The Shocking Truth About Using Bluetti Charger 1 with Solar Panels

Does The Bluetti Charger 1 Support Solar Panel Compatibility? The Overlooked Detail In Other on line Reviews.
BLUETTI Charger 1 | 560W Alternator Charger shrsl.com/4qv8f
BLUETTI AC200MAX is no longer available replace it with the AC240 shrsl.com/4rvmy
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[@BigVanSmallWorld]

BLUETTI Charger 1 | 560W Alternator Charger shrsl.com/4qv8f BLUETTI AC200MAX is no longer available replace it with the AC240 Expandable Power Station shrsl.com/4rvmy Solar PV Blocking Diode amzn.to/40WsAZ5 Affiliate links

[@ThatMicro43Guy]

You need to do what my friend does. He’s a pensioner living full time in a van with only his state pension coming in. He bought a 2000 unit and a “grannies shopping trolley” the sort on wheels and made of tartan fabric. He goes every few days and buys a coffee from his local Costa/nero/starbucks coffee shop and gets his laptop out of the top of his trolley puts it on the table and watches KZbin. Also in the trolley is his Bluetti and a mainslead to charge it with this he plugs into the socket near his table. To all observers he’s a little old guy with his shopping trolley watching YT on his laptop which he has plugged in. When it’s charged he packs his laptop on top of the bag and wanders off out. Totally free to him recharge every few days, well, except for the price of a coffee. Even better, he gets the points on his coffee cards and gets a free charge/coffee every 10th visit or 5th visit if he takes his own cup lol

[@jimw7916]

If that was in Australia the price of the coffee would make it not worth it. Haha

[@onemanandhisdog9]

What's the price of a coffee? 2 or 3 quid. Electric is less than 30p a kW and he needs a couple of them, do the maths!

[@SteffenBoserup]

I do the same, when there's no sun to charge my batteries. Tell Your friend to take a look at the local library - he has to bring his own coffee, but at least at my library, there's heat, toilet, more papers than I want to read, BOOKS (You know the ones that don't require electricity), electricity, free WIFI, and nobody looks at him if he decide to watch YT videos all day - just remember to bring some headphones, and believe me when I write, that He's the only one enjoying the smell of a pizza at the library, so he has to have his lunch somewhere else.... 😂 Have a nice day ;-)

[@LS-vo7hc]

@@onemanandhisdog9He lives in a van. Or did you miss that part? Do the math😂

[@tommo9757]

Yeah, I know a few train stations where you can sit in the waiting room and get a charge up. Not as nice as a coffee shop or library but needs must 😉

[@JohnvanGurp]

This is the kind of content I come to KZbin for! I can’t tell you how interesting this is to me, even though I’m just starting my build. Super valuable and has saved me a whole world of aggravation. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and skill, Mel!

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Wow, saving you from a world of aggravation? I should start charging for my knowledge! Just kidding, I'm here to help-let's keep building!

[@JohnvanGurp]

@@BigVanSmallWorld right on!

[@kevinthebespectacledpilgrim]

I must love your channel Mel. Sat through the whole thing and haven’t a clue what you’re on about. But I’m really happy that whatever you did works, so well done.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Haha love this thank you so very much made my night 😂🤣🫶🤓👍

[@Myk9-training]

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@livingthedreambuildingthedream]

@@kevinthebespectacledpilgrim this comment from you tickled me 😂😂💯💯

[@eddtownson200rr]

Marlec Engineering do great kit for boats and off grid etc. The marlec controller allows both solar and alternator and wind turbine.We use this set up on our boat and it is excellent

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Great if they would like to send me one and pay me to make a video about it I’ll be more than happy to 🤣😂👍

[@dieselbushcraft1299]

Good point about the fuse on the positive cable, I have seen a video this afternoon fitting one of these units and the lack of fuse came straight to my mind.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Yeah I was surprised when I noticed that 👍🤓👍

[@jasontibbitts5231]

Mate could you just add a 12v relay so when the van is running it switches off the solar and vice versa , then you can leave voltage set high and get the 500w ? 1st vid on this so you are a trend setter ❤

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

I like to try and keep things as simple as possible so other people can do the same. Trend setting I’ll take that thanks 😂🤣👍🫶

[@southerngentleman5321]

would need 2 relays? one for solar off (engine live) and one for charger on (engine live) or does charger 1 have a "live" engine cable?

[@wayneoliver5987]

@@jasontibbitts5231 it seems that when the engine isn’t running that the BLUETTI will not drain the battery and the BLUETTI will also limit the power going into itself. So you should try hooking them both up and see what happens. I think this would work for you.

