Best Value Inverter, All-in-one MPPT Solar Charger, Growatt SPF5000ES, Part 1

Part 1, Testing and Review of Growatt SPF5000ES
This is just my first part of my testing and review of the Growatt SPF5000ES inverter/charger. This is an all in one unit with a 5kw inverter, 80 amp AC charger, 100 amp solar MPPT charge controller. It's a great value at only $900 at the time of this video.
This is a 48v inverter/charger made for off grid use. You can use the grid for charging your batteries as a backup, but not for back-feeding the grid. It's single phase, 240v AC only. So you will need a transformer if you want to get 120/240v split phase out of this. I'll go into more details on the split phase in an upcoming video.
This is the best value, cheapest, inverter I've tested so far. Yes, it's cheap at $900 for all the components you get. In future videos I'll continue testing to see how well it holds up.
Update: There is no longer a discount code available.
Affiliate Links:
Growatt 5000W Inverter with 450V MPPT Charge Controller 5000ES: signaturesolar.com/growatt-48...
Auto-Transformer, 5000ES: signaturesolar.com/growatt-5k...
EG4 Battery, 48V, 100Ah, 5.12kWh, LiFePO4, Server Rack design: signaturesolar.com/shop-all/b...
Waterproof EG4 battery: 48V LiFePO4 Lithium Battery with Bluetooth, EG4 Brand: signaturesolar.com/eg4-wp-lit...
Disclaimer:
My videos are in no way intended to be instructional "how-to" lessons. I am simply documenting my project for informational purposes. Property damage, personal injury, or death may result, even when following manufacturer's instructions. I cannot be held liable for such damage or injury. It is YOUR OBLIGATION to ensure that you are complying with any local and federal laws as well as code and permit requirements.
David Poz, LLC

[@howardkearney7989]

I'm currently building a storage/work shed which I plan to use solar. So I really appreciate your content! For me, very timely.

[@abdulshukkur499]

Tttgg

[@chrisfryer3118]

I've been liking your recent reviews, more appropriate to my stage of solar enthusiasm.

[@democracyforall]

It is better to design your own one, the component inside are not even 70 dollars.

[@gvmiketodd]

Great stuff, David. Keep up the great work. I've been looking at much more expensive options. I'm anxious for your final video on this unit.

[@SuperJamster1]

David! Thank you, I'm as excited as you are to find a great company like signature solar, with reasonable priced products. That inverter/battery system might just be the defining piece of the puzzle for many of us. Thank you, can't wait until your next test video.

[@fullyelectric]

So far amazing.. awaiting next video before buying one .. thank you!

[@techfine-andrewchan5893]

I definitely can meet your requirement of solar inverter in competitive price

[@tourvanvan2145]

Is it the dangerous model that can electrocute you? What's the ground-neutral bond issue?

[@noanyobiseniss7462]

Those 'warranty void if removed' stickers are illegal, says the FTC. ... “Unless warrantors provide the parts or services for free or receive a waiver from the FTC, such statements generally are prohibited by the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a law that governs consumer product warranties,” the Commission noted Under the 1975 Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, the Feds mandated that you can open your electronics without voiding the warranty, regardless of what the language of your warranty says

[@SetTheCurve]

With Chinese parts, warranty is always void.

[@FG-vf7pq]

@@SetTheCurve Not necessarily - there are good businesses in China as in the US and elsewhere!!

[@joe7272]

Yes those stickers are illegal. Also, failing to honor warranty due to modification that couldn't have caused the issue is illegal. Meaning if I buy a Dell PC, upgrade the ram, and the psu dies they still have to honor the warranty, regardless of "no modifications" agreements. Actually getting them to honor this law may be a challenge.

[@OtherMike5000]

SCIENCE!

[@OtherMike5000]

@@SetTheCurve 🤣

[@georgedrenes8143]

Thanks for doing this great review. I’m still on the fence regarding which inverter, solar charge controller, and panels to get and use with my GYLL 6 pack, so your review is really timely. Anxious to see the upcoming videos where you try the transformer too.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Your welcome. There are lots of great options on the market.

[@cutweldngrind]

I couldn't afford one of these all in ones and had to settle for a MSB 60A controller and a 24v 3k inverter. I used to run 48v but my inverter fried about 3 years ago. Awesome video.

[@Skylapser]

This is really exciting, regretting buying a Schneider 2524 now for my 24V Gyll batts. Can't wait to see the final installation. Keep up the great work!

