I made a huge mistake ordering my Eg4 mini split AC unit
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- Опубликовано: 10 сен 2024
- In this video I talk a little bit about the hidden costs of living off grid and a massive mistake I made when ordering an air conditioner for my off grid solar power system. Stay tuned because I’ll have to clean up this mess somehow
(I misspoke a few times in this video calling watts volts and the website name- I’ll get better at this hopefully)
Hey, Chris! We are so sorry about the circumstance of this situation and if there was any way we could have substituted the unit at no extra cost we would have! Thank you for bringing it to my attention that we need to better clarify that this 12k unit does not have PV input. I changed the product listing and description and again apologize for the confusion. All things considered your setup is pretty cool! We're glad you at least have the mini split running and have a plan to course correct for this unit. That being said, you have access to our lifetime customer support, so if you ever need help, never hesitate to reach out!
I mean, brand ambassador has a nice ring to it 👀
You should offer him something besides your apology. At minimum, you should sell him his batteries and other stuff he needs to get it going at wholesale cost. You seem like a pretty good company and I hope you make this right
@@edellenburg78 Gentleman made an error when ordering the unit and then installed it before realizing the mistake. First rule of DIY is inspect and/or test the equipment and read the manual before installation. I feel for him and wish the creator the best going forward. But the retailer doesn't owe him anything. I've installed 2 of these hybrid units, a 2 ton and 1 ton. I'd recommend eating the cost and ordering the hybrid unit. Much cheaper than batteries and makes the system super efficient. We've dropped $200/mo off our summer utility bill and are much more comfy to boot. Don't even use the central during the day anymore. Anyway, good luck with your channel and welcome to YT. Great first video.👍
@@mac11380 did you watch the video? I watched it before commenting. If they are at no fault then why say the "Thank you for bringing it to my attention that we need to better clarify that this 12k unit does not have PV input." I swear, some people have no brains.
I wonder if the hybrid a/c unit and his inverter support a/c coupled solar charging?
Just get that second set of panels installed and add a MPPT charge controller. You don’t need another all in one that draws more power. I have basically the same setup but in 48v. I let the batteries charge off the MPPT until the house gets about 75-77. By then the batteries are usually charged. Then kick on the mini split and the MPPT and panels pretty much run the mini split until about 4pm.
I agree with you totally to add though I switch to a 48v system using slightly used Lifepo4 batteries for a little less than half the cost and who cares, it works!
I run a normal mini split from my inverter and added an additional 1kW of panels and a MPPT controller to support it. If the mini split doesn’t use a 1kW, any spare power goes into the battery. If you had the hybrid a/c system, would that feed any spare PV power back into the battery? If not, the mini split you have is the better choice.
Where did you get your 48V mini split?
@@nightfury1318 my mini split is 240v. I was referring to my solar system battery voltage is 48v. But there is a company that makes a 48v DC mini split but don’t remember who.
It's been a year, how is it going
You can just get a stand alone charge controller, and run a second charger on the same batteries. I have two completely separate charge controllers attached to my battery bank, powered by two different arrays... Just set your chargers to exactly the same parameters, and make sure you don't exceed the charging current for your batteries, and move on. I would spend whatever extra money you might have on expanding your storage (batteries) Buy two more batteries exactly like you have, and configure for 24 Volts... then if/when you have the money you can just reconfigure your batteries for 48V and buy a new inverter (make sure whatever controller you buy can do both 24/48V and you should be fine. I have 24 V as well, and do I wish I had just started with 48... you betcha... but I have what I have, and I'm making it work. I'm actually super happy with it for the most part. I'm about to order one of those units... and I'll be super careful to by the hybrid model. Thanks for sharing!
I've been shopping these EG4s myself and this was an easy mistake to make. Especially if you clicked through the links on their page to look at the various product specs pages for the different sizes.
On a side note, you can always backup the refrigerant into the compressor to save it, take it down, and sell it as slightly used. It will still be a DIY for the next guy. Might give you an option to take a small hit, and then get into the unit you wanted in the first place.
Check youtube channel called Devin's Random - Video called " How to backup and uninstall a Mini Split to move it and Life Update."
Simple process to reclaim the refrigerant back into the same system. No tools other than allen wrench and crescent wrench required. Hope this helps. Good luck with it either way! Cheers!
Do the VRF systems just blindly run the compressor dead headed like a dumb conventional split condenser would?
Interesting TidBit from a Hybrid AC DC Mini Split company. They said 1200-1500w in Solar Panels per ton of AirConditioner. Guess thats 12,000 btu_____ Likely that much Solar Panel watts needed because its not ALWAYS Full Sunny. Less Sun early day and afternoons/evening. And when shade lays on panels. Of cource EG4 often uses just 300-500 watts. Of cource when its drawing only 300 or so watts Much of the 1500w Solar Panels seems heavily wasted. Thus Thus Thus___Its actually better to attach that 1500w in panels to your current home off grid Inverter system. And with your EG4 drawing power from that home inverter system. I say this BECAUSE when your EG4 is only drawing like 300w solar... The other 1200w solar can be used for your fridge, TV, kitching cooking etc. Thus it can be a Shame to attach 1500w stand alone Solar panels as direct DC to the EG4 PV connectors. You be wasting 1200w when your EG4 is only using 300w. Happy Happy Happy is when that 1500w panels is attached to in house inverter system. Watts stored being able to be used by all appliances in your home and even used by your nonHybrid EG4.
Interesting would be ability TO connect that 1500w Solar DC direct to your home IFP batteries(No Inverter inBetween). Using some BMS adapter to charge IFP batteries direct!. DC to DC. Solar panels to IFP batteries.
