I have been using grid tie inverters for years to offset my power consumption. The one key important issue is to not just plug it into any home power receptacle. If you do so, you will likely compromise the protection provided by the breaker in your electrical panel. The best way to do it is to have one separate power recepticle, with its own breaker, coming out of your electrical panel.
Remember 1200 "Chinese' watts = 600 "real" watts. I have v the 600w version and it over heats and shuts off for 3-5 minutes (missing some harvest). I had mount mine on a big chunk of aluminum to help keep it cool. It mostly eliminated the the over heat, but not totally. Winter ops is just fine without overheat. On the 600w version, all the DC inputs are tied together, so only one mppt "brain" for all panels connected.
There are so many the same gridtie inverter like that on Amazon, main complain is that it does not last because of heat. I would like to see you do a fallow video actual test in a month or two.
I would like to be able to set up some testing stations and share that info with everyone. That is my goal. I will get there eventually. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
Goes for both the 450and 800w version too. My 450W shuts down due to temperature after a few minutes at 360W and does not start to work before it has cooled down for maybe 15 minutes. Then it works for the same amount of time before shutting down again. And so it goes. The 800W version does the same at approx 760W. Actively cooling these wil mitigate most of these issues, but they still run very hot. Efficiency also seems bad; switching to a "better" brand micoinverter yielded 70-100w more per 415w panel than the Vevors in my case. Also I opened my Vevors and they definetly are not of the stated IP-rating.
Very cool stuff. Like the idea of the mobile unit. Thank you for showing us there are so many options. I did look this one up on Amazon and it has very low reviews due to overheating. I know you are just doing an introduction to concepts of what is available, just saying this specific manufacture appears to be having trouble with heat.
I am a diy newbie , thanks for video btw. I bought 8 200w panels and just want to power a 120v circuit to run an upright freezer and a small fridge and maybe a few strings of LED lights in a patio room. I don't think i can use microinverters because we here in MS don't have netmetering. My question is can i use say a 3,000w hybrid inverter tied to an existing AC circuit that already powers the freezer etc and use the software to tell the inverter to feed solar first and then grid. I have the option to buy the batteryless or batteried version inverter. Would such a setup be legal?
I just put out a video yesterday on a hybrid inverter you might be interested in. Always check with your local jurisdiction before building a solar array. Usually they will be very helpful. Goodluck, hope to see you over in the forums. diysolarbuilds.com thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
You need to make sure your microinverter is listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory such as UL or ETL if your utility company uses a smart meter and your home is connected to the grid (most likely the case since this type of inverter will not operate unless it detects grid power). A testing certification is required in my jurisdiction (Indiana). If you hook it up without approval from your utility company (through an interconnection agreement application process that must include proof of certification), they may shut off power to your home if their smart meter detects any backfeeding of power to the grid (the smart meter instantaneously transmits this info to the utility company via a technology called "power line based communication"). Many of these products have a CE testing designation. However, that is only good for Europe (more specifically, the European Union). A CE listing is not sufficient in the United States. The only way to possibly get around this requirement is to make sure your inverter never produces more power that you are using at any given moment (i.e., it never backfeeds to the grid). You can do this (i.e., prevent backfeedteeding to the grid) with a power limiter (which can be a complicated and costly solution) or by buying a microinverter with a lower output (e.g., 600 watts instead of 1200 watts). In my case, 1200 watts is too much power. In fact, there are several times during the day when my electric usage is less than 1000 watts. I know this for a fact because I can log into my account and look at the hourly usage info that the smart meter is instantaneously sending to my utility company.
Yes, in most situations, I would recommend Hoymiles or Enphase for microinverters. They are UL listed and have designed accessories specifically for them. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
About 7 years ago a guy with a tiny YT channel posted how he was playing around with one solar panel. He had it tapped into his house wiring to run a tine fan. The project was in part was used to teach his young son about electricity. Weeks later 2 men with guns (police) and a power company employee showed up at his house to tell him he had to disconnect his tiny experiment and get permits and be inspected or he would be arrested. His little science experiment with his son turned into a civics class teaching about the rights and responsibilities of citizens and how bad government works.
In video you say you can run 3 of the micro inverters in series. That's a Max of 3600 watts. But that isn't safe for a 110v circuit, right? The amps would be to high, wouldn't it? Thanks for the video.
I think I might have had the 220v version on my mind. I missed that. Appreciate you bringing that to my attention. Yes this one pulls a little over 9 amps so it should not connected to others. They do make a 220v version which is the voltage I would recommend using. Honestly, I have a Hoymiles quad microinverter video out that would be my top pick. Thanks for watching and commenting! 👍
I already have grid tied system. It should work as u mentioned plug and play order one using ur code finger crossed have some left over panels from my project
You can user it on off grid, IF your running a battery based inverter. Most real quality inverters have frequency shifting so you won't over charge the battery if the micro inverter is powering the battery based inverters charger. Very common way to do remote arrays and use smaller wire because you bussing back AC not DC.
Why wouldnt you go with Hoymiles HMS2000 ? It has 4 MPPT and you can connect trhe big boi 550W panels. 4 MPPT = awesome shadowmanagement for each panel+ there is an open DTU / AhoyDTU project for monitoring and this DTU even provides an option to send the data via MQTT
if you have a smart meter and feed it onto grid you will pay grid for power you use as it needs a ct coil to stop it feeding into grid,if you could feed into grid you need one on each leg,and ct sensor for each run inverter on its own to panel, you need to instal breaker to turn it off,a lot of these are not water proof they also burn out i would put a dc switch to turn off panels before unplugging
Hi Justin,thanks for your great video! I have a question, I found some grid-tied microinverters online and I asked the saler if they have UL certificate. As far as I know, they needs UL proved so that I can sell power to the national grid. But they do not have UL. In this case, can I use them upon my roof? Thanks in advance!
If you are connecting them to the grid for a net metering agreement. I would only go with Enphase or Hoymiles at this point. Yes, get something UL listed. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
I don't think so. It would need to be plugged directly into the AC outlet. I'm not brave enough to risk the Ecoflow unit. I think it would fry some internal components that protect the battery. I might be wrong though. I haven't personally tried it. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
It’s probably a good idea to get one of these rated quite a lot more than your panels so they are not any heat problems. Some people say there are and some people say there are none
I think there is a new version of them now. I would recommend them over this model. Ultimately, I would recommend Hoymiles as a long term solution though.
@@JustinsProject What is the new model? Have you tested it yet? I looked at the Hoymiles website but there are no prices, no way to buy, no add to cart, not even a list of stores that sell them. It's almost like they don't want my business.
You said that we need to plug into the grid to make this thing work, because the unit needs to sense grid power input. I want the option of running offgrid, and maybe not even get my power company involved. Shouldn't it sense power input from my existing solar panel setup with batteries and inverter running. independent of the grid?
It should, in case it decodes a grid profile. There is a lot of communication happening in power lines. I know that is how my Enphase microinverters work.
