Solar Power Kit Explained for a Van Build - Off Grid

[@JarrodTocci]

Check out more videos from the playlists below: Tours Playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLHrnevETejEMWv5kclacXhH6atb3ax6tl Van Informational Vlog Playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLHrnevETejEMseRhXNwNjrs5BU7RLpvhg Entertainment Vlog: kzbin.info/aero/PLHrnevETejENxc67U9B7IO0r2H9F5K0oa GHOST Build Playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLHrnevETejENEalXZqQCA2zR64OG_5yM1

[@BAGINAZARD]

27:08 Positive, Positive... Positive, Positive... *No! those black wires are not positive.* you lie.

[@RVingwithG]

YES, A lot to do to put in DC/SOLAR Power!

[@itskimmy993]

I like how you consciously formulate your questions and confirmations in a way that you know your viewers can understand the information being conveyed to them. Thank you for this !

[@JarrodTocci]

Thank you for recognizing 😊

[@LilyWasHereMB]

Jarrod, this has to be one of, if not the best, videos you've done. I'll give you 3 reasons why Isay that, in no order of importance: (a) your face, or the interviewee's face, is not most of the frame, most of the time. I may be saying that wrong but its a compliment on the videography and production. This video makes it clear the subject matter is the star of the show, not the personalities involved. (b) as you've said many times in other videos, the power system is the heart of the van. Power systems are complex, expensive and can be dangerous if not done right. This video drives that point home w/o being scary. (c) not that I, or anyone else should not believe you when you talk about power systems - because you qualify your statements enough - Miles does know what he's talking about. Hearing from an expert, directly, is incredibly valuable. You should get a PSA award. In addition to the above and as a non-DIY builder who just can't rap my head around nearly all things electrical, this video made me think: I should have the power system in my van inspected by Light Harvest Solar. Peace of mind and all that. Good job.

[@JarrodTocci]

Thank you sooooooo much. I had a lot of fun doing this and I learn more and more everytime I hang with Miles

[@badandy9716]

I've always hated open busbars for the potential fire/shock risks. DC power distributors sounds like the best way to go! Great info 👍

[@islandvibes9076]

JT - been following you for a while now. This has to be one of the best, most informative videos you've done. Great content & amazing info.

[@JarrodTocci]

Thank you!

[@billcoleman7316]

Hi Jarrod and I just wanted you to know that I really enjoyed this fun and informative video. Thanks!

[@NoLimitVanLife]

This video is so helpful because this guy has the good parts and there's so much stuff out there it's hard to decide what to get. Now I only want to get all the parts that he's talking about.

[@Go.el_Hadam]

This video is the most helpful small space solar video I have ever seen. Thank you both. Please post more.

[@rdwilander]

Now that was a "knowledge video" in a reasonable "crash course". Myle's knowledge and pride comes through and gives you confidence in his work (company) and quality components he uses. Another Great Job G.H.O.S.T.

[@JK-ri9jh]

This is the most helpful video i've seen on how the solar setups work

[@BiggieTall_06]

Jarrod - This is outstanding man. This guy is awesome. I've learned more in video than all the videos that viewed over a month or two. Thanks.

[@gjonesii]

Thanks for an amazingly interesting video. Myles is brilliant. His focus on quality and safety is much appreciated.

[@dmdm8018]

Thank you for great show and explanation. Appreciate the guest going over this and you providing the venue.

[@mooneyman13]

Good info. I haven’t decided which van to build yet, so I’m paying close attention to electrical, plumbing, and design videos. This is a good one. Nice work.

[@GigisART]

Holy cow!!! Miles, I will be hiring you!! Worth every penny!!!

[@GigisART]

Hey Jarrod!! thanks for bringing this to us. Going to save my son a whole bunch of time, and stress!! So straight forward and the added safety is amazing!!

[@Makingdifference100]

This guy is very skilled. What a good presentation. Man oh man. I love it.

[@mitchellbarnow1709]

Thank you so much to Light Harvest Solar! What an awesome company and no one should complain about the labor costs for installation if they are not willing to do it themselves and do it flawlessly!

