DIY Off-Grid Solar Generator (rev 1) - Low-Cost Portable Power

Portable Solar Power System
Features:
• always-available portable AC power
• cart makes transport around property convenient
• can be charged from AC power or solar
• high capacity
• power can be extended by connecting to car batteries
• battery maintainer keeps system at full capacity
• 1750W/95Ah
Wiring Diagram: www.desertprep.info/Diagram_re...
Build List
GP-1750HD 1750-Watt Heavy Duty Modified Sine Wave Inverter
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...
$251.43
Renogy 200 Watts 12 Volts Monocrystalline Solar Bundle Kit
(2x solar panel, charge controller, wiring)
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...
$292.46
Super Start Marine - Deep-Cycle Marine Battery Part # 27DCMJ
www.oreillyauto.com/detail/ma...
$91.99
BLACK+DECKER BM3B 6V and 12V Automatic Battery Charger / Maintainer
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...
$16.78
600 lb. Capacity Heavy Duty Hand Truck
www.harborfreight.com/600-lb-...
$39.99
Total Cost: $692.65 + tax
Roughly equivalent to Goal Zero Yeti 1250 + two 100W solar panel kits (1250W/100Ah)
Cost: $2,000

[@kathyledesma6773]

We have used the kzbin.infoUgkxOTeIs0vv4_9B5hsmnLsk9r930uDQLu_Y for probably 30 hours with our camper and it’s been great! The noise level is really only noticeable when running the AC and other appliances like the microwave, hair dryer, or coffee pot. It’s not huge like other ones and it has wheels so even at 90lbs, I can move it!

[@refugiopoint]

Man, I watch lots of You Tube videos, this is one of the best, it's well organized, to the point, extremely professional, informative, very nicely done! Thanks

[@JoseMolina-sj1km]

I'm not sure but ,if anyone else trying to find out installing your own solar power system try Magonsi Solar System Expert (Have a quick look on google cant remember the place now ) ? Ive heard some awesome things about it and my m8 got amazing success with it.

[@seanbaker8231]

My thoughts exactly..

[@akirchner3]

I just stumbled onto this. Nice job sir! Once suggestion, from an electrical engineer here: I didn't get a good look at the cables connecting the battery to the inverter but they look a little small. If you try to use the inverter near its full capacity it will try to pull something like 150 amps from the battery. At that level of current a lot of power will be lost to heat in the battery wires (and the battery won't like it much either). Also, the voltage at the inverter will drop enough to cause it to quit. Consider scaling back your expectations as to how much power you can draw from your system at once, upgrading the batteryinverter wiring to something like 2 gauge or larger, or both. Very nice system though.

[@druborup739]

Yours are the most helpful solar build videos I've found after weeks of research! Thank you so much for posting!

[@rongray4118]

I believe you just came up with an RV solution for us! Thank You!! Blessings!!

[@N8TheSnake]

Broski this is exactly what I've been eyeballing for a solar generator build. I already have some components necessary! Great presentation!

[@trashacct81]

At first glance, the project seemed out of my comfort zone as a weekend DIYer. After listening to your explanation, I really want to try this. Doable.

[@donnoyes4126]

Simple, straight forward set-up. Very nice! Thanks for sharing.

[@amathonn]

I have minimal expertise in this field so I can't critique the quality of your product to any extent. But your presentation is one of the best I've seen. No wasted words, good description of components and pricing. for it all. Thanks!

[@jasonwalker9808]

two years later and your still kicking ass . awesome video. not to be corny but desert prep you just may have saved a lot of lives down the road . be safe everyone and watch your 6.

[@dockworker1543]

WOW! You've captured what I have been trying to figure out brilliantly! I have a Renogy 100 watt kitt that I will be installing at my off grid barn this summer for lighting and small power needs. Brilliant!

[@DesertPrep]

Thanks for the kind comments. Be sure to check out the video for the upgraded version - I think that’ll be helpful for your project. In a week or two, I’ll post the wiring schematic, and results of the tests i’m running to see how it does IRL.

[@cedarmountainsurvivalsearw1893]

I am a fan of your pragmatic approach to solar in a real world disaster scenario! Props to you for realizing the need for this video in our world. Prophetic 2 years ago? Definitely will follow you. Ty!

[@FiveRocketeer]

Thank you for making this. Seriously exactly what I needed, I will look for more!!

[@cherylmahaffey4645]

Excellent presentation of a good concept, especially for us less savvy preppers.