If I’m trying to get my shed to have solar what do I need. I just want a light inside on a switch and a light on the front on to of door and maybe an outlet. Outlet just for incase.
What would happen if you plugged the microinverter into an offgrid system that is delivering power? Surely it would see the existence of a grid frequency generated by the off-grid inverter and syncronize to that? Wonder if it reduce the power delivered by the off grid inverter.
Around 11:33 in the video, I placed the data sheet. Look at the bottom of that, the second item up from the bottom. It has grid detection. I'm not 100% sure of what each letter represents, but it can detect the difference. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
@@JustinsProject it doesn t matter as long as the microinverter senses the 50/60hz. When the batteries are full and there is no consuption, the offgrid inverter should be configured to raise the frequency by 2.5Hz and that stops the microinverter from producing. It says in it s own manual. Ac is a lot easier than dc
@eustacebagge5499 Thank you for sharing. I'm always willing to learn. I am excited to get my hands on the right components to share with everyone. I am looking at building a mobile array for testing. This information helps me a lot. Thanks!
Is it possible but I think I have changed my mind about doing that. I have built my mobile array but for testing purposes only... for now. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
Just an idea, have you tried to plug this inverter into a generator to see if it turns on without solar panels hooked up of course? Or perhaps having a string inverter providing the ac signal?
I have not. I wasn't sure if it would damage the micro inverter since it has grid detection. I might just try it and see what happens. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
the answer to that is you can damage it if your generator is not doing clean power. Meaning a if it is a clean sinewave Will work, lf with a mod sinewave or a dirty sinewave you risk damage.
My gut says its "too cheap", BUT...perhaps this is the way things are going? More players in the field, cheaper options? Im used to enphase pricing so the price for this unit raised my eyebrows.
These will last years if in placed in a location that will get some type of cooling. IE 12v computer fan will do most of the time. Do not mount Outdoors that is death to this type. Hence why you see a PC cord attachment.
I never messed with any micro inverters. I have 2 inverters high qnd a low frequency running my camper off grid and living in it. 1850 watts of solar. Im interested in these tho
If that is a grid-tie microinverter, it is not supposed to have any output, unless it is connected to the grid/"house", right? So, if you would connect it to a battery charger that charges a battery bank, it shouldn't have worked!? Please, correct me if I am wrong.
Technically, it shouldn't, but there are methods to get it to work. It is not recommended by the manufacturers, so the short answer is that it should be used as grid tied only. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
If you wanted to build a mobile solar charger would you not just use a MPPT solar charge controller?? What would be the benefit of inverting to AC then back to DC again, unless I'm missing something?
Thanks for opening my eyes to this inverter! I had never heard of it before, and I worked in the solar industry for a couple of years. From what I have researched online since this video, it is illegal to plug this into an outlet that is on grid without letting the electric company know, because: -You need a net meter (as I believe Justin said in the video), which probably detects outages and shuts off the power flow into the grid? -you can't feed electricity into the grid without notifying the electric company, or you might fry someone (Yes, I know, 'It's a small amount', but lots of little jolts equal a big one, and you don't know how many other people are doing it) -the inverter has to be properly rated; it might not be able to handle the load, which could cause a fire
In the manual you will see that these support anti-islanding. That is, they require there to be a wave form already available on the grid wire. It takes that wave form and syncs to it so that it is able to supplement the power from the grid. In this case, the moment the power is shut off from the home it no longer has a wave form to sync to and stops supplying power. These units are useless when the power company is not providing power already for it to supplement. As a result, they will not feed power back into the grid once the power is isolated for line work by the power company. To give a working test, hook one of these units up to a 120 plug and monitor the power it is pushing to the circuit. Go open the breaker for that circuit. All items using power will die and the inverter will stop producing power. Turn the circuit back on and it will resync to the wave form and start producing power again. There are devices like the VUE from Emporia Energy that monitors your power usage circuit by circuit and on the mains. With the device you can set it up to send you a notification if the power draw falls below a threshold. So, for example, if you set your grid-tie inverter to feed 800 watts you can set it to detect when the whole home consumption goes below zero and provide notifications. That will let you know you are likely back feeding the grid and getting charged for a non-net metering. You can create margins with it as well. Above is not the endorse net metering. Indeed, I propose the benefit of the panels, inverter, batteries is for emergencies and a grid-tie inverter doesn't meet any of those needs. Unless it is a hybrid. 🙂
I’m confused. Or at least i never thought of this, so i am not aware of the logistics of this. Will back feeding from the socket not trip the MCB in the main panel? I’m in EU by the way so we might have different ways of doing things.
I would not recommend installing the microinverters plugged directly into a socket for a long-term solution. It did not trip the breaker because it was not a short. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
@@JustinsProject again in correct I been running a grid tie system for years. And most that have these have been doing the same for years . This is a proven tech. The most time the invert fails and you have to replace it.
Justin since you have Net metering via your original solar system, would anything produced via this option be used by your house first or be pushed back into the grid?
Yes, that is my understanding. I am still looking for a monitoring system for these micro inverters also. If I find something, I will definitely share it. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
Yeah i have a 4000 watt split phase inverter running my minisplit and a 3000 watt all in one running the 30 amp plug on my camper. Sometimes when everything is on im my camper including the 110 side of the water heater if my girlfriend turns on her hair dryer it overloads my 3000 watt inverter and it shuts down. I wonder if using this with a couple more panels might keep that from happening. I guess like making my 3000 watt inverter capable of not shutting down as tho maybe it would add that 1200 watts to the 3000 so i could use 4200 without shutting down
Watched your video and purchased the exact same unit from Vevor (1200 watt 110v model), but only got one cord with it. Also, I'm only getting 15-20 watts output max with four 200 watt panels hooked up to it in full sun. I thought it was a lemon at first, so I just had it replaced, but the second unit is also only outputting 15-20 watts. I thought it was my wattage meter at first, so I switched it to a different meter but am getting the same results. Any ideas of what could be happening?
That sounds strange. I have not run into that problem. Hope that you get it resolved. Reach out to Vevor and see if they can help. You can do that on their website. Good luck! 👍🏻
@@JustinsProject Thanks for replying. I did reach out to Vevor and they basically said they weren't able to help me but to check with my local repair shop. What kind of output are you getting from your unit when you've got it hooked to solar panels in full sun?
I have not gotten the chance to test any Tesla panels. I can't say for certain, but it should work as long as the voltage and amps are in the current range. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
@@JustinsProject why would it not be good long term? Also what if its producing 1200w and your house is using 600w?? what happens with the extra power?
There is a way to use them off grid and a lot of people are doing it, I’m using 2 1300W grid tied inverters to supplement my off grid system when my air conditioner is running,
If I understand, you plug the output into an outlet and that powers the house? Why can't you use it off grid? My son lives in a 5th wheel off grid. Couldn't he attach his solar panels to the battery charger, to the batteries, to the inverter, and use a double female adapter so he can plug his trailer into the inverter? Assuming all calculations don't overpower the system...
