EcoFlow Delta 2 Refrigerator Test with EcoFlow 220 Watt Solar Panel

[@alpreston8209]

Being from Puerto Rico, I know about surprise power outages. I have a small apartment and plan on getting an ecoflow very soon. Thanks for the video

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Feels like we are about 2 weeks out from our first hurricane...

[@summertime439]

Yes in puertorico we def need this . And I would put an ice machine plug it have ice in case the the nevera shots off I have ice as well . I bought me a fan with charger n light 💡 I was happy with the solar fan . 😊know I need this 😊

[@iberiuspolonius8591]

The problem is that no company that I know of ships these solar generators to the island, so your're stuck buying them from local vendors there and needless to say they charge at least twice the price.

[@summertime439]

@@iberiuspolonius8591 so true I bought in Puertorico solar fan with light charger and fan amazing

[@armandojimenezdev]

@@iberiuspolonius8591you can send it by boat, theres a few companies, but no company in PR will service the warranty

[@somebodymcperson]

It’s pretty easy to do calculations to see if it would work but there’s just something about actual testing that makes things more fun

[@OfftoShambala]

Yep… I like to see it in action… plus I feel like the calculations are more like a ballpark.

[@rickydetails]

How can i make the calculations ?

[@TruckerChick]

I just picked up my Delta 2 with the extra battery ($1200 total from Home Depot) and this really reassure me that I'm going to be just fine running my freezer and a couple other small things. I live completely off grid and feel like this little set up will help greatly. I'll be using a 240 watt panel and can add another if needed. My little Honda 2000 genny charged both batteries from 30% to 100% in about 1 ¹/² hrs. I'm already a big fan of this unit.

[@marcher78]

1200 for both....Nice!

[@j-sonS]

I just ordered a delta 2 from ebay for $600 shipped. They had a coupon code. Should arrive in a week. This week I try to watch all the KZbin on it.

[@Caseylawton]

Wild that amazing has a sale today that makes it under $500! I had to pick one up haha

[@oogie-boogie]

i do the frige thing ,, its on a timmer,, we go to be around 11.00pm, the frig runs till 2.00am and shuts off till 630 am ish, then runs all day,,i figured out this trick when we started out on solar,,the frig is closed from 11.00 to 630 so no need to run, same with other stuff you dont use ant night,, like our freezer,,and in the day i off set the timmers ,, so when the freezer is on,,, the frig is not

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Well folks, this is how people with battery backed solar think. lol. Its not like being on the grid you really think a lot about how and when power is being used. Thanks!

[@frankintx699]

Last year, I purchased a Delta 2, which powered my refrigerator and small freezer for three days during Hurricane Beryl. I used my 25-year-old propane Generac to recharge it three times. I was so pleased with its performance that I recently bought the Delta Max 1600 with the smart max battery for $1730, tax included, from Home Depot. The price included a $740 rebate discount. It can deliver 3000 watts, with a surge capacity of up to 5000 watts.

[@aday1637]

Being an old commercial refrigeration mechanic, I have to tell you that 28 deg won't prevent food spoilage. It might be slower than out on the counter with no refrigeration. But somewhere around zero or even below is best. Supermarket freezers routinely produce minus 10-20 deg temp to preserve food and allow you to get it home on hot days without spoilage. Colder is better. Essentially you are slowing down the growth/movement of bacteria by making it colder. Colder the better.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Good tip. Thanks!

[@winstonsmiths2449]

It will take a LONG time for the food to go bad when kept at least below freezing. I have seen government charts where it lists how long various meats and other items can be frozen. I have used meats way past the time frames given with no ill affects. Meats smelled fresh. Freezer burn was the biggest issue. I vacuum seal meats prior to putting them in the freezer.

[@shawnminor8015]

His fridge might be failing. If he has power to it, then it should never be close to 20+ degrees. That battery system should keep it below zero until it runs out of juice and needs recharging

[@aliyada]

Thanks for covering this use case! I just helped get a family member's fridge through a power cut with my Delta 2 + 3rd party 200W panel. Worked like a champ! Took 3-4 hours of the fridge running at 120W to get down to temp, and then the fridge dropped to under 10W at idle. Very rarely needed to cycle on the compressor to cool it back down, as we weren't opening it often. Even with only ~70W of power coming in (overcast and smokey), we were able to bridge the gap before the power company fixed the line. One quality of life item, I got a 30ft solar power cable, so I could keep the Delta 2 inside and out of the elements while rearranging the panels out in the yard. Tempted to get another 200W panel, just in case :D

[@HomesteadEngineering]

That is great! A real life experience that worked as expected. I really like the 30ft cable idea for sure. I would definitely add the extra panel. You can't ever have too much solar. Thanks!

[@sickofgreyhats]

Juat got my Ecoflow 400W bifacial solar panels and I sleep so much better now. 👍 Labor day sale too. 31% off til 10th.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

@@sickofgreyhatsYes, it is very nice and reassuring to know that your always going to have some backup power in an emergency.

[@lanceromance1022]

what 3rd party panel did you get

[@aliyada]

@lanceromance1022 EENOUR 200W Portable Solar Panel from Amazon, but I don't know if those specifically are sold anymore

[@ouralaskahomestead]

Just picked up the Delta 2 off Amazon for $650! We are fully off grid and I think this unit is going to be a game changer for us. This review was excellent and provided so much helpful information. Now I just need a solar panel for it.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Wow, great deal! I would get a low cost panel that maxes out the input Wattage for your unit. Your going to want all the solar you can get! :)

[@ouralaskahomestead]

@@HomesteadEngineering yes, we don’t get much sun this time of year in Alaska. Glad it comes with a car charging option.