Quote
"Do not connect your solar panel directly to your LiFePO4 battery. Doing so can damage the battery. Instead, connect the solar panel to the LFP battery via a solar charge controller. A charge controller regulates the voltage and current to safely charge the battery."
Looks like you have the start of a very nice place! And your mistake isn't that huge... I'm pretty sure you can rearchitect the system a bit and salvage most of the part. Sell what isn't right. And, $8k isn't too bad for a self-supporting electrical electrical and HVAC system. Focus on the freedom it brings you!
If you live somewhere that has extreme temperatures the cheapest way to make it more comfortable is through passive improvements. In a hot climate add shade around or over the building. Inexpensive shade screens can be a very cost effective way to do that. Be sure that the anchors for these are sturdy enough to handle strong winds.
Next, make the conditioned space extremely well insulated and minimize leakage of hot air into the building. Be meticulous and careful about this. Make sure the AC unit's condensation drain works properly since you'll be depending on it to remove humidity that would condense on surfaces.
Organizing and making things look good eliminates mental clutter which helps you not make mistakes. You don't have to live in a mess even if you're not wealthy. In fact organizing and taking care of your belongings will often prevent them from being damaged, saving you money down the road.
Great outlook!
@@davebruessow6842 it’s scientifically well founded that clutter is a distraction. And lack of organization makes it more difficult to get things done. No reason to make things more difficult than they need to be.
@@davebruessow6842 normal human here.. 🙂
I look forward to seeing your solar tracking videos keep us updated on your off-grid lifestyle I'm doing the same thing and loving it
I was trying to do something similar and finally decided not to go hybrid after all. You mentioned it in the video, you'll have to hook a generator up to the inverter input to charge your batteries. That's what we decided to do since at the time a hybrid system was more expensive and there are days where the batteries and panels just don't cut it. So, with your system, you can run the batteries down, turn on the generator and run it fairly efficiently to charge up the batteries. Then turn off the noise and enjoy the quiet once again. Someday we'll get a few more batteries and panels, but for now, running the generator for a few hours every so often isn't so bad. Live and learn right? Still not a big mistake!
Bro if you can hook up all that other stuff, you could set up a mini split thats not "DIY". I'm not sure I could do your solar panels, inverter and batteries, but I literally just finished installing a Senville mini split in my house by myself with no previous HVAC experience. All I did was buy a $70 vacuum pump, a vacuum hose, a 1/4 turn valve with three ports to allow me to connect to a CPS Micron gauge, the service port on the mini split and the vacuum hose. I pulled a vacuum for a full hour just to be safe, it got down to 80 microns (instructions said anything below 200 is good), and then I shut the 1/4 turn valve off, shut the vacuum pump off, and isolated the system for a hour, then checked the micron gauge, which was only at 160. Anything under 450 is good to go accoring to the manufacturer. Anything below 200 is excellent. So I opened the valve releasing the coolant, and removed the vacuum hose and opened the low pressure valve as well, and turned it on. Its not hard. I only spend $800 on the unit with tax and shipping. The tools were only $300 total. Now I have the tools to install another in the future. These same tools can be used for replacing a car a/c compressor as well or adding freon to your car.
Great job. Nice savings over the DIY priced mini split.
Kind regards
Truth. This video is filled with it!
I’ve been working on my own house for 3 1/2 years and finally the siding and trim is done. Now I need to prime and paint. I think it will take another year to complete everything. and a boatload of money!
It’s still such a great feeling to look at it all though right!?
While I love the idea of solar trackers, they are $$$ and it generally has been found to be better to just add more panels if you have the space.
Agreed but there isn’t a single spot with sun all day here and I don’t want to take any trees that I don’t have to.
Yes when ordering HVAC equipment reading define details is very important. Even for us were professionals and do this every day of your life.. we sometimes switch to another companies brand and they have different rules and different configurations that we’re not used to.
And we sometimes make expensive mistakes or dinner equipment we didn’t intend to get .
So even the professionals make this mistake if it makes you feel any better .
The only difference is we have to eat the cost and buy another one for the customer if we ordered the wrong one the first time and installed it .
Would it not be cheaper to just repurchase the compressor outdoor unit? A 1500 unit matched with what you already have in place is a far better-looking alternative to 8k. U can probably resell the unit on market place and recover at least some of the costs.
That would mean hiring a refrigeration mechanic to purge, vacuum and charge the lines. These DIY systems cannot be dismantled once installed.
Have you just considered just getting a charge controller? You can have a charge controller connected to your existing system and then you could just get another 24 volt battery if needed. I use a LV2424 hybrid so I can expand mine if needed. It you want to save some cash, just get another charge controller that will do 24 volts. If it isn't enough add another 24 hour battery. If you buy more, do it the same way with 2 more 200 ah 12 volt batteries so if you ever decide to upgrade to 48 volts you could just put the 12 volts in series!
I’m still wishing to hear back from shop solar kits as to whether or not they have any old stock lv2424 units- the green and white ones are different and everyone is out of stock on the white ones. I was originally just going to parallel another one in though.
New sub. Your right, with system at 24v and the two batteries, you're at roughly 5kw of storage right off the bat. The AC could work just fine for you since it's going to draw the 1kwh whether its on solar or AC, you just have to deal with some conversion losses. From what I see, the biggest issue is storage. Even assuming that you have a full day of solar (unlikely with all of the trees around), then with your storage you only have 4-5 hours of cooling at night before the batteries run out. Although expensive, an additional set of batteries hooked in parallel with the existing batteries would double your run time, assuming you could charge them quickly enough. Consider getting two additional batteries, go to 48v and use a 6500-EX inverter. It can charge at 80 amps and up to 450vdc from the panels allowing you to bring the other panels online. I don't think Signature Solar is at fault honestly as 5kwh of storage is going to give you 5 hours of use at 1kwh of pull from your AC unit, regardless of whether it is AC or DC. Make the leap to 48v and don't look back.