[@DesertPrep]

Thanks - I appreciate the feedback. I’ve been helped immeasurably by others in the community, and I’m pleased to repay it where I can. All the best...

[@jimmysjamin1]

What is there not to like about this very well done tutorial. I just loved it thank-you so much for taking the time to make this and share ! I know very little about converting and this will be a huge help too be sure .

[@chronobot2001]

Suggestions: Use a mppt charge controller for added efficiency and flexibility with solar panels of different voltages. Use a lithium iron phosphate battery. More expensive but lighter, deeper discharge without damage, no maintenance and a much much longer usable lifespan. Also, provide a way to utilise the DC voltage directly without turning on the inverter. No need to turn on the inverter to charge your cell phone. These modifications would probably add another $400 to the build price but it would take this to an entirely different level. Totally worth the additional money. I would suggest using the system I described as a regular power source for a few specific small loads. I use mine to power my cpap machine lights and a small TV in my bedroom. A permanently mounted solar panel and lithium battery means absolutely no maintenance and it is ready to go when the peer fails. Excellent video and a very clean build... your configuration is definitely usable as is. Enjoy.

[@jcgomez2931]

one of the best and simple set ups I've seen

[@MrDazydaz]

Thank you so much. It's Great people like you that really motivates others to do great things. I will build also and let you know when I'm finished.

[@elizabethnieves2047]

I like this! Same thing happened to me, those units are really expensive and only built to last a couple of years. Not worth the high price. I will try to make my own. Thank you for sharing!

[@Omegatonboom]

This is exactly what I wanted to find. Perfect. Great video. Great work! Very impressed even though it's so basic you'd think more people might be doing it?

[@TheHandsOnChannel]

Nice job, I need something like this for my off grid location.

[@eyeswideshut2800]

Hey that's almost just like my bedroom fridge, mine totally rocks, love the separate freezer compartment.

[@lbschatz]

I really liked this video. Thank you. The practical use of this systems would be very handy for my RV. I LOVE free energy!

[@DesertPrep]

Check out the the builder’s guide video ( kzbin.info/www/bejne/bJjPfGtjfsh3nac ). There’s a link in the comments for a design calculator worksheet. You can download it and evaluate various choices for the components, so your build will be a complete success.

[@burtonhollabaugh3767]

RV !!!

[@stephenmitchell3569]

I was considering a similar design Harbor Freight solar panels on the roof of my golf cart and I had 6000 watt inverter to go in the back. I just hadn't put everything together your video informative and realistic thank you for information and inspiration. Great video!

[@DesertPrep]

Thanks for the feedback. I can’t see too much utility in such a big inverter. Without a LOT more battery and panels, practical loads are more likely in the several-hundred watt range.

[@stephenmitchell3569]

Desert Prep golf cart had 8/6volt batteries and panels on roof was why not. When want charge I have water power gen. 50amp. It ride and multiple outlets for work or play. I run moving targets on my shooting range and it easy for power outage also who has power bank with mag wheels and run 50 mph 😇😇😇.

[@rudykazoodies]

Nice job, thinking outside the box (store). Not only does DIY'ing these types of projects often result in a viable SHTF back-up unit, it improves our critical thinking & problem solving skills in other area's for when the SHTF actually happens. Thanks Desert Prep.

[@DesertPrep]

...box (store)... got a chuckle from that... thanks

[@sailingyemaya9781]

Nice build, I like the open design with a lead acid battery

[@rebelcharlie]

I see this as a very nice starter system, to which you can add another charge controller, solar panels and batteries in order to expand it as need arises and money is available.

[@yosoyelsupremo]

One of the best DIY solar generator, added to my favs vids 👍👍

[@bsdguy]

Great job. I think you covered it all.

[@jamespino1108]

GOOD JOB THIS SYSTEM CAN BE IMPROVED AS YOU NEED TO AND THE ADVANTAGE IS YOU KNOW EXACTLY HOW IT IS BUILD

[@independentthinker9113]

BRILLIANT design and explanation!

[@Greenmachine305]

No criticisms. Nice unit. Good job.

[@DesertPrep]

Many thanks. Appreciate the comment.

[@ArthursHD]

Could add DC port to run laptops, LED's, USB powered devices, etc. About 10% longer compared to running them trough inverter.

[@DesertPrep]

Thanks for the comment. :)

[@ben8090]

Great video. Maybe you could use a bigger battery to store the energy generated as standard and also a way to carry the panels on the trolley, and shield the battery / inverter from the sun.