[@wayneoliver5987]

@@jasontibbitts5231 clamp your voltage meter on the solar,let’s say that you are pulling 10 volts.then clamp onto your alternator and I bet you will only get 46 volts to make up the maximum voltage of 56 allowed by your BLUETTI power station. ( if your power station is rated for 56 volts )

[@robertfrost5020]

Personally I would have fitted one of those big battery isolation switches that flip between off /battery 1 / and battery 2. Just turn it to what supply you want to draw from. It’s very safe, cheap and easy to fit.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Great idea 🫶🤓👍

[@mitch3424]

What I've done for years works a treat 👍

[@ryangillespie40]

Is it just called an isolation switch? The only ones I can find are an on and off

[@mitch3424]

@@ryangillespie40 Halfords sell them about ten quid each , called "battery isolator switch " it is either on or off , I used them to switch off the panels manually when the engine is running

[@lenward474]

​@@ryangillespie40It's a switch common for boats. Rotated from 1,2 or both and off. Easy to find.

[@smycker8563]

Hi, Mel. I run my van on a Bluetti AC 200 Max as well and this is how I do it, (alternator to charger 1 to AC 200 max solar 560W) Solar panels to Charging Enhancer (D050S)(400/500) depending on the Sun.🤞👍

[@dottysdetours]

I was about to ask this question but you have already aswered it for me thanks

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thanks for sharing your setup! It’s always great to hear how others are making the most of their Bluetti AC 200 Max. Your method sounds efficient!

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

I'm glad I could help! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!

[@szabiszekely]

This is the way to do it. You use the built-in MPPT ("Solar Input", 900W max) from the AC 200 and then use the second MPPT (Charging Enhancer) to add another 500W max. Since they are independent of each other they will find the ideal voltage/amp crossover for max power with no risk of backfeeding, voltage mismatch or shorts.

[@PetRatty]

You explained that very well. No need to use a diode on the solar panel input as they have them built. You could turn the voltage up a bit on your Charger1 as diodes have a voltage drop across then of 0.5 - 0.7 volts. As others have commented, I will just be using a DC-DC boost converter, but you have to find the right one. I've got 3 here from ALI £13.20. If Mel allows, replies I'll post a link

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Ah, the quest for the perfect boost converter continues! It's like dating-sometimes you have to swipe left on a few before you find “the one” that fits just right!

[@keepsmiling1484]

It would have been nice to show how many watts from the charger 1 then add the solar to confirm it combines the two loads

[@antonyrobinson9973]

I was thinking the same: Will the solar boost the wattage.Perhaps another video for a sunny day.

[@Vanchunks]

@bigvansmallworld Hi Mel, have you managed to test this yet with both inputs active?

[@nickburns2034]

@@keepsmiling1484 it will not boost the Watts... The limiting factor is the current on the internal charging circuits and battery. If you combine a Charger 1 and Solar, the output will still be whatever the limit of the Bluetti device is. So for the AC180, the charging current is 10A I believe (maybe 9A). So in simple terms, whatever power the solar panels produce, will be deducted from the Charger 1.

[@keepsmiling1484]

Ok great to know - so in brief the solar delivery is priority 1 to charger followed by any top up from the charger 2 that would be priority 2. This is is good as less onus on the alternator and fuel consumption……….. when used on a ‘solar day’. Thanks

[@lannyandroxanneadvantures2546]

Didn't work for me. Kept popping the circut breaker I installed. It's one or the other. My diodes actually got really warm. I am running a 30amp breaker, right at the moment, still waiting for the 60 amp breaker. I set the charger 1 to 35 volts. My solar panels produces about 45 volts. This were it pops the breaker. Bluetti gives you a mc4 to dc wire for the ac200 max. Tried that to at 56volts...over charge alert tripped in the 200 max

[@captaincoxyboy]

Hi Mel, fyi- Ecoflow’s ‘alternator charger’ charges my Delta 2 at 67amps, 800w without the need to the disconnect the solar 👍

[@digitechnomad]

Yes, but it cant charge any other solar generator only EcoFlow. The Bluetti can charge anyone else's solar generator 😊

[@leeinwis]

@@digitechnomad 😱😱

[@steves5382]

Just had this with my set up, Where there hasn't been any Solar the OEM van battery was the next source of power to top up the leisure batteries DC to DC, hence then Flat van battery.

[@pipsqueak2009]

Worth considering what an MPPT charger (built inside the Bluetti) actually does. Ideally the MPPT controller would be on the Solar leg of the circuit only. It will probably still work, but you may get interesting behaviours when there's power from the alternator and the solar panels coming in, and the MPPT controller is trying to seek the optimal load on the solar panels. Agree with the other commenter, that given you've got the diodes, you might as well bump the charger 1 back to 56v. Maybe also put in a switch in line between the charger 1 and the bluetti. so that you can disable the alternator charging when there's lots of solar, which would slightly improve your MPG.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Good idea thank you 👍

[@StunGun100]

Could put the Alternator Cutout Switch before the Charger 1 so it's off.

