Budget DIY Solar Power Station [Step by Step Guide]

[@minutemanprep]

►Vatrer Server Rack Battery: www.vatrerpower.com/pages/2024-black-friday-and-cyber-monday-lithium-battery-big-sales?KZbin& code: MANPREP5 get 5% off for the batteries!! ►3kW Inverter: signaturesolar.com/eg4-3kw-off-grid-inverter-3000ehv-48-3000w-output-5000w-pv-input-500-voc-input-pre-order/?ref=SaJS3dc86BnakK ►TT30 Splitter: a.co/d/8lzw7d3 ►TT30P Plug: a.co/d/dNYUcpn ►Outlet splitter: a.co/d/1ivfCNE ►Solar wire: a.co/d/3V1Sc8e

[@fredlazo2116]

Split phase and expansion please. Awesome channel! Simple and to the point. Thanks!

[@davidr3431]

Split phase and expandable please, thanks Ben for all the great info and demos!!!

[@minutemanprep]

You got it!

[@SlimSh8E]

Just installed the EG4 3000EHV about a month ago. In order to change the setting from 50Hz to 60Hz it has to be in standby mode if I remember correctly. You will turn the inverter off and it will continue to run for a short time (or, if you have solar coming in, it will stay on) and this is when you need to go into the menu and switch it to 60Hz. The next time you start it up it will be correct at 60Hz.

[@williamwilson6499]

@@SlimSh8E You also have to have two power sources connected according to EG4 tech team.

[@williamwilson6499]

Split phase, expandable, bitte. According to EG4 tech team on diy-solar forum, “The inverter should be set to standby mode with its power turned off while being connected to two power sources, such as PV and Battery. This configuration would then permit the adjustment of the frequency.”

[@minutemanprep]

I will try that. Very interesting

[@AndrewJohnson149]

Split phase and Expandable!! :) I am hung up on what inverter to use in my motorhome that we will be living in full time next year. I have designed several systems on paper. Using EG4 all-in-ones and Victron Multipluss ii units. Looking for about 10k total inverters with EG4 LL batteries. This video was giving me even more ideas. Thans as always for the great content.

[@johnsonbrotherssports1067]

Split phase & Expansion! Bring it on!

[@Highgaze1]

Split and expansion! Awesome info! Thank you Ben!

[@MJ-ge6jz]

Considering all the talk about power outages, (Tornados and Super Storms), and increased utility costs its a no brainer to build this suggested portable power.

[@MJ-ge6jz]

Two reasons why I preferer ground based solar panels. 1.) I don't like climbing ladders when servicing is needed. 2.) It's easier to wipe off the snow and clean the panels with mop.

[@josephmiller6866]

Lol. So last year got onto roof trying to knock off the snow from bifacial panels and almost slid off roof. 😂. I felt like the Griswalds

[@1GREATDANE]

And Your Able to Adjust the Solar Array Angle during the year for Optimization

[@josephmiller6866]

Mine are eco worthy adjustable racks. I can adjust the angle for summer and winter angle.

[@ddyoder]

Split phase next please. Nice work and keep these coming!

[@nachoarthurfong5954]

Split Phase…. Really helpful and many thanks

[@Thomas-ZET]

Split phase, to run my well, thanks and great info

[@WattsMiner]

Use a 6000xp instead

[@Moes_Prep_and_Tech]

I like what you did there, Touching the new Bluetti AC200 replacement, keeping us in limbo, lol.

[@simon359]

I’d love to see a split phase with Victron! 😝

[@minutemanprep]

Oh boy another victron fan boy ;) jk. OK I'll put it on the list and see if we can get enough people interested in that :)

[@steveharmon2366]

I also would like to see a victron split phase with low frequency inverter

[@videobob]

Would you do a video regarding bonded and unbonded a regular portable generator for transfer to house breaker panel. DIYer’s need to Beware. Thanks

[@huskypup3489]

Unless the BMS has a soft-start feature, when you close that breaker, there will be an internal arc when the inverter caps pre-charge. It's best to use a pre-charge resistor even if you have a breaker. Also, most inverter manufacturers specify that a Class T fuse be placed in-line between the battery and the inverter.

[@jorgeolmedo950]

Amazing video; Splitphase please!