[@dpawsey56]

Greenmachine305 I

[@heyman5525]

Fantastic quality video. That answers a lot of questions for me.

[@Kronos2361]

Excellent presentation. I would say if this fits your needs then fantastic. You have the ability to add or subtract whatever you like. I have a large unit myself for more of a bugout application. As someone mentioned .... Battery types. Adding a battery is always an option which is a great idea. You may want a bigger inverter. I would say it's all personal choices. If you go larger on solar panels then you may consider an MPPT controller. That would always maximize your solar battery input. Yes sir... a fine job and thank you.

[@jonathanhansen3709]

Just came across your site. Love the postings. Plan to watch them all!

[@DesertPrep]

Thanks for the kind feedback.

[@lynnrabe4428]

this is a great setup. i am researching options for my off grid cabin, and really like the hand truck for moving it around.

[@DesertPrep]

Thanks got the comment. Be sure to check out the follow up videos - I’ve made several enhancements that would make the unit a good choice for your off-grid application. The builder’s guide video includes a design worksheet you can download to calculate the parameters for all your components.

[@lynnrabe4428]

Desert Prep will do, thank you!

[@anthonymarino4260]

smart build. better than any on the market well done

[@mandelharvey3429]

Great video and almost exactly what I'm looking for. I intend to make one of these to take my refrigerator off the grid to pay for it. I intend to use a shorter cart with harbor freight wheels. The missing link for me was the solar charger kit. I need a generator like once every other year so taking my fridge off grid is the immediate goal. The fridge, lights and TV. Oughta save a few hundred bucks a year.

[@ScubaSam242]

Wonderful Job, you inspired me to get started on my next project

[@DesertPrep]

Very cool! Let me know what you build - I’d like to know what improvements you make on your own unit.

[@1MasterLi]

It's a nice system. We should consider that a 12v 1750watts inverter has a 146 amps draw from the battery making it inefficient, so a 24 volt system would be much more efficient and safe even pulling 73 amps from a 24 v battery set up, and it's efficiency would entirely depend on available ah fir long term uses.

[@raulsoto05]

Awesome and thanks for sharing. I think I will build one. We camp a whole lot and this unit would come in handy. Thanks again.

[@DesertPrep]

Cool. I’ve posted a wiring diagram you might find helpful. www.desertprep.info/schematic.pdf

[@rklauco]

Suggestion - move the plate with the inverter up towards the handle and add another battery holder - you can double the storage capacity by doing this. Also, USB charger on the power strip is a bad idea - you are converting DC to AC and back to DC. The converters within the power strips tend to have horrible power factor - I strongly suggest to add DC-to-DC converter - like the one you can buy for use in vehicles - and power it directly from the battery. Nice build, btw.

[@DesertPrep]

Good suggestions. I’ve taken your idea on the USBs, adding a 12V-driven USB on the Rev 2 unit. I’m looking at expanding battery capacity in the Rev 3 unit. Thanks for the feedback - much appreciated.

[@joepiloto]

I really like the additional battery. Would this require more solar panels to keep charged in your area? And how would the capacity values change? Cost comparison to larger yeti.

[@ahamadshah7666]

I just built one before watching this, and I must say, it's amazing, awesome that we all are thinking towards the same goals...

[@mykalmcfarland9106]

@@DesertPrep Is this the new upgraded version? kzbin.info/www/bejne/h4u8cnSXqcmfo8U

[@monkeysgonna5306]

Good no-bullshit-direct-to-point-clear-instructions video. Keep it up

[@DesertPrep]

My pleasure. There’s a lot of good info in the builder’s guide. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bJjPfGtjfsh3nac

[@jeffreylally4722]

very nice professional video. when I first started solar. I used marine deep cycle battery. when I switched over to golf cart battery. a night and day difference

[@DesertPrep]

My experience is similar. More on that in an up-coming video.

[@bucky1996]

Nice build! Sparked some ideas for me. Thanks!

[@DesertPrep]

Glad to hear you’re inspired. I’m working on a builder’s guide with a wiring diagram, a pretty useful worksheet for getting the right components, and a report on the real-world tests. I think this will help people build their own units that will be perfect for their needs.

[@kenneth6731]

I have pretty much the same thing, except I mounted a small 12v flood light from an RV in that little area above your power strip on mine. It's been very handy.

