesn't look like that's enough volts for the bluetti. If I'm wrong would someone please correct me.
Yes, you have to have a minimum of 35 volts (32 per Hobo's tests) for the solar panels to charge the AC200. And a max of 150 volts. So for these 12v panels to work, you would need at least 2 of them hook in series.
@@laronis in series, but not in parallel
"The shading issue" really isn't a big deal. Almost all the time when you park you'll either be in full sun or partial shade which is going to affect all your panels anyway. Running in parallel has drawbacks such requiring thicker cable and the lower voltage makes MPPT less effective. Running series for higher voltage is almost always the way to go. I have 3 solar controllers in my RV running a total of 10 solar panels all in series because I A-B tested and I get a lot more power from series. You can run series-parallel though if you have 4 panels. Some do that.
How can I ground this thing? I'm getting 60hz buzz when I run a powered speaker