Agreed. With full sun the unit runs and the batteries stay charged. It’s usually cool around 10pm so I only intended to run the unit during the hottest part of the day until then, which would’ve been perfect for the hybrid.
Solar-powered air conditioners basically come in three different types._____ These are DC-powered units, high-efficiency SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) split units, and hybrid solar air conditioners. The DC-powered units are perhaps the most advantageous for off-grid use. They run directly off the DC power from your batteries that are charged by your solar panels. Thus, they’re relatively efficient. And you won’t need an inverter to convert the power from DC to AC which will save the conversion losses.
On the other hand, high-efficiency SEER split units run off AC power. They will need an inverter when running off battery power. However, they can be efficient enough to run off many off-grid solar systems, with a SEER rating of 20 or higher.
The third and final option is a hybrid solar air conditioner. These use a combination of AC and DC electricity and thus use both the power from “the grid” and your batteries. This helps them to reduce overall power needs by using solar energy to run the compressor and AC electricity to run the fan. Hybrid units are less common but can be a great option if your system and funds allow for one
I get good results with lead acid batteries, either way, you need more batteries and you can add an array or two, direct to the batteries via a charge controller 50$ worth
if they will not help you, you buy another with the PV and then do a RMA on the new order when it arrives and tell them they sent you the wrong unit and you want your money back.,
ship back the first one you got
growatt 5 k inverter with a transformer 750 dollars. 2 more batteries and you’ll have a 48 v system. Stuff gets expensive fast I’m at 20000 and climbing now.
Do your research, ask questions on our DIY solar forum, research some more, then purchase something that is upgradable, then use that first 24V system as your backup. You always need redundancy. Build your own batteries for 20-50% less. Save your money for TIER1 equipment, do without the satellite tv subscription, dining out, fancy vehicles, full coverage insurance, vacations, etc and you’ll finish the house and 10kW 48V solar system a whole bunch faster.
Lot of great tips there
Lol. Wow build your own battery! Too cool!
Use a small 5000 btu window unit mine uses 390 400 watts at max and 200 to 350 once its cold. Save the big one for during the day and use window unit at night to save power.
I have a GE one downstairs that was supposed to be super efficient but when it’s over 100° out the unit surges over 1kw to run the compressor. I’ve been running this mini split in AC limiter mode a lot for now.
The mini split would use that or less at night. What makes you think on a summer night, a window unit would use less power?
@@user-ln7of9gs4s I own one of those small window AC units, and even if it uses a little less power, I suspect the mini-split is more efficient, as I have to have mine installed right behind my head to feel the coolness. I just wish my RV had space to put the mini-split AND that I had the funds for one. LOL
Low wattage is great, true. The new mini split like this one are DC drive in the compressor so they can idle at a partial power level all day. Like 300-800 watts (depending on the unit).
It keeps the inside at a more consistent temperature (small swings in the cut on cut off points)
Maybe keep this very efficient unit.
Kind regards
The HotSpot DC4812VRF is a better choice in my opinion. it is a 48v mini split so you can have panels, charge controller, and batteries and skip using an inverter for the AC. If you already have a 48v system, you just connect the AC straight to the battery. No inverter loss allows for greater efficency. Best method for off grid.
Sounds awesome!
Smart; and the hotspot has a pretty nice COP # for heating.
Kind regards
Hey man, just found your video and realized you're the same guy who had commented on my video. You'll get the setup ironed out, you're off to a good start!
Heyyyy lol
I almost ordered the non hybrid mini split too, I just want mine to use only when I’m on solar at least to start, like your home setup lots of space to do many off grid things, keep up the good work!!
Glad you got the right one!
Sounds like we are going through the same learning process 😅 but you've got the solar tracker setup and I don't. That's next on my list. I've learned battery banks never seem to be big enough. I've got 30kw and it seems to go too quick. I decided not to go with the EG4 because the heat pump doesn't work below 15 degrees F and went with a Cooper and Hunter.
Im going to make a video about these eco worthy trackers, with all the trees around I think it was my best option. These panels are only 200w though- I don’t know how many big panels though would hold. Being in Fl I can rely on the sun more than the batteries most days but if some strings of stormy days come along I’m out of of luck.
@@Myoffgridlife I purchase some of the blue sun 460w bifacial panels from signature solar and have 6 installed in a solar “pergola” that I made. Ideally I’d love to have a 4 panel solar tracker but these panels are way to big for the eco worthy tracker. They are 82.5” x 41” and weight about 60 lbs.
I bought a small actuator and a cheap solar tracker from eBay but I haven’t got around to setting it up yet. If I just could figure out how to get an actuator that would move during the day on a timer and reset to the original position at night then that would work well too.
Just gotta keep pushing forward! It’s been hard trying to get electrician help since none of them will help me out with a system that isn’t to “code”
@@robbie31580Wow. Nice. How many true watts you getting in a/the bificial panel with Full Bright Sun?
How is it mounted?
Good job with your first video. You've gotten lots of good suggestions on some alternatives. Here is another one. Rather than going to 48v just create another setup just like the one you have with your second array and have a dedicated circuit for just the EG4. The only difference between that and your original plan would be an additional charge controller and battery. The higher SEER value on the unit you have might actually be worth the extra cost of the controller and battery. It will also give you more storage for nighttime cooling. Best Wishes!
Thank you!