[@dirtroad5637]

Black Friday deals week on Amazon right now and I just bought one 10 min ago for $399 :)

[@ouralaskahomestead]

@ that’s a GREAT deal! I’ve used mine everyday since getting it and EcoFlow is the way to go. We’ve reviewed the Oupes and Aferiy and the EcoFlow is superior in every way.

[@scottjustin540]

In all honesty, that is one really good power station. Charges in 80 minutes and has a 3000 charge cycle.

[@christopherjordan8472]

Who would not want a 1024Wh power station that only needs 80 minutes to full charge, I know I want one for myself.

[@clarencewiles963]

The full charged is on grid power

[@summertime439]

True

[@graysonsnarey9294]

Ecoflow is having a huge sale rn on all of their products

[@JenkinsUSA]

Get a 2024 EcoFlow Delta 3 Max. $649 intro price with waterproof bag. EcoFlow or Amazon.

[@JenkinsUSA]

Get a 2024 EcoFlow Delta 3 Max. $649 intro price with waterproof bag. EcoFlow or Amazon.

[@susanfarrington7436]

I received my Delta 2 today. Solar panels are still on the way, so I charged it up with AC. Plugged in my basement fridge to it and have not opened the fridge or freezer since then. 7 1/2 hours later I’m still at 70% charge! If you can avoid opening the fridge as much as possible and if you can hook up solar to it while it runs the fridge, you shouldn’t need to cycle the fridge on and off.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Susan, Yes, I think your right. Thanks!

[@paulpalomo417]

Good test, I experienced the same with my different brand solar generator when leaving a refrigerator plugged in the Solar generator turns itself off. To avoid this, plug in a low 4 or 5 Watt light bulb to the generator. This constant low flow will ensure the generator does not turn off when the refrigerator cycles, that's how I'm able to keep my Solar generator on when using appliances that cycle off and on. Using a low 4 to 5 Watt bulb is nothing, plus adds light to a room while keeping refrigerator on.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

That's a great tip! I think it is possible to tell the system to stay on under zero load but I will have to look into it. Thanks!

[@Globetrotter-1]

​@@HomesteadEngineeringThe Ecoflow app allows you to adjust the settings so that the Delta 2 never automatically switches off or when the load goes too low.

[@Wherstead]

Running 11 months off grid in the Southeast US on two systems each of a Delta 2 plus Delta 2 Max extra battery. Wave 2 with battery plus Delta 2 Max extra battery provided 7.5 hours summer time air conditioning. It works!

[@HomesteadEngineering]

That is great! :)

[@ips670]

i found this as well as the comments informative and interesting. i wish Politics was this honest and Transparent

[@LadyL0333]

Excellent review of how a fridge would run with this station. Exactly the video I wanted to see. Thx!

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Thanks!

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Note: This fridge is on the small side of full size refrigerators. You might look at the Delta 2 Max

[@terr281]

Thank you very much for this test, as with the most recent (Oct 2023) Amazon Prime sale, I picked up a Delta 2, extra battery, and 2 x 220w panels for this exact reason. Now (per a below comment's good idea), just need to have the panels arrive so I can look at them... then order the panels' extension cables so the unit stays indoors and the panels can easily be moved for maximum input.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Sounds like your all set for the next power outage. :)

[@allenwurl6245]

I disconnected my generator every night till power came back in from 9:30 PM to 7:30 AM and everything remained frozen solid - Note no one opened the door after the generator was disconnected 👍 also the Kitchen Room temperature was around 82 degrees and the fridge had very little air space I packed it with water bottles before the hurricane 👍

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Great to hear your results! Thanks!

[@Patricia-u9j7o]

Perfect timing since my delta 2 with the solar panels came yesterday. And I got it to run my fridge in case of power outage, my intention was to run it for a couple of hours and then turn it off and put it on the solar panels for 4 or 5 hours. With the idea that I could get it really cold and frozen and keep it shut for about 6 or 7 hours at night and then start again the next day. I also have a 780 delta flow to take up any slack. With your test here I am very comfortable if my power is out for several days I will be able to keep my freezer going fine. So glad I found your video.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Thanks so much for your comment on this. One thing I would note is to add the maximum solar allowed by the unit for best results. Thanks!

[@dogishappy0]

I was considering a Delta 2 for this EXACT use case. Thanks for confirming a single panel is enough! I'll get a second panel so I can guarantee the use of small electronics at the same time during their next sale.

[@sickofgreyhats]

You'll want 2 220W bifacial panels anyway, but for emergency fridge use, you want a Delta 2 Max with a 400W bifacial panel. If you have 2 rainy days in succession, the Delta 2 with 2 220 panels won't cut it. 👍 Good luck.

[@dogishappy0]

@sickofgreyhats thanks for the input! The 400W panel had bad reviews, so I went with two 220W panels, then spent the cost of another 220W panel on five 100W Harbor Freight panels during their Labor Day sale. These things are cheep enough I don't mind leaving them outside. I still have a dual fuel generator for longer emergencies in case the rain is very bad for more than two days in a row. This is only the beginning of my adventure with Solar. I'm looking forward to seeing where this road takes me!

