How I built my SOLAR Powered Workshop - Power Anywhere

Adding electricity to a shed or workshop anywhere has never been this easy! How I wired my shed for lights, tools & power completely off grid using simple solar components without trenching or monthly electric bills!
This is how I installed my basic system, electricity is dangerous & you always must ensure you have overload protection, suitable wire sizes & safety. My system works well for me but you must design and build a system that is safe and meets your local electric codes.
Solar Generators
Ecoflow Delta Max: ecoflow.com/collections/delta...
BougeRV Solar Generator: amzn.to/307QweM
Takki Solar Generator: amzn.to/3lxe6df
Solar Panels (Check specs with the solar generator you buy first to make sure they match)
Portable 100 Watt: amzn.to/3oSPFsE
Fixed: amzn.to/3mM3t5x
Electric Parts
Cord reel: amzn.to/3AwVPRB
Wago Connectors: amzn.to/30iYrGj
Ceiling LED Light: amzn.to/3Bxpz1P
Related Videos:
How I Installed my own WELL: • How to INSTALL YOUR OW...
How I Installed my own ELECTRIC WELL PUMP: • DIY BACKYARD WELL with...
This video, description and comments contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!
Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond the control of Silver Cymbal, I cannot guarantee against improper use or unauthorized modifications of this information. Silver Cymbal assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Use this information at your own risk. Silver Cymbal recommends safe practices when working on machines and or with tools seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of Silver Cymbal, no information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or from the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not Silver Cymbal.

[@SilverCymbal]

Thanks for watching please *LIKE & SUBSCRIBE* - Cord Reel: amzn.to/3AwVPRB Related videos & parts in the description / How I drilled the well: kzbin.info/www/bejne/e17Tn2dnm9aMjtU The day I got the shed: kzbin.info/www/bejne/paHSq4CFbcyca80

[@terryrodbourn2793]

You should have gotten basic insulation(like corning-owns insulation) in work shied!

[@brunoalmeida7156]

I've been a builder for many years and have seen quite a fair bit of sheds. The plans in ryan's package kzbin.infoUgkxB7IXYxLzb_Ichhe45zM3Im5xfEiSp9vB have some of the nicest looking sheds i've seen in a while.

[@shaunhall960]

Those portable solar generators age getting better every year as well as the prices. Thanks a bunch for the video!

[@resistenciaviva1]

Usually I don’t like people who talk a lot but Mr. Cymbal shoots only great information, no distractions. Subbed.

[@itzjoeylo4501]

I love what you’ve done, one of these days I’ll have one too… An off the grid shed/workshop, patience is a virtue…

[@protorhinocerator142]

Only installing one light fixture. No. Always install at least two in the shed and attic. When you have one light source, you're always working with something that's in your own shadow. If you install a second light source it gets rid of nearly all dark spots in the shed. This was the first thing I did when I electrified my shed. Always, always, two light sources. Even if the second light isn't so bright, it makes a big difference.

[@mac11380]

Also if you are running a tool and the light goes out, you have a second light to help you to not saw your arm off.

[@wulver810]

@@mac11380 but, if you saw your arm off, your new arm could come with it's own built in light source.

[@inspireonex]

@@wulver810 ROFLMAO

[@donh4750]

When using a METAL electric box, you are REQUIRED to ground the box by adding a ground wire from the wire nut to the box and secure with a green ground screw. You can get away from that by using plastic boxes. I don't know of any specific requirements for temporary solar panels, but for permanent ones, there are strict requirements for grounding the panels.

[@85square]

I noticed he didn't ground them too

[@jlee7063]

Do they have plastic pancake boxes?

[@parkercovieo9103]

This is why I watch every one of your videos. By far the most informational videos out there. Your previous video is the reason I purchased an Ecoflow! I recommend your channel to all my DIY friends

[@SilverCymbal]

So glad you like then. I hope you enjoy the Ecoflow, they have continued to be such a great product.

[@LevelDroneRCX]

These power banks were a game changer for my solar system. Now I can use it year round.

