Amazon Affiliate links: Li Time MINI Battery 100Ah: amzn.to/3ZG8kXn Victron 100/30 MPPT: amzn.to/41JTG2A Hydraulic Crimper: amzn.to/3MC5AHs Tinned Copper Lugs: amzn.to/4j3dUOC Hammer Crimper: amzn.to/3InPFKj Ferrule Crimping Kit: amzn.to/3odMDS6 BusBars: amzn.to/42TSYB9 2awg cable: amzn.to/3OnBZmd Precharge resistors: amzn.to/3PEuRCk ================ AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE: This channel may earn an affiliate commission if you purchase products through links I provide. ================ CONTACT: bradcagleyt@gmail.com Business/Collaboration only. Please do not contact me for for personal project help, or advice. ================ DISCLAIMER: These videos are documenting my own personal projects, and experiences. These projects, and activities can be dangerous. I am not a professional. You should always consult with a professional. This content is for entertainment purposes only. DO NOT try any of this at home, doing so will be at your own risk.
You want your fuse as close to the battery (or "source") as possible. Really like the ferrels, especially for smaller screw-down connections. A much simpler setup, with quite a bit more inverter output, is the MPP 2724 inverter/charger with two batteries, wired in series. You still want the solar disconnect, but from there it's two wires into the inverter/charger and then two wires from your batteries. Easiest off-grid system you can make, because it also includes several AC outlets.
Yeah. I totally agree on the fuse. That way if the positive wire is shorted anywhere along the length it will pop the fuse. I'll check that MPP2724 out. Thanks!
Toss all this in Milwaukee Packout rolling box for a convenient portable protected supply. I tested mine by running a full size frig off it for a week on one 300 watt panel with the same size battery , charge controller and inverter (but mine was blue) . It worked great . Sun powered food cooling .
The most informative presentation I've seen yet. just good basic stuff!!! and all the little stuff he covers is fantastic and sorely needed and missing on some of the high falutin channels!!
@@BradCagle great video a little over my head but I'm learning. I am a 70 year old retired firefighter. My wife is disabled and stays basically in the bedroom which is about 15 by 15 and we use an air conditioner in the window 24 hours a day. I have the inverter and just need to get to solar panels the controller and I don't know a marine battery or a lifepo4. What would your recommendations be to run that air conditioner Around the Clock. And then there's the aspect of what parts could be in the room and what parts need to be outside the wall of the house other than the solar panels. The panels would be approximately 10 ft away from the house facing sunrise for 12 hours. I was thinking of getting ( 3) 300 watt solar panels
Nice build. After a few weeks of testing after receiving the goods, the refrigerator, TV, etc., the capacity is completely fine. I bought a 24V 100Ah battery. High cost performance.😃
@@angel1111.I used deep cycle marine batteries to learn on because I got them for free. I learned marine battery are good enough to learn with for free. But when I bought 2, 100 amp hour solar batteries huge, huge increase in efficiency. I have no idea what the difference is but there is one
30A continuous you'd want 8 AWG wire, I think that Victron can handle up to #6.. I like to use as thick a wire as I can within reason, esp if it's short and cheap...it's just extra insurance and a tiny more efficiency.
I am a newbie. Do you have Amazon links to the style fuse you used at the inverter and the white switch you used for the Solar input? As for the size of the fuse to use, what drives that for sizing. If you use a 40A MPPT do you just use 40A fuses also?
That’s what I’m gonna do at my off grid cabin it’s already got a functioning system it’s just old and I want to beef it up with 4 d8 12 vdc batteries and a new charge controller and a few more 100 watt panels I’ve got 7 grandkids and they love there electronics lol
This battery is pretty lightweight and portable. I can hold it with one hand. I use it to charge my device in a field campaign and the voltage is perfect for my purpose. It is so convenient to use it in this situation. I do not need to carry my large battery of 50 lbs around anymore.
CORRECT on the in-line fuse; ALWAYS go higher than the rated capacity... Should have gone with 8ga but you honestly putting that IN the video is honest reflection and as you stated, NEEDS to be hot tested for continuity of the entire build. Great job!
Thank you for sharing your thoughts! I completely agree with you on the importance of using a higher-rated fuse for safety purposes. It's great to see the video acknowledging the need to hot test the entire build for continuity. Safety should always be a top priority when setting up off-grid power systems. By the way, have you heard of the Segway Portable PowerStation Cube Series? It has some impressive features like massive capacity, fast recharging, and comprehensive protections. It might be worth checking out for your outdoor adventures or home backup power needs!
You did an excellent job! I would like to see this simplified method for each victron item. Victron is very confusing and have busy drawings showing everything. Not easy to figure out for diy's. Thanks
Yeah 8 and make sure it's battery cable the more strands the better.. never use solid 10 gage or even the few strands in number 8. Direct current flows better with stranded wire. 73
Never forget the dangers of litium batterys. My batterys life in an insulated shed outside my home... nice and warm in winter, cool in the summer. Nice video.
I solder the ends on just put end eye side in vice get some flux core solder and put into the end the wire goes in and take a heat gun or torch and begin to heat the end not to much to discolor just to melt the solder and then stick the wire In and hold till cool about 10 seconds and repeat till all ends are completed.