[@HippocratesGarden]

One thing to remember on the small systems like this. the EG4 3K requires 120vdc on the pv input to start charging. Many people doing these systems may be able to do that, or like in my system, currently due to lots of shading until I can drop more trees, I have to do 2+ smaller arrays running at lower voltages. The Li-Time or a couple other "all in ones" have pv input 60-145vdc. The point being, be sure to match the pv voltages, when charging starts, and not exceeding to your situation.

[@oldsquid9887]

I want to use the EG4 but I don't have 120v of pv. So Li Time is one of my options. But I cannot find any reviews of it. Any other suggestions?

[@marcfruchtman9473]

Yes, this was my complaint about EG4, and I emailed them too. I would like to see it handle as low as 48v Solar input...

[@BeeBeorn]

I really like your channel AND also very happy that wall power "standard here in Sweden is 240v.( ).

[@alexherrera3918]

I need to build one for my dad small house, but he has an induction stove that is 220V. Can i use this inverter to power that induction stove? Thanks

[@minutemanprep]

Yes you can

[@rhcamel4555]

Just getting started and have the same set up but being a newbie why did you cap the ground on the ac out ? Thank You

[@minutemanprep]

Because there is no ground port for the AC output.

[@papawheelie1369]

I have this inverter and two of these batteries powering my RV. In the user manual it says to run the output ground wire to the grounding screw on the bottom of the inverter.

[@huskypup3489]

For those asking for split phase, just substitute an MPP Solar LV6048 Inverter and you'll have split phase up to 6kW, however with a single battery, I would not recommend going over 2.5kW; you should put more batteries in parallel to get to 6kW output.

[@GrooveDigger2]

I just purchased the DIY invertor & battery, based on your video, I expect delivery next week. Right now I do have a NG powered generator setup to power my house, so this is secondary to that, but not sure how reliable NG will be in future, so I would appreciate info on expansion & split phase.

[@shelley131]

I built the same using all EG4 products. I would like to point out that for some one that does not have a solar farm like you do that using this particular eg4 inverter may not be as user friendly if you do not have a minimum of 120V to use the mppt charger in the inverter. I personally have around 65 V of solar panels in series so this inverter will not work for me. I use wall power to charge it. I have purchased the Victron MPPT 150/35 solar charger to charge the battery with solar. I have a lot of shade on the roof and yard so it is easier to chase the sun with a smaller array. Also would like to let your viewers know that the inverter consumes a ton of energy on idle consumption. On a recent power outage I was only able to run my 26 cu.ft fridge for 37 hours where 2.4KW of battery energy went to the fridge and the rest went to the inverter. I have ordered a Victron phoenix 48V/1200 inverter that will be solely used for the fridge, which will extend running time. Maybe you could do a video for people who live in apartments or have limited solar panels that could use the server rack battery and the victron units I mentioned. I personally don't want to be off grid but am prepared for outages.

[@deanharris7149]

Yes on the 240v

[@matth8961]

Split and expansion. Curious about expanding without any communication between battery

[@baja3571]

Being in the US, we need 60hz. Did you ever figure out why it stayed at 50hz? This looks like something I would build, but not with it only running 50hz.

[@minutemanprep]

No but it's running things fine but I will do an update video asap

[@williamwilson6499]

“The inverter should be set to standby mode with its power turned off while being connected to two power sources, such as PV and Battery. This configuration would then permit the adjustment of the frequency.”

[@timcrouse6377]

Yes you must shut inverter off to change HZ . The battery will power it up with inverter off

[@minutemanprep]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/hpqXi4J5n56Hirssi=6A0n-lXqhQu47oNS

[@solargloater8059]

Good project, but could do it cheaper. (4)12v 100ah batteries instead of server rack could save $400. This is a great project to scrounge for and let your “finds” influence your build. I think that most of these solar generators will be charged from the grid most of the time. Making it mobile is useful.

[@liftbikerun]

I'd like to see a solution to the 60z issue. Do an update after working with EG4?

[@williamwilson6499]

“The inverter should be set to standby mode with its power turned off while being connected to two power sources, such as PV and Battery. This configuration would then permit the adjustment of the frequency.” From EG4 tech.