I am hearing of ways you might possibly get it to work because this unit doesn't require a grid profile to commission it. But the manufacturer states this is a grid tie only microinverter. So even though it might be possible, I have not confirmed it. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
@@JustinsProject I'd bet dollars to doughnuts that if you use an independent single solar panel feeding a charge controller that has a dedicated sine inverter as a "dummy grid" it'd work.
so if you can get this to 1.2kwh that would decrease your daily consumption? Is it just plug and play? It feels weird connecting this to the wall when it’s back feeding current lol.
I have a 1300W GTI like this one on 12- 100W 20V 6A panels in parallel. I am only getting about 9A DC draw and 1.5A AC output. Is this good? Each panel puts out 21V individually but drops to 16V after being wired. 1200W from panels divided by 120V = 10A
Check the specs these inverters usually have a voltage range. MPPT allows for higher DC voltage input. 16v may not be enough volts, try 2 panels in series as a test to see if the watts add up correctly.
Any help would be appreciated. So I have 240 watt panels I hook 4 I get 500 watts during peak so I tested panels and 2 was bad but even the 2 good ones are less then have producing 100 watts each or 210 together I thought maybe one was not connected right but unhooked and only detected 100 watts for one 240w panel.
I'm still very worried about plugging a microinverter straight into an AC socket. Does it short circuit? Or is there a safer way to plug a microinverter into the AC power?
It is possible but not the recommended method. Depending on the number of units you are looking to connect would determine whether you need a combiner box or not. However, I would recommend the 220v versions so you could add more per branch. Also, you may be required to have an AC disconnect before connecting directly to the main service panel. I haven't found that these are UL listed, so most, if not all, power companies would not approve these as a grid tie option.
So I want to get this micro inverter but I have a few questions. For my setup I plan on having (6) 12V 100 watt solar panels that I want to wire up (3) in series making it 36V for two. With this unit I should be able to hook up the two series on both ends to have 36V and 300watt on both sides correct? and that shouldn't be any kind of hazard or anything when I just tie it back to the grid to supplement my power a bit correct? and just as a side not I plan on having come down to my GFI outside but also to a transfer switch to a charge controller from my solar panels so I can switch from being tied to the grid to charging my ebike when I take it off the grid. Does that make sense? I just want to kind of clarify it with like minds so I know I'm doing this correct. Thank you.
I am a big fan of Hoymiles and Enphase microinverters. This one was just to small for my needs. My goal was to showcase different options for others. I will probably only use 240v versions of microinverters. I'm exploring a lot of new string inverters also. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
Did you get two cords with yous or just the plug for the wall I tried to run mine off a 100w panel like you did and mine did nothing blue light came on and thats it
Agreed. I would never use that as a long term solution. I would wire it just like I did my Enphase system. Properly combine and use a dedicated back feed breaker. Very important to have all the safety precautions in place to protect the system.
Just gathering information on new products. You don’t explain why this or any other micro inverter must be used in a grid tie solar system. So no brand of micro inverters can be utilized in a stand alone non grid tie system? I have to plan for initially non grid tie system as electric coop is more than a year away from being able to supply a 25kva ( what they require) outdoor rated transformer and new line to the property. Why? Evidently there is an extreme shortage of grid electrical supply equipment and transformer are expensive with the shortage.
Yes that is correct. Even the prime jewel of micro inverters "IQ8's" must have a grid tie connection to commission them. They all require a grid tie connection. The only ones I know that can even produce while the grid is down are the IQ8's. They use Enphase's sunlight back up technology. But, if you are looking for a total "off-grid" setup where there are no connections to the grid, than that technology is not available in a micro inverter. I wish a micro inverter manufacture would bring to market a solution that would support a totally off-grid system. In my opinion, that is where string inverters clearly become the better choice. Other than that, I think micro inverters are the best choice.
Because the US has a NEC code. But even without it. you could kill a line men if it was feeding power to the gird. That why it will shut off the sec it does not see power.
I'm confused, say I take a 200w panel, connect to Vevor 1200w MI and plug into a regular 15amp outlet in my back yard, my electric company will think I'm actually using the electricity the 200w panel is producing and feeding back into grid if I don't have a net-metered house?
Yes. Ultimately, it depends on the meter you have. If newer and not a net meter, chances are you will be charged for the production vs. actually getting credit. It happened to me when I was installing a 10kW solar system. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
Related question, say your house is consuming around 1000w, and you plug in a 400w panel into this micro inverter, shouldn’t the power get used at the first point/path of least resistance? In other words you would only be pulling 600w from the utility, without having a net meter I would expect you to only be charged if you produced more then your house was consuming, am I thinking about that right or is that not the case?
That is correct. If you happen to over produce, then that is when anything you don't use would be charged as consumption. Say you turn off all the lights and appliances, the stand-by consumption is 100w for everything. Then, say your array is producing 1000w at the same time. It would be like those appliances consuming 1000w even though it should be 100w consumption 1000w production = 900w production being credited as overage that you could use later when you're underproducing.
I purchased the Vevor 1200w micro inverter and was not impressed. The inverter starts to shut down at 45C and will not function past about 400W at this temperature. I used a shallow pan with water in it to keep the inverter cool during testing and verified the temperature problem. Then I installed a fan to extract more heat from the inverter. This helped but did not eliminate the problem. Basically the thermal properties of the heat sink is inadequate and is just a poor design. Go buy an Enphase or another reputable brand with solid engineering. This Vevor is junk.
I wish their website was a little more professional. Hard to trust they invested in R&D if they haven't invested in a professional website. I'll definitely look into it, though. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
It is okay to back feed an outlet as long as it doesn't overload the circuit that the inverter is plugged into because the breaker cannot detect excessive power that is fed in downstream. People who don't understand this simple concept should watch this video as it explains in very simple terms what this means and why it can create an unsafe situation if done incorrectly. ruclips.net/video/VP9n8T3PsMA/видео.html
3 inverters in parallel? 3600w on 110v? That’s 32.7 amps.... on 1 outlet? When do you want to burn your shop down? Murica and electricity, it will never work.
I would not use more than one of these on a single outlet. It would need to be landed into a combiner. I would opt for 240v versions as I stated in the video. However, for long-term solutions like whole house installs, I would only use Hoymiles or Enphase at this time. Which is exactly what I did.
That inverter is not allowed to connect to a home in the USA, per the NEC. You can't backfeed a regular household outlet. In Europe they allow this, but not here. You can't get a permit to do this, and it's very possible to overload a 15A circuit by supplying it with multiple sources and cause a house fire. I would not spend any money on these. You are much better off with Hoymiles.
