DIY Solar Powered Playhouse A/C. Does it work?

[@briansavage932]

You can further reduce the workload of the a/c by installing a whirlybird vent on the top of the playhouse. This will allow all the convective heat that collects near the roof to be automatically vented. It's what I do for my detached garage and I have to run my a/c unit about half as much.

[@colbyjoe2]

He needs some on the main house too. Maybe low profile solar ones.

[@MariusViken]

I often find the comments on Vans videos as interesting as the tips in the video, because of people like you. That´s a really good tip I needed too! Thank you

[@ianmcnemar]

I needed that vent tip too. Thanks!

[@jeffdrees1892]

My advice. Insulation. EcoFlows inside. Roof vent. Reflective material on roof under panels. Don't stop making videos.

[@ruiloureiro3167]

Agree! Reflective material under panels for sure. Ecoflow inside or under a shade during all sunlight hours. As for the vent, not so sure. The structure is so small that it may not need it or be counterproductive (letting out air that is cool enough, although on top). Maybe testing this would be a fun little project.

[@bomber767]

I was quite literally going to post a comment saying pretty much every single thing you just said, haha! Nice work!

[@joshramsey6893]

Jeff Drees…boom! You nailed it.

[@doodieman4009]

That is a pretty cool idea. Seems like the Delta Max did not have any problems powering the air conditioning unit.

[@JerryRigEverything]

Ecoflow rocks. I have their setup in my barn. 10/10.

[@abegomez5363]

As a novice self proclaimed handyman... I have to state how useful the b-roll between 0:35 - 1:00 was for me : ) so many little lessons there!

[@winstonzeb2842]

The stand off for the solar panels was a great idea even if they didn't have solar capabilities on the back side. The cooler the panels stay the more efficient they are! That was a great way to ensure good air flow around the panels!

[@user-bv4fn4hw4w]

Zeb mcha ikhteb - l9lawi daro l3cha

[@jbh8791]

I love his son's oh so innocent, "But I want to be in here." when told he couldn't be in a 112° playhouse. I get it kid, I'd want to be in my special place too, lol. Thanks for fixing it for him dad. He'll remember these moments when you took time to make something special for him or fix a problem so he can enjoy it more.

[@Trapper3000]

I think that AC unit deserves a date carved into it. Well done Van.

[@bitboy]

Another way to improve cooling is by installing insulation - contrary to popular myth, a well-insulated home keeps cool in summer because the insulation stops the heat from the sun on the roof and walls from seeping into the house, just like a chilly bin.

[@Rick-the-Swift]

It's not exactly a myth. Insulation can be a problem if it's not installed correctly, or if it's installed inappropriately, which is why I think many people attribute it as a cause of over heating. Especially when windows are creating a green house effect. Just like in a solar heat collector, insulation can help a home keep some of the sun's warmth- which can be dangerous on high temp days.

[@deejaypile]

I know theres an ad, but damn that’s how you make sponsored content without being a sell-out W Spirited Man

[@RocketDog73]

That mouse hole for the AC wire was awesome.

[@New_Identity]

That California carpentry is top notch, great job! . In Illinois if you want it to last it needs to be pressure treated and costs $$

[@michaelmolter8828]

Another good application for a super cheap, super small, no name brand mini split! Cooling in the summer, heating in the winter!

[@canadude6401]

Amazing! Add insulation and a roof vent and this could be a perfect place for afternoon naps.

[@nedanother9382]

Hey Van, you're a great dad. I'm surprised that you didn't start at the beginning. If it was ridiculously insulated it would not only be better during the summer but really nice during the winter months for sleep outs. Insulate before power....it saves even more energy and cuts out a bunch of sound. I use 4 x 8 sheets of styro and spray foam to stick it to anything like you use plywood.

[@PaulaHeartland]

Your voice, your storytelling, your camera angles are so soothing to listen to and see. PS I understand others wanting you to insulate, but you have such pretty wood on the inside I wouldn't do it. However I do like the whirligig we put in our remodeled garage/office. Thank you for an entertaining and instructional video. Love it.

[@ianmcnemar]

Awesome video. I love seeing the EcoFlow units out to work in a practical way. I have the Max unit and two 160w panels that I use to power my workshop. They’re freaking awesome.

[@formlessuk]

Thank you for the metric. Very considerate as usual!

[@celes6402]

Honestly Van that was such an awesome video. Literally a childhood dream come to life and the little guy doesn't even know was waiting for him what an awesome surprise/ idea. I think the only thing that you could do to further improve would add housing to the solar batteries on the outside you know just like a little rectangular box nothing special but you know can never be too safe with those wires. Maybe as well add a little door for access I don't know just an idea but I think you got it already figured out. keep up the great work!

[@therooster72]

this is some excellent advertising for those ecoflow batteries. i actually said out loud, " I need one of those batteries"

[@matejjohanek5055]

Thank you for the "for the metric people" insertion. Love from Czech Republic.