[@gettinglucky]

shopping these things right now, check idle consumptions

[@wellwisher541]

This is Growatt you're talking about. They make world class inverters and they are among the top 10 inverter suppliers in the world with less than 2% failure rate. I have been using one of their inverter for over a year now and I have been using the 5000 es model for a couple of months now.

[@mark_osborne]

This is good to know !

[@tourvanvan2145]

Is it safe? How is the ground-neutral bond?

[@firstsat2000]

One string of panels or 2?

[@illjohnno]

I own one. Forms a part of my 12X330 wp installation, including 2,4 kwh pylontech lytium battery, functions flawlessly... No, I'm not sponsored, just a satified customer from Romania

[@donstringer7422]

I've been using Growatt and love it. So easy to setup and use. Powers my entire off-grid home easily.

[@op8995]

I just got my 3kw 48v modlr today. I can't wait until I get my batteries and get everything situated.

[@dominique___1980]

I'm trying to build an off-grid generator for my RV for when I boondock. (Think Inergy/GoalZero/PointZero but with more capacity.) Will the 24v inverter be sufficient?

[@michaelbouckley4455]

@@op8995 if you have enough solar, this is supposed to work without battery

[@georgemouer4565]

@@michaelbouckley4455 I hope he tests that capability !

[@childofyeshua9006]

A 24V is harder to connect to AC then if you use a 12V, right ? Do these only work with Roof Solars or 2-4 individual stand up ones ? Also, it comes with a battery ? Do you add an additional one like a lithium to make it last longer ? I'm looking at Solar Hybid inverters but nothing's going on my roof........ I've called Electricians, contractors and nobody can answer this ......

[@TheSleepyCraftsman]

FYI...voiding a warranty based on a sticker is actually illegal in the U.S., since 1975. The manufacturer can't hold it against you for opening the case.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

OK, thanks. I didn't know.

[@TheSleepyCraftsman]

@@DavidPozEnergy I too thought the same. Manufacturers have gone out of their way to make everyone think they can void your warranty over a sticker. I'm sure it saves them a ton of $$$.

[@AGhostInTheMachine]

that's good info. do you have a link to more info about that?

[@michaelwagner6877]

This needs to be a top comment.

[@JonOffgrid]

cool that,s good news

[@stalwart56k]

Last year I bought the MPP GK5048, a similar product to the Growatt, from our friends in Taiwan at MPP Solar, for around $600 and used a $150 120/240 single phase 3000W transformer from Amazon to run a pair of dehumidifiers in my basement. Trying to use the same transformer to step up from 120 to 240 for the AC input worked but it was very loud. I'm looking forward to getting my pair of MPP LV6548 next week (after waiting a month for them to be cleared by customs) 120v input each, paired for split phase operation. If you buy on Ebay direct from MPP, shipping from Taiwan using DHL arrives much faster. I'm very much looking forward to the review of the Solar Edge Auto transformer. It was something I considered getting, as I'm sure it beats the tar out of what I'm using currently (and may still use for something in the future....)

[@dannybruff]

How long before it pays for itself?

[@philipmorgan1438]

Very cool video! It inspires me to buy the DIY components for use as a backup solution for my home.👏👍

[@larrybingham2415]

David, I was glad to view your video about the GR3 battery and the Growatt single phase inverter. I'm planning to use an auto transformer to provide 120-volt 60 Hz utility-type power for use by small appliances during utility outages. The battery-inverter-auto transformer will function as my emergency backup power system to serve my hydronic heating system, refrigerator/freezer, a couple of small desktop space heaters., and our microwave oven.😊

[@carlossousa3285]

David, nice videos from you! This inverter seems to be the same as the MPP solar from Taiwan. I have the 4048 MS and has been running 24/7 since June 2017 without a glitch. Interesting to see Growatt put its label on this product. Makes me happy :)

[@haseebahmad3045]

Hi david .... Yes we are using such all in 1 packages that even have grid feeding capabilities in range of 600$ to 700$ .... Here in Pakistan and these things do work great

[@iffy98]

Share the name

[@Ayzee5363]

These units are pretty reliable. I have a similar 5kw one that I’ve been using for the last 2 years running non stop with zero issues. It’s not the same brand but has similar settings and display and is build by VoltronicPower.

[@johnfitbyfaithnet]

Thank you for sharing this important information

[@uittyman]

Is it Loud?

[@Ayzee5363]

@@uittyman It does get louder when the cooling fans ramp up but thats only when it needs cleaning.