[@HomesteadEngineering]

I have been on the solar path for about 7 years now. If I were just starting out, I think I would build out at least 12,000Watts of panels and back it with at least 30kWh of LiFEPO4 batteries. Then maybe add the EG4 18k to top it off. Something like this: signaturesolar.com/complete-hybrid-solar-kit-12-000w-120-240v-output-30-72kwh-eg4-lithium-powerwall-14-000-watts-of-solar-pv-kit-e0005/

[@dogishappy0]

@HomesteadEngineering I have an HOA and they do not allow solar. Hopefully I can get it on the ballot for this year and we can change that! Alabama Power is also not friendly to solar... so the financial situation will take a bit to get there.

[@jamesevans225]

Thank you for showing me how to keep stuff from spoiling for several days. Before watching this video, I assumed the number of approximate hours the Ecoflow showed me was all we had, then I would have to recharge it with my gas generator. I didn't think my Harbor Freight 400w Solar array would charge it enough while it was under a 500+ watt load. Now you've taught me cycling, manage the state of charge instead of hourly guess o meter, and maybe I should buy another 400w and not have to worry. Thanks Again!

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Be careful not to exceed 500Watts of solar input to your system. Thanks!

[@jamesevans225]

@HomesteadEngineering Thank You! I was getting ready to make a big rookie mistake! I knew not to pump too many solar volts in but didn't realize that the Delta 2 can only handle 500W input.

[@FREDNAJAH]

the trick is to have frozen gallons of water in the freezer to keep frig cold during a power outage.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Probably a good idea to freeze gallons of water if you see a storm headed your way. Thanks!

[@OfftoShambala]

I will remember that… I have a larger small fridge… the freezer could probably hold two frozen gallons… I could rotate those as I’m actually already off grid… I know some people who are gone or not utilizing fridge most of the day… so they aren’t opening it at all and that’s when they unplug it… then they plug it back in when they get home and start supper… I’m moving to a relatively cold area, and I suspect that will work well for me too. I also plan to cook on a woodstove and an outdoor fire to minimize elec use as well. It will be interesting to see how it goes.

[@formula2tom225]

@@HomesteadEngineering beats bags of ice, less mess

[@davidschreiner6667]

Use a mechanical timer to cycle the fridge off and on 3 on 3 off works really well.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Yep, I bet that would work nicely. :)

[@m.s.r.1795]

We just went through hurricane Milton and lost power for days. My deep freezer stayed below freezing for two days because I froze huge blocks of ice in ziplock bags prior. So if you have a warning like you do sometimes with bad weather, go pack it with ice blocks. It’ll give you more time that you can leave it unplugged.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Yes! Great tip. Thanks!

[@BlessedLaymanNC]

I have the ACEMO instead of the EcoFlow. I don't know if they are the same, but I used mine during the three to four days of power loss due to Hurricane Helene. I did not have solar panels at the time, so I charged the power station with a gas generator. It was the last day of power outage when I learned a secret trick to fast-charging the power station. You were unplugging your fridge to allow the battery to charge. Whet I discovered is that, instead of just unplugging the fridge, if I turned off the power station, it charged much faster. Right now, I'm testing it with a 100 watt panel hanging out my window, in the shade. With the power turned off, the panel is charging my station at about 43 watts. When I had it turned on, it was only charging at 39 watts. In direct sun, it will probably be much better. When I was charging via the generator and the power station was on, it only charged about 80 watts, but 380 watts when I turned it off. I have a 4.7CUIN mini fridge. I primary purpose is to survive long term power outages. My secondary purpose will be to reduce my monthly electrical costs. I can't back up the heater, range or washing machines, but they are unnecessary appliances during an outage. My plan is to start with the panels I have, 1-100, 2-50 watt panels and the power station. Use this to run my appartment as much as possible, off grid, but be prepared to go full power outage at any time. My power station is 1000 WH, and I plan to pick up one or two smaller ones, along with additional solar panels. I am also negotiating some old, but still good, truck deep-cycle batteries that can be use to back up the power stations during the night or low-light times. During Helene, I did not keep my fridge plugged in. Instead, I plugged it in every two or three hours. It kept most of the frozen food frozen up until the last day when the power came back on. I supply power for me and enough for a few lights and TV for my neighbor, and when I run the generator, she can charge her wheel chair. Overall, it cost me 2 to 3 gallons of gas. I'm anxious to see how the solar panels work now that I have all the parts. Thanks for the video. I'll be checking out your others as well.

[@miguelsmith6498]

Good to see that the Delta 2 once again proves that it is really powerful with 1024Wh of capacity.

[@clarencewiles963]

When on defrost cycle it may go up to 500 watts for maybe 20 minutes. However it been programmed.

[@danielnicholls6868]

every time you open the freezer door you let in warm air. a chest freezer would do better. . just keep a small load on to keep inverter on . cheap extra styrofoam sheets will make them work even better. even a blanket over when not running . great test

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Good tips. Thanks!

[@brianpalaganas842]

This is what I needed to know about cycling the usage if using appliances like a refrigerator. I met a guy that even claims it can run off a washer with a couple of loads in tow . If that’s the case, that would bolster my use of the Delta that I have . But yes, this helps bring things into a better perspective. Thank you ! 🙏🏽

[@HomesteadEngineering]

I personally don't like using my solar generator to run a washer. I don't like the agitation ramping the power up and down on the inverter like that. That said, It probably would not hurt once or twice in a pinch. Thanks for stopping by.