[@steven_marque_official_channel]

Dang dude. You continue to rule. Even though this is light years beyond my own scope, it's weirdly satisfying seeing you make these projects real for yourself - and this is the pièce de résistance 🤘

[@SilverCymbal]

Very nice of you to say! Thank you

[@jsenior5]

I just want to say your one of the best pages on youtube! Ive learnt so much and i truly appreciate it. I refer your videos weekly. Thank you. Also fyi I’m Watching from Quebec Canada

[@blsnash99]

This is the video I’ve been waiting for… your shed is a work of art…

[@SilverCymbal]

Thank you so much, its coming along. Now I just need to move my bed in there with a TV

[@blsnash99]

@@SilverCymbal are you gonna add insulation and drywall? Maybe mount the solar panels on the roof?

[@Stuckin4low]

@@SilverCymbal was this a "kit" shed? Or custom?

[@SuperBrainAK]

That is a pretty awesome setup! very simple and minimalistic but does the jobs its needs to perfectly. My only reccomendation is to wire a ground rod into the input box because otherwise everything is just floating with the solar generator. A voltage potential is capable of building up in the wiring and if it isnt shunted to ground then you could touch an electrically grounded piece of metal and get a shock from it.

[@DucomaVet]

How does one do this?

[@SuperBrainAK]

​@@DucomaVet To install a ground rod to the "input box". You add an Equipment Grounding Conductor in parallel to where the input lead is that you plug into the inverter. Then you run that wire to an 8 foot Ground Rod and bond it. This will ensure that whatever device you plug in will not cause any voltage to leak onto the ground wire. It will not protect against a short because most portable inverters do not have a ground to neutral bond however it will ensure that there will be no static build up or potential difference between the ground you are standing on and the metal surfaces bonded to the Equipment Grounding Conductor.

[@MikeOrazzi]

Nice project and some good ideas. @@SuperBrainAK

[@seanmikhaels]

love this channel, appreciate the straight forward to the point videos. No bs run around filler content.

[@sandyj479]

I also have been waiting for a video like this. I want power to my back shed and this seems like an easy and simple solution .Thanks for sharing

[@DiHandley]

Well I’m impressed that’s for sure. Another fantastic video with heaps of great information. Thanks.

[@SilverCymbal]

I really appreciate it, thank you

[@joshb124]

Another great video! The dusk to dawn light is a nice touch.

[@wattz247]

That metal box should be grounded since you have 120v running through it. Other than that it looks like a great solution to having to trench and run conduit to direct bury Romex.

[@anthonya.torchia396]

True unless we didn’t see the grounding pig tail

[@alingram88]

Been watching a ton of your videos lately. Closing on my own home in MA later this month. Thanks for all your great tips

[@SilverCymbal]

Thank you do much, getting a house these days is no small feat! Congrats

[@mattbroct]

Fantastic video! Also if that shelf starts to sag from weight of batteries you can face it with 1x3 and it will strengthen significantly if you nail face off pretty good into plywood. Thanks for sharing!

[@cherijeffcoat6092]

Appreciate the simplicity of your approach. Since I am in the process of trying to go the same route, this was extremely helpful. I do want to make one comment. You referenced a solar generator. They do not generate power, they are actually large batteries with function attached. They still need to be charged via solar or even 110 volts. So it is important to be sure we understand the distinction. I am choosing to go with batteries versus purchasing a solar generator because I can have the same function for much less cost. Really like your minimalistic approach. Makes my job simpler now.

[@ptravers9077]

Great video I actually just did this with my own shed . I put in a junction box and ran a light two outlets . Input an extension cord into the junction box and can plug it into my outdoor outlet when I need too .. I even put in that same light set up no joke ..

[@budshatto3683]

Excellent idea! We're going to be placing a new shed in the near future and wanted to run the lights etc on a solar power system. I think I'll pursue this approach. Thanks!

[@kepaloha]

WTF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! DUDE! this is friggen Exactly what I've been looking for! I need it to run an AC during the summer

[@thomasrossi31]

Great timing! I’m looking for a shed, and was going to mount some cheap solar on the roof... great ideas.