[@laylababjak3444]

Excellent video. This girl is ready to build her own now. Thank you!

[@DesertPrep]

Glad to hear you’re inspired. Be sure to check out the build video for the final version of the generator which details the build process and includes a parts list, wiring diagram and engineering worksheet to help choose components. kzbin.info/www/bejne/h4u8cnSXqcmfo8U.

[@timw999]

Great Job. Your hand truck idea was fantastic. Now thinking of a way to mount the solar panels for easy movement, considering correct angles and maintains as much as possible the footprint of the hand-truck during storage

[@8ank3r]

this is a great device you have made. I would put brackets s on the front to set your panels on so that you could move the entire unit with panels at one time.

[@jamess4351]

Great video. Using your video I've built a similar solar unit with a wind turbine. Mine is not portable but the guts are more or less the same. Cheers!

[@erikparker9900]

Desert prep, You took a seemingly complicated project and simplified it to the point of stupid...for guys like me. Thanks!! ~:) I've been looking into doing dang near the same thing with the same specs. Down here in southern Az. This is the best option for my rv and for the house.!! VERY COOL.

[@DesertPrep]

Thanks for the very kind feedback. Also, I've posted the wiring diagram in the comment at the top in case that helps. Be sure to check out the Rev 2 unit - it has some important improvements. Also, there will be a Rev 3, following my real-world test video, out in a few days...

[@j.w.m.rhynejr9766]

Great build!Thanks for your inspiration!

[@MyWasteOfTime]

I had almost this exact same setup a few years ago. But I out grew the dolly! Good Video!

[@DesertPrep]

I can see why. Since mine’s for emergency grid-down use, I like the small footprint in my garage where it lives. Thanks for sharing your experience, and for the kind comment.

[@autocool2]

Great presentation. Short and simple. Keep it up.

[@oldvideos1]

great video! i used it for inspiration and built my own 12v cart, just posted it

[@Bwilly04091]

Thanks for the video very helpful. I really like the cost difference.

[@want2seeall]

Very well done and looking forward to others.

[@robertbaig2295]

Nice job. I made one myself out of a tool box that I attach Wheels to with handles and I put two batteries inside the toolbox with the inverter of the solar charge controller and I bolted 100 watt panel on top of the lid of the toolbox it works great I get a lot of comments and compliments when we go camping

[@DesertPrep]

Sounds like a great rig! Watch out for high temps in the box - batteries really hate heat. Thanks for commenting. Lots of people will like your idea.

[@robertbaig2295]

Desert Prep thank you sir.

[@Aaron16211]

Good video and presentation. Nice build. Mine is very familiar with the same red, big wheeled trolley. It works great for all my tool shop needs in the summer. 2 125 watt solar PV panels, 2 large batteries in the bottom, 5000 watt inverter and charge controller.

[@DesertPrep]

Sounds like a great setup...

[@jessstone7211]

Wow, this is so good! I'm a female with -zero- electrical know-how but fascinated by solar. I too live in the southwest (Phoenix) and solar seems a no brainer to me...but there are so many different angles. Your presentation not only makes sense but the cost puts it over the top, as superior - thank you! I wonder if I could get someone to make one of these for me!

[@Nitecrow314]

I'm sure you could figure out how to make one yourself, with a bit of research and a self-confidence boost 🤔😁

[@ruthkramer4107]

Love that yours is on wheels

[@andygrayson7485]

great video, makes it a lot easier to get the basics, being basic!

[@DesertPrep]

Thanks! Check out the follow-up videos for enhancements and all the math to do it right.

[@DesertPrep]

I appreciate you offering the idea. The idea of fixing the panels to the cart in some way is one of the most popular. (I‘d considered it in the beginning, but discarded the idea because of practical realities that preclude it). First, the hand truck is quite heavy with two batteries, particularly if using AGM batteries (weighing in at 135 lb / 61kg for just the two batteries) - fixing the panels to the truck will add both weight and bulk, making it too unwieldy to be practical. Second, the tilt and direction of the panels has quite an effect on the solar energy gathered - fixing the panels to the truck with hinges will make it difficult to optimize this in any way. Third, I found nowhere on the property that I could get all-day sun at ground level - it was necessary to put the panels up high and there’s no way the truck is going to get to where the panels need to be. The final solution for me was to mount the panels in simple frames on the shade structure above the BBQ in a semi-permanent way, and run wire with a disconnect reaching a protected area under our covered patio where the generator is sheltered from rain. When the generator is needed, I can roll it out of the garage and plug in the panels. For my concept of a portable emergency solar power generator, this seems like an ideal solution. A of course, “your mileage may vary...”