[@marktaflinger6348]

It would be interesting to do this test by cycling the fridge with an electronic timer, allowing the fridge to be on for 10-15 minutes of each hour. I believe there's a setting in the app to keep the Delta 2 from shutting down if the load goes to zero.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Mark, I think that would be the way to go. I was going to do that but all my timers are 2 prong and the fridge is 3. Not that hard to get around but I just did not do it. Maybe next time. Thanks!

[@davidahn4130]

@@HomesteadEngineeringDoesn't the refrigerator already cycle on and off depending on the setting?

[@TheMickeymental]

Just bought a Delta 2 and ran a test. Refrigerator was running when plugged into Delta it ran for two hours before turning off. The refrigerator's inrush voltage is 757 watts and operates at 80 watts. Ambient air temperature 78 degrees F. Opened and closed door 8 times and it lasted 17 hours. No other source input was used.

[@npatric76]

Just got one on a Black Friday special for under $400. This video tells me I made the right choice. I plan on adding to it as I can.

[@carlosjohnson8135]

I did not expect that power station to be that powerful and now I think I want one.

[@sickofgreyhats]

Get the Delta 2 Max with at least 1 400w bifacial solar panel for emergency refrigerator use, bcuz if you have 2 rainy days in succession, the Delta 2 with 1 220 bifacial panel will not cut it. The Delta Pro, if your wallet can take it, is the BEST OPTION for homeowners. 👍 Good luck.

[@ATruckCampbell]

@@sickofgreyhats A generator will suffice for dark days.

[@GlennEdell]

My god how nerdy and wonderful this is! Oh my god how I love this video! Thank you! I have to buy one of these now! I'd like to see a test charging a hybrid car with the solar panel. My hybrid charges to full in about three hour from a normal wall socket.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Thankyou for the nice comment. I don't think you would want to charge your EV from this 220 Watt panel. It produces about 650Wh/day. So if your EV has an 80kWh battery, it would take about 125 days to charge it! Just divide the size of your car battery by about 650. This is why covering you car with solar panels is a bit of a waste of time.

[@GlennEdell]

@@HomesteadEngineering Thank you for answering. I guess I won’t be doing that then 😂 It’s a hybrid with only a 10,4 kWh battery but that would still take 65 days then I guess. Anyway… thanks again for the video. I enjoyed it very much.

[@slowpoke1315]

Great video. Should have used the kickstand that came with the bifacial panel. Its interior is white and helps reflect sunlight to the backside of the panel. I have a Delta 1300 + 220 b/f panel. Haven’t done a solar longevity test as yours but my Delta will run my LG bottom freezer/fridge for 23 hours without charging. A real game changer.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Thats a good point about using the reflective stand. Thanks!

[@slowpoke1315]

@@HomesteadEngineering the mirror was a good idea. That bifacial would probably do great on the snow

[@bsylvia1]

Also, try setting the Bifacial panel on top of a Mylar emergency blanket & I believe you’ll improve the reflective results on the backside of the panel. I use the Mylar blankets for my 2 Bifacial panels & I’ve been pleased with the results thus far.

[@aspitofmud6257]

So I've heard when I bought my Honda 2000w generator that if you ran the gen an hour in. The morning and an hour at night the contents of the refrigerator would be fine if you kept the refrigerator doors closed. I never tried it though. But I was thinking a small generator like that would work very well paired with that ecoflow Delta 2 for charging it quickly and fully. Thanks for your testing

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Yes, pairing a small inverter generator with a solar generator is a very good solution that will solve most problems you are likely to ever have. I think you may have to run your fridge three times a day for 1 hour each to keep it going. Just my guess. Thanks!

[@ElectricDogWoodworking]

wonderful test and great explanations. Thank you for making the video! This is the vid that made my mind up on purchasing an Ecoflow. Definitely will be making the investment before next hurricane season!

[@dangoras9152]

Good video.. For that price I would get another pallet of panels were im at ... I know a lot of other people couldn't get that deal so they would be better off getting that delta flow... Keep it up brother good information can always help someone else...

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Hey Dan, This Delta 2 will work great for some folks but like you say, everyone's situation is different so you got to go with what works for you. Thanks!

[@cynsim]

Thanks for this. I was looking for a way to power my garage fridge during an outage. Hurricane area here.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

You might want to look at the Delta 2 Max. amzn.to/4fxzxop Note: I am about to post a new review of a larger system that you might also consider. There will be another refrigerator test on that one as well. :)

[@frankenstein3163]

TY for the testing. I just got delta 2. Helps me visualize on haw to shop for my panels. hard to believe that only a 220w panel worked that well.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Thanks! I recommend maxing out the solar.

[@cristianr7278]

This thing sounds incredible My fridge is a bit bigger and I wasn’t sure if the Delta 2 was enough to power it. If so, I doubt I could connect anything extra. Thanks to your testing, I’ve got my eyes on the Delta 2 Max for the extra availability and usage, and 2 220 panels

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Yes, I was barely able to keep this going and I had good sun. The Delta 2 Max with two panels would be much better. In general, I would go as big as the budget and space will allow. BTW: I have 13,000 Watts of solar panels, 30kWh of battery backup and 9,000 continuous Watts output on my MAIN system and I still want to add more!