TimMcMahon80 I think you understand everything very well... Smart man
good just to listen to all this for me to learn about all the devices needed and kinda idea of prices i can expect. thanks.
ive been kicking around doing a small solar power system just to help defray some of the grid use,as i dont really use that much electricity as all my heating in different ways is all natgas and im getting my house insulated up well enough that it remains cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter just from insulating better. ive got a couple trouble spots causing heat spread in summer, and worse because my one shading tree on western side got wrecked in a storm recently so i found out just how much that big juniper kept the house cool in the afternoons as its like blazing hot on the porch now and it radiates into the main house because theres nothing blocking direct sun now.
sucks losing one of my trees i planted way back when it was a tiny seedling and it grew up until it was around 25-30 ft AND losing my main shade tree nearest the west side.
anyway, thanks for the info of things i can expect to need and do for this sort of project. need lots of money. lol
order the right one ,sell the one you have now at a loss .. be cheaper then doing what your doing
I think you did a good job and you didn't make a huge mistake from my understanding when you don't need cooling you lose all your solar power on the Hybird mini split so I think you did a very good job and you also have a SEER of 28 vs SEER 22 on the hybird system.... So going hybird you would have less power to save and less cooling for the watts that are stored
I have decided to go with arrays and just add more as I have to since my CC is limited to about 100volts. But you can use 2 CC and simply blend them into the battery charging feed which is what I will do. I am running series on both arrays
I was going to order one too and it almost happened to me, I went all the way to the cart and noticed it wasn’t the hybrid one..I ended up not pulling the trigger yet because I want to make sure I can source the panels but I’m so sorry that happened to you, they should redesign that or something because it’s not clear at checkout. Great video! new subscriber as of now
I’m glad I’m not the only one, you’re the second person to say it. I’ve been kicking myself so hard over this.
idiotic saying you need to build a new system. Just add a small MPPT controller and more panels to feed your battery bank and existing inverter. you have plenty of inverter. You just need more solar input. EASY! Get something high quality like a Victron controller that can handle any voltage battery bank from 12,24,36,48 and you can use it now and easily upgrade to a 48v system down the line when your needs grow. I run 3 Victron controllers on different arrays and a Magnum energy inverter and my system runs great at 12v but I can easily repurpose the mppt victrons to 48v when I get a better inverter.
Amazing
+1 up vote for VICTRON charge controllers. Really liked the Bluetooth dongle add on and the app to manage the battery charging values.
You could add a charge controller to the batteries from the new panels. That way you don't have to put a different inverter on
~6:30 you are correct, better being able to use the solar power for more things beside just the AC.
the easiest thing to do is get another 200ah 24 volt battery and add to your battery bank then get a mppt charge controller and hook directly to battery bank. That would cost around $1600 total.
Love your homestead! The good news is batteries are about to get a lot cheaper soon. Keep making honest content like this and your channel will grow and this cost will look like a tiny speedbump!! Liked and Sub'd to see future updates!
Why do you think batteries will get cheaper soon? I think the electric car market will increase demand & prices will increase
@@BobBob-il2ku catl is ramping up production of sodium based batteries production cost is expected to be around $40 per kilowatt but you know what that means that's probably 80 to $100 per kilowatt for the consumer these are not suitable for cars because they're about one-third larger than lithium- phosphate batteries only suitable for home or industrial storage of electricity, mass production is slated for Q2 Q3 of 2023
I got mad respect for you for setting your life up like you are. I'm doing the same. Bro I just upgraded my battery and I have 24 nissan leaf modules I'll give you if you want them. They still have great capacity and came from a car with 20 thousand miles on it. I was using them in a 24 volt configuration but you can wire them however you want to get whatever voltage you need. I will also give ypu everything you need to do a load dump water heater. Just let me know if you want this stuff
Wow! What cool community support. Nice job. Way to be a brother!
Kind regards
my central air unit has a heat pump and uses 1800 watts but it really only runs for 2-3 hours a day since it turns on for 15 minutes then off for an hour or more. I have a big system 11200 watts solar, 60kw Lifepo4 battery bank 48v with 2 5k all in one inverters. My panels are used and I built my battery bank so My whole system cost under $15,000 so I understand about spending money. I was quoted $72,000 for a system that had same amount except solar was over 12,000 watts. Doing things yourself saves you money big time.
You have a very nice property. You're correct in that building your house it doesn't happen overnight, just keep on building it little by little like you're doing.
I didn't order the hybrid solar a/c yet but I made the mistake when wanting to view the specs for the hybrid a/c I clicked on the a/c only version. And even when looking at the models on signature solar's website, you have to carefully compare the descriptions word by word to figure out the difference between the items. What a pain.
It might be best (and least expensive in the long run) to get the hybrid a/c model instead of having to upgrade or get additional solar equipment. What to do with your current a/c only version? You might be able to resell it at a big discount since it is still practically new. How do you get the refrigerant back into the condenser? Google the text "mini split pump down" and watch a few of the videos, they're short. A pump down refers to storing the refrigerant back into the condenser for cases when having to move it or when needing to work on the lineset.
Best wishes on your homestead setup.
Another helpful hint may be that you add a bedroom on the first floor. Heat rises so the upstairs will always be much hotter. Sleep upstairs when it’s cold and downstairs when it’s hot. I learned this from my grandfather. They didn’t have AC.
Yesss! Downstairs is living area and rooms for kids- I built the second story as largest room for me being greedy but now I’m wishing I was down there 😂
Can’t swap out the outside unit? I’d buy right unit and sell this one and then old plan will work
The good news is you have a more efficient unit. I am looking at the same two units. The hybrid (with PV Inputs) is less efficient then the unit you have.