[@livingthedreambuildingthedream]

Mel you are the god of campervan related stuff 😂 thank you I’m going to be running ac300 in my van this helps tremendously. 💯💯

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you ☺️

[@ackmartin60]

The new Ecoflow Delta 3 plus and the older Delta 2 max have two solar inputs (500W max on each) so you can use one for alternator charging and one for solar charging. Makes it easy to have both inputs. As you pointed out having solar panels for when you are sitting in one place for few day is pretty nice. I often go on multi day backpacking trip and the panels will keep the fridge running while I am away.

[@szabiszekely]

Same for the Bluetti products , but you need the D050S dc-dc charger (extra $200). The Ecoflow has two MPPTs built-in but they are limited to 500W (and 60V), while the Bluetti has one built-in but can do 900W and 150V.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Correct the Bluetti AC300 has two MPPT’s and a 12v 30amp outlet making it the perfect power bank for a camper van 🤙

[@frankmel100]

Hi Mel. It seams that the Ac 200Max is limited to 10ah input. 56v and 560w then 36v and 360w. The unit should ba able to accept 15ah.

[@jimmymcconnell629]

Clever. I was planning on connecting it to the DC Charge enhancer and plugging that into the AC200Max Main changer port fot the AC brick. You could also use your current y adapters and diods with the AC brick and the DC change enhancer to let you connect to shore power or AC and leave your solar panels connected to the solar input. This would allow you to use the full wattage of the the Charger 1. Wishing you continued success.

[@tomfezz]

I've been think about doing this as I don't want to unplug my solar panels. at the moment im using a 3000w inverter with the changing brick. it puts in 400w plus whatever the solar brings in. im just worried the it might be too much of a strain on the alternator using the inverter

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you 🙏

[@leeharris8839]

I've been told that you should only use the D050S enhancer together with solar panels as i too asked about Y or 2 into 1 connections but was told not to do it. I guess the diodes and setting the voltage is the answer here, shame on the power loss though if not sunny

[@theboston3386]

I have the pecron 3600lfp. It has dual solar inputs so this works perfectly for my set up. I highly both the pecron and Bluetti charger 1.

[@SVImpavidus]

The charge wattage has, and will change because the voltage has changed. Watts = Volts x Amps. Amps = Watts divided by Volts. Volts = Watts Divided by Amps. 355 Watts at a nominal charge voltage of 13.8 Volts is 25.72 Amps of charge. However, 562 Watts at a nominal charge voltage of 13.8 Volts is 40.72 Amps. There is a big difference between 25.72 Amps and 40.72 Amps of charge? Remember the Blueetti is not 100% efficient and so charging at 40+ Amps will take a lot more than 40 Amps from one's alternator. Because of the inefficiency and the internal resistance of the B2B charger. ( I =V.R)

[@johnboardman6573]

Hi Mel, love your videos. quick question, would I need to run my negative from my Charger 1 back to my vehicle battery, or can I earth it to the vehicle chassis? I'm adding the Bluetti AC240 as an additional power supply to my motorhome.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

I don’t see why you can’t do that 🤙

[@johnboardman6573]

@@BigVanSmallWorld all sorted mate .. works a treat. Hope you’re keeping well. Me and the Mrs love your vlogs

[@Quirky_vehicle_adventures]

I have a 1000w inverter connected to the van battery which can only be turned on when the vans running charging my ecoflow delta 2 @500w also have a 400w solar panel on the roof. Works great 😊

[@chillicamper]

I have a 1000w inverter running the house charger when van is running, waiting on the charger 1 and connect to my D050s so best of solar and alt power

[@brendanelliott-r3q]

The other (simper) option of course is: When engine on, run AC in the back to charge Bluetooth/Ecoflow / whatever at 800w via the inverter. Solar panels still charge leisure batteries separately.

[@njrodz]

I have both my panels and my charger one connected. All you need is connect the panels the dc to dc enhancer from bluetti that connects to your ac input.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thanks for sharing that setup! It's always great to see how others are optimizing their gear for the best performance.

[@pjthatsfine3591]

In Australia, you can buy inexpensive DC to DC charger DIY kits that handle the DC charge from the alternator AND solar

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

I knew I was in the wrong country 🫶🇦🇺👍🍻

[@PhilipCollins-t6x]

Mate you can run the 2 together you just need the solar charging wire £20 , so then you've got AC and DC coming off alternator ❤️👍

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Correct 👍

[@xarr0wsx]

What type of wire? A double female to male to have two connectors into the same plug in the Bluetti?

[@THE-REAL-TR4KERZ]

As above, which wire?