Soldeer smelt. Bij mij 2 x 100Ah batterij parallel. Door de kabel 50> 100 Ampere gemeten bij het aansluiten 12/220V 2000Watt (Hapjespan 1650 watt). Meet ook de temperatuur van de kabels in bedrijf.
Great video! Thank you! A couple of questions for you: 1. What kinds of things can be powered by this setup? 2. Is there a way to also have the main vehicle battery charging the battery in your setup so that solar is sort of the secondary charging source? Thanks!
Great video! As someone who loves outdoor camping and values quality family time, having a reliable power source is essential. The Segway Portable PowerStation Cube Series seems like a fantastic option. With its massive capacity, fast recharging, and waterproof design, it's perfect for extended trips and unexpected power outages. Plus, the smart app control is a neat feature. Definitely worth considering for outdoor enthusiasts and RV lovers.
Great video! I completely agree with you on the importance of having a reliable power source when camping or spending quality time with family. The Segway Portable PowerStation Cube Series seems like a fantastic option with its massive capacity, fast recharging, and waterproof design. The smart app control is definitely a neat feature. Thanks for the suggestion, I will definitely consider it for my outdoor adventures!
Great recommendation! The Segway Portable PowerStation Cube Series seems like a fantastic choice for outdoor enthusiasts and RV lovers. Its massive capacity, fast recharging, and waterproof design make it perfect for extended trips and power outages. Plus, the smart app control feature is really convenient. Thanks for sharing your thoughts! Any other outdoor gear or home backup power products you recommend?
I'm new to this, but since the inverter and controller have cooling fins on the back of them, wouldn't you want to have some space between them and the wall? Just like you are supposed to have a couple of inches between your refrigerator and the wall so it can dissipate heat.
Safety demands that a fuse be connected to the Battery POS Post (Source). Think about it.... Your mains AC breaker box the incoming power coming into the box (Source) is fused then distributed. Same with DC. You size the wire to carry the load it has to handle and THEN you size the fuse to carry that load and the length of wire run. Good content. Think Safety first.
The NEC allows unfused conductors, called taps on high voltage AC systems as long as the over current device, distance, and wire size are correct. Putting those fuses 6 inches from the battery post is not a hazard and I wouldn’t think twice about it.
It was copper wire. I toss aluminum wire in the garbage anytime I come across it. The wire was not getting warm, it was the fuse, or fuse holder. I've come across heat issues with fuses, and fuse holders in the past. I just make it a habit to stress test them after install to see how they perform. If it's too hot for my comfort level, i'll replace it with something different. Thanks!
Great video, two questions, the Solar Disconnect Switch, what Amp rating? Second if you wanted to double the battery capacity how would you wire it, series or parallel and would you make any component change outs consequential to? So I have my eye on a Ampeak Pure Sine Wave 2000 watt Power Inverter! ;)
Might be a dumb questions, Is the solar disconnect switch the same as a circuit breaker switch and how do you select the right one for your specific needs. How do pick the right fuse? What type of fuse is on the inverter and how do you pick the right size? Great video!!!
Thank You Great video. I'm building a 12 system and I have all the components. Were I struggle is selecting the correct wire size and fuses and where to place them. Can you help?
It is a simple system indeed. Got a question about fusing the mppt. You have to connect the mppt to battery first, than connect solar to mppt. Otherwise the mppt can get damaged. However, you put a fuse in the positive wire from mppt to battery. When that fuse blows, it kills power to the mppt, yet solar will still be connected to the mppt and push power in. Will that damage the mppt?
Victron MPPT controllers do not have the problem you mention. The only time you must connect the battery first on a Victron, is the very first time so it can detect the battery/system voltage. Then I would suggest you manually set the battery/system voltage, i.e. 12v, or 24v so that it cannot accidentally change, or detect something different later. After this your fuse can blow, or your breaker, or your battery can disconnect, etc. and it should be fine. Thanks
I like to ask a dumb question. A bright sunny day in December at 35 degrees and a bright sunny day in July at 80°. Do the temperature conditions affect the solar panels ability to put the same W back into the controller? The batteries will be indoors. I'm just trying to figure out the efficiency of solar panels during the winter time when the sun is out not so much a cloudy day or snow or something like that to strictly sunny days
Love the video on setting up a small solar power setup. I'm going to build one for portable Ham radio ops, camping and power outages, so I can power a few things.. I'm going to buy one of those moderate sized stackable tool boxes for building everything in. Already ordered a 100aH batt and a 200w panel... What were you using for the circuit breaker and fuse? I want to make sure to run those. Thanks again for the video!
Probably need to use 2 awg wire throughout. Also need to size appropriate fuse sizes. Not too low of amp fuses, and also not too high amp fuses, to start your wire on fire. When wires or connectors heat up, you need to size up the wire. And check all of your connections, bolts, screws for tightness as well.