[@curiouscat3384]

when you have confidence in the timing with no power, when the freezer is full of food, and you're not opening the door every two hours, food can stay frozen up to 24 hours! thanks for this demonstration, I never trust the sales claims on this type of equipment :)

[@willhall7777]

Good test. I'm a normal situation there at the end nobody would hold the freezer open that long. It would be open and grab and shut was quickly as possible. I'm guessing the time until it defrosted would be doubled what you got. Thanks for doing a real test. They are too expensive to buy and figure out it's not what you need. Appreciate you doing it for us.

[@ristopoho824]

You can stop the Ecoflow from shutting off from the app. Worth mentioning for the people possibly worried about it.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Good tip. Thanks!

[@sherryh7485]

Thank you for a very practical review!

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Thanks for stopping by. :)

[@vickiegraham4765]

I just bought this exact. Set up. At. well botts. Trying to learn all I can this was a great video. For me. Glad to see a long extension cord. Was used. Is this video. Is there. a specific type I should purchase. Do I need any other cables. To run the 220 watt panel Have not took the panel out of the box. Yet. Purchase was for a freezer. And frig

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Hello Vickie, Everything I needed to run the 220 Watt panel was included in the package. Note: I did run a long extension cord but I used a 20A (12awg) cord from my shop so as not to incur too much of a voltage drop. Most common extension cords are only 15A (14awg or even 16awg) so be careful with that. i.e. The shorter the cord the better. If I were going to run this setup on a regular basis, I would use no extension cord and just get longer wires (of the appropriate size) to run between the unit and the the panel. Thanks!

[@vickiegraham4765]

@@HomesteadEngineering Where can I get the longer wires for the panel. Like in your video. My system came from well botts. Not sure they have the longer ones.

[@googlechunkybig165]

Great test ! Very interesting, Thanks. A great practical 3day review. Will be interesting to see whether these power stations will run other loads such as a microwave. Thanks for your helpful review 👍

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Thanks!

[@GmanfromTexas]

This was a great demonstration. In summary as long as i have the solar pannels (not included) I can run indefinitively with good sun. Also, By only turning on the fridge a few hours a day I could probably run some lights and the TV indefinitively.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

If the sun is shinning it will rake about all this unit has to keep the fridge up and running. To run more, I would get a 450Watt regular panel from a local supply store ($200). That would give you some extra power to play with. Thanks!

[@Globetrotter-1]

​​@@HomesteadEngineeringI get 220W to 250W very easily with the bipolar panels, even in winter sunshine, and 100+W in partial shade, so it looks like your panels aren't performing great. I would also look into buying a more efficient compressor fridge. I use the Delta 2 to keep my fridge running non-stop year round. It uses only about 12W on DC. So keep it at say 2C or 4C it will kick in occasionally to cool at 20-35W for a short period and then auto off for an hour or two between constant cycles. It does obviously use more power if I want to turn it into a full freezer at minus -22C. The nice thing is that the Delta and Fridge both have Bluetooth built in, so can remotely control them at distance.

[@oldfreddyfrenchfry1]

There’s a setting in the app for when AC charging turns itself off, and you could set it to stay on continually for things that turn off their power demand periodically

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Thanks!

[@kentishbunyip6081]

An interesting video. We've just received our Delta 2 and 220w solar panel, bought specifically to run our freezers during a power cut. The freezers have a 7-8 hr melt limit, if you don't open the doors. We plan to wait about 5 hrs into the power cut, run the Delta 2 for an hour or so, and use that cycle until power is restored. It's all a bit of a learning curve. I saw someone who put a bowl of ice cubes into the freezer at his off-grid place. That way, if he came back later and found the ice cubes completely melted (whether it later re-froze or not), he knew he had to ditch the food. We will have to adjust the app settings so the Delta 2 still runs if the fridge clicks itself off for a while. Can't comment on the solar panel as the UK weather has been so rubbish recently but we're looking forward to hopefully getting some free power and maybe even use it to power an aircon unit in the summer. Aircon? UK? Who'd have thought it!

[@HomesteadEngineering]

That sounds good and similar to what I did here. You might want to experiment using a timer and see how that goes. Thanks!

[@kentishbunyip6081]

Yes, a timer is a good idea, many thanks.

[@blackimaje]

I just bought a second 220 bifacial panel as they had a great sale -I am interested to find out the capabilities with 440 watts of panel

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Yes, The closer you get to the 500W max the better.

[@ChadWicKeD]

How much did the 220 cost in the sale?

[@blaster69]

good vid, if you turn off the AC time out to never on the app the delta will not shut is AC power off.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

That's a good tip, Thanks!

[@blaster69]

No problem, and your welcome !

[@ZetsabreJuno]

Thanks for the video. I feel every power station should be tested with a fridge since outside of camping, people will primarily use it to keep food frozen. I was trying to estimate whether I should go with a ~750Wh power station or a ~1000Wh power station. Based on your test, I can probably get away with a 750 if I have solar panels charging during the day. Naturally I need to focus on the peak load when the fridge kicks on so the inverter can handle it.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

I would look for the best deal on the bigger one just to have some cushion if it falls into your budget. Thanks!

[@gemwebb]

Why not have the fridge power go on for 30 min every other hour Vs fully on when doors are closed?