Yes! After running it I absolutely agree this was the better buy
Could the EG 4 be upgraded with the hybrid part so it gains the original functionality you were looking for
So after looking at the diagrams that’s what i wanted to do, I believe it’s the same variable speed compressor. But the solar company said it wasn’t possible. I believe they order the units whole from overseas and offer no parts support
what if you buy the hybrid unit and connect up the tracker? yes, you won’t recover the full $1500 spent on the non-hybrid system, but you might be able to find an HVAC contractor who can recover the refrigerant and get you some $ back on the unit.. sounds less costly than going to 48V and changing out the inverter/charger. sometimes you just have to accept some loss and move on.. sell the unit to the contractor for 1/3 or 1/2 and they can find a customer to install it on, and your done.. at the same time, you could work out a deal to install the new unit, with you providing most of the labor, and let them make final connections/pump it down and do initial startup
I’ve been considering it and there’s one new in box for $1k on local marketplace.
The SEER on his current unit makes this one worth keeping, especially since it’s installed and looks great.
I think the ideas about making changes and using a contractor are reasonable and valuable points, and additionally I think r410 can be recovered easily, and lines revacuumed easily with one or two videos and a vacuum pump.
Myself I even found an HVAC man who loaned me a nitrogen cylinder so that I could do my own positive pressure test before releasing the refrigerant into the min split. I hope this makes my compressor last a few seasons longer.
Kind regards
Ps. I installed a 9k Pioneer mini split last year.. LOVE IT..! Wiring in the trailer is too small to run it.. but I have 30a shore power with my rent.
You can get a charge controller and run the second array through it into the batteries.
Drop some trees. Way to much shade. Do it now while you are Young. Drop A lot of trees. Don't have to clear them off. Leave them fallen on the ground but you have to remove all that shade
Have you got a running stream nearby? If so, then a microhydro unit just might be your perfect solution. You'll be able to wire it with a shunt controller to your existing system. Same thing with wind if you have that resource.
Good luck, and have fun with your lifelong off grid adventure!
That 2400watt inverter is enough for your usage, don't need to upgrade it yet. Definately don't want to add a second one as a separate electric system or supply. Just add a MPPT changer connected to the new set of solar panels, and connect to the batteries. Another battery or two to add additional capacity is a good idea.
When the sun is out the panels run the AC without using the batteries at all so an mppt wouldn’t change anything. the batteries are a year old so I don’t know that I want to mix them, i definitely don’t want to buy the same brand at the price they sell them for.
Make the switch to 48v. You probably won't need too many. Id say you need a max of 2 lifepo4 for what your doing. Sell the other 2 batts you have currently.
Having 2 48v battery's will be quadruple the power you currently have. Should be able to run your mini split all night
Agreed, I’m thinking 10-15kw plus full array and I’ll be golden
@@Myoffgridlife sounds like you know what you need 👍 looking forward to some more videos. Property looks awesome. Peace and quiet.
Im running my Senville 12,000btu Mini Split on my solar im completely off grid i love it i use Lithium batteries tho 5760wh adding 6000 in lithium i love living on solar its been about a year now ima get another mini-split to eventually
We have the same size battery bank I believe, using lifepo4. The AC is running for now but I use it selectively to save power
@Myoffgridlife ok ok sweet I'm running 16 120ah Lithium cells basically 4 120ah batteries and I'm adding 8 277ah cells for another 24v so I'll have 240ah plus 277ah for 517ah gives me 12.480kwh I think
I would run that EG AirConditioner off a Solar Gererator AC current Outlet Socket with couple EXTRA
Solar panels( to make up for Inverter conversion inefficiency). Thus your EG runs for free or Cheap when Sunny.
Could'nt remember. Does your EG also heatsvin Winter? Your Solar Generator can be 50 pounds like the Magnificent Ecoflow Delta 2 Max. Then you can load it up onto your Truck to do field work throughOut your large property. Then take it in the house to run your EG.
I just brought the ecoflow Delta 2 Max for appx $1300.
With LiFePO4 2000w. Has two mppt. can 500w Solar into each mppt. See HOBOTECH youTube video review. His code also saves me additional appx 8% on Amazon 2 day Prime special. With IRS Tax credit
total cost is about $1000.
Yea it’s a heat pump too
DELTA 2 Max powers almost all the devices you need with a large 2400W AC output. Plus, with X-Boost proprietary technology, run appliances with an output of up to 3400W
Delta 2 MAX allows IFP battery wattage expansion===>
Quote:
"Triple the power - 2-6kWh expandable capacity to fit your energy storage needs. Add up to two DELTA 2 Max Smart Extra Batteries to hit a capacity of 6144Wh. Ideal for home backup, RVing, outdoors or even everyday use."
@@larrywong7834 delta 2 max with one extra battery is $3200 I can’t justify that price per watt hour when I already have a full off grid system. I could add 15kw of storage to my system with the same money.
@@Myoffgridlife You have a solution. Great.
My proposed thought was just the Internal 2000w of the Delta 2 Max. No external battery. For intent of the Delta 2 Max is multiple purpose. For Portable to go use. And to make the EG mini split work cheap.
Like I said. My Delta 2 Max with internal battery cost me $1000 out of pocket. Actually I plan to use it to power my Ecoflow Wave 2 AirConditioner/heater. DC to DC. and run a microwave and high watt water kettle. And use it portablely To Go usage.
Disclaimer. I also have another setup for our home specifically. Currently 5 KW Solar. Its not portable. And can expand dramatically. I am very happy to have only cost me under $1000 for my Delta 2 Max. I wanted it to power my Wave 2 airCond n Heater.
Fun Time TidBit.
In your videos. You Talk Hot Hot Hot Days. Thus the EG4.