Brad I like the Licitti battery box you featured in a recent video. There you have a starter system already made up for you. No tools to buy and no build time.😂
man I used an 803 C, and its portable ones, Lol thanks for the memories.. 12vdc 100 watt (8a) renergy, 200/300w inverter, 100AH lifepo. I use a china ceiling fan led lite the led only and can get some good use, its not enough to run for long periods of time if asked. you want a fuse by your Solar panel where I got mine
I am interested in making like that 12v 100Ah LifePo4 with solar charging at may 100w solar panel and maybe add another 100w later. I am not interested in the AC inverter since most of my electronics will just running off USB C's. I will be using some 12 volt to USB C and a that can produce QC 3.0 or higher and PD protocol. Most will just be using USB C PD in 5v, 9v, 12v and 20v for my laptop. I am adding an option to charge the Lifepo4 from AC just incase the wall outlet is still ok and the solar panel is not providing enough due to weather. Like the vid very straight and simple. I saved the vid on my laptop for reference in case internet is not available.
Even though the battery is 100ah , that does not affect the charge controller? I am bit confused about matching the charge controller with the the battery amp hours. So if I purchase a 60 amp charge controller with a 100 amp hour battery, basically the Charge controller will only have an output of 60 amps. Is that correct? Thanks if you get to respond. Great video.
So you need to look at the charge specs for your battery. For example this battery can take a max charge current of 100a, however the recommended is 20a. While you could use a 60a controller, you may be punishing that battery. 20a charge controller for max life of the battery. However I don't mind pushing it a little with the 30a controller, personally I think it's fine. But again following the manufacture specs you would use a 20a controller with this battery. Hope that helps!
Nice video! Question: what happens when the battery is full charged, the sun is shinning and there is no load on the inverter? It looks to me this setup doesn't have taken this scenario in consideration, right?
The inverter itself will draw power if it is left on even without a load and the controller will charge or not charge if the battery needs to be charged.
i have also this Hydraulic Crimper but when i want to crimp 35mm M8 on a 35mm cable it comes off.maybe i have to use the 25MM to crimp the lug on the cable?
Yeah, I've had this problem on some sizes. Also not all lugs are the same, some are thicker than others. But yes what I do is go one size smaller if this happens. You might get some of the lug material squeezing out the sides, you can just clip this off.
@@BradCagle do u mean i have to use smaller crimping dies or smaller lugs?i have 35mm cable,if i connect a 25mm lug maybe it melt with the higher amp?im new to this...
I’m not seeing any purchase information on the solar disconnect switch, you mentioned at around 8.0 minutes. Is there a favorite brand and/or Amazon link for that particular switch? Thanks😊😊
Hey Brad. I was thinking of using this battery as an accessory battery in a polaris rzr sxs. But I think it's slightly to large.. capacity is awsome over AGM
If your panel is putting out a full 100w the whole time, then it will take about 12.8 hours to fully charge. Now you usually don't get 100w out of a 100w panel because you cant keep the perfect angle, and lighting conditions the whole time. I usually figure 75%. Honestly 100w panels IMO are not enough, I would be playing with 300+ watt to start with. Look for used panels in your area.
@@BradCagle what happens if we use the old lead acid batteries, the kind that goes in a car, I know you can buy the solar Panels that unfold just in case your car battery dies. But what about a 100W big one? I saw a youtube video of a guy off the grid and built a tiny house, and used just one Lead acid battery and only used the battery to light up 12 volt items and phones and tablets. So is it dangerous? Or Safe? Thanks.
@@studioopinions5870 Car batteries are not meant to discharge deeply. You can use it, but it will not last long. If you're going lead acid, you need deep cycle, and even then you can only discharge down to 50% or risk damaging it. Also lead acid batteries need to stay outside in a vented container as they will vent gas while charging.
is that a standard starter battery for a car? isnt a leisure battery better? how long does it take to charge in that set up? what can you run and for how long off that? i want to run a laptop, phone, fan and small fridge/cooler
I just bought the same victron controller. It specs out 6 awg wire from the battery to controller I noticed you have 10 gauge being used. Could that be why it’s warm at the in-line fuse? I thought the 6 gauge spec was overkill for 30 amps but maybe not now. Thanks
10awg is plenty for 30amp. It's the fuse/fuse holder itself that is getting warm. The negative 10awg wire was cool. I have a different fuse type that I think will be better in an upcoming video.
@@BradCagle ok that’s what I thought. I wonder why victron specs 6 gauge? That seems way overkill. I have 10 gauge in my current setup with a pwm charger and I wanted to just use the same wiring in the RV and not have to buy the 6 gauge.
This is a nice, simple, example system. HOWEVER, IMO it is too small for most peoples uses. A 1200 watt inverter is likely to be insufficient for many appliances you might want to hook up. A typical household outlet is perhaps 120v @ 15 amps, yielding 1800 watts. This means if you went with a 2000 watt, pure sine wave inverter, you would have pretty close to the same functionality as a single household outlet, with a small margin. The stories of people with insufficient capacity inverters are many. Fortunately, it is no big deal to swap out a higher capacity inverter. I would also recommend people consider using a 24v battery. 24v has nearly the same safety as 12v and the same hookup wires effectively have twice the power carrying capacity. Further, 24v conversion is typically a bit more efficient than 12v. You would, of course, need to make sure you also had a 24v capable inverter. Further, a 24v 100ah battery can store twice the energy as the 12v example battery. It would be, of course, bigger, heavier, and more expensive. IMO, it would be well worth it. Many people find a 12v 100ah battery fine when their plenty of sun but may not be enough to get them through a cloudy/rainy day or two. As I said, there is nothing wrong with the example system other than being too small for most people, IME. Fortunately, it is almost trivial to swap out components to scale up to a more capable and reliable system. You just need to insure interoperability between the components and use appropriately sized wire.