[@gorillacyclist]

Looks like the b2b is limited to 10amps at the set voltage. That accounts for the loss in power. Personally i'd unplug the solar side when you running the engine to get the max input, then reconect when the engines off and parked up. 150w is alot to lose. Maybe leave conected and match the voltage in summer when its going to be more favourable. 😊 Informative video. Im contemplating using a cheap buck convertor conected to the altenator circuit with output of 48v to feed into my mppt. Would do the job of a b2b for about £20. I have a spare controller all connected up to my system that i could use.

[@stevensteggles7560]

Great video. 3 mins and I'm appreciating the info. You explain things well.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for the positive feedback really appreciated

[@stevensteggles7560]

@@BigVanSmallWorld No problem. I'm guessing if the Car Charger is set to 12v (same as regular solar panel) then it is only going to charge from the alternator at about 100w? i.e. 60 / 12. Thanks if you have time to answer.

[@andrewparle4]

Great vid, Bluetti, engeners should watch this, 😊

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

They already have 🫶👍

[@rogerstarkey5390]

@@BigVanSmallWorld Did they comment? (Or would you have to kill me if you told me?)

[@daravuth68]

@@BigVanSmallWorld I hope they will come out with an improved Charger One. The Etaker Fleet 1000 just do everything you did. Thanks for the vid.

[@shaunmackinga5012]

When you drive plug in the charger 1, when you are parked plug in your solar. Just leave the connections easily accesible and no problem.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thanks for sharing your tips! It’s always great to hear practical advice from fellow viewers.

[@LarryDickman1]

That is what I do unless I have no sun for a couple of days. His big engine eats fuel more than my pickup.

[@johntate5284]

I have the AC200MAX. Since it uses an external power brick for AC charging (at least the US version does) the Charger 1 can be plugged into where the external AC charger hooks into. You should manually set the Charger 1 output voltage to 36 volts to limit the Charger 1 current to 8 amps (about 288 watts) You will need a DC7909 to MC4 connector cable to do this (not included with the Charger 1 or the AC200MAX). If you have one of the DC050S charge enhancers, just plug the Charger 1 into it's input and the output (barrel connector) into the AC charger input of the AC200MAX. If you select the AC200MAX from the list on the Charger 1, the output voltage will be 57 volts. Then just plug your solar panels into the solar input. Since the AC300 has two separate MPPT controllers (the one solar cable has two sets of MC4 connectors), just use one set for the Charger 1 and the other set for solar. Since there are two separate MPPT controllers, the input for each can be different voltages. So, with your two Bluetti units, you can actually use solar and the Charger 1 simultaneously with no problem.

[@YourLaw]

Do you know that this works for sure? It sounds to me like it should do but if so I don't understand why Bluetti would not be recommending it as the way to go anyway and supplying the lead.

[@johntate5284]

@@YourLaw I have 2 of the DC050S DC charge enhancers for converting the AC charger input into an extra solar MPPT controller (for AC200P and AC200MAX along with the B230 and B300 batteries). It outputs 16 to 57 V and is current limited to 8 amps. I plug the Charger 1 into the input of the DC050S and it provides about 450 watts. Since i am not sure if the AC200MAX provides any current limiting on the AC charger input, I should go back and edit my response above to recommend manually setting the Charger 1 to 36V, which does limit the output current of the Charger 1 to 8 amps. If you do have one of the DC050S DC charger enhancers, then there would be limitations.

[@DiskTuna]

I always used a CTEK D250S DUAL in my van to accomplish this (charge via alternator and panels).

[@57richm]

Leave the charger 1 set to 56v. Put your solar panels through bluetti's dc-dc enhancer, which plugs into the mains plug.

[@r33gts]

Hi Mel, just a quick note, the "rcd" you mentioned is or should be an "mcb" or other type of trip sw, and as it is in the positive lead, it will protect both batteries. Rcd or "residual current device" is for ac circuits and detects a fault current between either phases and ground. Hope this clarifies the description. 👍 Thanks.

[@kimmosalonen9132]

How much current do you have flowing to the Bluetti? Since the connection is parallel, the amperage is added together. The AC Max's input maximum current is 15A MAX.

[@onemanandhisdog9]

This is why so much still needs doing on your van. At the old place, Adz would turn up for a few days and completly refit his van!

[@mikeleach8242]

Been waiting for my charger1 that ordered in October. On back order possibly new stock order arriving last week in November otherwise I have to wait until January. Frustrating as I tink it’s a game changer for off grid situations. I couldn’t understand stand why the fuse is not at battery end if terminals when I first saw the cable on sale.