[@minutemanprep]

@@williamwilson6499 kzbin.info/www/bejne/hpqXi4J5n56Hirssi=6A0n-lXqhQu47oNS

[@jamesmchale3956]

Split phase please. Good stuff!

[@wtpwtp]

For a pre-made set up, is Apollo or Eco Flow better? Could you please do a comparison (pros & cons) of the two with their latest best models? Thank you!

[@minutemanprep]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/pYbNm6aKdpp8bJY I personally lean towards the Apollo and it's what I use personally even though I have both. The downside is you need two units for 240v power, but then you also get double the solar input. The life blood of these systems is solar input and so personally that's my vote when pressed on the matter. Either unit can be purchased with lifetime support at poweredportablesolar.com

[@HippocratesGarden]

Lastly, on these small inverters, for the AC in, yes you can plug it into mains power, or a generator.. however... make sure the generator is an "inverter" generator so the power remains "clean" enough. otherwise, if voltage drops or hz is too low or variable, the all-in-one will disconnect, and eventually it could damage it.

[@RCTVAccount]

A split phase version would be interesting.

[@ransomhatch1157]

Split phase and expansion

[@TRAIN-SAFE]

What do you think of the Oupes Mega 3? Currently with the B-2 Battery it is still cheaper thn the EcoFlow Delta Max. I want to take advantage of the Black Friday Sale and wanted about a 3500 watt or so system. Help me decide Brother.

[@minutemanprep]

I have really liked my Oupes Mega units. I highly recommend them, including the Mega 3. I personally use my Mega 2 all of the time and have zero issues. If you want to support the channel if you order one you're welcome to use my link: oupes.com/?ref=mmp&MKTRita&. Coupon Code: mmp

[@Paulwilliams203]

And expansion 👍🏻

[@swags6691]

Split phase and expansion please. Gret video!

[@DinaYomi]

I just got an EV4 6000xp and an EV4 LL-S. Can you connect the two and possibly expand with a Vatrer battery.

[@chadh6899]

Yes to split phase and expansion options.

[@elbowjeans]

Thank you! split phase please! And could you role play/explain how to use this set up to power the following: fridge, tv, lamp, and electric stove and water heater, (all running directly from the inverter; not plugging up to home fuse/circuit panel). pretty much a power outtage scenario, using power strips and extension cables? That, honest;y, would be so spectacular. Than you again! More power to you!

[@jimverh1868]

Split and expansion as well how did u get to stay on 60 all you showed was it going back to 50

[@williamwilson6499]

“The inverter should be set to standby mode with its power turned off while being connected to two power sources, such as PV and Battery. This configuration would then permit the adjustment of the frequency.”

[@minutemanprep]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/hpqXi4J5n56Hirssi=6A0n-lXqhQu47oNS

[@arnoldreiter435]

as a portable build how do you charge with portable solar panels? this would be a great loaner unit but what kind of solar input that is portable can go with it?

[@thechamp66]

As always, great DYI video Ben! Unrelated to this video, I noticed you got yourself a Victron Autotransformer sitting on top of your DP3. Just curious if you ever did happen to connect it in between your EcoFlow (EF) Double Volta Hub (DVH) and your SS2-50P inlet connected to your interlock breaker to keep both EF Delta Pros (DPs) depleting equally? Edit: I made the comment above before I saw you using the AT to get split phase. LOL

[@marcfruchtman9473]

EG4 has a UL listing for Solar but I can't seem to find the UL listing for the Vatrer anywhere, do you have a link to the spec sheet that shows the UL listing? (Without it, I can't get it to pass a local inspection for solar install)

[@martinroskres1297]

Please show split phase and batteries set up

[@Annon89]

I thought if you powered the inverter in with 60hz it would swap to 60hz. I’m planning on getting one of these soon so it would be great to see an update.

[@minutemanprep]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/hpqXi4J5n56Hirssi=6A0n-lXqhQu47oNS

[@WattsMiner]

Guys want 240 just use a 6000xp or 12kXP

[@HippocratesGarden]

EG4 3k. settings, Option 9, change from 50hz to 60 hz. In the manual. It worked for me, but been a bit so I don't remember exactly how I did it. might need to not be under load.

[@bellewighton3904]

Split phase and expansion, please!!

[@Scat.original]

Link to solar panel leg?