The charge controllers have 12 volt power supply output separate from the battery charging supply. Most power their 12 volt devices from the battery. I will assume that the 12 volt supply from the controller is much lower? Just for lights or something?
😢i have a question that no one seems to be addressing. I plan on building this simple system for my cabin. Its only for lights, charging devices and maybe a fan and small fridge. My question is if its better to leave this sutem in plave and constantly be charging for months (2 to 6 consecutively) that im not at the cabin? Or is it better to shut it all down and spend the first day charging it all up?
Thank you, lots of good info, for guys like me, who are just getting started. My question, is, can I change that battery, with jumper cable, from car battery on days of no sun?
Does it always spark when connecting the second cable from the inverter to battery? is it dangerous if i don't have a resistor? will I get electrocuted?
Amazon Affiliate links:
Li Time MINI Battery 100Ah: amzn.to/3ZG8kXn
Victron 100/30 MPPT: amzn.to/41JTG2A
Hydraulic Crimper: amzn.to/3MC5AHs
Tinned Copper Lugs: amzn.to/4j3dUOC
Hammer Crimper: amzn.to/3InPFKj
Ferrule Crimping Kit: amzn.to/3odMDS6
BusBars: amzn.to/42TSYB9
2awg cable: amzn.to/3OnBZmd
Precharge resistors: amzn.to/3PEuRCk
================
AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE: This channel may earn an affiliate commission if you purchase products through links I provide.
================
CONTACT: bradcagleyt@gmail.com
Business/Collaboration only. Please do not contact me for for personal project help, or advice.
================
DISCLAIMER: These videos are documenting my own personal projects, and experiences. These projects, and activities can be dangerous. I am not a professional. You should always consult with a professional. This content is for entertainment purposes only. DO NOT try any of this at home, doing so will be at your own risk.
Interested to see ur fuse temp with 1/0 wire
What the model inverter u have? Please get me the link
do you have a link for the switch?
I love this. Just a bare bones system that gets it done. Nice one
Thanks!
You want your fuse as close to the battery (or "source") as possible. Really like the ferrels, especially for smaller screw-down connections. A much simpler setup, with quite a bit more inverter output, is the MPP 2724 inverter/charger with two batteries, wired in series. You still want the solar disconnect, but from there it's two wires into the inverter/charger and then two wires from your batteries. Easiest off-grid system you can make, because it also includes several AC outlets.
Yeah. I totally agree on the fuse. That way if the positive wire is shorted anywhere along the length it will pop the fuse. I'll check that MPP2724 out. Thanks!
@@BradCagle Nice work... I run a 24/7 mining rig. Runs 1000 watts. Will that run the miner 24/7.. Thanks.
@@user-fg6lm3ef5o - So, you're saying fuses ARE a good thing?
his run up to the inverter is shorter than most peoples run to the fuse holder...
@@LiLBitsDK Yeah, that's what I keep telling people but they don't seem to get it. LOL
Toss all this in Milwaukee Packout rolling box for a convenient portable protected supply. I tested mine by running a full size frig off it for a week on one 300 watt panel with the same size battery , charge controller and inverter (but mine was blue) . It worked great . Sun powered
food cooling .
Nice. I have a toolbox I bought for something like that. I need to do it :)
Heck, put TWO of these "mini" batteries in that toolbox, wired in parallel.
Will it power a 2000 fifth wheel
Do you have a fuse
I love my victron 100/50 controller. No charge controller for the money can beat it
I'm a victron fan, great stuff
The most informative presentation I've seen yet. just good basic stuff!!! and all the little stuff he covers is fantastic and sorely needed and missing on some of the high falutin channels!!
Thanks. Glad you like it 😁
@@BradCagle great video a little over my head but I'm learning. I am a 70 year old retired firefighter. My wife is disabled and stays basically in the bedroom which is about 15 by 15 and we use an air conditioner in the window 24 hours a day. I have the inverter and just need to get to solar panels the controller and I don't know a marine battery or a lifepo4. What would your recommendations be to run that air conditioner Around the Clock. And then there's the aspect of what parts could be in the room and what parts need to be outside the wall of the house other than the solar panels. The panels would be approximately 10 ft away from the house facing sunrise for 12 hours. I was thinking of getting ( 3) 300 watt solar panels
This is something I need to do with my LiTime 100Ah Mini (which I do enjoy the lightweight of it).
Great video my man!
Thanks! 👍
The hydraulic crimper is the only way to go. Nice hookup.
Agree, at less than $40 no excuse not to get it :) Thanks
Nice build. After a few weeks of testing after receiving the goods, the refrigerator, TV, etc., the capacity is completely fine. I bought a 24V 100Ah battery. High cost performance.😃
Would it be a marine battery I'm going off grid trying learn
@@angel1111. car battery works 👍
Why 24v and what sort of time are you getting out of it before you need to charge again?
@@angel1111.I used deep cycle marine batteries to learn on because I got them for free. I learned marine battery are good enough to learn with for free. But when I bought 2, 100 amp hour solar batteries huge, huge increase in efficiency. I have no idea what the difference is but there is one
You bought the whole setup just changed the size of the battery?