[@spiderbush129]

The ecoflow alternator charger does allow you to have both solar and alternator charger at the same time

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Yes but you can only use it with EcoFlow Bluetti Charger 1 can be used with almost any power station 👍🤓👍

[@KennyRoberts-w3z]

​@@BigVanSmallWorldThe Ecoflow is only for use with their Delta range

[@spiderbush129]

@@BigVanSmallWorld I'm not a tecci, but it would be good if it did, I will look into it 👍😊

[@einfelder8262]

Better to use the Renogy DC50 device. Combines solar and alternator, no need to pfaff around with voltage settings, no need for diodes and unwieldy double adapters, and the real bonus is that the solar panels will charge the starter battery when the Bluetti/house battery is full.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Oh that’s interesting thank you I will definitely check that one out 👍🤓👍🫶

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

I just had a look and I’m pretty sure you’re wrong about the Renogy DC 50 it simply would not work with a power pack because the power pack has its own built in MPPT system

[@einfelder8262]

@@BigVanSmallWorld You would use one of the ports that bypasses the inbuilt MPPT.

[@randomspirit]

I'd like to see what kind of output you get on a sunny day with the engine running. I hope you'll do a follow up. This was interesting, thank you!

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you so much for your interest! I really appreciate your suggestion, and I’ll definitely think about doing a follow-up. Stay tuned!

[@williamirelan9332]

You can charge the ac200max through the dc/solar port and the ac connection at the same time so if you want to charge it faster you can use your generator at the same time.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Yes 👍

[@walterhughes5765]

I laugh at these experiments . Yes you can charge with both but not efficiently. Can charge quicker driving with charger and parked with solar panels no need to do both inmho

[@malcmaries7615]

I charge my bluetti by solar and charge my leasure battery's at the same time like you spitting the cable . The alternator charger was a bit pricey , so in winter i use my generator to charge leasure battery's and bluetti power bank at the same time if parked for couple days , as I had the generator anyway. If driving I charge the bluetti up on the cigarette plug

[@hotzeplotz2345]

Interesting Video! I think this may solve my problem of having an MPPT in parallel with a Dc-Dc charger. Both of them charge with their own voltage/current curve so I don't quite know which one is actually charging at a given moment. Wondering what happens when driving in sunlight with your setup...

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

I'm glad you found the video interesting! It sounds like you have a solid grasp of your setup. It's definitely a complex system, but with the right approach, you can optimize your charging effectively.

[@philipbramley2327]

Just though Mel, wouldn't it work better if you reversed the Vario in along side the stored caravan, that way you have a U shaped enclosure, to use as your workshop, with two walls and the van making up the other, plus less chance of you damaging the stored caravan.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Yes once I have finished working on the under bed storage I will potentially turn it around to that position 🤓👍🍻

[@EnclaveDesigns]

Not a problem for Anker, my F2600 can take up to 5 different XT60 inputs at a time. So both my solar and my Bluetti Charger 1 charge my power station without an issue.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

That's awesome to hear! The flexibility of your Anker F2600 with multiple XT60 inputs sounds like a great setup for maximizing your charging options!

[@dennislamb1071]

I’m using a Victron Orion 12/24 volt 20 amp dc-dc converter and 400 watts of solar panels going through a Bluetti DO50S charging enhancer to charge my ac200max at up to 700-800 watts.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Nice 👍

[@almostrvperfect6203]

Page 11 of the AC200 Max users guide says DC input voltage is 10/145v. I would think you could turn the voltage back to 56v and letting the 36v from the solar panels should all work as advertised with or without the diodes. Nice video.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thanks for the info!

[@66Trips]

Nice one, but I was hoping to see you do a test without the solar, then with, to see it combined the outputs from both. One sunny day eh?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Yeah I would have done if it was sunny 🫶👍

[@66Trips]

@BigVanSmallWorld I'll come back in April 😂😂

[@gaz1226-j2x]

Great vid, 1st I’ve seen on this theme. Very interesting. Just one negative, I think we all know that the Vario and Sprinter are Mercedes. So, there’s no need to continually refer to them as Mercedes Vario and Mercedes Sprinter. 👍

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you please allow me to explain the KZbin algorithm uses key words and phrases to make sure that it recommends the right videos to the right audience 🤓👍🍻

[@tumbleweed1976]

Excellent tips. Pecron and EcoFlow DC-DC chargers for consideration.

[@advirnig]

there is another unit that operates similarly to the charger one from etaker. it does what the diodes does internally in the unit. it is a dc-dc charger, up to 500 watts, and adds an mppt controller inside the unit that adds up to another 500 watts for a TOTAL of 1k watts. and it can charge from both at the exact same time.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Interesting 🤨

[@ukinfamous]

Sice you didn't connect the solar panels, and you say the only reason for this is to stop having to unplug and reconnect... Could you not use a 2P auto-transfer switch so that when the engine runs, it switches to charger 1, and when off, it goes to the solar panels?

[@flip0345]

Wont the diode stop your car battery from bieng topped off? Just a thought

[@paulyeoman9652]

Mel, great vid, my camper has only one leisure bty plus one solar panel, im going for the upgrade next month for the camp site plug ins, but saw your vid, brilliant, it would be a great fix for my Offgrid times in the van, does your links you provide come with all the cables ect and bits regarding the charger/also your vid was for the ac200max the expandable charger a better fix ???? regards Yeoman.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Yes everything you need is in the link

[@flip0345]

How did you install the 60 amp fuse to the battery?