Our home's West facing Patio. Under it in the Shade it will be about 113F today. Central California. Sunday by weather forecast___ under our shaded patio it will be appx 124F. Last year under out patio it hit 126F.
I measured that temperature 3 ways. #1 Electronic Green House monitoring thermometer.
#2 Digital table stand thermometer. #3. Large spring loaded round outside
thermometer. Here's a Kicker FUNNY. Our California Utility rate for Electricity is 42 cents per KWH. Next year it will go up 18%. Last year our Summer month Electricity cost was $650 a month with FRUGAL use(we are cheap Chinese). Next Summer that rises 18%. Cource in California we all see increases Every Year. BTW. We tend to keep house 83-85F with airCond use. Using Fans for Chill Factor to keep very comfortable. Our Central Air Conditioner with surge starting is about 13,000kw.
Continuous running at 4000 KWH. Whats your Hot Day?
Would Your Banana Trees dry up if you planted them in our yard?
Measured 120° upstairs before therm broke. Rearview mirror has been saying 117° in vehicle. These bananas were from a friend who left in car for a week so they were sad going in, but looking slightly better after daily rain.
Would it be a cheaper fix for you to sell that unit as a used unit and just purchase the pv unit you needed?
I doubled my solar array and it’s worked like a champ for heat and air. Averages 260-300 watts when on eco mode.
How do you get any power off solar in the woods. Vatrer 51.2 volt battery on Amazon for $1023. I have two and they work great.
Maybe signature solar or deye would sell you a new controll panel/ circuit board ect to convert it?
I’ve asked signature and eg4 they both said it’s not possible and recommended buying another unit. I wrote deye and they never responded. The input voltage on this unit is 80-380 and the diagram shows the pv input with the booster as an option so I absolutely believe they are the same components but they swear it can’t be done
OMG, I MADE THE SAME MISTAKE! However, it's worse for me because I saw this video and still made the same mistake. The only difference is they are still in the box so signature solar said I could take a picture of them and they can start a return process. And after thinking about it, I just decided to stay with this unit since I will be buying a complete kit from them anyways
Ooof, glad you’re working it out though
I would love to have a video of your Solar tracker and where you buy it
I’m editing the assembly video now and will add a link and a discount code!
Buddy you didn't make a bad choice. Yeah, it's 120VAC but it's super efficient. Just enjoy it and don't sweat the small stuff.
For what its worth. Have you considered building your own 48volt battery versus buying pre-made 12volt batteries? I know I'm 4 months late on the video but the price of those batteries is steep. A DIY battery is around $2600.00 for 13kWh. Best of luck. I like the direction your on.
Wow, I would have made the same mistake. EG4's whole deal is that they are the AC brand with PV inputs. Would have never guessed they sold regular mini-split. There are much better deals than EG4 for regular minis, so I'm sorry that you overpaid, but I guess you are at least doing a PSA to keep others from the same fate.
This was so interesting. 🤯🤯 impressive.
Thank you!
You said Army & got my subscription.
I have a 3kw inverter, 5kw of batteries and 800w of solar...... on my truck. Lol
The good news about your situation is that you can get a great system for about $16,000 these days. I know it isn't "cheap" but pretty darn good considering.
Maybe I’ll sell a breitling or two
What seer is the hybrid version? I believe its lower than the other. I would rather have the highest seer unit
When ordering expensive things call first and get yhe help you need to get what you want.
Actually all you have to do is get a $100 MPPT charge controller...
How is that a mistake the hybrid doesn't run from the panels when there is no sun either.
Because typically it’s hot when the sun is out. If the hybrid gets power directly from panels it doesn’t put as much load on inverter and batteries, allowing the batteries to charge more throughout the day which in turn could let the AC or anything else run longer at night.
@@Myoffgridlife Santan solar has cheap panels just add more panels and a Charge controller there are lots of ways to overcome your situation and not cost a fortune.
This is the SELLERS responsibility. Sick of vendors getting by with their incompetent ways and hiding behind a desk. THEY KNOW the questions to ask to keep the purchaser from these issues. I will not buy from them.
I just ordered one and almost made the same mistake. The AC only one does have a better seer rating than the ACDC model though
Its big shame that you have sooooo much shade for your solar....hope u work it out.
I think the mistake may work out the best for you in the long run. If you got the one that has the SSER ratting in the range of 38 you can make better use your solar. I have looked at both of them and I would be torn between which one to order. Sorry that happened to you. I hope you look back and see that what you ordered turns out to be the best. Keep up the good work.
Sell it and order another that is able to use the solar. That would be much more affordable.
Just upgrade to 48v the hassle would be worth it
It is not necessary to upgrade to 48V. My system has 2.8kW of PV, 32 kWh (1325 Ah) of battery and a 4.0kW inverter charger, on 24V. The focus here should be on more kW in via more panels, a larger battery bank and more unobstructed sun.
@@paulmaxwell8851 i get your point put the 48v system has so much advantages on a smaller scale than a 24v system
@@paulmaxwell8851 just the entry cost
I’m wondering if you could some how incorporate a large micro inverter into running it.
I’ve been contemplating this as well, invert the new panels and then run an automatic selecting switch like for power failures. My only concern is an arc or back feed to my inverter if something fails board level. If it works the new array could power in full sun and then switch back to batteries when low. I don’t know if it would be enough juice for compressor startup either
@@Myoffgridlife Seen a Micro Inverter called Vevor 120 ac on Justin's Projects posted 7 days ago. This might be something to look into. I personally have just took a intrest to figure out how to run something else that's not pushing juice back to the grid like the other A/C split unit or at least I think that's the way it works.