[@HomesteadEngineering]

There are lots of ways to do it. If I had to do it today, I would go with the Delta 2 Max with more panels and just let it run 100%. Thanks!

[@Marlon-cs9jv]

I’m little confused…you can charge the Ecoflow with the solar panel and at the exact same time have your electric devices plugged and running ? I’m from Cuba and we’re having major blackouts every day. I intent to send my family an eco flow with a solar panel and they will probably need to do that: have the solar panel charging the station and at the same time running fridge etc. can this be done safely. I fear about the in and out power at the same time without burning the unit or any appliances. The advice will be appreciated.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Yes, with some units you can charge and use it at the same time. I think its referred to as "pass-through-charging".

[@corywebb5537]

I just got a two pack of timers from Amazon for about 15 bucks. Instead of like most timers that only turn off and on one time per day. This one will turn on, all day everyday, over and over again. You can program it to turn on for an hour and then off for a few. And then back on and back and forth. Sounds like that's what you need instead of plugging and unplugging it all day

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Sounds good!

[@Annon89]

Those top freezer fridges were insulated well with an efficient setup that didn’t pull much power.

[@allenfritts4847]

Thanks for the wind sound

[@bexxISM]

I love this video, (new sub now). This gives practical hacks on how one can "deal" creatively with a modest solar charger.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

I really appreciate this comment. I should probably do more work on creative ways to get by on a limited budget. Thanks!

[@bexxISM]

@Homestead Engineering I feel comfortable getting the Eco2. Its expandable if I find I'm stuck, good support, proven company. I was leaning towards the AC200Max partially because of the 30A connection. I can get by without and getting the more portable Eco2 will allow my budget to get solar panels right off

[@jantschierschky3461]

May want to oil hinges

[@HomesteadEngineering]

lol, I knew someone was going to say it... :)

[@MsundrstdKidd]

😂

[@D3R3K72]

Thank you for a good test and review 👍

[@liljasere]

Just my opinion if you are going to the trouble of getting a delta Atleast stretch to the max or 2 max having twice the capacity is invaluable

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Yes, The bigger the better and trust me you will ALWAYS want more. I now have 13,000 Watts of panels and 30kWh of battery and every day I am looking for a good place to add more! :)

[@aymw9259]

Let say you got 50% power left in this EcoFlow Delta 2 Power station, Can you still use this unit while charging it?

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Yes, Look for "pass through charging".

[@jpabst4321]

can you leave the fridge plugged into the delta 2 all day every day, then, it'd kick on when power goes out. I have a slightly different use case. insulin in fridge for type 1 diabetic. power goes out at my house regularly, and I just want fridge to run for 4-5 hours automatically during power outage. when we have electricity, i'd want the delta 2 to charge to 100% then just allow fridge to use standard electricty... only kicking on when power out

[@HomesteadEngineering]

I have not used it this way but that should work however I have two concerns: 1. If its a critical use than I would go bigger on the unit. Maybe a Delta 2 Max or bigger: amzn.to/3RZMNYL 2. The delay in the switchover may cause a short cycle with the fridge compressor.

[@GallagherChristie]

Hey there. I have a question. Im thinking of purchasing this power source. In the winter i want to be able to run a chinese diesel heater on high for 2-4 days as well as run a kettle for my tea ,charge my phone, and lithium batteries for my fish finder. Maybe run a tv for 6 hours or so. In the summer id take it to an island off grid only accessible by boat and run a small cooler, charge my lithium batteris for my fish finders, phone, kettle, some appliances etc for 5 days or so. Id buy the 160w solar panel combo, however inthe winter we have days with little sun so i dont know how much ill really get to charge it. Would this power supply begood for me with these needs?

[@HomesteadEngineering]

I can't say without knowing how much each item uses but it sounds like your going to need a bigger unit. Maybe the Delta 2 Max: amzn.to/463qB5X OR maybe all the way up to the Delta Pro 3: amzn.to/4cFwhFT Also I don't think 160 Watts solar panel will cut it. Your going to have to think bigger for the things your trying to run.

[@LiveswithMartha]

Great video! This was some really good info

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Glad it was helpful!

[@NHerbst84]

So it does power the fridge atleast. I bought a efficient smallish fridge but my magneto keeps it on for 5 minutes and then cuts out. Probably peak watts from the fridge

[@happyhamster1411]

So that’s just with one 220w solar panel. Would 2 220w solar panels be enough to run 2 full sized refrigerators then? I’m new to this so I’m not sure. I just got them both for $999 on prime day sale. Maybe by next year I can double everything since there is a plug to connect additional batteries and up to 500w solar

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Depends on how much power your refrigerators uses but I think I could run two of these (like in my experiment) with two 220w panels. Like you said, you might need to add the second battery. Here is my review of the Delta 2: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rJ_XZaF8Zbd6e9k

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Note: Be careful how you connect your two sets of panels to the unit as not to exceed the max voltage or current limitations.

[@happyhamster1411]

@@HomesteadEngineering I’m pretty sure the max is 500w

[@HomesteadEngineering]

@@happyhamster1411 500w is the max power but you need to know more than that. You also can't exceed 60Volts OR 15 Amps. Note: connecting panels in series increases the Voltage and connecting them in parallel increases the current (Amps).

[@happyhamster1411]

@@HomesteadEngineering I’m unsure what series and parallel mean. What if I want to use the ecoflow panels, would I be able to use 1 220w and 2 100w together?