Correct, one would not be able to get a permit using a regular outlet. That's why I recommend building a 220v system using an AC disconnect and dedicated solar backfeed braker. Always follow all the codes to ensure it is completed properly in your jurisdiction. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
This is incorrect. As long at the system has Anti island then it is allowed. Meaning "NEC requirement that ensures that in the event of a blackout, the grid tie inverter shuts down to prevent the energy it transfers from harming any line workers who are sent to fix the power grid." Second if this is on a circuit with no other useage 1200 watt peak No panel going to do this ever why it not a lab perfect. That is still 600 less then a 15a circuit. Normal eff is 75% or 900 watt. So you can use 2 on a 15 a circuit . To be safe install a 20A line and you have over head. Love guys trying to Scare others lol .
@@ToddDesiato lol you are funny look at NEC article 690.1 Figure B. how the hell are are Tesla and all other working.What are they doing .Back feeding power, stop it man. As for NEC 712 that does not apply there is not charge controller or dc to dc.. . Long as it has anti island and PV system disconnect {power strip can do} and a breaker to protect the main circuit it legal. NEC literally diagrams that cover this. So many permitted 1000s of this. You just need a separate circuit with the required shut off and under the rated max of that circuit.Mean the sec power cut and it does not feed it back to grid. Some of the larger grid tie are ul listed. stop with the bs and trying to scare people
@@ToddDesiato A regular out let is allow as long and nothing used one it . Examble you have a laudry room that you do not use. And nothing esle is on that circuit. you can you that with the system he is showing. As long as you have a separated disconnect meaning a UL listed power strip Or have the Solar panels in a breaker box to kill PV input, It would be in code. Give it up man you are trying to scare guys not to use this type of system which is perfectly legal if use correctly.
I am sorry but you are incorrect about most grid tie inverters. You are generalizing how meters work. Not all have smart meters and even with the smart meters not all work the same. Next grid tie will will be used first for home power before it goes back to the gird. Now if you have a system that is producing more then you are using, unless you have a super cheap version it will have a current sense line that is hook up to the Mains to tell it to shut of power from solar. So again I like your video but you are generalizing Way to much.
🤔 Net meters can differentiate consumption vs. production. It does not know live load production / consumption supplied by the system. If a solar system is over producing like mine on sunny days in the spring, summer and fall and I don't have a net meter installed. The utility company will charge me for consumption and not production. I'm unclear how I am over generalizing that. I'm just trying to learn how I am misrepresenting that.
@@JustinsProject Again this is not true you are generalizing. The meter I have from FPL stops if I turn off all other devices that use power and I Feeding 1.5k back from my Grid tie system. I send you a video on discord showing me doing this. Your meter is from your power company is different . And some have older meters that run back ward I mean you can look all over YT and see this
@warp103 Most meters, roughly 95%, are digital. The older analog meter would spin in reverse. Their are differences in analog meters, digital meters, smart meters, and Net Meters. My point point is for the majority of people, they need to research their situation and make sure they are not being charged for the production as consumption. In some cases, that might not happen. But in any case, if someone is going solar and doing a DIY setup that will be grid tied, then make sure to touch base with their utility company.
@@JustinsProject You are right most are digital but only a small % do what your meter does. Most either still go backward or do not measure any movement. Only Super evil Power company have it set to charge for both directions. But I will agree ask someone that is in your area that has the same meter type and solar to get the answer for your area. I have found that the power companies are really no help because they have so make meter types in their areas
Vevor Micro Inverter 1200 watts: s.vevor.com/bfQnnk
Would one of these 5k work for a pump with a 3/4 hp motor? Remember that they have a peak that increases the amps.
I have been using grid tie inverters for years to offset my power consumption. The one key important issue is to not just plug it into any home power receptacle. If you do so, you will likely compromise the protection provided by the breaker in your electrical panel. The best way to do it is to have one separate power recepticle, with its own breaker, coming out of your electrical panel.
True 👍🏻 Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
Ive got one plugged in and dont need net meter. Not getting charged extra from electric company. Plug into the outlet all good👌🏾
Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
Remember 1200 "Chinese' watts = 600 "real" watts.
I have v the 600w version and it over heats and shuts off for 3-5 minutes (missing some harvest). I had mount mine on a big chunk of aluminum to help keep it cool. It mostly eliminated the the over heat, but not totally. Winter ops is just fine without overheat.
On the 600w version, all the DC inputs are tied together, so only one mppt "brain" for all panels connected.
Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
There are so many the same gridtie inverter like that on Amazon, main complain is that it does not last because of heat. I would like to see you do a fallow video actual test in a month or two.
I would like to be able to set up some testing stations and share that info with everyone. That is my goal. I will get there eventually. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
@@JustinsProjectany updates?
Still working?
Got some of those. They run hot and shut down unless you cool them if it's hot outside.
Appreciate the info! Thanks for watching and commenting 👍
Goes for both the 450and 800w version too. My 450W shuts down due to temperature after a few minutes at 360W and does not start to work before it has cooled down for maybe 15 minutes. Then it works for the same amount of time before shutting down again. And so it goes. The 800W version does the same at approx 760W. Actively cooling these wil mitigate most of these issues, but they still run very hot. Efficiency also seems bad; switching to a "better" brand micoinverter yielded 70-100w more per 415w panel than the Vevors in my case. Also I opened my Vevors and they definetly are not of the stated IP-rating.
@@JustinsProject Would you like to try our company's micro inverter? We can work just fine in high temperature
I will try
@@huray666 what is your company name so we can find your product
Very cool stuff. Like the idea of the mobile unit.
Thank you for showing us there are so many options. I did look this one up on Amazon and it has very low reviews due to overheating. I know you are just doing an introduction to concepts of what is available, just saying this specific manufacture appears to be having trouble with heat.
Ahhh, thank you for sharing that info.
I am a diy newbie , thanks for video btw. I bought 8 200w panels and just want to power a 120v circuit to run an upright freezer and a small fridge and maybe a few strings of LED lights in a patio room. I don't think i can use microinverters because we here in MS don't have netmetering. My question is can i use say a 3,000w hybrid inverter tied to an existing AC circuit that already powers the freezer etc and use the software to tell the inverter to feed solar first and then grid. I have the option to buy the batteryless or batteried version inverter. Would such a setup be legal?
I just put out a video yesterday on a hybrid inverter you might be interested in. Always check with your local jurisdiction before building a solar array. Usually they will be very helpful. Goodluck, hope to see you over in the forums. diysolarbuilds.com thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
You need to make sure your microinverter is listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory such as UL or ETL if your utility company uses a smart meter and your home is connected to the grid (most likely the case since this type of inverter will not operate unless it detects grid power). A testing certification is required in my jurisdiction (Indiana). If you hook it up without approval from your utility company (through an interconnection agreement application process that must include proof of certification), they may shut off power to your home if their smart meter detects any backfeeding of power to the grid (the smart meter instantaneously transmits this info to the utility company via a technology called "power line based communication"). Many of these products have a CE testing designation. However, that is only good for Europe (more specifically, the European Union). A CE listing is not sufficient in the United States. The only way to possibly get around this requirement is to make sure your inverter never produces more power that you are using at any given moment (i.e., it never backfeeds to the grid). You can do this (i.e., prevent backfeedteeding to the grid) with a power limiter (which can be a complicated and costly solution) or by buying a microinverter with a lower output (e.g., 600 watts instead of 1200 watts). In my case, 1200 watts is too much power. In fact, there are several times during the day when my electric usage is less than 1000 watts. I know this for a fact because I can log into my account and look at the hourly usage info that the smart meter is instantaneously sending to my utility company.