[@DCGULL01]

Jarod- GREAT VIDEO!!! Light Harvest Solar did an OUTSTANDING Jorb putting all of the pieces together! What a project- I'm not sure if people appreciate just how hard it is to actually have on hand all of the proper crimps (bolt matched, amperage matched & wire lug size matched- expensive kit to just have lying around!!!), the proper fuses that don't overheat and melt the casing and actually work to stated amperage. The right wire for length of run, total amps being used (no 'cheating'), good busbars (I like the fact that there are no live lugs in view to short with a tool!), the planning, the proper equipment. Sure, Victron is the best, but- if you are an installer, you certainly don't want to spend your time performing service calls all of the country because someone goofed and overloaded a solar charge converter... I bet all of the gear in that set-up works, and- works for a loooong time!!! I'd certainly trust them to install my set up. Seriously IMPOSSIBLE to discuss anything in detail, but so glad that he shared just a few of the things that genuinely get in the way of a proper build out.

[@darkroast66]

Super cool! Maybe in the future, we could see how to wire in appliances and outlets to the portable device. Thanks for the great vid!

[@longhairmullet]

S M yes it’s all a mystery until you know.

[@kihntagious]

Fantastic video with possible life saving information. Great service and no background music!

[@billd3806]

Light Harvest is a great company to work with. They have the best products and customer service. Thanks!

[@jaymartinez8053]

These guys are awesome, because I'm stupid and don't know what I'm doing I bought some stuff and then had second thoughts about what I was doing, so returned it. I hate returning stuff but they were totally understanding. I wish I had seen this video first I would not have returned the items. I will go back and see them soon and probably repurchase. If you are in the Portland area I highly recommend Light Harvest solar. Don't be scared off because they don't have a big fancy box store storefront. Like I said these guys are awesome.

[@longhairmullet]

Yep this was so great of Miles to go over his set up, with the lay out and the components. And those solar generators, sweet! Great vid Jarrod. Looking forward to the the follow up. Are Miles and John related, both well informed and enthusiastic! 🤓🚐

[@jefsel881]

I love these solar/van video's. Looks like another infomercial. This one at least is in the $8K to 9K range for an installed system. I've been watching the $15K + range installed systems. Doing mine for about $2500. It has 2- 100ah Lipo batteries, 2- 100W flexible thin panels bonded to the roof (nice, no big boxy panels and framework). plus room to add three more. A 30A solar charge controller, 30A alternator charge controller. Shore power/ generator switch with a 30A, 120v system, 2-20A breakers. 4- 120V outlets in convenient areas, A 55A Shore power, charger, A lockable electrical box to put the batteries and most of the wiring in, 4 main DC switches includes fuses and circuit breakers. Fused load distribution box. Used 2 cheaper components and bought the insurance on the 1500w pure sign wave inverter just in case. I did this because I cannot afford the best components. We'll see what works and what doesn't. Would spending two or three or four or five or six or seven times more make a difference? Of course it would, but then I wouldn't be doing this because I wouldn't be able to afford it.

[@JarrodTocci]

Those $15k prices are likely them building the system out. If doing yourself then it's typically half the cost, but then comes in labor and such. It's possible for most but for a lot of people they don't want to do the work for whatever reason. Same reason we don't change our own oil. Some do, but most will go somewhere to get it done. Regardless there's no wrong way, well there is many of people doing it wrong and have to be careful there.

[@dmwi1549]

Jarrod, thanks so much for posting videos like these from Light Harvest. After checking the max input voltage of the solar controller I purchased I see it is limited to 32v max and will not work with a larger single panel in the future. This video also pointed out key benefits to newer tech available including a larger single panel for more efficiency and less problems with shading instead of multiple the multiple 100w panels I thought I’d choose. I’m only a weekend traveler for now and mostly in the winter so solar is not as critical as alternator charging for now but I am purchasing with future needs in mind and will swap this now since I haven’t installed it yet. Thanks again!

[@ianboi1638]

Perfect video on this subject, a visual explanation, this guy is a straight shooter, understanding electrical this all make prefect sense.

[@docb.9908]

Miles knows his stuff.

[@vincentlehmann646]

Great to listen to you guys ! regards from Switzerland !

[@daniel.messick]

Miles & Jon provide outstanding service! Called with a question they answered right away

[@lightharvestsolar]

Aww, thanks! We try.