So what’s the model you should get? Hybrid model?, link?
Signature Solar has them
You're going to need more batteries anyway.. as MPPt and two lithium batteries
What temp is the air coming out of the vent?
Thoughts... Would it be worth it to consider buying a portable all in one? Make your 2nd array and hedge your bets. split the load with a portable backup.
Genius! Adding an eco flow style of battery would let you have an expansion backup power to the home base battery bank AND a portable power source for bugging-out or pic-nick trips.
If the non-standard ideas help: I am also looking to begin adding micro inverters to my base system inverter. I imagine the base inverter provides the ‘mains’ power and the additional micro inverters can ‘grid -tie’ to my base power. Hopefully this means the new inverters can be added modularly and the power from them will not need batteries.
My system has the downside of being built a little bit at a time as more of a hobby.
Kind regards
The key to being good at off grid is being able to make whatever work. The last thing we should be hearing is, nothing I can do. Lean into it and show positives, and you’ll have better much content, that will ramp up your subs. peace and good luck…
I don’t even know how to pretend to be a positive person, I’m the human equivalent of Shrek- literally an ogre in a swamp living under a tree.
I'm sure you've heard by now, signature solar is selling eg4 powerpro 14 kWh batteries for $4000
Eyeballing those for sure
You’re off to a good start making honest content. Just continue being yourself and don’t try to be everything to everyone. You’ll look back at this mistake in a year and laugh about it. The best education you can get is the school of hard knocks. I’ve made a ton of mistakes doing everything DIY, but those mistakes are a fraction of the cost of hiring a professional at todays rates where every contractor makes over $1,000 per day on a job. Quick tip, if you want to grow subscribers quickly make at least 1 short video (less than 60 seconds in vertical (portrait) format per day for a month. Obviously make sure it’s good material that people are interested in. Shorts are very popular and RUclips is showing those in peoples feeds a lot more than videos over 60 seconds. Also just keep making good videos even when they aren’t getting views. It’s hard to know when the RUclips algorithm will finally find your channel and start to promote it. I just subscribed to you. Keep it up.
Yeah, hvac contractors make between $40-80K depending how hard and long we want to work. Our take home is average in the USA, we have no paid healthcare, life insurance, retirement, dental, Eyecare, etc. How about you know it all DIY’ers ask to see our books so you’ll know exactly where each of those $1,000 goes since you think we’re ripping you off?
@@USA-GreedyMenOfNoIntegrity my mom just had her mini split AC charged in her tiny home. It was $1,200. One guy was on-site for 3 hrs. It was about $150 in refrigerant. I’ve ran books for 2 different contractors who easily cleared over $200k per year. They have a couple employees each. Out here in Texas wages are out of control. Maybe not where you are. Move here to Texas and you’ll make a fortune in these fields (at least for now).
We are going 48 volt with a decommissioned telecom battery... wish you had someone who could direct you to a company near you.
Looks like you need to buy a 24v 200ah battery……then you can have power storage at least.You could also buy another inverter like the one you have and run them in parallel. You get 240v that way too while doubling your solar input.
I don’t think you made a mistake at all. I think you actually bought the unit most suited to your needs. Worst case I think you’re close to a wash with the hybrid solar unit if you review the fine print of the spec sheets. The newer non-hybrid EG4 12000 btu lists a SEER rating of 28.5. The older hybrid solar unit is only 22. SEER rating is intended to measure the efficiency of converting electrical input into cooling output. Your unit is the better part of 30% more efficient at producing cooling output compared to the hybrid solar unit. Would it be more electrically efficient to run DC current off a solar array directly into the unit compressor and fan, thus bypassing the internal inverter? Yes, of course it would. There are indeed non-zero electrical losses in efficiency converting from your solar array (DC) through your solar inverter (AC, or DC to AC from charged batteries) to the inverter internal to the EG4 unit (DC). I’m not equipped to calculate those actual losses empirically, but I suspect the higher SEER rating of your unit will make up for conversion losses. I think the solar hybrid unit is intended to market to individuals that have not yet taken the off grid or “behind the meter” inverter plus battery plunge, and probably don’t have any solar equipment yet. To me this older hybrid unit is really geared to individuals that want to add just enough solar to offset cooling costs and not power the rest of the home. Since you have already made significant investment in solar infrastructure, I think in the grand scheme of things the ultra efficient unit you bought is actually a better fit. It may not feel good to have to open the wallet and invest more in solar infrastructure, but I suspect other comfort goals would get you there sooner or later. This is a good example where the old carpenter’s adage, “measure twice, cut once” applies, so learn the lesson, stay positive, and I don’t think you made an irrevocable mistake. I hope this analysis brings you some comfort. Thanks for posting the video, and good luck!
And I just put in my minisplit so if you need the vacuum pump and all that I'll give that stiff to you also. I'm not wanting anything in return I'd just like to help take some of the stress off you and your family with setting up this off grid life
Matt you the'Best
how many scop 3 - 6 is 11.9 btu/w?
does it cool real good like a reagular air conditioner does or what
Yes if sized correctly. My cabin is 16x20 and this cools downstairs and upstairs
I can't tell which inverter model you have. Can't you parallel a second inverter and turn it on just when the sun is up?
So initially when I bought this kit the plan was to expand it by paralleling a second unit. It’s the lv2424 by mpp- unfortunately they don’t produce this one anymore, only the green one. So I’ve decided to just upgrade to another unit that can take a larger array, most likely 48v
Yes I believe you can “parallel “ a second inverter. Grid-tied is the tech.
The first inverter is the “base power “ and grid tied inverters will synchronize their sine wave to the other inverter.
In my limited DIY style of knowledge.