Yes, in most situations, I would recommend Hoymiles or Enphase for microinverters. They are UL listed and have designed accessories specifically for them. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
How about this Big brother Leaves us alone! These inverters are Island inverters! No Need for the communist 5to get involved!!!
About 7 years ago a guy with a tiny YT channel posted how he was playing around with one solar panel. He had it tapped into his house wiring to run a tine fan. The project was in part was used to teach his young son about electricity. Weeks later 2 men with guns (police) and a power company employee showed up at his house to tell him he had to disconnect his tiny experiment and get permits and be inspected or he would be arrested. His little science experiment with his son turned into a civics class teaching about the rights and responsibilities of citizens and how bad government works.
In video you say you can run 3 of the micro inverters in series. That's a Max of 3600 watts. But that isn't safe for a 110v circuit, right? The amps would be to high, wouldn't it? Thanks for the video.
I think I might have had the 220v version on my mind. I missed that. Appreciate you bringing that to my attention. Yes this one pulls a little over 9 amps so it should not connected to others. They do make a 220v version which is the voltage I would recommend using. Honestly, I have a Hoymiles quad microinverter video out that would be my top pick. Thanks for watching and commenting! 👍
I already have grid tied system. It should work as u mentioned plug and play order one using ur code finger crossed have some left over panels from my project
Let us know how it works out for you. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
Is working. Produced. Today 850 watts. On all 4 mppts on very cloudy day sitting flat on the grass. That inverter rocks
I enjoy your videos. I was wondering if the 220 version would power a hot water heater
I guess if you had enough of them, it might. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Wow, eye-opening! Also that you could use the Watt-Meter to measure power FEEDING rather than CONSUMPTION! Wow. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
You can user it on off grid, IF your running a battery based inverter. Most real quality inverters have frequency shifting so you won't over charge the battery if the micro inverter is powering the battery based inverters charger. Very common way to do remote arrays and use smaller wire because you bussing back AC not DC.
Thanks for watching and commenting! 👍
Why wouldnt you go with Hoymiles HMS2000 ? It has 4 MPPT and you can connect trhe big boi 550W panels.
4 MPPT = awesome shadowmanagement for each panel+ there is an open DTU / AhoyDTU project for monitoring and this DTU even provides an option to send the data via MQTT
I would recommend Hoymiles. I am exploring the idea of using them on my next system. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
if you have a smart meter and feed it onto grid you will pay grid for power you use as it needs a ct coil to stop it feeding into grid,if you could feed into grid you need one on each leg,and ct sensor for each
run inverter on its own to panel, you need to instal breaker to turn it off,a lot of these are not water proof they also burn out i would put a dc switch to turn off panels before unplugging
Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
Hi Justin,thanks for your great video! I have a question, I found some grid-tied microinverters online and I asked the saler if they have UL certificate. As far as I know, they needs UL proved so that I can sell power to the national grid. But they do not have UL. In this case, can I use them upon my roof? Thanks in advance!
If you are connecting them to the grid for a net metering agreement. I would only go with Enphase or Hoymiles at this point. Yes, get something UL listed. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
I wonder if this will work with ecoflow
I don't think so. It would need to be plugged directly into the AC outlet. I'm not brave enough to risk the Ecoflow unit. I think it would fry some internal components that protect the battery. I might be wrong though. I haven't personally tried it. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
It’s probably a good idea to get one of these rated quite a lot more than your panels so they are not any heat problems. Some people say there are and some people say there are none
I actually have the new models on hand. I just haven't had the chance to test them yet.
Can you mount aluminum bar to them to act as a heat sink? Maybe add some thermal compound that you use on a CPU ?
I think there is a new version of them now. I would recommend them over this model. Ultimately, I would recommend Hoymiles as a long term solution though.
@@JustinsProject What is the new model? Have you tested it yet? I looked at the Hoymiles website but there are no prices, no way to buy, no add to cart, not even a list of stores that sell them. It's almost like they don't want my business.
You said that we need to plug into the grid to make this thing work, because the unit needs to sense grid power input.
I want the option of running offgrid, and maybe not even get my power company involved.
Shouldn't it sense power input from my existing solar panel setup with batteries and inverter running.
independent of the grid?
It should, in case it decodes a grid profile. There is a lot of communication happening in power lines. I know that is how my Enphase microinverters work.
Seeing these vids makes me happy Im not doing my next solar project until the spring haha. Seems like alot more options on the micro market now
I hope to keep rolling out videos with different options on all these microinverters. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
@@JustinsProject Nice! Im aiming for the best possible output as my top tier metric.
If I’m trying to get my shed to have solar what do I need. I just want a light inside on a switch and a light on the front on to of door and maybe an outlet. Outlet just for incase.
I have lots of videos on inverters that would help you out.
What would happen if you plugged the microinverter into an offgrid system that is delivering power? Surely it would see the existence of a grid frequency generated by the off-grid inverter and syncronize to that? Wonder if it reduce the power delivered by the off grid inverter.
Around 11:33 in the video, I placed the data sheet. Look at the bottom of that, the second item up from the bottom. It has grid detection. I'm not 100% sure of what each letter represents, but it can detect the difference. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
@@JustinsProject what are you talking about, an offgrid inverter CREATES the grid!
@@eustacebagge5499What would the grid profile be? A custom IEEE? If so, what is that profile so it can communicate?
@@JustinsProject it doesn t matter as long as the microinverter senses the 50/60hz. When the batteries are full and there is no consuption, the offgrid inverter should be configured to raise the frequency by 2.5Hz and that stops the microinverter from producing. It says in it s own manual. Ac is a lot easier than dc
@eustacebagge5499 Thank you for sharing. I'm always willing to learn. I am excited to get my hands on the right components to share with everyone. I am looking at building a mobile array for testing. This information helps me a lot. Thanks!
There appears to be no energy storage. So at night this wouldn't be of use ?
Correct, it's only good during sunlight hours
If you do hook up panels and offset against what you are using-ie not trying to run the meter backwards-does it still show as consumption?
Only if you over produce. At any giving time.
@@JustinsProject What efficiency are you getting from the wvc? I have a 1400 and it's clipping big time
Question from a Solar Newbie .... How will you make a Mobile unit if this inverter needs to be tethered to the grid ?
Is it possible but I think I have changed my mind about doing that. I have built my mobile array but for testing purposes only... for now. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
What if you turn on a small generator for your "GRID" ?
I haven't tried that, but I am wanting to experiment with something like that in the future.
Just an idea, have you tried to plug this inverter into a generator to see if it turns on without solar panels hooked up of course? Or perhaps having a string inverter providing the ac signal?