[@daniel.messick]

@@lightharvestsolar definitely do a good job, will be contacting about it next project for sure

[@frankberger475]

I’m excited to see this video. And I’m looking forward to your assistance with my solar charging system addition.

[@RJGilman1967]

Thanks Jarrod! So informative and nuanced, much appreciated. I would love more of this, especially more about building the box and how to lay out electrical components based on configurations of van.

[@FieldToTableOutdoors]

What an amazing service this guy provides! For sure checking him out!

[@edmeredith]

That was Out of the Park Jarrod... Outstanding video, Thanks and thank you Miles!

[@lightharvestsolar]

Our pleasure, been wanting to get this content out for a long time. Thanks.

[@TheWoodensong]

Great Demo! Serious applause from the audience…maybe even a few coins tossed on stafe as well! When I ready, I'll be talking to Miles & Crew!!!

[@Ziegque]

A really helpful video. It is good to hear an explanation from a professional. I am really intrigued by the all in one unit.

[@rebeccaoliver7977]

First of your videos I've seen. This was a great video. Miles' expertise certainly shows through. I'm was a full-timer for years now looking to better understand the components as I consider my own build. I'll look for your "specialty" videos.

[@seanchastain9801]

The price is a HUGE!!!! selling point for me. Seems super super simple to do myself. Plenty of power for my needs. Great video! 👍🏼

[@michaelford1697]

Great content and very informative. I will be contacting his businees when I start my electrical work for my Overland RV build. This is a fantastic resource!!

[@RestaurantSeatingDesigner]

Thank you so much this video was so needed.. I was still lost and confused on all the components I needed for my electrical.. and what these components are. Thank you so much.

[@vita-girl4345]

Great video. I will be ordering a kit from them. I have much of the equipment already, but they are able to pair everything together, which I love.

[@ProlificInvention]

This is great, one of the best system setups I've seen.

[@dizheller2101]

Thanks very much! Excellent detailed info! I don't mind Miles going into detail! It's all being soaked up eagerly! - Well done! Looking forward to all the other videos you announced!

[@baba_babaa2]

there is no doubt when I'm ready to do my van build I will be contacting these guys, and yes I have a degree in electrical engineering

[@joelbedard1097]

I’m definitely getting one or the other from light harvest especially when u come out with the 3000 w inverter charger

[@Phil-dg1yg]

Thanks Jarrod and U 2 guys. It’s my job in Switzerland with mainly Victron’s devices, and appreciate this quality. Good job GuyS..!

[@ffcolon2738]

Jarrod , that you, thank you, thank you, this guy really has cleared up things for me. Great information 😎

[@LivingProcess]

Great video as always!! When you go over batteries can you talk about the BMS and what types he would recommend

[@btownes5632]

Amazing video! Loved the detail. You could have actually kept going another 10 mins especially with more detail about the all in one product. I know you want to be be mindful with time and attention spans but with really good informational videos like this they need the extra time and the viewer doesn't mind. Miles is great. Will probably watch again because he explained it so well but so quickly.

[@raulgil7389]

29:38 honestly, we all need him for his honest and clear thinking. I’m interested in the ALL IN ONE complete unit.

[@arlenekufchock1394]

Excellent video, thanks Miles and Jarrod!

[@catchihandle1821]

I'm excited about that 2000w Power Station.

[@JarrodTocci]

Not going to lie, but ME TOO!

[@MasatoKay]

Thanks for this Jared! Awesome!

[@mitchellbarnow1709]

Really awesome video, Jarrod! I can't wait for the all in one unit with a 2,000 watt inverter and a 2,000 watt battery! I have the current largest model and I really love it, but more power is always better!

[@mungairhesa]

Thank you, for this. And thank you to Miles for sharing his knowledge.

[@nomansvan827]

Lots of information. Very good explanation of products. Thank you.

[@arthurperrea3714]

Good video, All C Pala Say is true . I like someone who does it right and is always looking to do it better .

[@tiffneysmith4021]

So informative. This was a great video explained very well Thank you all!

[@kjo4498]

great solar power/off grid power primer! lots of useful links too! i'm on the fence to build or buy my van, retired with skilz great murphy bed design 👍

[@racheljoanfleming159]

WOW....a lot of info...but great. Want to know more about the new "suitcase" systems. Hope you are going to do something more on that one.