[@tammydowell589]

Did you get it to set to 60hz?

[@minutemanprep]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/hpqXi4J5n56Hirssi=6A0n-lXqhQu47oNS

[@RandallSoong-pp7ih]

Split phase/expansion sir

[@frednelledimond6659]

Spilt phase and battery stacking options videos please

[@Cgconst1]

Split-phase and expansion please … THANKS!

[@TimRoyalPastortim]

Split phase... Definitely concerned about the 60hz issue

[@czexybeast]

Split phase, please?

[@Kingaliat305]

Can you create content with eg4 6000XP

[@jeffreyjackson]

Split phase & Expansion please!

[@abzz132u]

Split / expand!

[@mississippi4589]

Split phase and expandable Thanks

[@CET675]

so. it will not do 60hz?

[@williamwilson6499]

“The inverter should be set to standby mode with its power turned off while being connected to two power sources, such as PV and Battery. This configuration would then permit the adjustment of the frequency.”

[@minutemanprep]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/hpqXi4J5n56Hirssi=6A0n-lXqhQu47oNS

[@GregNTech]

So is that a defective EG-4 inverter? 50hz is not good for US electronics.

[@minutemanprep]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/hpqXi4J5n56Hirssi=6A0n-lXqhQu47oNS

[@OptimalTraining]

Split phase please

[@txpushrod62]

Split phase for 50a 5th wheel.

[@mrrodgers5789]

Split phase and expansion please

[@bryanh4126]

Split phase and expansion please

[@about2088]

JD Vance does solar videos now? 😅

[@JohnResciniti]

split phase, please!

[@bluegrasscheryl]

Split phase please and thank you

[@squidboy0769]

split phase, expansion

[@errolcain4071]

Please do the split phase

[@JeremyWaltrip]

SPLIT PHASE!!!!

[@elvacolyer6363]

Split phase, please.

[@mr.c6674]

Split phase and expansion WITH a solution to change and keep this DIY at 60Hz.

[@minutemanprep]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/hpqXi4J5n56Hirssi=6A0n-lXqhQu47oNS

[@clarencewiles963]

I can’t use 50Hz. As you showed us you can’t change it to 60Hz. And I’ll not rely on a maybe! I watched your video twice and nevertheless no 60Hz.

[@liftbikerun]

Yeah, this is a pretty glaring omission. Like, oh well can't change it, that'll be fine. Not when you plug your first micro processor device in it won't be.

[@clarencewiles963]

@ I guess you could plug it into a clock and see it run ten minutes late. I wasn’t happy with that outcome.

[@williamwilson6499]

“The inverter should be set to standby mode with its power turned off while being connected to two power sources, such as PV and Battery. This configuration would then permit the adjustment of the frequency.”

[@clarencewiles963]

@@williamwilson6499 so no plug and play. I would prefer a hard set and not rely on it should work.

[@minutemanprep]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/hpqXi4J5n56Hirssi=6A0n-lXqhQu47oNS

[@Count_Smackula]

Split phase please!

[@ClickPro87]

Split Phazzzzzze!

[@WanderingTuckers]

split phase & expansion, por favor!

[@stevegrifftx]

Awesome

[@FrankCarnevale-sp9pw]

EG4 Split phase Hybrid 12KpV please!

[@clyderichards190]

Split phase Expansion 🙏

[@WichitaFallFishKeeper]

Split phase please

[@Paulwilliams203]

Split phase please

[@Samc6127]

Split Phase please!!!!!

[@HJSHEWMAKE]

Split Phase and expansion

[@RandyPloof]

Split phase DIY for crypto mining please.

[@nathanaelor]

split phase+

[@cdmterra]

Split phase and expandable

[@martinesters1895]

split phase and expansion

[@gleefulbiker]

Split phase. Expansion. Need I say more.

[@KarlJoslin]

Split phase and expansion

[@j-lizgriffith6391]

Split phase please!!!

[@WattsMiner]

Use a 6000xp

[@TheSpdrcer]

Split phase!

[@jinblade]

Split Phase/ Expansion

[@timalberts3864]

Split phase Expansion

[@hopechannelcat5462]

split phase

[@thewildgreek1]

Split Phase

[@joshbuell7933]

expansion

[@robertdebfergeson6374]

split and expantion