I have not. I wasn't sure if it would damage the micro inverter since it has grid detection. I might just try it and see what happens. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
the answer to that is you can damage it if your generator is not doing clean power. Meaning a if it is a clean sinewave Will work, lf with a mod sinewave or a dirty sinewave you risk damage.
My gut says its "too cheap", BUT...perhaps this is the way things are going? More players in the field, cheaper options? Im used to enphase pricing so the price for this unit raised my eyebrows.
Technology is advancing rather quickly. Maybe more competition will help drive down prices.
@@JustinsProject Nothing wrong with that
These will last years if in placed in a location that will get some type of cooling. IE 12v computer fan will do most of the time. Do not mount Outdoors that is death to this type. Hence why you see a PC cord attachment.
I never messed with any micro inverters. I have 2 inverters high qnd a low frequency running my camper off grid and living in it. 1850 watts of solar. Im interested in these tho
Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
Can’t wait to see what you do with the mobile solar array!
It's in my pipeline of projects 😂 Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
where to store the energy?
If that is a grid-tie microinverter, it is not supposed to have any output, unless it is connected to the grid/"house", right? So, if you would connect it to a battery charger that charges a battery bank, it shouldn't have worked!? Please, correct me if I am wrong.
Technically, it shouldn't, but there are methods to get it to work. It is not recommended by the manufacturers, so the short answer is that it should be used as grid tied only. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
If you wanted to build a mobile solar charger would you not just use a MPPT solar charge controller?? What would be the benefit of inverting to AC then back to DC again, unless I'm missing something?
That is a good choice.
Thanks for opening my eyes to this inverter! I had never heard of it before, and I worked in the solar industry for a couple of years.
From what I have researched online since this video, it is illegal to plug this into an outlet that is on grid without letting the electric company know, because:
-You need a net meter (as I believe Justin said in the video), which probably detects outages and shuts off the power flow into the grid?
-you can't feed electricity into the grid without notifying the electric company, or you might fry someone (Yes, I know, 'It's a small amount', but lots of little jolts equal a big one, and you don't know how many other people are doing it)
-the inverter has to be properly rated; it might not be able to handle the load, which could cause a fire
Yeah, I would not recommend plugging it in like that unmonitored even with the built-in rapid shutdown function.
In the manual you will see that these support anti-islanding. That is, they require there to be a wave form already available on the grid wire. It takes that wave form and syncs to it so that it is able to supplement the power from the grid. In this case, the moment the power is shut off from the home it no longer has a wave form to sync to and stops supplying power. These units are useless when the power company is not providing power already for it to supplement.
As a result, they will not feed power back into the grid once the power is isolated for line work by the power company. To give a working test, hook one of these units up to a 120 plug and monitor the power it is pushing to the circuit. Go open the breaker for that circuit. All items using power will die and the inverter will stop producing power. Turn the circuit back on and it will resync to the wave form and start producing power again.
There are devices like the VUE from Emporia Energy that monitors your power usage circuit by circuit and on the mains. With the device you can set it up to send you a notification if the power draw falls below a threshold. So, for example, if you set your grid-tie inverter to feed 800 watts you can set it to detect when the whole home consumption goes below zero and provide notifications. That will let you know you are likely back feeding the grid and getting charged for a non-net metering. You can create margins with it as well.
Above is not the endorse net metering. Indeed, I propose the benefit of the panels, inverter, batteries is for emergencies and a grid-tie inverter doesn't meet any of those needs. Unless it is a hybrid. 🙂
Nothing bad about these,
Yeah it's illegal
I’m confused. Or at least i never thought of this, so i am not aware of the logistics of this.
Will back feeding from the socket not trip the MCB in the main panel?
I’m in EU by the way so we might have different ways of doing things.
I would not recommend installing the microinverters plugged directly into a socket for a long-term solution. It did not trip the breaker because it was not a short. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
@@JustinsProject again in correct I been running a grid tie system for years. And most that have these have been doing the same for years . This is a proven tech. The most time the invert fails and you have to replace it.
@warp103 I'm not sure I follow your response.
I guess this kinda Microinverters are very popular in European markets on their balcony right?
Possibly. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
Justin since you have Net metering via your original solar system, would anything produced via this option be used by your house first or be pushed back into the grid?
Yes, that is my understanding. I am still looking for a monitoring system for these micro inverters also. If I find something, I will definitely share it. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
it get used by the house first. It output voltage slightly higher than the grid voltage So that get used first.
Yeah i have a 4000 watt split phase inverter running my minisplit and a 3000 watt all in one running the 30 amp plug on my camper. Sometimes when everything is on im my camper including the 110 side of the water heater if my girlfriend turns on her hair dryer it overloads my 3000 watt inverter and it shuts down. I wonder if using this with a couple more panels might keep that from happening. I guess like making my 3000 watt inverter capable of not shutting down as tho maybe it would add that 1200 watts to the 3000 so i could use 4200 without shutting down
If you have a true off grid system, I don't think microinverters are a good choice. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
Could i use my off grid inverter as the 110 grid connect and just use this inline with my off grid stuff
If you get it to work, please let us know. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
yes if it is a Pure sine wave and a it Is a quality unit. But if it a dirty sinewave or mod sine wave No
Watched your video and purchased the exact same unit from Vevor (1200 watt 110v model), but only got one cord with it. Also, I'm only getting 15-20 watts output max with four 200 watt panels hooked up to it in full sun. I thought it was a lemon at first, so I just had it replaced, but the second unit is also only outputting 15-20 watts. I thought it was my wattage meter at first, so I switched it to a different meter but am getting the same results. Any ideas of what could be happening?
That sounds strange. I have not run into that problem. Hope that you get it resolved. Reach out to Vevor and see if they can help. You can do that on their website. Good luck! 👍🏻
@@JustinsProject Thanks for replying. I did reach out to Vevor and they basically said they weren't able to help me but to check with my local repair shop. What kind of output are you getting from your unit when you've got it hooked to solar panels in full sun?
Bring volts over 40 and and amps over 10 per mppt it should work I was same as u raised the volts and amps worked for me
I have spare tesla tiles left over from my instal 14.2 volt each 72 watt can this work with that 27 of them want to use them can I use with them ?
I have not gotten the chance to test any Tesla panels. I can't say for certain, but it should work as long as the voltage and amps are in the current range. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
These micro inverters are okay outside?
I am looking at the new versions shortly. There have been complaints of the older ones overheating. I am checking into it.
@JustinsProjec Any update on the testing of the newer version?
Can you plug it straight to the power socket it will work? or I need any other extra equipment
I plugged it directly into the socket. I would not recommend doing that for a long term setup.
@@JustinsProject why would it not be good long term? Also what if its producing 1200w and your house is using 600w?? what happens with the extra power?
Hello. Is there any way to prevent it from feeding energy back into the city grid?
Not on this microinverter.
The 240 volts looks like 50hz only?