30A continuous you'd want 8 AWG wire, I think that Victron can handle up to #6.. I like to use as thick a wire as I can within reason, esp if it's short and cheap...it's just extra insurance and a tiny more efficiency.
10 AWG should be fine
Wrong, 10 is fine all day for 30A.
I used a old set of jumper cables wire, They cleaned up and work great.
If it can maintain 30 amps for more than a few hours, it's supposed to be increased from 10awg to 8awg.
Probably *the* video that got me 100% interested into making my solar power system. Thank you.
Glad to help :) Thanks!
Everybody should, its a strange feeling running something on solarpower for the first time. It gave me a sense of freedom my firsttime😂
Awesome Video!!!! Nice and basic, easy to understand, no fancy terminology!! Well done! thank you for putting this together!
Finally some one does a set up any one can follow basic and simple, the rest is up to the individual
I am a newbie. Do you have Amazon links to the style fuse you used at the inverter and the white switch you used for the Solar input? As for the size of the fuse to use, what drives that for sizing. If you use a 40A MPPT do you just use 40A fuses also?
What fuse ?
The fuse between the solar charger and the battery @@robersonmoron7891
It would be interesting to see the voltage drop across the link with the warm fuse.
Some good tips, thanks.
That’s what I’m gonna do at my off grid cabin it’s already got a functioning system it’s just old and I want to beef it up with 4 d8 12 vdc batteries and a new charge controller and a few more 100 watt panels I’ve got 7 grandkids and they love there electronics lol
Maybe get the grandkids off the electronics and out in real earth
This battery is pretty lightweight and portable. I can hold it with one hand. I use it to charge my device in a field campaign and the voltage is perfect for my purpose. It is so convenient to use it in this situation. I do not need to carry my large battery of 50 lbs around anymore.
They are great!
That hydraulic crimped is really cool. Thanks for the introduction to this tool.
this is the best video yet for walking me through a system I know very little about. THANK YOU!
Thank you for the video and thank the other posters for providing their expertise.
You bet!
CORRECT on the in-line fuse; ALWAYS go higher than the rated capacity... Should have gone with 8ga but you honestly putting that IN the video is honest reflection and as you stated, NEEDS to be hot tested for continuity of the entire build. Great job!
Thanks!
Thank you for sharing your thoughts! I completely agree with you on the importance of using a higher-rated fuse for safety purposes. It's great to see the video acknowledging the need to hot test the entire build for continuity. Safety should always be a top priority when setting up off-grid power systems. By the way, have you heard of the Segway Portable PowerStation Cube Series? It has some impressive features like massive capacity, fast recharging, and comprehensive protections. It might be worth checking out for your outdoor adventures or home backup power needs!
Nice presentation.
I'd get bigger cables from the Victron to the battery and also get better fuses.
Thanks for the video. Could you list the links to purchase the fuse and solar disconnect switch. Good video.
Very well explained as I have never worked with solar and just bought an RV and want to camp off grid. Very helpful. Thanks.
You did an excellent job!
I would like to see this simplified method for each victron item.
Victron is very confusing and have busy drawings showing everything. Not easy to figure out for diy's.
Thanks
Thanks! glad it's helpful
30A is right at the limit for 10AWG. 8AWG would have been a better choice.
Yeah 8 and make sure it's battery cable the more strands the better.. never use solid 10 gage or even the few strands in number 8. Direct current flows better with stranded wire. 73
P@@ronb6182
Never forget the dangers of litium batterys. My batterys life in an insulated shed outside my home... nice and warm in winter, cool in the summer. Nice video.
Thank you, thank you, Thank you.
For keeping it sweet and simple..
.❤❤
You're welcome!
I solder the ends on just put end eye side in vice get some flux core solder and put into the end the wire goes in and take a heat gun or torch and begin to heat the end not to much to discolor just to melt the solder and then stick the wire In and hold till cool about 10 seconds and repeat till all ends are completed.
Soldeer smelt. Bij mij 2 x 100Ah batterij parallel. Door de kabel 50> 100 Ampere gemeten bij het aansluiten 12/220V 2000Watt (Hapjespan 1650 watt). Meet ook de temperatuur van de kabels in bedrijf.
Great video! Thank you! A couple of questions for you: 1. What kinds of things can be powered by this setup? 2. Is there a way to also have the main vehicle battery charging the battery in your setup so that solar is sort of the secondary charging source? Thanks!
Absolutely excellent clear instructions...exactly what I wanted...cheers
Glad to help!
I have 2 Litime 100AH mini batteries and they're very responsive when it comes to email customer service and support.
Great video! As someone who loves outdoor camping and values quality family time, having a reliable power source is essential. The Segway Portable PowerStation Cube Series seems like a fantastic option. With its massive capacity, fast recharging, and waterproof design, it's perfect for extended trips and unexpected power outages. Plus, the smart app control is a neat feature. Definitely worth considering for outdoor enthusiasts and RV lovers.
Great video! I completely agree with you on the importance of having a reliable power source when camping or spending quality time with family. The Segway Portable PowerStation Cube Series seems like a fantastic option with its massive capacity, fast recharging, and waterproof design. The smart app control is definitely a neat feature. Thanks for the suggestion, I will definitely consider it for my outdoor adventures!