Hope this helps. Regards
Sounds like you should just sell the mini split on the used market and buy the correct one. Even if you sell it for $1 you will be ahead vs your more batteries/solar plan.
I thought eg4 only made hybrid mini splits.
That’s what I thought too
The biggest issue I see with your Arrangement is that you have your solar panels essentially in the shade not in the sun. They need to be 100% in the Sun to produce power even the slightest bit of shade even if a corner of a solar panel is shaded you'll lose 80% of their production. I've had to cut an enormous number of trees down and basically turn my solar farm into a desert area in order to produce the power that I need.
People have commented this alot but my batteries are completely charged every day by my trackers
@@Myoffgridlife it's no surprise, given you have only two batteries. Making 5kWh through the shade is easy, but you could make 50kW if you have full sun on the panels.
@@basspig I have 2400 watts of panels which get around 6 hours of sunlight a day for a total possible 14.4kw . I charge my batteries and run the house at the same time. The shade is not and has never been my issue. But thank you
right now my $600 battery arrived dead on arrival so I have to send emails through my phone that I charge at mcdonalds. there seems to be a string of bad luck, you aren't alone friend.
Hate to hear it
Best of luck expect good service those companies all want good reviews. The power of leverage is in your hands. You will get this fixed.
I’m starting my hybrid install on my rv. I’m kinda scared. I bought 7 24v 200w Newpowa solar panels…. The 12k hybrid eg4 minisplit… 8 10’ strut channel rails… I haven’t found a good clamp to attach my solar to the rails. I’m scared of buying something and it won’t work.
Central California here. I have 3 220w Newpowa. Serial Array. Noon I receive 500-550w
@@larrywong7834 you used the 12v 220w panels?? It worked?!! I have 1 12v 220 Newpowa panel as well but I use that to charge my Bluetti. I wanted to do my whole rv roof with the 220w panels but their ISC is 13.41a and the EG4 minisplit says to use panels that are Less Than 12a so I decided to get 7 24v 200w panels. Do you power your EG4 hybrid minisplit with the 220w panels?
@@graystripe87 12,:45 noon.
npw3p
515.6w 42.27v. 12.2A. 55voc
Meter reading from 3 x 220w newpowa Serial Array
panel SPECs
newpowa. 220w
17.52vmp. (x3. is 52.56v)
20.52voc
12.60A imp
13.41A isc
7 x 220w newpowa gives 1201w.
in Serial array
hey, we all make mistakes. I have researched this topic for weeks now. there are SO many variables to consider. Off topic but I noticed the Honda 4 wheeler in the background. More specifically the added storage bin/rear seat. I bought a new 520 Foreman Rubicon with all the bells and buttons. I have 4 hours on it. I'm considering that storage bin you have. Do you like it? Was it easy to install? rock solid?
Thanks for sharing your off grid situation.
Cheers from N/W Louisiana.
So I had it delivered with the ATV from the dealer but not installed because they wanted the same price to install it as the cost of the unit. The install was fairly simple, it’s held on by U-bolts that go around the rear rack and little keepers / washers on the inside, you have to line up the holes and drill them out. I love the utility of it, it makes my kid feel safer and it stores a lot.
But
It’s not water tight so it fills up when it rains if it’s not under a cover, I had corn in mine for the animals and it stinks to high heavens. Also the seat pad retains water for months. Will get wet every time you sit on it. So I guess, if you keep it covered it’s great
@@Myoffgridlife Thanks for the info. Its disappointing to hear it leaks. Something else, I was thinking it was a quick attach type that mounts to those little square holes in the flat rear rack standard on my Rubicon. Same as the front flat rack with the square holes. I could not find a single gun rack that utilizes those factory holes. What is the point of having those quick attach holes if no vendors are manufacturing anything to fit them. Not too crazy about U bolts or 7/8" handlebar type grips. Anyway, Thanks again, man. Best of luck with your off grid lifestyle that I adore.
I had just ordered mine last week. Yeah I noticed the hybrid doesn’t come with pre charged lines
I’m feeling a lot better, most of the comments say it was pretty unclear to them when browsing the site.
I ordered the hybrid unit last week. The description asserts that it has the charge of refrigerant pre loaded. I ordered mine from solar sovereign but it shipped from signature solar. It arrives tomorrow so I hope there’s no surprises.
@@jamespayne8781 fingers crossed
@@Myoffgridlife I just took delivery of my unit. It is as advertised, ac/dc precharged in the outdoor unit. Thank God! This is a 12k btu unit so it might be different from the 9k btu unit. Th
@@jamespayne8781 Awesome! Glad you got what you needed
If you are living off grid already then I don't think you made a huge mistake. You are better off setting up a solar array than you can use for anything - not just the mini-split. Sure, you need an inverter to run the mini-split but you are going to want that eventually anyway. Unless you have a big budget and lots of room for PV panels then you should use your panels to power everything.
Agreed, just wasn’t on the current budget with all the construction I still have planned to do
@@Myoffgridlife have a look at used panels from Santan solar. The price per watt more than makes up for any loss in efficiency especially if you have the room to setup a large ground mount.
@@vicalbincooper Right, and SanTan is located in Arizona, which might be a short drive for this guy to go get the panels and save on the shipping cost. I just checked and they have the 260W panels I wanted to complete my solar array, but I can't yet afford the minimum 10 panel order, much less the 26 I could really use.
Panels inverters more panels. I have a much larger house but 18 kWh of panels 24 kWh of inverters and 40 kWh of batteries and it doesn’t even cut it.
Nice setup is ur water pump working off of solar
For showers and most things I use a small transfer pump from rain barrels. I use a generator for the big pump, it uses too much power.
How is your new system?