[@austincline]

I’ve been dreaming of this. Once again you’ve captured one

[@KelvinMedinathezarkman]

This fulfilled man is astonished with how this spirited man fuses creativity and practicality in this project. I cannot recall if Van said that They experience rolling blackouts at TC but this is a surefire way of making sure his son is comfortable on his fortress. Amazing work as always Van!

[@jrisner6535]

🤮

[@Rick-the-Swift]

lol

[@twoleftshoes6493]

112 degrees and you're wearing canvas pants, long sleeve shirt, and work boots? What a madman!

[@steven.primeiro]

and that's an pretty clever and awesome add. Best channel on youtube!

[@GaryStockton]

That's so cool, what a great gift for your little guy.

[@Hiluxtaco]

While I know that this is a giant advertisement for EcoFlow, I don't care. It's a new video from Van. That's all that I care about..

[@13359610]

my heart just becomes warm when I see Van make things for his son.

[@TuckerPearce]

This is such a cool setup for your son. Thinking I’d build a larger shield for the batteries but that’s the only concern I left this video with. Fun video, thanks Van!

[@michaelmoges7398]

Never understood what the simple definition of art was. I think I'm getting it now

[@Eggs-n-Jakey]

Cleaning the solar panels helps a lot too, dust can lower the input. Good luck this summer!

[@chrisclark5135]

EcoFlow has changed Van's life!

[@chantalrochon3566]

Great! My son is looking into this system for his camper, while planting trees in BC, Canada. Thank you for this info. Video.

[@icekura]

thank you spirited man!

[@tomaszrog8852]

Insulation is a starting point. Rockwool products, environment friendly.

[@mchase4]

When he’s older this system will power his gaming set up

[@KingCease]

These videos are lovely and refreshing

[@RebeccaLynn313]

I learn such a variety of valuable info from you and your videos. Trying to complete a Greenhouse for my granddaughter and I, this video just gave me some ideas on a few things!! Thank you ~ Be safe 🙏🏼🤍

[@vincentcasey]

Any amount of insulation should also help keep it down

[@americanpancakelive]

love this channel. You need to insulate the playhouse like a real house-- you can do it. I want this system, just for the air conditioner for my cabin home. awesome.

[@bullcrapptv]

I have this same issue with a wood detached structure here in Woodland Hills (about 450 sq ft). It got up to 121 degrees at my house in 2020, outside... highest temp in LA county history. I hate ads, but I will most likely get the ecoflow solution, having watched you make it work. 👍

[@jackg9006]

I'm melting in my West Hollywood studio apartment. I'm wondering if youve installed this setup and if its working for you?

[@bullcrapptv]

@@jackg9006 Not yet, unfortunately. I ran into a financial snag. But I'm feeling pretty confident in this solution.

[@Xxballin17xX]

You could also put a temperature activated plug in so if it gets too hot let's say 80° it will kick on until desired time or temperature

[@GregorBrown]

Great way to work in a good sponsor advertiser

[@tmt3334]

this kind of videos is the best

[@awesomeadamfrom2099]

Awesome job van

[@thomasmatthew7759]

A little insulation would be a good idea too...

[@korycavanagh]

Loved this

[@PAULTHESHOTS]

Cool Video this week

[@GodzHammer]

Would love to see you do more ecoflow videos! Your applications are for more interesting than the other ones I've seen on KZbin.

[@matthewarduino6498]

Your unbelievable van

[@martelvonc]

Thank you for the clear instructions on how to do this. We would like to add solar to our little camper but we had zero idea how we would do the wiring.

[@edwardchester1]

Easy but not cheap. Those ecoflow batteries are real expensive. £2k each plus £400 each for the panels. Cheaper products take a bit more manual figuring out what to connect.

[@jakejensen23]

Caulk the gaps will help retain the cold air.

[@randynovick7972]

Nice. Very cool.

[@NewZeroland]

This was so awesome!! Thanks for sharing this build + the power station you used. I need to buy some of those to charge my electric motorcycle at the race track. Keep up the awesome vids!

[@axelschmelzer8985]

Hi Van, you could put some reflecting material underneath the panels, it would reflect the energy better on the as well collecting underside and reduce the heat in the playhouse too. It not only would be cooler, it would look cooler as well!

[@synapticburn]

You can always add an additional start capacitor to the window unit compressor to lessen the peak (starting) load when it kicks on Also are those just drywall screws on the outside? They will rust through quick, the grey / outdoor rated ones don't cost a lot more and will last way longer outdoors.

[@TheJirish]

Nice! I mean, really. Quite an elegant solution to a tricky issue. One wonders if you could run your home AC off solar? Probably not in the same configuration, but still. Really cool though.

[@namenotfound8172]

I am impressed with the Delta Max. It's gonna save a lot of money in the long run.