[@randomnamehererandoname1727]

@@Ayzee5363 How do you clean yours? I didn't realize these could be opened up or cleaned? Or do you just shoot compressed air (not canned) into it? Thanks!

[@Ayzee5363]

@@randomnamehererandoname1727 I clean mine with a blower. The front face can be removed by undoing the side and top screws.

[@remog38]

Great news David these are available in UK so very relevant thanks

[@mistersandy]

As long as each component in the system can be replaced, it's cool.

[@toysareforboys1]

The thing I love about it most? You can use it without a battery! :) If you can test it running off your solar without a battery that would be awesome, thanks!

[@majidjan3990]

Hello honey how are you

[@techfine-andrewchan5893]

I can help you

[@mark_osborne]

Nice job on the review David. Looking forward to further testing. Nice unit for sure. My gut tells me it won't handle a lot of in-rush as there is no real "mass" in the transformers. Either way, if they built enough quality into it, it could handle resistance loads and inverter motors for years to come

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Hi Mark, I'm worried about the exact same thing. You know I love to test with my air compressor and miter saw. That will be coming. I don't know if they have as much inrush as your lift?

[@mark_osborne]

@@DavidPozEnergy my lift is horrible ! not sure how those Magnums survived all these years :-)

[@perseon]

@David, I intend to build my own battery. do you know a compatible BMS brand?

[@joepah51]

Great job David.. I saw smaller models on Amazon and couldn't believe the price. TBH long term reliability is what defines good electronics like inverters.. We won't know if the heat sinks and those MOSFETs do the job until someone maybe you? uses it for a while at load.

[@rendezvoussolar7557]

The trick is not to overwork them for so long basically loading them to 65-70% load capacity, they are performing flawlessly in our installations the HVM series though

[@theupsideofdownsizing]

Crazy how quickly the market has changed and prices have fallen. I'm looking at my Schneider electric 3200watt inverter. For the price of that thing, I could have gotten 2 of these Growatts with a transformer! Looking forward to your upcoming videos. Hopefully this trend in solar will continue!

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Thanks. You guys are doing great down there. Part 2 is online: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4i4l6msiMZmgZo

[@mannymota3442]

"I don't know what I'm looking at but it looks really cool." Good enough for me.

[@randybobandy9828]

Honest answer.

[@j.allenhood7429]

Hells yeah brother!

[@Skashoon]

Ditto

[@josephbrabenderiii2049]

As a few others have said. Really interested in how it performs with the transformer. You have had problems with high frequency inverters before starting induction loads like your miter saw. Also try with a big shop vacuum ad the universal motors are notoriously inefficient. Your transformer might give it enough of a "flywheel effect" to ride through.

[@iztherelife1340]

We’re having issues now. With pass thru power. Fried a transformer. No problems until we added batteries and paralleled two. Now the grid assist isn’t possible. We saw where a grounding issue inside is problem being tied to the neutral. We’re getting an error 8. Frustrating.

[@wideawaketotruth5301]

Thank you for taking the time to create this video very informative.

[@t.c.3027]

Thanks DavidPov for this presentation! You have definitely earned a new sub

[@johnsavage3762]

Those are inductors and which are an essential component in transformers. They are also toroidal transformers which are used for various advantages.

[@glenngfarley]

Terrific Vid! Looking forward to Part 2

[@A2an]

8:08 It seems to be STGWA80H65FB in the output module, if so it is from STMicroelectronics and it is is a IGBT Transistor, not a FET. Thanks for taking the lid of, to show the inside. 👍

[@gmanweber3776]

Growatt just came out with new batteryless model. Off grid. Looking forward to seeing more reviews on that one. Thanks for your videos david. Also looking forward to the autotransformer video.

[@gmanweber3776]

@Signature SolarYes, I see that but the SPF 3000TL LVM-ES doesn't require transformer correct?

[@gmanweber3776]

@Signature Solar can I use this transformer for any 120v inverter? I have a meanwell inverter

[@ambersmith6517]

@Signature Solar wow batteryless is cool i wander if the adding of the tranny adds the flux amps for starting big motor type loads kinda like low frq inverters

[@onthelake9554]

@Signature Solar Question , What is the grid line in for grid support for the 240 volt only model ? Does this have grid support feature the 3k has ? Thanks !