[@Myk9-training]

Great job time will tell if it works way you want it to 😊

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thanks a ton! Fingers crossed it all works out the way I’m hoping!

[@SACREDTRAVELLER]

❤❤❤❤❤❤ LOVE THE THUMBNAIL ❤❤❤❤

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you for taking the time to comment and sharing your positive thoughts really appreciate your support and encouragement and mostly thank you for all the hard work helping me grow my channel 😛🥰💕🫶👍😍

[@SACREDTRAVELLER]

Aww I would do it and more for you my love ❤❤❤

[@kylefrandsen2665]

I think the Charger 1 is limited to 10 amps, so yes, when you dropped the voltage to 36 volts, you got 360 watts. I would have liked to see more testing. You never actually got some solar with the engine running to see if you got 360 watts + the solar or if there were any issues. Maybe a temporary A/B/Both switch for testing to see what the solar input is, see what the Charger 1 input is, then combine them. Regardless, I think your concept is a great idea. Thanks for the video.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

I really appreciate your thoughtful feedback! Your suggestions for testing with solar input are fantastic and will definitely help improve future videos. Thank you for watching!

[@chrisbarnes2823]

Very interesting video Mel. I’m currently working on a DC to DC charger for my Ibex trailer because it has a 12 volt compressor fridge, so I can keep the batteries topped up while driving with the fridge on. My truck has two 160amp alternators so no problem with power output, heading to Florida soon so I’m a busy boy.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Wow, with two 160amp alternators, you’re practically a mobile power plant! Just don’t forget to pack your sunscreen and a good playlist for the drive!

[@ircy55]

Hi Mel, is it possible to use an ordinary split charge relay instead of the Bluetti charger 1?, love all the conversions you have undertaken, I have picked up loads of tips, many thanks.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Not really as the Bluetti needs higher voltage because it has 52v battery

[@lgolsen]

Phevvv… you had me scared for a bit at the beginning showing the Y connectors until you added the diodes ….

[@lgolsen]

… and the primary reason for the wattage-drop is probably that the either of the two devices from bluetti is limited to somewhere close to 10A. Since you dropped the Voltage, you get fewer watts from the alternator…

[@charleswillard775]

Great job but you can just use a £15 12v to 24v buck converter

[@stezie1]

Have you looked at using the CTEK DS250E with Smartpass? It Auto selects Alternator or solar for charging. It can also reverse trickle charge the vehicle battery and provide a boost for starting if the vehicle battery cant start vehicle. I have a 180 amp alternator(Ex ambulance) and it can easily deliver 140amps . I haven't used my shore power hookup in years, not even to maintain vehicle battery over the winter .. I'm no longer in the market for a noisy generator either as engine can do it, quietly.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Well if they want to send me one and pay me to make a video I’ll give it a go

[@cliffy7641]

Have the CTEK DS250E brilliant bit of kit, using solar and alternator power automatically.

[@jamesmason7124]

With those one way diodes, you should not need to lower the voltage. Second, depending on your solar controller, you can wire the one charger to the solar controller and the solar controller to the battery. Remember volts times amps = watts and that is why your wattage is lower

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

You know what they say, volts and amps are like peanut butter and jelly-together, they create something deliciously powerful! Thanks for the reminder on the wattage calculations!

[@crikhooah7204]

Very informative Mel Thanks ... 👍

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

You’re absolutely welcome thank you for the positive feedback really appreciated 👍🤓🫶🍻

[@craigbrowning9448]

In the case of the Bluetti AC300/B300 setup, I assume the DC to DC hook up to one of the batteries and not to the power station itself? One thing is the AC300 has a "Standby" threshold until somewhere around 160w before it allows the batteries to charge. In my case I have the solar panels hooked up to the AC300 unit. The AC (120 VAC, US) Power Input on the AC300 Steve Smith knockout circuit breakers especially if it's on a long extension cord. I've gotten around this by buying a Bluetti Battery Charger for plugging into AC mains. The charger hooks up to one of the B300 batteries. I was thinking of running the Charger 1 into the other. If you can set the Charger 1 voltage lower then the optimum amount it might avoid overloading the rest of the systems with the solar panels on. Any ideas on this?

[@Firephosure]

Get a power station with 2 solar ports. Easy solution. There's a few of them out there.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Yes 👍

[@chalkywhite23]

All you need is the b500 I think it’s called from BLUETTI , then you could just leave the sola as was and plug charge 1 in to the b500,grey charger brick that you plug in to the 240 charger port . We do this with our sprinter , 800 w sola and then a victron dc/dc in to the grey brick . We get about 350 w from it , I have a charger one that I will get round to fitting and swap out the victron

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Sounds like you’re running a power plant on wheels! Just make sure not to power up any coffee machines while driving, or you might just take off!