Great recommendation! The Segway Portable PowerStation Cube Series seems like a fantastic choice for outdoor enthusiasts and RV lovers. Its massive capacity, fast recharging, and waterproof design make it perfect for extended trips and power outages. Plus, the smart app control feature is really convenient. Thanks for sharing your thoughts! Any other outdoor gear or home backup power products you recommend?
I use a similar system to this however I put the regulator inside a hardcore battery box and the inverter sitting on top.
I'm new to this, but since the inverter and controller have cooling fins on the back of them, wouldn't you want to have some space between them and the wall? Just like you are supposed to have a couple of inches between your refrigerator and the wall so it can dissipate heat.
Safety demands that a fuse be connected to the Battery POS Post (Source). Think about it.... Your mains AC breaker box the incoming power coming into the box (Source) is fused then distributed. Same with DC. You size the wire to carry the load it has to handle and THEN you size the fuse to carry that load and the length of wire run. Good content. Think Safety first.
The NEC allows unfused conductors, called taps on high voltage AC systems as long as the over current device, distance, and wire size are correct. Putting those fuses 6 inches from the battery post is not a hazard and I wouldn’t think twice about it.
Uhm... He did use fused cables???
Can you recommend a video that does it safely?
What size fuse typically?
@@bradrussell1821 it depends on the system and your cable size. There are charts online.
Was the fuse holder copper clad aluminum wire? They don't make cheap fuse holders with all copper. You provided a lot of great info. Thanks
It was copper wire. I toss aluminum wire in the garbage anytime I come across it. The wire was not getting warm, it was the fuse, or fuse holder. I've come across heat issues with fuses, and fuse holders in the past. I just make it a habit to stress test them after install to see how they perform. If it's too hot for my comfort level, i'll replace it with something different. Thanks!
I use a vice bench to tighten my cables ... works fine ...
Perfect parts for a beginner setup!
Definitely!
Is there anyway to connect a generator to charge the battery as a backup source to the solar?
Great video, two questions, the Solar Disconnect Switch, what Amp rating? Second if you wanted to double the battery capacity how would you wire it, series or parallel and would you make any component change outs consequential to? So I have my eye on a Ampeak Pure Sine Wave 2000 watt Power Inverter! ;)
Excellent video. Thank you for that. What size solar panel did you use in the video for testing purposes?
Will you tell what solar panels you are using? Thanks in advance.
Sunpower 435w E-Series Commercial
6:00 I thought that bird noise was the preloading capacitor bell, Done! 😆
Might be a dumb questions, Is the solar disconnect switch the same as a circuit breaker switch and how do you select the right one for your specific needs. How do pick the right fuse? What type of fuse is on the inverter and how do you pick the right size? Great video!!!
Thank You Great video. I'm building a 12 system and I have all the components. Were I struggle is selecting the correct wire size and fuses and where to place them. Can you help?
Clean cut video. Watt panels did you use for your set up. Make a video on it. LOL Thanks Great video.
Oh man, it's been so long I don't remember :) maybe I'll make a new video. Thanks
It is a simple system indeed.
Got a question about fusing the mppt. You have to connect the mppt to battery first, than connect solar to mppt. Otherwise the mppt can get damaged. However, you put a fuse in the positive wire from mppt to battery. When that fuse blows, it kills power to the mppt, yet solar will still be connected to the mppt and push power in. Will that damage the mppt?
Victron MPPT controllers do not have the problem you mention. The only time you must connect the battery first on a Victron, is the very first time so it can detect the battery/system voltage. Then I would suggest you manually set the battery/system voltage, i.e. 12v, or 24v so that it cannot accidentally change, or detect something different later. After this your fuse can blow, or your breaker, or your battery can disconnect, etc. and it should be fine. Thanks
@ mine actually has a tiny manual selector dial and setting 9 is for LI.
You should discuss wire gauge (size).
Brilliant video, thank you. After hours of digging I just wasn’t retaining any info.
I like to ask a dumb question. A bright sunny day in December at 35 degrees and a bright sunny day in July at 80°. Do the temperature conditions affect the solar panels ability to put the same W back into the controller? The batteries will be indoors. I'm just trying to figure out the efficiency of solar panels during the winter time when the sun is out not so much a cloudy day or snow or something like that to strictly sunny days
Yes, cold winter sunny day will beat a hot summer sunny day as long as the angle is good.
Nice simple build. Easy to follow, upscale, and start my own project. Thank you very much 🫡
Love the video on setting up a small solar power setup.
I'm going to build one for portable Ham radio ops, camping and power outages, so I can power a few things..
I'm going to buy one of those moderate sized stackable tool boxes for building everything in.
Already ordered a 100aH batt and a 200w panel...
What were you using for the circuit breaker and fuse?
I want to make sure to run those.
Thanks again for the video!
Nice simple little system. Greetings from Jamaica.
Hey! I need to tour the Caribbean sometime, especially Jamaica :) Greetings sir
Probably need to use 2 awg wire throughout. Also need to size appropriate fuse sizes. Not too low of amp fuses, and also not too high amp fuses, to start your wire on fire. When wires or connectors heat up, you need to size up the wire. And check all of your connections, bolts, screws for tightness as well.
Looks VERY complicated and does that hand held meter come with the system?