[@yemberingMali2]

You guys have been wonderful I cannot tell you how much I’ve learned from you (David and all the commentators)I Think I am ready to set up my 1st system however I want all to know that signature solar is not honoring the discount as mentioned I ordered today 12,000 Kw growatt inverter and 48 V lithium battery but they told me “no more discount “ and as far I’m concern they don’t seem to be as friendly as advertised

Looks like MPP Solar: same parallel connection, same disposition as my PIP-5048MG, same display, same kind of price and characteristics. Good stuff!

[@oleksii.zagorskyi]

I had the same thoughts. It also on sales all around the world with different brands, while actually produced by Voltronicpower

[@bricelarie6527]

Quite the same thing : Sorotec revo series 5.5 kw It's High frequency ... Unfortunately I "break" 2 Sorotec Revo series 5.5 kw : One cause of the max Solar input array ... ( 4000 wpeak ) One cause of an undetected weak wet short-circuit in between both phase ( neutral-phase-earth ) My set up cannot detect it cause when you're running on solar you got no "back point" to mass or "earth" ... Automatic switching between mass "regime" is not a "built in" to these models ... So all the ground "security" systems from usual "grid" were inefficient ... You ought to built up a neutral to ground automatically swichable connection for these that works only with non-connected to ground solar panels . Got a Mpp pip 7048 max ... Running quite good so far with 2 times 7 panels string south oriented on one "side" And one 7 panel string west oriented onto the other .... I would have a 8048 max ... If and only import taxes weren't that kind an help thoses who gather this kind a material which is not produced at all in that "great" ... Union !!! Dare, care, ride safe, clean, have fun ... From France, with .

[@jimginnyohio]

Nice. I picked up a couple of the 3000 watt Growatt inverters a few months back. Looking forward to seeing your test results!

[@bonniefrench9595]

Did you install them? How are the working, I'm looking at buying 2 SPF 3000TL LVM-24P or 488P to go off grid if I need to.

[@trevortrevortsr2]

I just watched " Grease Bothers" from little eco angel to family man - brilliant

[@boblevey]

I got the Growatt 12000 and am really happy with it. Quite a bit bigger and more expensive but that’s what I needed

[@evlhat]

I have one too I love it!

[@boblevey]

@Joshua Kiser about 4 months

[@boblevey]

@Joshua Kiser about 4 months

[@_a1001]

Same here, and I'll be adding another one. I wish the original 12k could do 250v solar like the new ones.

[@randybobandy9828]

Wow that's awesome! Can you give me a pros and cons? Would love to hear your opinion on it.

[@amoscardoza5253]

That would fit nicely in my jeep. I hope it gets a positive review!

[@good4politics]

Jeep??

[@Masteradamant]

dude this is exactly what I've been looking for thank you

[@Gebruikersstation]

can't wait for your review part 2!! I feel like I already want to get this thing

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Thanks for watching. It has it's place, but not perfect for every situation. I'm working on editing part 2.

[@videostar555]

@@DavidPozEnergy please mention what the difference is with their older TL models..

[@a2cryss]

9:00 I have seen a lot of failed CapXon capacitors in computer power supplies, motherboards, and monitors. Hopefully those bigger ones are better. I have noticed that the bigger ones in LCD/LED TVs are not the failure point. Thumbs up.

[@KarrasBastomi]

Recapping with better caps would cost more than the unit... LOL...

[@user-vw4cg8cy4f]

You might have not SEEN them, but did you take ESR measurements? I did. These fail just like the smaller ones, but more slowly.

[@arleneallen8809]

Nice. Single string up to 400V might be around 13 average panels. If more panels are paralleled then current limit might be a concern, although maybe 16 or so panels is the limit due to the 5Kw limit. With more videos coming I'd also be interested in the AC input testing as well. I assume it frequency and phase syncs to the AC input, if present. If these are then paralleled, let's say 2 units, and one has AC input, then both units should sync with each other and the AC input gong into one of the units. I'm asking because this would be a great solution for a solar car port I'm constructing that is not on my house system. It's standalone and will comprise 36 panels equating to about 10kW. The single appliance connected to the AC out will be a 240V car charger. When not charging the car, I want to fill the batteries. Yes, this will result in power sometimes being thrown away, but I live in California, and the utilities have gotten very negative about more daytime power back feeding to the grid.

[@Keepskatin]

So 10 to 15k, just to charge your car for free🙄❓💲

[@Brakenjan777]

Installed one on Friday works awsome

[@McCuneWindandSolar]

What I do like about my inverter/charger with works the save as the one you are showing is. To hook it to the grid all you need is the 2 hot lines and ground. Like you would for a dryer. and with the auto transformer or split phase transformer witch I used witch was much cheaper. I love thse little things the one I have has lasted a long long time and still going.