[@davidkingston7533]

My school project is done thank you !!

[@desparky]

Fantastic. It's nice to see somebody who's actually built something, with the humility to accept there may be improvements on the design. Your unit should be able to do the job intended and power a lot of devices in most cases. I could only suggest using an AGM battery (as a few others have). They're getting cheaper all the time now. I love the design, it's well thought out and very practical. I might make something similar for emergency power, and camping. Cheers from Australia.

[@DesertPrep]

A thanks for the kind comment. The project has had a good evolution, and rev 3 has two AGM batteries and a number of improvements. Check out the the builder’s guide video ( kzbin.info/www/bejne/bJjPfGtjfsh3nac ). There’s a link in the comments for a design calculator worksheet. You can download it and evaluate various choices for the components, so your build will be a complete success.

[@outbackeddie]

Wow, your solar generator set up is almost identical to mine except I am using a slightly smaller 1.5KW inverter. I especially like the way you set up the hand truck to make the whole package portable. My portable solar power system isn't as portable as yours so I will be borrowing your hand truck idea to make some improvements. Thanks for sharing.

[@DesertPrep]

Thanks for the comment. It’s particularly nice to find others that have put together their best knowledge and arrived at the same place. Be sure to check out the follow-up videos, especially the builder’s guide. You might get another idea or two. In about two weeks, I’ll post a video on the “final” version which is considerably more capable, and integrates a lot of the suggestions from the comments.

[@alitlweird]

I read several dozen comments on this video and there’s not a single negative comment among them. Nice. 😎

[@aims1687]

Thanks for posting and the material listing. This is very helpful. All the best.

[@DesertPrep]

Look for the upgraded list in the Rev 2 unit. It has a better inverter. I’ll be posting a builder’s guide with design worksheet you can use to spec out your own unit in the next 48 hours, so stay tuned...

[@DesertPrep]

Check out the Builders Guide video with wiring diagram and downloadable design worksheet that does all the engineering math for you. With the worksheet, you can play “what if?” with different batteries, controllers and panels to map out your own perfect generator or evaluate upgrades to your system. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bJjPfGtjfsh3nac

[@princessgreen726]

I truly love this and wish to have one in my house but I have no engineering aptitude

[@ramzeneger]

Desert Prep, more power to you. Pls make more videos like this one because it is not only so educational it is also super fun to watch and you nailed it brother, if all the youtube videos are like this one, we will be building a lot solar panels system all over the world and get rid of old, inefficient form of power generation that is not only dirty but expensive, thank you.

[@DesertPrep]

Thanks for the very kind feedback. I’ve just completed the fourth revision / rebuild of the solar generator, and I’m running the measurement testing to see the improvements. This time the video will show how it’s constructed. Of course, there will be a wiring diagram and complete parts list. I’ll also include the downloadable Design Guide worksheet so you can build your own project, evaluate your existing system, or play “what if?” with possible upgrades. There’s ready a Design Guide video with the worksheet download link at kzbin.info/www/bejne/bJjPfGtjfsh3nac

[@affordablesolarguy]

I was wondering where I got the idea, here you are. I sold a 1 thousand dollar portable unit to a friend, I mounted it on a dolly too ;)

[@sonyagriffy]

This is a great video, thank you for sharing.

[@dobson777a]

Excellent approach and presentation.

[@dcclebanon]

1 1/2 year ago I made a similar set up, but with only Harbor Freight equipment, except for the dolly I had and the electrical strip, is a 45 watt solar cell set up and a 2000 watt power inverter, not much but works perfectly for what I need when I go to my little plot of land in the Samalayuca Desert, I got an extra car eq. and amp. to plug in my mp3 player, and as long as we have sun light, I can use tools, hear music, and have lighting for the night, simple, not that eficient, but works fine with me. So cool what you did :), and pardon my english, don't know if I wrote something wrong, it's been a long time since I wrote that much in english LOL JA!JA!JA!.. SALUDOS from Juárez Mex. :)

[@damon2692]

Nice product ! You can also weld mounts for the solar panels on the cart :)

[@eticket70]

Nice vid! Would be great to see it in action! 👍

[@rogerpedrosa1854]

Wow awesome...thank you for pointing me in right direction

[@fleshTH]

Wow.. I just came here because it looked interesting. Most of the time people say "affordable", but it's still more than i'm willing to spend. But this is actually fantastic. Plus, it can be a modular design. Allowing for incremental upgrades while keeping costs low. for example swapping out the battery for something other than lead acid.