[@WIZ56575]

It can't wait to see the upgrades to your small storage unit , good job

[@Ukepa]

really good ideas... I want to cheaply power my shed and this is a treasure trove!!!

[@newbeginnings8566]

That's a lovely little shed.. In a beautiful lot. (garden).... Get it insulated add a small wood stove and it could serve you well if the grid power ever went down..

[@georgeackerman1752]

That is just amazing, how you can have everything running "off grid"

[@TomCee53]

FYI, there are also kits which include 12v lights which run more efficiently if all you need is lighting, or can be connected to an inverter for tools and appliances. This concept has exploded with options over a few years ago, and prices are pretty reasonable. It’s probably cheaper to install your own solar than to pay an electrician to run a circuit to a shed.

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

Obviously. Although I ran a branch from my house to the detached garage underground. It's really easy. Use GFIs.

[@carlostavaresjr958]

12v lights are great but if you want output AC lights are better.

[@KLFaber]

That is a very nice looking shed. The yard mounted solar panels look kind of lame as it does not appear to be able to withstand sever weather. But you can't beat the simplicity. Those Wago's rock! I've been using them for years.

[@PlantBasedPietro]

Just what I need for my garage!!! Thank you for this great and informative video!!! :)

[@daveclark6324]

SC, thanks for sharing all of the videos about the shed. It turned out great! (Although I guess you will always be tinkering with it 😆 )

[@SilverCymbal]

I appreciate that, I think I am secretly building me a house in case I get divorced, just a bathroom is all I have left.

[@szfehler]

Love this video! I was thinking of doing solar for my chicken house (lights and water deicer), or for my lambing shed (heat lamps), but this made me realize that this could probably be scaled up for our big shed... I use a tiny solar panel to run a fan in my greenhouse and have a solar light with sensor near my milking stanchion, but you make solar seem more doable. Thank you!

[@shelbydzierzanowski2877]

Funny enough, this is exactly what I am here for, too😂

[@ziononmymind7569]

This is EXACTLY what I was looking for! Thank you!

[@harryl7946]

I started looking at doing the same for my lawn shed but what I was finding used batteries. I like the solar generator a lot more 😍

[@SilverCymbal]

These make it very easy to get up and running fast, DIY stuff can be great to do but this is just too convenient and I love that you can grab these and take them camping too or for an event if you need it.

[@Thatguy8134]

That only fans banner😂😂

[@SilverCymbal]

Couldn't let you guys see my gut hanging out for free!

[@yungrock59]

Thought I was the only one to catch that hahaha

[@joebrown8883]

Right Lmaooooo

[@theuninspiredlife657]

😆 🤣 😂 😹

[@abigailgarcia3090]

I subscribes right after 😂

[@brunorosales7387]

Looks awesome and you make it sound very easy!

[@juanreyes25]

Damn. Game changer. I have a nice shed like yours .... but unfortunately its about 100 ft away from house. Running power to it is costly where I live.....and honestly I don't need much , pretty much what you intend to use it for. Thanks for the video and ideas!

[@charlesdixon5730]

Great information and detail, we have been looking into this exact application. Thank you.

[@coolnewpants]

That's so cool and inspiring! Thank you for making this video!

[@anothergoogleuser]

Thanks for the update, and thanks for sharing.

[@JohnKaufmann]

This not only looks useful but also looks really fun to do

[@miaballester3978]

Excellent. Truly enjoyed the video and information.

[@ssyoumans]

Like the video but most portable panels are not meant to be left outside as they will deteriorate and fail from the weather. I’d highly recommend a few Rich Polycrystalline solar panels, those seem to outperform my HQST monocrystalline panels. I prefer a light switch by the door 😉

[@czexybeast]

Awesome video. It gives me ideas about my shed.

[@BrownsSelfStorage]

You made a very awesome video keep up the good hard work we are going to do our office building all solar

[@pobo6113]

This is an excellent video. This would solve all of my issues. 👍🏻

[@latashamcmillerandfamily8771]

AWESOME METHOD AND VIDEO! Thank you so much for this

[@malyman24]

No Biggy, but just an FYI, metal boxes are meant to be grounded. There is a raised ground screw on the back of the box run a ground wire from that to the rest of your grounds. Reason being if the Black hot leg ever wears through the insulation and hits the romex connector it will trip the circuit instead of making the metal box hot. Which might shock you if touched. Better safe then sorry. Like I said, just an FYI. Thanks for the info, great video. I am looking into getting a system.