[@buckycage4313]

I have also been using the 12kw unit which is about same $/w as this 5kw, great value. The plus and minus is low frequency unit beast weighs about 180lbs. Downside is the 2x internal MPPTs are 150V.

[@buckycage4313]

Oh yah, the big daddy also is a full split phase 240

[@miasam9666]

From which supplier did you buy the inverter? There are loads of them on alibaba

[@fisherus]

I saw this Growatt on Signature Solar's website when I was wondering about the GyLL battery after watching your video. So glad to see you reviewing it as I couldn't glean much info about it on their website. Be looking forward for the follow-up video, David!

[@evlhat]

Signature solar actually has a pretty good KZbin channel with a demo of this inverter using the transformer.

[@williamquestmagic]

Very interesting product with the All In One package. I like that, I love simplicity and convenience. The price point is superb also. Going to part 2 right away. bill in Florida

[@jpou6942]

Funny, your heater element wasn't even on steel plate in bucket during the test.

[@deanstraker5326]

In China we sold 600usd... but l just want to say, I do really enjoy the testing video, I got a lot from your video.

[@JoeMalovich]

That looks slick, I might need to get myself one of those.

[@strottier57]

Can you check the standby consumption with and without search mode on?

[@MrMinnesota99]

Hope to see some good efficiency and standby numbers. It's nice to see more competition but most I have specked out are pigs. I would have to add 3kw additional solar and battery verses a magnum or schneider just to handle the idle load.

[@McCuneWindandSolar]

I have and I have it on my wall Mppt solar, it has been a round for at least 5 years you can stack up to 6 of them, they were 4kw now they have 5kw, and some with single 60 amp solar charger, and 60 amp grid charging, and they also sell some that are hybrid GTI, and also off grid and solar all in one. with anywhere from solar 150 up to 600 volt solar. some have dual solar charge controllers and so forth. They can also stack them for 3 phase systems using the same charge controllers you use 3 of them to build a 3 phase system. The one I have is 240 volt AC so have to use a transformer for split phase. but they also sell Split phase Mppt inverter/chargers also. They are nice. I have had mine for 5 years now.

[@shahfaisalhayat8690]

its a heavy duty inverter we are using here in pakistan, connected with solars and batteries and running all of the home load without any break. they are offering 5 year warranty. and its quite cheap for US market.

[@philipacovington]

I have SDGE power. I am thinking about a x6 configuration on the GroWatts. I love the rack mount batteries. I wish they'd make a rack mount inverter.

[@OtherMike5000]

COMMENT OF THE YEAR

[@curavida5013]

I have 2 of these units in par and 20kwh lifepower4 and 2 pv arrays - 7KW ..... awesome!!!! Bought them from Signature Solar.

[@percyandrewhohne6208]

Great video! Please upload part 2! Want to buy it asap!

[@KevinGebo]

"I'm really hoping it doesn't just blow up on me... Well we're gonna find out!" 😂

[@Deep.Purple]

They work great ...

[@magamike1800]

Dam this might be suitable to charge my coming Cyber truck EV.

[@TheOneJacinto]

I have a similar model of this Growatt inverter, and it is great!! I still haven't dared to take off the covers for not to loose guarantee, thanks you to do this for me ;) Now I know what are inside! Great video, David. Regards form Argentina!

[@bigbobno11]

Poz man Great podcast. Loved it.

[@frederichoyos678]

Test it under some heavy start loads like your miter saw and split air conditioner/heat pump

[@anywidget]

Yeah...that would be some good tests

[@randybobandy9828]

Good think most new split/mini split AC are inverter based and dont surge.

[@andymendez24]

He just tested it with a 4.1kW load. That's a pretty good test to me

[@kh8655]

@@andymendez24 it's fine for a quick test, but not a realistic usage though

[@brizzx32]

I don't know whole lot about solar but basically he said this inverter is only able to power up a water heater. I don't know but that doesn't sound like a whole lot. Is 5kilowatts alot of power? I mean spending $900 not cheap.

[@MrCarl312]

Lower cost when everything is combined in one unit. However if any one part fails then you have to replace the whole unit. Or send it in for repair. With separate units, you only have to replace the failed unit.