We have those same Birds here Blackbird AKA Crackle in South Texas
Yup, I'm in north TX :)
Brad-I enjoy your videos, and most are helpful to some point. Would you consider doing a video on proper usage of a voltage meter ?
Brad I like the Licitti battery box you featured in a recent video. There you have a starter system already made up for you. No tools to buy and no build time.😂
Yup, I agree :)
Nice build . Very simple.
Thanks!
man I used an 803 C, and its portable ones, Lol thanks for the memories.. 12vdc 100 watt (8a) renergy, 200/300w inverter, 100AH lifepo. I use a china ceiling fan led lite the led only and can get some good use, its not enough to run for long periods of time if asked. you want a fuse by your Solar panel where I got mine
I am interested in making like that 12v 100Ah LifePo4 with solar charging at may 100w solar panel and maybe add another 100w later. I am not interested in the AC inverter since most of my electronics will just running off USB C's. I will be using some 12 volt to USB C and a that can produce QC 3.0 or higher and PD protocol. Most will just be using USB C PD in 5v, 9v, 12v and 20v for my laptop. I am adding an option to charge the Lifepo4 from AC just incase the wall outlet is still ok and the solar panel is not providing enough due to weather. Like the vid very straight and simple. I saved the vid on my laptop for reference in case internet is not available.
Suppose you could run a 24v system then, and step down as required.
Even though the battery is 100ah , that does not affect the charge controller? I am bit confused about matching the charge controller with the the battery amp hours. So if I purchase a 60 amp charge controller with a 100 amp hour battery, basically the Charge controller will only have an output of 60 amps. Is that correct? Thanks if you get to respond. Great video.
So you need to look at the charge specs for your battery. For example this battery can take a max charge current of 100a, however the recommended is 20a. While you could use a 60a controller, you may be punishing that battery. 20a charge controller for max life of the battery. However I don't mind pushing it a little with the 30a controller, personally I think it's fine. But again following the manufacture specs you would use a 20a controller with this battery. Hope that helps!
Can you explain more about our using the resistor to charge the capacitors? What did you use, where did you get it?
Precharge resistors: amzn.to/3PEuRCk
@@BradCagle Awesome thanks! What watt & resistance did you use? Theres a bunch of choices.
Nice video! Question: what happens when the battery is full charged, the sun is shinning and there is no load on the inverter? It looks to me this setup doesn't have taken this scenario in consideration, right?
It just stops charging That's the job of the Victron MPPT charger.
The inverter itself will draw power if it is left on even without a load and the controller will charge or not charge if the battery needs to be charged.
Great video and setup. What is the solar panel config you used here? Would like to know that detail. Thanks!
great video, simplifies the system for beginners like me.
Glad you enjoyed it!
where did you get you switch from solar to controler and in line fuse that needs to be bigger thanks
Cool info. After pricing all the parts + battery its actually much cheaper to get a solar generator with Solar panel kit
What a good and helpful video. Thanks for making it. How many, say 100w solar panels can this system handle?
440w
i have also this Hydraulic Crimper but when i want to crimp 35mm M8 on a 35mm cable it comes off.maybe i have to use the 25MM to crimp the lug on the cable?
Yeah, I've had this problem on some sizes. Also not all lugs are the same, some are thicker than others. But yes what I do is go one size smaller if this happens. You might get some of the lug material squeezing out the sides, you can just clip this off.
@BradCagle I thought the crimper was the issue but the lugs are.i ordered new lugs so I try a smaller crimping size. Thx👍👍
@@Dave-xr9bc Yup that's my finding, some lugs fit differently.
@@BradCagle do u mean i have to use smaller crimping dies or smaller lugs?i have 35mm cable,if i connect a 25mm lug maybe it melt with the higher amp?im new to this...
@@Dave-xr9bc I usually just try a smaller die
I’m not seeing any purchase information on the solar disconnect switch, you mentioned at around 8.0 minutes. Is there a favorite brand and/or Amazon link for that particular switch? Thanks😊😊
Hey Brad. I was thinking of using this battery as an accessory battery in a polaris rzr sxs. But I think it's slightly to large.. capacity is awsome over AGM
Yeah, pretty awesome the size to capacity!
Really informative video for a 12v off grid mini system. I learned a lot, thanks.
What sort of appliances can you run on this system? And for how long?
What do you think about adding a battery protector to this setup? To protect the battery from over discharging or overcharging?
Love it ! Back to the basics.If u can understand this much u can build up from there.Thanks bud gave u a sub and a like.
question: how long does it take to charge that battery you have if it is nearly depleted? and using only 100W Solar Panel?
If your panel is putting out a full 100w the whole time, then it will take about 12.8 hours to fully charge. Now you usually don't get 100w out of a 100w panel because you cant keep the perfect angle, and lighting conditions the whole time. I usually figure 75%. Honestly 100w panels IMO are not enough, I would be playing with 300+ watt to start with. Look for used panels in your area.
@@BradCagle what happens if we use the old lead acid batteries, the kind that goes in a car, I know you can buy the solar Panels that unfold just in case your car battery dies. But what about a 100W big one? I saw a youtube video of a guy off the grid and built a tiny house, and used just one Lead acid battery and only used the battery to light up 12 volt items and phones and tablets. So is it dangerous? Or Safe? Thanks.