[@sierravalleyandharborjunction]

awesome, gives me great ideas for my new shed. thanks!!

[@youtubeman5033]

I have my a garage and sheds wired up with solar power I have 3 batteries and infer red security lights 12 volt leds, so it’s free electric from the sun , I learnt everything off tube brilliant

[@admirableawesome2317]

nice work, really good craftsmanship

[@obryan240]

Great timing. I have a shed already wired up but no power to it.

[@angelabland7773]

BRAVO👏🏻THANK YOU FOR ALL THIS INFO!!🙏🏼🦅

[@RC-qm9bx]

Excellent video! I am impressed!

[@thinker2328]

When I grow up, I want to be like you. How did you gain so many skills? From drilling your own well, to advanced electronics - do you have any tips for someone trying to get to your level one day?

[@SilverCymbal]

That is really nice of you to say and anyone really can do anything they want, just can't be afraid to fail, cause it happens. Just have to try. I had absolutely 0 help as a kid from anyone, no one in my family was mechanical and I think that it made me want to learn on my own to be able to do things myself. YT has been great to be able to share projects with others and hopefully encourage people to do more on their own.

[@thinker2328]

@@SilverCymbal thank you so much!!! I will keep trying, and learning slowly. It makes me feel better to know even the greats don't always succeed every time and also learn. On KZbin it always seems people succeed the first time, everytime.

[@cheryljason9617]

Dude you have a world of knowledge at your finger tips you can learn so much from utube ... but there is more to it than just learning get in the skilled trades we can teach and that is something you take with you forever

[@nicolejones4376]

Thank you this is exactly what I am looking for!

[@matthewmillet3807]

Really cool project!

[@BeeeHonest]

Love your shed!

[@prodson8310]

Another great video. Thank you

[@kesterbelgrove818]

You need two thumbs up for that video, love it love it

[@SilverCymbal]

I really appreciate it thank you

[@ericwest49]

Great video! I’ve recently installed a shed in my backyard and in my area electrical work isn’t cheap. The portable option might work for my needs. What would a tv and an Android take power wise and how long would a unit like that power them for?

[@mangle40]

Outstanding! Thank you!!

[@cheryljason9617]

As electrician in the trade over 24 years only thing I'm going to say is never use a drill or impact on squeeze type romex /ser/se connectors and if you run cords through a window get a block in there so it won't damage the wires... and even with those 2 nice job clean install and simple

[@johnhamilton9229]

Wow! I think that covers it. Sheds across America united.

[@torIIgo]

I really like this idea to power up my reptile room year round!!

[@jeffreysherman8498]

Hi. What about winter time? Do these batteries operate well when the temperature is below freezing? I noticed shed is not heated/insulated. Thanks.

[@SilverCymbal]

If you are in an area of extreme cold you would want to take these types of units in a warmer space, Even Tesla Powerwalls require internal heaters to protect them from damage. If you are in a cabin you probably have some type of heating and can use them all year but if not bring them in which for me wont be a problem since I really won't be out there in the extreme temps.

[@DIYwithBatteries]

I like the small portable power station it looks pretty cool ;)

[@enlightenednews5265]

Brilliant Video.

[@kove]

It's turning into a beautiful little shed. May be able to Airbnb it.😉

[@SilverCymbal]

Might be me out there! But at least I have water now :)

[@kove]

@@SilverCymbal 😊

[@Juva_o]

The ultimate man cave. Man ur vids a so interesting and informative

[@jeffreyrule8143]

Thank you. Very informative.