[@eddietee6305]

I am not sure what was the objective of the exercise by plugging in and unplugging the fridge and also turning off the Delta2 unit.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

The point was to see if the Delta 2 solar generator could back up the refrigerator. I cycled it to save power and that worked. Could I have just left it plugged in and turned on the entire time? Maybe...

[@eddietee6305]

@@HomesteadEngineering ok. Point taken. I thought you would have just left it plugged in.

[@kianakan96826]

Great video! If I buy the same system, do I have to buy inverter? Or does the inverter part of the battery system? Thanks!

[@HomesteadEngineering]

The inverter is built into the system

[@makkeyn]

Hello,how do i look through a historical graph of inputs and outputs load? I dont see it in the app with my delta 2! Though i can see it in videos of other owners of ecoflow...

[@HomesteadEngineering]

I have not seen that but please let us know if you figure it out. Thanks!

[@brucekempf4648]

Great video! I think that long extension cord must have added some resistance causing you some losses. Shorter is better.

[@terrylong8465]

Very informative information. The quality of the refer/freezer has an impact on the test though. Good job indeed!

[@markanthonyabarro6268]

Got question. Is it possible to use that portable as a loop power source for my Inverter Refrigerator standard size (for 24x7 very low cold settings) + Induction Stove (2x a day use) + Internet Modem (for 24x7) and Shower Heater (like 2x a day). So I don't need to connect all of these devices in the house outlet, this can save me electric bill. Is it possible?

[@lisaparrish1757]

Does this come with the wire/connector to allow one to plug into the solar (on the roof) panel? Thanks for your helpful video.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Its been a while so I don't recall but I think it comes with a short cable that is MC4 to XT60. You would probably need an extension. amzn.to/3BUjTnI

[@Fermín-m9k]

My question is, can i use eco flow to give charge to My 30 cu ft refrigerator, but 24/7 forever, for the life of the refrigerator or only i can use ecoflow for emergency

[@richarddonegan4666]

Their is a problem using extension chords with refrigerators. Can ruin the fridge and start a fire.....

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Well you don't want to have too much of a voltage drop but I did use high quality (20A) cords.

[@nango4073]

Probably a best test will be if you use a thermometer in the fridge, those who have a screen out, so you can see when the temp start drooping since opening the door accelerate the cold lose.

[@cabininthewoods7326]

So you disconnected the fridge from the generator overnight and then you plug the generator in to the solar panels when the Sun came up and plug the refrigerator into the generator at the same time. And that kept the fridge going

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Basically yes. I did run it a bit at night as well. Thanks!

[@stevenziegler2523]

How safe are these to keep inside a home? I hear so many stories of electric scooters catching fire so i am concerned.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Just my opinion, not advise. The short answer is that I have zero concerns of fire with this particular unit. The long answer is that risk of fire from batteries is largely dependent on battery chemistry and potential misuse. Lithium-ion is the type of battery that you most often here about causing fires and its usually (not always) from misuse. The two main types of Lithium-ion are: NCM (Nickle Cobalt, Manganese) and LiFePO4 (Lithium, Iron, Phosphate). The NCM type of battery has a thermal runaway characteristic not found in the LiFePO4 battery chemistry. Also, people overcharge them and leave them over charged. They leave power tools out in the rain, they let their dog chew on them, etc. Take all this with a grain of salt as I am not a battery expert BUT bottom line: The type of battery that I look for is LiFePO4 and that's what's in this Oupes Mega 3. Thanks!

[@leny7829]

Kind of off subject here but I keep hearing how the PV panels (in your yard) is "plug and play". Would you be able to use one or more of those panels to power the Ecoflow?

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Len, You should be able to use any solar panel as long as it meets the input requirements of the Delta 2. I think they are 11-60VDC and up to 500 Watts. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rJ_XZaF8Zbd6e9k

[@stevejohnson6248]

I think you would have much longer in the freezer if it wasn't being opened every few hours. A couple of thermometer probes like for meat would have been a good option to measure the temp in the freezer/fridge without opening so much or at all. Still this was fascinating and I really liked the video!

[@HomesteadEngineering]

I purposely opened the door a lot to simulate what would likely happen in a power outage. Even with the best intentions the door always gets opened a lot. Thanks! :)

[@panospapadimitriou3498]

problem is in europe cost comes25% higher to buy em .. same prices without a good panel and cable... dunno why

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Could be some kind of import tariff issue...

[@jonleone777]

What about the fridge temp. You only seem to be concerned abouf the freszer.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

I guess I just assumed that if the freezer was OK then the fridge would have to be Ok. Next time I'll check it. Thanks!

[@celinedavis2189]

What would the additional battery do to the equation?

[@HomesteadEngineering]

I don't think that would help much as the limitation is in the collection. I would probably go out and get a single (11-60V) 450 Watt panel from a local supplier with no shipping cost. Maybe $200 for the panel. That would make a big difference.

[@OrganikSecrets]

And it would work even better if you utilized the full 500W solar input. Good test!

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Yes! That would make a really big difference. That said, I think If I had it to do over I would go with the Delta 2 Max: amzn.to/3LuDc8G Thanks!

[@HansZarkovPhD]

The sscond my home town is in a hurricane cone this season, i am buying one of these.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

I might suggest upping it to the Delta 2 Max. Link in the description. Thanks!

[@joneslr25]

Thanks for for discount code!