[@livingthedreambuildingthedream]

Hello Mel hope you can help I have ordered the bluetti ac300 and the b300k also the charger 1 can you tell me what you think of the power bank and battery please.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

You made the best choice for sure with 2 MPPts and really fast charging when plugged into the mains and a 30amp 12v outlet it’s perfect for campers just remember that the cigarette lighter type socket is 24v not 12 volts 👍🤓👍

[@livingthedreambuildingthedream]

@ yeah I know that I will use the other socket for my 12v system. Once again thank you Mel I would never of bought it without your review.

[@johnshaw4140]

So , basically , thats a B2B charger for your bluetti , no doubt sold at a much higher price than a conventional B2B charger

[@nickburns2034]

It's completely different to a normal B2B charger.... Because the input current is limited to 10A, the only way to get more watts into the Bluetti is to increase the voltage. The Charger 1 takes a 12V (50A supply, and boosts the voltage up to maximize the charging current. That's why the 52V was 560W and the 36V was 360W.... Both charging currents at 10A.

[@LS-vo7hc]

When you don’t know what you’re talking about you shouldn’t talk. Research first is dest bet.

[@nickburns2034]

@@LS-vo7hc Who is this aimed at?

[@welshieonwheels]

Great vlog I see what you are doing , but how about taking the charger one directly off your leisure battery’s to your AC200max but still having a dc to dc charger charging your leisure battery, along with your mppt charger then you would get best of both worlds maybe ? Does that make any sense thank you Mel well done good luck 👍👍👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🇨🇦🇬🇧🦢

[@digitechnomad]

Why wouldn't you use a type of isolator switch so when driving or running engine switch it to charger1 and when stationary and its sunny switch it to panels, then no loss of wattage input when driving?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Totally get what you're saying! That switch would be super handy. Gotta make the most of the sun while we can, right?

[@digitechnomad]

@@BigVanSmallWorld Yes, its what i am doing with my shiny new charger1

[@THE-REAL-TR4KERZ]

@@digitechnomadHi, could you tell me which model switch you are using please?

[@rickyroaster]

The part they also don't tell you is, the alternator is only 50% efficient so what ever watts you take the equivalent is lost in heat. Ideally full charging current whilst driving for better cooling of alternator. You'll end up cooking your alternator at full 560w just sitting idling. A thermal camera will show you the truth

[@griffinmk1]

I was under the impression. The charger one should be plugged in to the DC jack the one you use to charge it from a 3 pin plug and the solar will always be in solar ?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

No that a incorrect

[@Moes_Prep_and_Tech]

You should of just purchased the etaker alternator charger instead, you can use both its cheaper 200 bucks, and you can take in up to 1000 watts combined

[@JohnvanGurp]

Why did you have to match the voltage of the DC to DC charger to the solar charger? How is it that your solar has 36 V? Excuse my ignorance here I’m just new to this.

[@Ritarelay]

Interesting vlog thanks Mel 😊

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you hope you had a great birthday weekend 🫶👍🤓🍻

[@Heinz76Harald]

ive seen what you did there... but why? just use the 2nd DC input port on the ac200max instead? no need for diodes, and both can charge at the same time. connect the charger 1 to the PV Aviation port, and the solar panels to a D050S. that way you can charge at a max of 1050W

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thanks for sharing very informative

[@THE-REAL-TR4KERZ]

I take it you have to have the D050S for this?

[@garycatlin4899]

Hi Mel, just watched your video on the Bluetti charger, I was wondering with using the same or similar connectors, and again adjusting the voltage, could this be used to charge my Allpowers 2400 power station ( which i believe you have/or had ) I would leave solar charging leisure battery and have Charger 1 charging my Allpowers ( i have 2 btw.) Your advice and knowledgeable input on this matter will be gratefully received. Many thanks Gary and Val. Met you briefly at last years Van life festival. 👍

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Yes absolutely as the great thing about the Bluetti Charger 1 is you can adjust the output voltage making it truly universal 👍🤓👍🍻

[@tamwestwater]

This might be why I use Victron b2b and MPPT- I’ve got 10 days battery (2 x 100Ah) at this time of year

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

That's awesome to hear! It sounds like you've got a solid setup with your Victron gear. Ten days of battery life is impressive!

[@chriskeller6713]

What if you dont change the voltage on the charger? Can you mix voltages in a y split? My panel is 12V.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

It's important to match the voltage of your charger with your solar panels to ensure optimal performance. Mixing voltages can lead to inefficiencies or even damage, so it’s best to stick with compatible voltages!