[@serversurfer6169]

If you have multiple units in parallel - which is comparatively affordable - then you can continue running at partial capacity while you wait for servicing. A pair of 5kW inverters would make a fairly capable and robust system. Three units would be quite a beast. 🤓🤔🤷‍♂️

[@mahannaidu5228]

E hi

[@jamesshomesolarmore2223]

This is an incredible inverter. I have three of them. I am running 360 volts at 9.3 amps into 2 of them and 360 volts at 18.6 amps into the other one. They are powering my house with ease. I could get away with having only 2 of them but, I have an older home and it's still being remodeled. So, I keep them hooked up. I have 6 of the gyll/egyll batteries in a cabinet 30 kwh I also have some 24-volt batteries that were hooked up in series and Parallel with 2 of the gyll batteries. would you hook them back up with the new and larger battery bank? Plus, the 24-volt batteries when hooked in series would sometimes get different volt readings. how do I avoid that?

[@carlosjoseconceicao886]

Thanks for doing this great review. Excellent explanation!

[@PatrickKQ4HBD]

It's my understanding that US law prohibits companies from voiding your warranty for opening up the unit, but not from scaring you into not opening up the unit by threatening to void the warranty. I have lost the link to the specific code, but anyone can look it up for their locale.

[@dama054]

Can you set time back to grid and time back to inverter

[@DIESELTECH_ZA]

Awesome video & info provided! Thank you David.

[@vladanmarkovic7372]

David, thank you for this video. Nice work.

[@RS-ms1bz]

The Gyll battery bms will not communicate with the GroWatt. I have both, my GroWatt is 48v 3kw, and purchased the Gyll using David’s coupon code. I talked with Signature Solar and they are in the process of making a new bms that will communicate with the GroWatt. So it’s in the works.

[@wibla2578]

Really cool that they're implementing that communication - should be (fairly) straightforward with RS485

[@1981dasimpson]

i just wish they where rack mount to work with the rack mount batterys

[@mattdiaz9360]

Excellent vid Dave! Thanks!

[@danyuno1663]

Dave nice job with all your video's you're saving us alot of trouble shooting time, I'm working on a system also and have the $3,000 watt Aims inverters and now ready to upgrade to a 6k split phase unit and thinking either going with Aims or trying these Growatts , it appears the efficiency is about the same, slight differences in the unit due to add ins like solar charger.ect . So my question and yes the price cant be beat but how do you compare it to Aims? Aims also has the Industrial unit that is higher efficiency, Thanks

[@JBK63]

What I find missing in all these inverter reviews and evaluations is no one seems to be technical enough to evaluate the circuitry or the build quality and that’s what this really comes down to. A poor design is going to fail at some point and some of these units seem to be designed far more thoughtfully than others. The components used in the assembly and layout are often overlooked. Measuring voltage, load, waveform etc. is really not getting to the root of these inverters.

[@KarrasBastomi]

And stress test at prolonged duration...

[@gershomg1537]

I'd like to see a comparison (performance, efficiency, costs, etc.) between this inverter and the ones that you have had.

[@johnmarkm.5743]

In addition let me attach a few more questions here to @DavidPoz and hopefully he can handle them collectively: 1. Hopefully if it isn't too much to ask, you could do an efficiency load test across 1kw to 5kw (in 5 steps would especially really like to see efficiency of different motor loads since most manufacturers rate their efficiencies on non-motor simple resistive loads instead of the more dodgy & trocky inductive motor loads) so you don't really get the whole picture. 2. Probably do an idle test no load dc power draw. 3. Probably do a AC charger power draw when charging the batteries. 4. Inform whether it has a power saver function to reduce night battery drain when it senses loads below X number of watts. 5. How quick is the transition from AC to DC and back in the event a power outage occurs (will you notice a startling flicker/stutter of equipment or is it seamless in transition performance?)

[@dimitridekoning]

Perfect for Holland, 230 volts 50 hertz is standard here, nice system

[@ronbinkc4625]

They are Toroid Coils. A toroid is a coil of insulated or enameled wire wound on a donut-shaped form made of powdered iron. A toroid is used as an inductor in electronic circuits, especially at low frequencies where comparatively large inductances are necessary.

[@mal209]

I would love to see a test of the the parasitic load on the whole unit with and without the invert active- what is the current draw from the batteries when the unit is in standby (switch off, but batteries connected) vs power-saving (power-saving setting enabled, switch on, but no AC load connected) vs inverter on with no load (power-saving setting disabled, switch on, no AC load)?