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Thank you for using my link. It helps support the channel. :)

[@jamesbrown4651]

What about an efficiency apart fridge about 5.5ft tall and 2 floor fans? Would this run for a few days with no problems you think?

[@HomesteadEngineering]

If you maxed out the solar you could probably pull that off. I would just get a regular panel @ 35 cents/Watt (maybe 450 Watts).

[@javilamaravilla]

What panels are you using? link please. Thank you.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

I would probably go out and get a single (11-60V) 450 Watt panel from a local supplier with no shipping cost. Maybe $200 for the panel. OR amzn.to/4aVt6YH

[@optroncordian7863]

Instead of cycling the fridge, you can adjust it's thermostat.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

You could try that and it might work but remember that the inverter burns power even when its idling so off may be better. You also want to get it as cold as possible when you have the sun shinning. Thanks!

[@aday1637]

Nice experiment though. It might be better to get the extra battery ecoflow sells for this unit and get more solar panels to provide all you need.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Yes, max out the panels and add a 2nd battery and your good to go.

[@larryc1616]

How did you come up with the 75% efficiency? I just saw another test using a 1500w heater and the delta 2 ran for 28.5minutes which is 85% efficiency. 90's is great, 85 is good and 70's is considered poor. Is it software or hardware?

[@HomesteadEngineering]

I got that number from other sources. I don't think that hooking up a heater and running for a period of time is a good enough test. You need to measure the actual kWh delivered on a meter. Also, the rate that you drain the battery will effect the results. I may perform a test at some point to see how mine actually performs. Thanks!

[@velianlodestone1249]

The inverter of the delta pro is a power draw when it's on. From my testing it takes ~20w/hour so the lower the draw the less efficient it is. My main draw for my off grid system is actually the inverter itself as my fridge takes ~16w/hour (chest cooler)

[@liljasere]

Duration is a factor a capacity test with a heater only lasts a hour so inverter running watts hardly get into the equation the inverter alone will use about 15% of the battery per day just for being switched on with no load

[@Conv1cti0n]

when you are using the solar, do you have to have the delta 2 near the panel?

[@HomesteadEngineering]

The cord that comes with it is pretty short but you can buy an extension. I run mine off a 50 foot extension out the window so the unit is inside and the panel is outside all the time. I run this unit everyday. amzn.to/4cF5vwS

[@Conv1cti0n]

@@HomesteadEngineering thanks so much for sending a link! much appreciated.

[@Solarsystemrdffdfyyhh]

What model is the fridge, make and model please.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

IDK and I don't own it anymore...

[@JLang-bn3hs]

Keeping the door open cut the time way down.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

It will cut the time down every time you open the door. That said, you need a realistic test and the door is going to be opened in a real world scenario.

[@kennethporst1738]

ThIs is GREAT I only need to figure out how to get 220v welding capable.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Why would you need 220v welding cable?

[@GD-tn3ez]

What happens if we're really grid down for months/years and updating firmware is impossible? Will this very expensive solar cell fail me when I need it most?

[@HomesteadEngineering]

I have been running this unit for almost two years with no firmware updates and no issues. Works like a champ!

[@GD-tn3ez]

@@HomesteadEngineering Thank you, I've been wondering about it.

[@Sjrick]

Im still doing my review before getting one of these ecoflows. Do you like yours ?

[@HomesteadEngineering]

I am very happy with mine, I actually use it almost every day. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rJ_XZaF8Zbd6e9ksi=gBrYYa_N16y0__8M

[@Sjrick]

@@HomesteadEngineering Im still in research mode and i like seeing what everyone uses theirs for. I was surprised your window AC unit almost drained it in only 4 hours. Kinda doesnt make sense to get an eco flow.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

@@Sjrick These small solar generators are not designed to run large appliances. They are good for small electronics and camping and stuff like that. If you are looking to run more of your house in a grid down situation you are going to want to start thinking much bigger. Figure $15k for a real whole house system. I would look at something like this: signaturesolar.com/complete-hybrid-solar-kit-12-000w-120-240v-output-30-72kwh-eg4-lithium-powerwall-16560-watts-of-solar-pv-kit-e0005/ This is about what it takes to run a house.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Also, I think you might like this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rKaah4t_apmeb68si=ubnPbmQtwOKOXWp8

[@Sjrick]

@@HomesteadEngineering I've been emailing Ecoflow back n forth recently and he said this could power my whole house. Im still trying to figure out what i should be looking for on my appliances to see if they are compatible or not. You are the first person ive seen that said it wont handle a full household load. Im new to all this so thx for your input.

[@candicebeebe6688]

As long as the sun is shining ??

[@HomesteadEngineering]

Yes, With the sun shinning it takes just about all this unit can do. If you really want to hold up a refrigerator, I would go bigger (more solar input and more battery). BTW: I use this unit every day. Its running a window AC right now. No issues so far.

[@scottc8152]

You can increase the solar during cloudy days and at start and end of day, but you would need to watch it carefully to not put too many watts in your battery, more than it should accept.

[@HomesteadEngineering]

That's a dangerous game your playing there Scotty. LOL :) I had 4,000 Watts connected to a portable solar generator just the other day and was thinking: what if the sun pops out for just a minute? Yikes!

[@scottc8152]

@@HomesteadEngineering Charge controller required. Any suggestions for a gel battery 1,8 kW that will only take 200w?