[@FreeBirdUKVanLife]

Informative 😊

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thanks 🙏

[@jeverhart99]

So, I am a little confused. You are saying you get a charge from the solar panels and the charger 1 simultaneously (or of course one or the other) this way? And the reason it works ok without frying the 200Max is that you turned down the charger 1 voltage? And I guess your panels max wattage is way below the 200 Max threshold (but if not I assume that would be a problem) (?)

[@PietKite]

Why reduce the voltage of the Bluetti charger to the voltage of the solarpanels when diodes used?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

For safety purposes

[@THE-REAL-TR4KERZ]

Great video again Mel, interesting one this as I also have a 200MAX based on your recommendation. It’s been great so far, I have a “house” 410w solar panel and was going to install a 1000w inverter for the standard power brick, what’s the main advantages of the much more expensive charger1? Thanks in advance 😊

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

The advantage is you can control the amount of power it takes from your alternator 👍

[@WhipperdeetsAdventures]

This charger 1 can you use with other power station brands? Or just bluetti?😊

[@jimmymcconnell629]

@@WhipperdeetsAdventures it will work with any power station that has a solar input

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

It’s compatible with most other power packs because you can control the output voltage 👍🤓👍

[@celticsean66]

Hi Mel, I have purchased an AC200L and charger 1, I also have a spare 230ad lifepo4 battery, could I use the BLUETTI d40 in tandem with the charger 1 to charge my battery? Cheers

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Hey! Totally, you can use the D40 with Charger 1 to juice up your battery. Sounds like a solid setup! Cheers!

[@celticsean66]

@ cheers Mel . Great man for advice. Take care buddy

[@davemac521]

Sure run your engine to charge a solar generator. Just get additional solar panels. Far cheaper than buying fuel to charge.

[@carllockpick6179]

Mel, I would think a resistor, would affect the voltage not a diode.

[@PetRatty]

Diodes do have a voltage drop, depending on which he has it could be as high as 0.7v. All Mel needs to do is up the voltage the alittle on the charger 1

[@carllockpick6179]

@PetRatty .7v, I don't think Mel is to bothered about that !

[@jansweeney1333]

Hi👋Mel , Your a clever 🤓cookie to work out all the workings & how to apply it to your van ‘s’ situation. Grt video .🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿jan

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Clever cookie? I prefer the term "van-tastic genius"! 🥳 Thanks for the sweet comment, Jan!

[@geoffcallicott2060]

Well explained Mr Mel 👍

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you kindly

[@wayneoliver5987]

When your van isn’t running and your at camp your BLUETTI won’t charge will it ? Doesn’t the charger have a battery safety that protects your van battery from being discharged ?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Great question! The BLUETTI charger is designed with safety features to protect your vehicle's battery while camping. It ensures that your van's battery won't be discharged when you're using it to charge.

[@raymichaels4382]

Good video, but to truely measure the difference wouldn't you have to test it on a sunny day? I'd like to see what they'd put out in tandem.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Great suggestion!

[@xrmad]

Mel can i suggest watching Alex's victron videos. its top teir stuff and very flexible set up wise, and easy to upgrade as its modular

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thanks for the suggestion! I’ll definitely check out Alex's Victron videos for some insights on flexible setups and upgrades.

[@DamnitImSid]

I was going to get this. I was thinking to just unplug from bluetti when charged then plug into leisure battery. Would that work?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

No don’t do that because the voltage output will to hi to connect directly to your 12v batteries

[@DamnitImSid]

@BigVanSmallWorld God I'm going to blow myself up aren't I 😂

[@boatingmanchester]

@@BigVanSmallWorld How would you connect it to a Lifpo4 battery ?

[@calkrissy1957]

If you have the BLUETTI Do50s charging enhancer in theory you could use it to charge the Ac200max with solar panels or a battery and plug into the Ac charging port up to 500 watts charging And also use the charger1 plugged into the solar charging port. Theoretically max charging @ 1060 watts. I haven’t tested it yet, just got the charger1 delivered yesterday.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Wow, talk about charging like a boss! If this works, you'll be the superhero of solar power-saving the day one watt at a time!

[@DA11NOON]

Great vlog 👍

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

“Great vlog” - short, sweet, and to the point! I appreciate it!

[@kellyeye7224]

Two diodes is all that's needed. Alternator in on one, other has the solar input.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

That’s what I did

[@MathewDillon-x5j]

Hi, is your solar feed through a regulator ?.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Yes the Bluetti has one in side it

[@suziq4394]

We have a REDARC 1225b bcdc charger that does exactly that. Takes charge to our leisure battery from both the alternator and our x2 175 watt solar panels. Priority is giving to the solar panels but in our northern European winter... the panels are useless. I am sure it could be adapted to charge the bluetti as well ?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

That's great to hear! The REDARC 1225b is a solid choice for managing power from both your alternator and solar panels. Adapting it for the Bluetti sounds like a smart move, especially during those winter months when solar input can be limited.