@@studioopinions5870 Car batteries are not meant to discharge deeply. You can use it, but it will not last long. If you're going lead acid, you need deep cycle, and even then you can only discharge down to 50% or risk damaging it. Also lead acid batteries need to stay outside in a vented container as they will vent gas while charging.
@@BradCagle Thanks! Terry
For how much watt PV total does this victron 100/30 work? What victron would I require for a 1kw solar PV system?
What is a good solar panel for this type of set up? Or probably 2 batteries.
Are you able to charge the battery by plugging in the system through the inverter?
Very nicely explained. How many and what kind of solar panels you used?
is that a standard starter battery for a car? isnt a leisure battery better?
how long does it take to charge in that set up?
what can you run and for how long off that?
i want to run a laptop, phone, fan and small fridge/cooler
No, it's not a car battery. It's a LiFePO4 Lithium battery for energy storage. Thanks
I just bought the same victron controller. It specs out 6 awg wire from the battery to controller I noticed you have 10 gauge being used. Could that be why it’s warm at the in-line fuse? I thought the 6 gauge spec was overkill for 30 amps but maybe not now. Thanks
10awg is plenty for 30amp. It's the fuse/fuse holder itself that is getting warm. The negative 10awg wire was cool. I have a different fuse type that I think will be better in an upcoming video.
@@BradCagle ok that’s what I thought. I wonder why victron specs 6 gauge? That seems way overkill. I have 10 gauge in my current setup with a pwm charger and I wanted to just use the same wiring in the RV and not have to buy the 6 gauge.
Thanks
good use of FERRULES on your stranded wire
COOP
the WiSeNhEiMeR from Richmond, INDIANA
...
Thanks!
Great experiance running something on solar for the first time!
This is a nice, simple, example system. HOWEVER, IMO it is too small for most peoples uses. A 1200 watt inverter is likely to be insufficient for many appliances you might want to hook up. A typical household outlet is perhaps 120v @ 15 amps, yielding 1800 watts. This means if you went with a 2000 watt, pure sine wave inverter, you would have pretty close to the same functionality as a single household outlet, with a small margin. The stories of people with insufficient capacity inverters are many. Fortunately, it is no big deal to swap out a higher capacity inverter. I would also recommend people consider using a 24v battery. 24v has nearly the same safety as 12v and the same hookup wires effectively have twice the power carrying capacity. Further, 24v conversion is typically a bit more efficient than 12v. You would, of course, need to make sure you also had a 24v capable inverter. Further, a 24v 100ah battery can store twice the energy as the 12v example battery. It would be, of course, bigger, heavier, and more expensive. IMO, it would be well worth it. Many people find a 12v 100ah battery fine when their plenty of sun but may not be enough to get them through a cloudy/rainy day or two. As I said, there is nothing wrong with the example system other than being too small for most people, IME. Fortunately, it is almost trivial to swap out components to scale up to a more capable and reliable system. You just need to insure interoperability between the components and use appropriately sized wire.
I'm planning to do a 2000w 12v video. Also I already 24v, and 48v videos. Thanks!
Regarding the Fuses you have added, based on what you choose the Fuse amp? ( all fuses)
It's best to rate your fuses on the wire. So if your wire can handle 100A at max continuous, then you should use a 100a fuse, or breaker.
nice battery . i m thinking of buying one for extra but will keep me back from 48v setup ... !!! maybe next year
Maybe video with the correct size solar panels configuration for this rated power….
nice video, thanks for posting. Is there any chance we could get a link or any more info about the two fuses?
The charge controllers have 12 volt power supply output separate from the battery charging supply. Most power their 12 volt devices from the battery. I will assume that the 12 volt supply from the controller is much lower? Just for lights or something?
Very informative. Is there a reason you went with that inverter? Amazon has a million and its sort of confusing.
Thank you for such a clear explanation of building a 12v system!!
Are you able to charge the battery by plugging in the system, at home, through the inverter?
Is it necessary to put a fuse between the batter and inverter?
Yes
@@BradCagle I'm going to add a 150amp fuse it's a breaker fuse. I sent you a message on Facebook
@@PlanetaryDefenseFoundation If you use minimum of 2awg copper wire you can use a 150a fuse, or breaker.
Not must need,
Nice video. What size are any fuzes, resistors that were used? Is the breaker disconnect a "DC" Breaker and what size? thanks
😢i have a question that no one seems to be addressing. I plan on building this simple system for my cabin. Its only for lights, charging devices and maybe a fan and small fridge. My question is if its better to leave this sutem in plave and constantly be charging for months (2 to 6 consecutively) that im not at the cabin? Or is it better to shut it all down and spend the first day charging it all up?
I would probably just turn the inverter off, leave the solar charger, and batteries on, and connected.
@@BradCagle Thank you.
Thank you, lots of good info, for guys like me, who are just getting started. My question, is, can I change that battery, with jumper cable, from car battery on days of no sun?
Dc to dc, i boiled my car battery when tried charge, but relay system is same so dunno why boiled maybe too thin wire
Does it always spark when connecting the second cable from the inverter to battery?
is it dangerous if i don't have a resistor? will I get electrocuted?
use a volt meter and measure the drop across the each joint so the lowest readings