I will look into that. I am currently exploring Hoymiles for my next system. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
There is a way to use them off grid and a lot of people are doing it, I’m using 2 1300W grid tied inverters to supplement my off grid system when my air conditioner is running,
I am looking for a good technique to test like that. I personally have not found one.
Would one of these 5k work for a pump with a 3/4 hp motor? Remember that they have a peak that increases the amps.
No, this is not for that. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Love these. Thanks!
Glad you like them!
I suspect these are not code compliant anywhere in the USA.
Let's do some digging and find out. 😁 Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
If I understand, you plug the output into an outlet and that powers the house? Why can't you use it off grid? My son lives in a 5th wheel off grid. Couldn't he attach his solar panels to the battery charger, to the batteries, to the inverter, and use a double female adapter so he can plug his trailer into the inverter? Assuming all calculations don't overpower the system...
I am hearing of ways you might possibly get it to work because this unit doesn't require a grid profile to commission it. But the manufacturer states this is a grid tie only microinverter. So even though it might be possible, I have not confirmed it. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
@@JustinsProject I'd bet dollars to doughnuts that if you use an independent single solar panel feeding a charge controller that has a dedicated sine inverter as a "dummy grid" it'd work.
so if you can get this to 1.2kwh that would decrease your daily consumption? Is it just plug and play? It feels weird connecting this to the wall when it’s back feeding current lol.
I would not recommend doing that for a long-term solution.
How long is the discount code good for Justin?
It changes from time to time. It definitely is good for 30 days.
@@JustinsProject Thanks!
Can I get your discount code? Thanks
It is also in the description of the video:
Get an additional 5% OFF:
DISCOUNT CODE: VVPROMO
I have a 1300W GTI like this one on 12- 100W 20V 6A panels in parallel.
I am only getting about 9A DC draw and 1.5A AC output.
Is this good?
Each panel puts out 21V individually but drops to 16V after being wired.
1200W from panels divided by 120V = 10A
Thanks for watching and commenting. 👍
Check the specs these inverters usually have a voltage range. MPPT allows for higher DC voltage input. 16v may not be enough volts, try 2 panels in series as a test to see if the watts add up correctly.
Any help would be appreciated. So I have 240 watt panels I hook 4 I get 500 watts during peak so I tested panels and 2 was bad but even the 2 good ones are less then have producing 100 watts each or 210 together I thought maybe one was not connected right but unhooked and only detected 100 watts for one 240w panel.
I am not clearly understanding the question
I'm still very worried about plugging a microinverter straight into an AC socket. Does it short circuit? Or is there a safer way to plug a microinverter into the AC power?
It is possible but not the recommended method. Depending on the number of units you are looking to connect would determine whether you need a combiner box or not. However, I would recommend the 220v versions so you could add more per branch. Also, you may be required to have an AC disconnect before connecting directly to the main service panel. I haven't found that these are UL listed, so most, if not all, power companies would not approve these as a grid tie option.
And you def can run microinverters off grid no problem i have a powmr unit in split phase with 3 microinverters going im completely off grid
Do you just plug them into the solar panels, then wire them into a distribution box that feeds circuits, and everything works fine?
Man I wish he would have answered haha
👍👌❤️🇨🇦, I never believe the company stats on their products until they have been fully tested independently
Real-life data is the best! Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
Does it have CSA/UL testing? Once tested to standard applicable it is independently fully tested! So look for the mark and number.
So I want to get this micro inverter but I have a few questions. For my setup I plan on having (6) 12V 100 watt solar panels that I want to wire up (3) in series making it 36V for two. With this unit I should be able to hook up the two series on both ends to have 36V and 300watt on both sides correct? and that shouldn't be any kind of hazard or anything when I just tie it back to the grid to supplement my power a bit correct? and just as a side not I plan on having come down to my GFI outside but also to a transfer switch to a charge controller from my solar panels so I can switch from being tied to the grid to charging my ebike when I take it off the grid. Does that make sense? I just want to kind of clarify it with like minds so I know I'm doing this correct. Thank you.
Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
fyi 220/240 is not for the usa. IT IS 50 HERTZ 1 LEG OF 220V NOT 2 LEGS OF 120V SYNCED.
Thank you for the info. Very helpful. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
Is it still working ?
I am a big fan of Hoymiles and Enphase microinverters. This one was just to small for my needs. My goal was to showcase different options for others. I will probably only use 240v versions of microinverters. I'm exploring a lot of new string inverters also. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
This could work in conjunction with an off grid system though.
I would not recommend micro-inverters for anyone looking to do true off grid systems.
The gt-1200 is a new one can you tell me if is the same?
I haven't tested that one yet, I was thinking about getting one and testing it out, though. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
Did you get two cords with yous or just the plug for the wall I tried to run mine off a 100w panel like you did and mine did nothing blue light came on and thats it
I got exactly what I showed early on in the video. Hope that is helpful. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
you need120 volts on the input grid side
Thanks for watching and commenting
How do you keep this running. Mine only last a couple weeks to a couple months
Mine is still working but I only use it occasionally. Thanks for sharing your experience.
@DIYSolarBuilds does anyone know of the 600 watt, 1000, 1200, 1400 are identical? I've seen videos that the 1000 and 1200 seem identical, but no proof
All Mine Lasted a Year!
Thanks for sharing!
Good review and tips.
Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
I'm not an electrician, but you have to watch your Amps Generated in your standard Fifteen amp household plug It just might cause fires. Just saying
Agreed. I would never use that as a long term solution. I would wire it just like I did my Enphase system. Properly combine and use a dedicated back feed breaker. Very important to have all the safety precautions in place to protect the system.
thanks for this
You're welcome. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
Is this still working?
Yes, but I am looking to test the newer version.
Just gathering information on new products. You don’t explain why this or any other micro inverter must be used in a grid tie solar system. So no brand of micro inverters can be utilized in a stand alone non grid tie system?
I have to plan for initially non grid tie system as electric coop is more than a year away from being able to supply a 25kva ( what they require) outdoor rated transformer and new line to the property. Why? Evidently there is an extreme shortage of grid electrical supply equipment and transformer are expensive with the shortage.
Yes that is correct. Even the prime jewel of micro inverters "IQ8's" must have a grid tie connection to commission them. They all require a grid tie connection. The only ones I know that can even produce while the grid is down are the IQ8's. They use Enphase's sunlight back up technology. But, if you are looking for a total "off-grid" setup where there are no connections to the grid, than that technology is not available in a micro inverter. I wish a micro inverter manufacture would bring to market a solution that would support a totally off-grid system. In my opinion, that is where string inverters clearly become the better choice. Other than that, I think micro inverters are the best choice.
THANK YOU! For that comment.
Because the US has a NEC code. But even without it. you could kill a line men if it was feeding power to the gird. That why it will shut off the sec it does not see power.
Look at the reviews. I got a different one.
