BEGINNER FRIENDLY Step-by-Step: DIY SOLAR GENERATOR for Emergency Power, RV, Shed... Ampere Time

Let's build a simple starter Solar System together. We'll learn all the essential components and how to assemble them.

Here are links to all the components and tools I used in this video:

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[kickgas]

Nice build. Only one suggestion. After spending 23 years in the inverter repair industry, I would suggest losing the cheap, high frequency, transformerless inverter and spend a little more money and invest in a low frequency, transformer-based inverter instead. Unfortunately, Chinese made, high frequency inverters on the market simply don't last. Especially when powering inductive loads like refrigerators, microwave ovens, portable air conditioners or power tools. You may be able to start some of these loads when your high frequency inverter is new, but over time, typically after less than a year, after repeated use, the MOSFETs in this high frequency inverter will fail. They simply are not designed for powering inductive loads. That's why the big name brand inverter manufacturers like Schneider Electric, Outback Power, Magnum Energy and others, all use a low frequency topology in their design.

[denisestarr]

5 years offgrid.
This solar technology is going
BOOM 💥 !
I am on a good system now .
Moderate .
Its mine .
I will add as i can.
Solar works y'all

[ankr]

Instant like when he said, "as an excuse to buy more tools". LOL Love it

[bobbyjo]

Out of all the videos I've been watching, this was the most clear and easy to understand, so thank you!

[barntt]

Good info! Awesome build! NOW things to consider and for Safety, Do the research and figure out what your wires and fusing must handle. A fuse or breaker from the solar panels which can double as a disconnect switch. Fusing for your Source (Battery) is recommended to be no more than 7 inches from the POS Post. As in your AC system EVERYTHING must be Fused and switched so it can be separated safely. DC power can and will cause a fire (even a little 9V battery). As in your AC system ALL the POS wire ends and connections are recommended to be covered to prevent accidental shorting and a possible fire (SHIT Happens)! Just a recommendation! keep all your fusing (except your source fuse) on the front of your little panel so you can quickly see and replace them if you need to. In a Grid down situation, you want it to work. MOST of these DIY projects on here are lacking the necessary fusing and short prevention. DO IT RIGHT don't just make it work!

[md]

Not everyone gets gifted two of the most important parts of the system. Expensive parts!!!!

[kingrafferty]

First time after so many videos that this makes sense. Thank you.

[ericbutler]

"I look at these types of projects as an opportunity to buy tools" Thats what I do too!!

[stevemizera]

I have been living off-grid for ten years and can certify that your information is fantastic for anyone wishing to get started. I have a number of systems including one identical to yours. I even charge my Tesla model 3 as the closest =Tesla charger is 135 miles from me.

[Zack-fusn]

Install an automatic transfer switch! I found this video and another one from Will Prowse showing the transfer switch and i'm totally doing this! Great video

[liamstone]

A trick for drilling your hole bigger without a drill press: drill the bigger hole in a piece of scrap. Clamp the scrap to your panel centered over the smaller hole. Use the scrap to guide your hole saw so it does not walk.

[renevelez]

Great video for explanation. For a Van or RV I would have put in a fuse panel for each circuit so everything does not go down if one item pulling current burns out I still have everything else working. The fact you can double that for the cost of an extra battery is the real bonus. Its the scalability that is powerful here.

[fredzuccarelli]

I have to echo what MANY/ALL are saying....you did it concise, step-by-step video!!!! Thanks

[fvrrljr]

photovoltaic/solar thermal technician here: i have a beef with your video 😤 it was too good 😁👍

[lostboy]

Been looking at a few DYI builds and this one is pretty much the best in explaining it simply enough that a novice who has very little experience can make one. Going to be trying to make my first one and the only thing I can think of in doing differently is using a old ice cooler with wheels and extending handle as a frame to place the battery and other components mounted to it to make easier to transport.

[martinsibley]

Nice setup and easy steps to follow and learn from! Instead of using lithium batteries for my carport I'll be using lead-base batteries until I can afford the upgrade.

[mauinka]

This video is simply one of the best I have watched so far, great job.

[kurtwagner]

Great Video, the only thing i want to correct is at 17:09 you show that the battery is charging with about 10A and at 13.5V (while charging). Then you show the list on how to read the SOC of the Battery were 13.5V would be 100% charged and say that your battery too is at 13.5V and therefore fully charged.
BUT: even at the top of the list it says "The voltage needs to be tested at rest (with zero current) after 15min of disconnecting from charger and loads."
While charging the voltage is higher than the "normal" voltage of the battery because otherwise there wouldn`t be a voltage difference and therefore no charging.
In your case it is still charging with about 10A. If the battery were fully charged with 13.5V at charger and battery, the current would be zero.

[spang]

This is one of the best Solar DIY videos. Thank you!

[marciatesch]

The best solar explanation I’ve seen, ever! Thank you.