[@willrobertson826]

70 watts idle load I hope they improve on that in the future.i bought one just for the charge contol I lose a third of my PV input from parasitic loss going back to my trace 5548 and a low consumption charge contoller. Like to find out what growatt charge controller stand alone unit consumes

[@martdaymo]

Don't forget to test the standby power consumption!

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Good call. It's on my list so I don't forget next time. I want to see what the idle watts is with, and without the auto transformer.

[@ambersmith6517]

that is what i was going to ask great minds think alike

[@buddysteele8220]

Loved the video ant your presentation of it. I'm going to get one of these inverters and build my own small portable system unless you have any changes to the hardware you used. I also watched your 1 year later video so I suspect not, but I wanted to check before spending the money. Thanks

[@DavidPozEnergy]

This inverter is 240V only, I add an auto-transformer for 120/240V split phase. But, if you need more power than 1 inverter, there is another option. If you want 10+kW, then instead of 2 inverters and an auto-transformer, you could look at the EG4 inverter. They are 120V only, but two together will make 120/240V. signaturesolar.com/eg4-6-5k-off-grid-inverter-6500ex-48/?ref=4_rHcgZ9x-TiF-

[@buddysteele8220]

@@DavidPozEnergy Thanks for getting back to me David. You are the only person out of 3 that did. My goal, or desire is to power my camper trailer totally for up to a week of camping without any worries or problems. I want my 12v/120 v fridge to stay running. I want to be able to shower on demand, sit in my recliner and watch TV with a 12v or 110 v fan blowing on me. I want to cook something something to eat when necessary. I want my lights, both 12v and 110 v to work. My camper is total electric because that is what I want. If you can suggest what hardware I will need to accomplish this I will be extremely happy. I am a disabled Veteran so I live in a fixed income and love to go camping / fishing. Again thank you for taking the time to get back with me.

[@DarrenCharron]

I am planning on getting two of these and hooking them up in parallel to run my 10KW furnace.

[@mark_osborne]

I was looking at the 12000 and was surprised to learn it weighs 165 lbs and has 2 large transformers inside, one for each leg of the 120. These things may actually be the real deal !

[@jackinkc767]

so, it has 2 legs and a neutral?

[@bigblockcutlass123]

Did you buy one, I have one. Seems pretty good

[@erasertech9785]

Looks like a copy of the Mpp solar inverters out of Taiwan,Which we have been off-grid with for the last 6 years.

[@paudiemedia9269]

Thanks again David for showing us this new inverter combo. Looks great! If running a home off grid, amI realistically looking at 2 or three of these units to cover electric shower and other high draw items like kettle, cooker, etc. In a perfect world, no one would boil the kettle while the electric shower is running. I’m sold on the GYLL 6 battery array and enclosure. I want to build a trouble free system and this looks like the perfect compliment to the GYLL battery array. So, for a typical house hold off grid, with the possibility of two big ticket items running at the same time? Thanks David.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Thanks for checking out the videos. I'll be demonstrating paralleling in an upcoming video. Probably a few weeks out, since next one will be on wiring the auto-transformer.

[@dh2rl]

Very good Video David!! Best regards from Germany!!

[@jjackson3240]

I was looking at their 12k inverter recently. While the price is outstanding there are a couple items that bother me. Their max efficiency is rated at only 88% compared to say your Sunny Islands at 95% plus. Also the idle usage is near 200 watts on the 12k inverter. That seems like a lot. If you can fit it in, please address those specs on your 5kw inverter. Thanks David.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Thanks for the comment. It's great to hear what people want to see. I'll include this in the next video. I'm especially interested in the idle watts for myself.

[@jstaffordii]

Average Joe is testing the 12kw LF split phase model, it showed 67 watts at idle

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Hi John Stafford II, I watched and enjoyed Average Joes video testing his 12kw LF inverter. You are referring to the "Power Saver" mode. When the inverter was ON, but no load (idle) it drew 161 watts.

[@alexburke5289]

The truth is, this was on alibaba for years now and was always the same price. And there are many good ones there as well, just no one wants to review any.

[@t.c.3027]

Hummm, I'm 🤔why?? I was thinking the same, this is the 1st time I've even been introduced to this model! Need to check with Will also on this! This guy has acquired a new sub with me!!