[@DesertPrep]

Absolutely - pretty much the way this has gone for me. Check out the follow-up videos for upgrade details and a design worksheet to hel_ evaluate options.

[@richardowens9061]

I like the idea and have built something similar myself, with a few differences, of course. I chose to use a large plastic tool box with wheels and an extendable handle. I also chose to use a pair of 55 amp hour AGM batteries connected in parallel, for a total of 110 amp hours of capacity, or 55 amp hours of usable capacity. The AGM batteries have the advantage of not being spillable. The tool box also allows all of the components to be enclosed, except the inverter which is mounted to the side. I chose to go with a 20 amp MPPT solar charge controller that flush mounts on the opposite side of the inverter and the connections are available inside the box. So, I made a pair of solar input terminals out of some 1/4 inch nuts, bolts, lock washers, and washers that I painted red and black. The panels connect to those. And, I put a 12vdc socket, a pair of Anderson Power Pole connectors, a pair of 5 way binding posts, a pair of high current output terminals like the solar panel input terminals, and a volt meter on the front where the handle extends. It proved useful for several years, until the AGM batteries went flat and I just haven't replaced them - because, I built a new battery box featuring a Lithium Iron Phosphate battery pack made up of 128 26650 LiFePO4 cells that are each 3.2vdc at 3300mAH in a 4S32P arrangement, producing 105.6 amp hours capacity at 12.8 volts. This pack can be discharged 80% rather than just 50% and will provide 2000-3000 cycles and could last 20 to 30 years. It can also be charged with a standard lead acid battery charger; although, I'm using a Chinese 30 amp switching power supply that I got off ebay for about $25.00 to supply charge current to an ISDT Q6 Plus Balance Charger that provides cell level voltage and current monitoring. I installed a 300 Watt pure sine wave inverter in this box, rather than a larger one - because, I needed the other space in the box for the charging supply, ISDT Q6 balance charger, and 30 amp solar charge controller also installed. But, that's all the power I typically will need. The best thing about this battery box is that it is much smaller and weighs about 45 pounds, rather than the 105 pounds the old box weighs. And, I added Bluetooth connectivity through the solar charge controller for remotely monitoring the battery condition, input and output current, and solar panel input power, as well as being able to switch the loads on and off remotely through the app. Of course, the second box cost a lot more to put together - over $900.00 for the components, including the battery pack, but not including the two 100 watt panels I hinged together with PVC tilt stands. I already had those. So, yes, I think you did a great thing - and, something I recommend anyone who needs portable power at cheaper than retail prices should do. And, I had fun doing it. My primary use for both battery boxes has been for emergency power and to supply power to my portable amateur radio gear when out in the field. Thanks, for your video! It was nicely done! I particularly liked that you put the unit on a neutral background and just got into the details - which is what I tend to prefer. So, thanks, again!

[@DesertPrep]

Wow! Thanks for the detailed report. I’m still digesting it - especially the numbers. I can see you gave some consideration to cooling. Good because batteries really hate heat. The real-world testing is adding a lot to my understanding of an ideal setup, and the detail you provided really helps me compare notes. I’m pretty sure the experience you related will contribute to my test report, and to my next build. Thank you.

[@richardowens9061]

Another advantage of the LiFePO4 cells is that they don't get hot - under charge or discharge (at least, not while limited by the design specifications of this project, anyway). And, for further thermal management, while the unit is in operation under a high load I leave the top off of the tool box. Otherwise, nothing gets even warm inside. Now, LiFePO4 cells don't like extremely cold temperatures, so I immobilized the battery pack (about 3" x 12" x 18" - looks like a metal sheet cake) in the bottom of the battery box by laying down a 1/4 inch sheet of neoprene and placed 3" x 3" x 19" foam acoustic insulation blocks, like you might use inside a stereo speaker, around the sides. Then. I placed a styrofoam sheet on top of the battery pack and covered that with a 1/4" piece of blackboard material onto which I mounted the circuitry for the unit. This board is held in place on the sides by 1 x 4 pieces of wood painted black and bolted to the tool box. The battery pack isn't going anywhere, even if the box takes a tumble, and it is protected from extreme cold - as long as you don't just store it in extreme cold. It's going to be fine overnight while camping in cold weather. If I could attach photos, I would. And, at some point, I intend to make a video covering this project. I didn't take any video while building it, but I did take still photos of the components and the box at various stages of completion against a white foam-core background. I just have to create the narrative script and put it all together - a project in and of itself (as I'm sure you know). And, of course, I maintained a list of components used and prices paid. I just finished the build in the last couple of weeks.