[@OwnTwoHands_]

The panels on the standoffs also create a chimney effect, effectively keeping to roof much cooler.

[@Imageyenation]

That’s awesome!

[@Ashwekar]

20C is unnecessarily low. Maybe it is just me but 24-27C feels fine to me. Also, if I remember it correctly it takes more energy for the initial cooling down. After that it shouldn't take too much

[@tobydalton131]

so dope!

[@andyroach420]

You are inspiring.

[@youknowwithMartyKauffman]

That sure was a great idea you had

[@Raggamuffinz917]

Man, this would have been a dream of mine when I was his age. That's so dope, well done! As an apartment dweller I'm not sure I have any use for an ecoflow product but props to them for coming through with the tech for this video.

[@jerbear7952]

As an apartment dweller is probably when Id really want one. Keep them charged in case of blackout, bad landlords, or the power company wanting paid this month as well. You have basically no control over anything in an apartment.

[@wmartonejr]

Great video Van!!! Love the playhouse projects.

[@michaelmacminn3407]

First Casey, then Van, this is a good week :)

[@TheCanadianBubba]

Nice work dad !

[@polymathematics_]

So sick! Nice one!

[@thirtysixnanoseconds1086]

insulate your playhouse too !:)

[@mcmaschio]

Your such an inspiration to us KZbinrs … you literally proved you can make anything intrestiand amazing if you want … for that thanks Van 💯🔥

[@dylansousa5571]

Good video

[@meatmissle1459]

Now you just need an inkbird temp controller and you're set. Another fantastic vid.

[@REVIEWSONTHERUN]

Cool! Nice video ✌️

[@jordan.7]

Another wonderful video, Van. I always enjoy your modification/improvement videos. Keep it up.

[@Gfbackflip]

Great video as always.

[@aamsergie]

Super cool video Van!!! Super awesome job EcoFlow!!! Sidetrack - if you have a space possible, consider not sleep sharing. Many challenges this creates.

[@adamb.4585]

You're a big fan of The Bestie Boys and it shows.

[@fredsodyssey6319]

The roof over the battery won't protect the unit from rain. But I know you will build a better cover for around the sides also, with vents. You da man!

[@TomJoeSHOW]

If you insulated the playhouse that would make a massive difference

[@mattsetnan9782]

Great video! :)

[@TBrown67]

Aluminum foil under the panels to reflect up would work well and be super cheap.

[@Johnnysday]

Must be a new sponsor. Add up the costs of the solar panel, the storage battery. Compare that with a kilowatt charge or running the AC unit. What is your return on investment time?

[@audithilfe]

Nice! What about the refrigerant? Ecological too?

[@Nkanyiso_K]

I love that Solar is becoming so much cheaper

[@mauijim3000]

Van, your son is a SWEETHEART!

[@cyborwhat]

If you needed to you could put a plywood backing on the bottom that has been painted white or has a mirror like finish to reflect the light to the back side. Also most solar cells are only as good as the weakest cell meaning that if one cell is in the shade the rest of the panel may drop to whatever level that cell is producing. I find that to be 100% accurate with mine and had to place them somewhere where they don’t get shade.

[@TheHungryFerret]

Man I would have loved that as a kid!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@nojoyrecords]

Beastie Boys reference! And well built you spirited man! /a spiritless man

[@brandonliddick8403]

Can you make a video about your portable table that has plywood as a top? And maybe how to make it? Thanks! Love the videos... super inspiring.

[@eshninerforest]

Awesome

[@Br1anuk]

What about basics like painting the playhouse white and placing mirrors or tin foil behind the solar panels to reflect the sun onto the underside.

[@anikroy7005]

nice

[@fastman119]

You should put a white surface under the panels. Probably would boost your production by a decent amount!

[@AlexanderRodriguez-ni4kt]

Plug and play, really, that’s all we want!

[@Mcgernica]

Perhaps a little trim for the trees to avoid early shading on the cells

[@sup1e]

I don't think he really needs to max out efficiency here--plus they look to be the neighbor's trees. It's crazy what a little shade on a panel can do though--have a few wells that have been solar for ages and if I just wave my hand over a panel you can hear the pump power down a ton :) It may be slightly different down there but in norcal with fixed panels they only really run between say ~10-4 here on a perfect day.

[@fastman119]

Crazy that just a few years ago this set-up would have only been a pipe-dream. Pretty awesome actually.

[@ExilesGate]

Van check out the Earth Ship Documentary.....you want to use Thermal Mass, it will keep it cool in summer & warm in winter.

[@magalirodriguez7830]

Could we have the eco flow inside? Or do they run hot?

[@helpfulcommenter]

I like how Van is slowly integrating Casey-ish components into his videos... lol I jest, but I just mean classic Casey was always about the newest battery/electric tech. And now Van is bringing it in. Love to see it.

[@lukefinley9836]

What font is that at 2:19?