[@garystewart6093]

If I was sent a free one, I would shill it with the same enthusiasm as he does

[@mpirron1]

check out all the MPPSolar vids, that's where you will see many installs, the Taiwanese came up with these "hybrid" high frequency inverters, all others are OEM'd or copied, various build qualities, and options, but all them the same, a bunch of MOSFETs. Not UL Certified, Not NEC Compliant, absolutely not IEEE 1547 compliant. Won't pass inspection for occupancy permit, no licenced master electrician is gonna touch it, it won't be allowed grid interconnection, doing so is potentially felonious, Electrical Provider will not authorize netmetering for excess generation buyback.Finally, connection to the grid is very likely to create suspicious enough consumption patterns at the meter to trigger a fraud investigation you really don't want so be very careful. That being said I hypothetically would absolutely love mine if I had one.

[@GoCoyote]

I would love to see the waveform of the output on an oscilloscope. You would want to use this unit with a center tap 120/240 transformer in order to provide the grounding electrode conductor point of connection to the grounded conductor (Neutral) These inverters are usually designed for international use that are 230V with one conductor being grounded. As our 240V systems are always grounded through the center tapped Neutral conductor, each of the 240 volt conductors are not grounded. BTW, in the old days of hooking up Trace inverters, one always carried a second unit, as the newly installed Trace units might emit a large puff of white smoke when first turned on, and then die a quick death.

[@isovideo7497]

The Growatts from Signature Solar are modified so that neither of the 240V outputs are grounded, as you say. Unfortunately if the Growatt is bought from another supplier, it is possible that the 240V "neutral" IS grounded, thereby causing a grounding hazard. People who purchase Growatts from other than Signature Solar, or purchase second hand, should check that the neutral and ground connections are not bonded together - using a continuity tester or ohm-meter.

[@meredithbrown8696]

I have a MPP Solar 5kva PIP5048MK unit that looks exactly like the Growatt Unit. Even the instruction book is printed exactly the same. Coincidence? I have been running the MPP Solar for over a year now with no hiccups. We run welders and aircons off it without a problem

[@jaynewstrom]

Can you test idle consumption in one of the upcoming videos?

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Yes Sir! I plan to test the idle watt draw with, and without, the transformer.

[@bousabousa2377]

I’ve been looking at this inverter as well. It says in the manual that it has a power saving mode. This is mentioned in the screen display section of the manual. It also says in the specs that it has a no load draw of 60w. That is a lot and probably a deal breaker for my scenario. Would be great to see David’s results

[@LordGeva]

I've got mine this week! When it is on, without batteries, connected to the grid, connected to the PV array and the loads disconnected, the clamp meter on the AC-in measures almost 4 amps. What could be the cause? (my grid is 220v and 50Hz)

[@mpirron1]

Build looks very similar to MPPSolar and their mainland counterparts. They are what they are but to compare them to victron is like comparing a low end Volkswagen to an High end Audi. Both should get you where you want to go though. It's not going to be approved for grid connection either, so your excess power is wasted (nobody really cares about the grid anyway)

[@pete2531]

looking forward to part 2

[@haythamabdalsattar2947]

Nice video keep on. I m waiting over loud test 😀

[@AdministrativeReload]

Just know that a matched split phase transformer is going to cost you about $300 more. It's still a decent price, but not as much of a "great value" when you figure that into the cost.

[@PaulPaid]

They need a default 120v version.

[@johnadams1725]

As far as your work David Great! Keep it up!

[@bobschieble5737]

Hi David ,We repair inverters,These Hi Freq units are a problem with certain loads. We prefer inverters that have copper wound output transformers. These handle reactive loads . They also isolate the high voltage dc .I know the cost is higher ,but reliability is much better.One more point,The GROWATT inverter your testing has the same inverter and charge controler circuits we've seen in other inverters,it a universal plug and play uit. By the way ,I just received my GULL 5 KW BATTERIES, THANKS FOR YOUR VIDEO ON THESE ,GOOD JOB!!!

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Thanks for sharing your experience. I've blown up a couple inverters in the past with my miter saw. I'm going to try my miter saw and air compressor on this unit too, but since those are 120v, it will be with the auto transformer.

[@TheBrewjo]

The $900 unit can synchronize AC lines with others... Cough, Texas! Cough, buy some! 🤭

[@Burnttoast27]

*Cough* you mean ERCOT(formally ENRON *Cough*

[@mjdominique17]

I'm waiting for the part 2

[@maxwalker4659]

Hi David, love your work mate. Just wondering if you would still recommend the Growatt SPF5000ES in 2022 for off grid use. Also, have you worked out how they operate with no batteries. Keep up the good work. Thanks David.

[@lasersbee]

Excellent find David.