[@munozinni]

Hola mister silver cymbal… I wish you were my neighbor I will be just checking what projects are you working on I started loving those power generators I will watch it again on the tv I want to see everything you did in this video… see you in the next video!!Gracias!!!!😃

[@mrdman094081]

Excellent ! Subscribed, liked. 👍👍👍

[@carllubrin8518]

Nice I’m going to do this in my shed

[@bignuts850]

I hope its Sunny every day

[@Matt-hg2iz]

Mad funny. I'm deciding whether I wanna take on an electrical project at home or invest in my drum kit

[@dnldnl4880]

Love this great work

[@nateb1326]

I never knew solar generators existed. The internet is a wonderful (and sometimes terrifying) thing...LOL...Thanks for the video!

[@colacoca2000able]

Thank you Im a beginner so this is worth trying.

[@doubleclutchonline5811]

This makes me want to build a shed!

[@kathleenbrooks992]

Totally awesome

[@DuhartCreek]

I love your channel, it has really helped my lawn. I have a pic of a particular broad leaf weed, it has a medium green top side and underneath its silver. I have no way to send a pic. My guestion is, is there a herbiside that will only take out just this plant. I live in the south.

[@uhjyuff2095]

Does the ecoflow have gfci protected receptacles or do you have to use an extension cord with gfci built in?

[@bonaminhrasmey42]

❤looks great 👍

[@rbljackson]

i have one of those flexible solar panels like yours. what is that hinged frame that you mounted it into? Do you have a link to where I can purchase that? I want to mount one of the flexible panels into a more permanent frame like that.

[@skilledhands8198]

Amazing skills!

[@SilverCymbal]

Thanks you kindly

[@cesarrodriguez1368]

thanks for this video, is great! Could you share a list of the main items used and their cost? In past videos you included a link to Amazon. Thanks

[@markkempton4579]

Just ordered my first Ecoflow - the River. Hadn't thought about this for a shed. Thank you! I'll have to compare the price of pulling and trenching a line from my basement panel. Do you have your solar panel permanently attached now? If not, how long does your Delta Max go between charges?

[@jeffp7368]

At this point I’m convinced that his wife kicked him out of the house.

[@SilverCymbal]

Seriously, just need the starlink for TV and internet and I am set.

[@thesinofthetin]

@@SilverCymbal It'd be cool if you wired it up for Ethernet, Coax, and power outlets all over the shed.

[@Bremend]

@@thesinofthetin no need for ethernet, just use a range extender or a wifi antenna system

[@ronb6182]

Hard wire is much better than wifi. If you must have wifi just put one in the shed, you can hook it off the Ethernet and still have hard wire for computer 🖥️ or laptop 💻.

[@thesinofthetin]

@@Bremend wifi extenders half your speed. he would probably use an Ubiquiti ptp bridge to bring internet from his house to the shed.

[@bruce2sail]

Did you have to apply for a town electrical permit? I’d definitely check. In my case I have a few 100W solar panels connected to a 200AH battery bank through a charge controller. My “outlets” are six 12VDC cigarette lighter receptacles capable of 20A each. I have two 2000W inverters that are plugged into the 12VDC receptacles. From the inverters I have run 16GA, 3-wire 25 foot extension cords where my 2 LED 48” “fluorescent fixtures plug in. The other inverter extension cord powers an outlet strip for my tool battery chargers, a Bluetooth stereo speaker and a few other odds and ends. My smartphones charge via several USB car chargers plugged into the cigarette lighter outputs. No permits required

[@JoeR203]

I really want to do this. But it would be kind of awkward since I live in a condo. Now you need to add a 12v ceiling fan.

[@redknight3439]

Hi Silver Great vid thanks for sharing, Just wondering if you have any vids along these lines but a permanent solution for running a heater during winter using this kind of system? if yes please shoot me a link. thanks.

[@nmssis]

what would be the damage to the wallet so far into this shed project?

[@jessiebeam3434]

I'm about to have a new ammo press room now thanks 🙏

[@Graphixman]

Where did you get the outdoor light with sensor at? Thanks

[@firewalkerg11]

Great and professional video and content. Well done. Btw can you pls share list of items, prices, and place you got them?

[@GruntHarley]

What a great idea.

[@jefftreadway6567]

I’m looking to run solar panel in my shed. Can you please do a step-by-step on what kind of wiring