Thanks for watching and commenting
So when ur solar panels make u 5000w then the power company puts 5000w to u and month later takes it off from bill, but just wasted energy
I apologize but I don't understand the question. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
I'm confused, say I take a 200w panel, connect to Vevor 1200w MI and plug into a regular 15amp outlet in my back yard, my electric company will think I'm actually using the electricity the 200w panel is producing and feeding back into grid if I don't have a net-metered house?
Yes. Ultimately, it depends on the meter you have. If newer and not a net meter, chances are you will be charged for the production vs. actually getting credit. It happened to me when I was installing a 10kW solar system. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
Related question, say your house is consuming around 1000w, and you plug in a 400w panel into this micro inverter, shouldn’t the power get used at the first point/path of least resistance? In other words you would only be pulling 600w from the utility,
without having a net meter I would expect you to only be charged if you produced more then your house was consuming, am I thinking about that right or is that not the case?
That is correct. If you happen to over produce, then that is when anything you don't use would be charged as consumption. Say you turn off all the lights and appliances, the stand-by consumption is 100w for everything. Then, say your array is producing 1000w at the same time. It would be like those appliances consuming 1000w even though it should be 100w consumption 1000w production = 900w production being credited as overage that you could use later when you're underproducing.
I purchased the Vevor 1200w micro inverter and was not impressed. The inverter starts to shut down at 45C and will not function past about 400W at this temperature. I used a shallow pan with water in it to keep the inverter cool during testing and verified the temperature problem. Then I installed a fan to extract more heat from the inverter. This helped but did not eliminate the problem. Basically the thermal properties of the heat sink is inadequate and is just a poor design. Go buy an Enphase or another reputable brand with solid engineering. This Vevor is junk.
Thank you for sharing your testing results. 👍🏻
Stack em up like Lego’s
Thanks for watching and commenting
Cybo makes an off grid micro-inverter.... no battery required
I wish their website was a little more professional. Hard to trust they invested in R&D if they haven't invested in a professional website. I'll definitely look into it, though. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
They wanted like 1200! Screw that
It is okay to back feed an outlet as long as it doesn't overload the circuit that the inverter is plugged into because the breaker cannot detect excessive power that is fed in downstream. People who don't understand this simple concept should watch this video as it explains in very simple terms what this means and why it can create an unsafe situation if done incorrectly. ruclips.net/video/VP9n8T3PsMA/видео.html
Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
3 inverters in parallel? 3600w on 110v? That’s 32.7 amps.... on 1 outlet? When do you want to burn your shop down? Murica and electricity, it will never work.
I would not use more than one of these on a single outlet. It would need to be landed into a combiner. I would opt for 240v versions as I stated in the video. However, for long-term solutions like whole house installs, I would only use Hoymiles or Enphase at this time. Which is exactly what I did.
That inverter is not allowed to connect to a home in the USA, per the NEC. You can't backfeed a regular household outlet. In Europe they allow this, but not here. You can't get a permit to do this, and it's very possible to overload a 15A circuit by supplying it with multiple sources and cause a house fire. I would not spend any money on these. You are much better off with Hoymiles.
Correct, one would not be able to get a permit using a regular outlet. That's why I recommend building a 220v system using an AC disconnect and dedicated solar backfeed braker. Always follow all the codes to ensure it is completed properly in your jurisdiction. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
This is incorrect. As long at the system has Anti island then it is allowed. Meaning "NEC requirement that ensures that in the event of a blackout, the grid tie inverter shuts down to prevent the energy it transfers from harming any line workers who are sent to fix the power grid." Second if this is on a circuit with no other useage 1200 watt peak No panel going to do this ever why it not a lab perfect. That is still 600 less then a 15a circuit. Normal eff is 75% or 900 watt. So you can use 2 on a 15 a circuit . To be safe install a 20A line and you have over head. Love guys trying to Scare others lol
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@@ToddDesiato lol you are funny look at NEC article 690.1 Figure B. how the hell are are Tesla and all other working.What are they doing .Back feeding power, stop it man. As for NEC 712 that does not apply there is not charge controller or dc to dc.. . Long as it has anti island and PV system disconnect {power strip can do} and a breaker to protect the main circuit it legal. NEC literally diagrams that cover this. So many permitted 1000s of this. You just need a separate circuit with the required shut off and under the rated max of that circuit.Mean the sec power cut and it does not feed it back to grid. Some of the larger grid tie are ul listed. stop with the bs and trying to scare people
@@ToddDesiato A regular out let is allow as long and nothing used one it . Examble you have a laudry room that you do not use. And nothing esle is on that circuit. you can you that with the system he is showing. As long as you have a separated disconnect meaning a UL listed power strip Or have the Solar panels in a breaker box to kill PV input, It would be in code. Give it up man you are trying to scare guys not to use this type of system which is perfectly legal if use correctly.
Trying to scare people? My main focus is to help people go solar and do it on their own, like I did.
Of course it works offgrid, stop talking nonsense! You just need an offgrid inverter that knows to accept reverse AC current, like Victron!
Can't wait to learn how to make this work then. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏻
correct or a pure sinewave inverter that is clean.
It's not that micro....
Thanks for watching and commenting
That’s not a micro inverter.
No? What is it?
@@JustinsProject I agree the semantics are vague, however the generally accepted nomenclature is that a PV micro inverter accepts a single input.
I am sorry but you are incorrect about most grid tie inverters. You are generalizing how meters work. Not all have smart meters and even with the smart meters not all work the same. Next grid tie will will be used first for home power before it goes back to the gird. Now if you have a system that is producing more then you are using, unless you have a super cheap version it will have a current sense line that is hook up to the Mains to tell it to shut of power from solar. So again I like your video but you are generalizing Way to much.
🤔 Net meters can differentiate consumption vs. production. It does not know live load production / consumption supplied by the system. If a solar system is over producing like mine on sunny days in the spring, summer and fall and I don't have a net meter installed. The utility company will charge me for consumption and not production. I'm unclear how I am over generalizing that. I'm just trying to learn how I am misrepresenting that.
@@JustinsProject Again this is not true you are generalizing. The meter I have from FPL stops if I turn off all other devices that use power and I Feeding 1.5k back from my Grid tie system. I send you a video on discord showing me doing this. Your meter is from your power company is different . And some have older meters that run back ward I mean you can look all over YT and see this
@warp103 Most meters, roughly 95%, are digital. The older analog meter would spin in reverse. Their are differences in analog meters, digital meters, smart meters, and Net Meters. My point point is for the majority of people, they need to research their situation and make sure they are not being charged for the production as consumption. In some cases, that might not happen. But in any case, if someone is going solar and doing a DIY setup that will be grid tied, then make sure to touch base with their utility company.
@@JustinsProject You are right most are digital but only a small % do what your meter does. Most either still go backward or do not measure any movement. Only Super evil Power company have it set to charge for both directions. But I will agree ask someone that is in your area that has the same meter type and solar to get the answer for your area. I have found that the power companies are really no help because they have so make meter types in their areas
Got some of those. They run hot and shut down unless you cool them if it's hot outside.
Appreciate the info! Thanks for watching and commenting 👍