[@johnroddy8756]

You win on price hands down a credit

[@xLymonx]

Thx for your insight, I am thinking of building a unit similar to yours and put it in my van. Or something modular that's easily service/replace.

[@Jtronique]

Three years later, my first view, I'd say your video held up well over time! I LOVE how you mounted these on a hand truck! Since it is, however, 3 years later, would you modify/change any of the components or have you seen specific price breaks on any of the components, or better ones? THANK YOU so much! @DesertPrep

[@geraldmoorespeaks4960]

I'm going to try and build this.

[@david_1956]

Very nice setup. I would suggest using 6 volt golf cart batteries for more amp hrs and longevity. Also, a small propane genny is a great backup for overcast or night charging.

[@servicekallllc856]

This will be a great one. Will save this video too refer to

[@danb7721]

Real nice setup for much cheaper than others, great job! Only thing that didn’t make sense was 6 hours on a box fan but 12 on an LED TV which uses much more power than a fan, that doesn’t make sense. Trying to calculate my ductless mini split running all night to sleep cool while batteries are charged during the day. Living in the sunshine state I figured might as well take advantage.

[@denassdidu]

Thankk You for a wonderful presentation. You have a Great knowledge into this.

[@DesertPrep]

Thanks for the compliment. The rev 4 generator video details the build process for a more capable unit. kzbin.info/www/bejne/h4u8cnSXqcmfo8U. Let me know what you think...

[@tomascharles5080]

I have been looking for something like this thanks for sharing your work .good job.

[@DesertPrep]

Thanks - glad to share with other like- indeed people.

[@emmyann8214]

Awesome video thanks for the advice I'll build one like yours .

[@DesertPrep]

Check out the the builder’s guide video ( kzbin.info/www/bejne/bJjPfGtjfsh3nac ). There’s a link in the comments for a design calculator worksheet. You can download it and evaluate various choices for the components, so your build will be a complete success.

[@ball7066]

Excellent! Just the kind of system I've been thinking about. Not to live "off grid", but a simple system to use in an emergency, something that will provide some electrical convenience for up to a few weeks if needed. And a system that is fairly inexpensive and easy to move around, if needed. I might think about a sealed batter so I don't get a buildup of hydrogen gas while charging. Wish Lithium batteries would come down in price, they're still too expensive in 2020! Thanks!

[@dirk480]

One advantage you have is that you built it yourself so in a SHTF situation you stand a better chance of repairing your solar generator than someone that bought a Yeti and has no idea how it works. Even if they knew how if worked, acquiring parts could be dificult. Nice job.

[@mikeoutdoors4729]

Great build, wish someone would do this and bring the cost down of these types of set ups.

[@miorkhairi3937]

im inspired to build one . thanks

[@landonhall1451]

Great video. good description of your needs and sizing of the unit. I've done the same thing to insure that we can power electronics and my CPAP, but mine's not portable. we lose power here due to ice storms every other year or so. We also have gas generator power as well. I like the hand truck idea. I think there's some welding in my future.

[@lionelemata7433]

I cut my cpap wire between the transformer and the cpap. I made a connecter to use it in normal mode and made a connecter wire with a cigar lighter connector. When I go camping, I plugged it into a home depot jump start/compressor/usb/cigar lighter and it lasted 4 days. I will build a desert prep inspired unit in the future for emergency use though. GREAT VID.

[@chuckstarwar7890]

You did a great job.

[@johnm.harper773]

Thank you for sharing!

[@donnamichaelgolelswholesom385]

I think that you are the greatest. Innovation... You rule!!

[@DesertPrep]

Gosh, you make me blush. Thanks for the kindness.

[@jpk2420]

Excellent presentation.

[@amsohn1]

Awesome, thanks for sharing

[@mybeautyplace]

Good Job is very nice and upgradeable that is very important

[@astatine0085]

Heard about you in @TheAngryPrepper's live chat, tonight. Great ideas, here, thanks for sharing!