[@AM-ni3sz]

Great service. I wish you well.

[@thegeobus1]

Very helpful. One of my fave videos yet. Thank you!

[@paulfmurphy617]

AMAZING & INFORMATIVE VIDEO JARROD. JUST DOING MY BUILD OUT NOW AND I THOUGHT I HAD MY SOLAR PLANNED OUT. WHOOOPS GONNA HAVE TO CHECK OUT MORE INFO FROM LIGHT HARVEST AND YOU FUTURE VIDS. THANKS FOR THE CONTENT.

[@SuperVstech]

So glad you specified the solar van build was off grid…

[@scottmckinney9760]

Thanks so much for all that info! I'm writing him now to get a quote. one of the best of this type of videos i've seen.

[@tdivyak]

Super helpful.. thanks for taking the time to share this info with us.

[@iFriendofYours]

Oh shit! I gotta get in a quiet corner later tonight to watch this. Looks aweeee some

[@dhawkr.3678]

Great video man. I think I would hold out for the portable power supply with 2k inverter that can also be charged by the car.

[@loveu2222]

best video sofar...... Miles i s a good guy, know him for a long time, ...

[@RollinHomies]

Like the bus bars mainly because thoughts are the same about exposure/safety. There are plenty of ways to diy but all have bars exposed and require more crimping terminals. 310amp should be plenty of usable power... most houses around 3400sqft and smaller only have a 200 amp service and use 4/0 aluminum wire (but its not stranded). I'll have to check those out.

[@TheHonestFoodTeller]

It is October and I went from van life to sad life... Waiting for the spring!

[@wordgirl8100]

Nice presentation! 👍🏼

[@sickrickw]

I loved this video. I LEARNED A TON! Thank you!

[@libertybell144]

This is such a great video! It inspired me to buy my solar components from LHS. Now I need a video showing me how to piece it together!! How about it guys?

[@JarrodTocci]

They will send a diagram with anything you order. It lays it out very easily. Only thing you'll have to do is organize the products in a box or a wall. But they send wire and even the correct sizes to use with fuses and everything

[@libertybell144]

@@JarrodTocci I have the diagram but it does not get into the kind of detail I need to put it together. The most helpful part of this video was from 25:50 to 28:00. I would love to see that expanded with more detail on how to piece it together.

[@libertybell144]

For example...the diagram shows a #3/0 wire going into the 3000W inverter/charger but it is not immediately obvious where on the inverter it attaches. I am going to reach out to LHS for tech support, but a collaborative project where you film them putting a system together would be amazing!!

[@libertybell144]

@@JarrodTocci BTW...I just got off the phone with Ben from LHS. He was so helpful and answered all my questions (to date - I am sure I will have more down the line)! Phenomenal tech support!!! I am so grateful you inspired me to purchase my components from them!

[@CrimpKeeper]

I'll be giving Myles a call on Monday. Thank you Jarrod

[@brianmichelewallin]

@jarrod Tocci one of your best videos yet. Great content overcomes short attention spans. I would have kept watching if there was more. Nice job! @lightharvest solar, I am a ways off form electrical, but you are on my list to order a kit from once the 4x4 conversion on my expedition truck is complete! Keep up the great work. Do you sell larger systems with Tesla power walls for homes also? Building a home soon, and thinking of installing some solar to run critical systems during outages.

[@JarrodTocci]

Thank you. I've already filmed 2 more videos with them so much more info to come.

[@aframesq]

This is 2nd best video you made. Shower hack still #1😉🤣

[@jeff9337]

You the man, your helping people save COSTLY mistakes & their sanity! Will you do a video on the big 3 vans telling what problems come with them? Maybe set up something where van owners can send in things that suck a bout "there brand", like how Ford transit still after 8+ years will not redesign how the water runs off the windshield right down on top of the computer & wiring harness, how promaster radio's that have the nav. will not pinpoint an address, Mercedes has problems with door beltline cracking and so on.... this kind of info should be out there to not only inform us, BUT maybe to WAKE-UP the auto makers so they make quality auto's instead of sending out all these recall notices, because I'm not wanting to shell out $40g's & be there R&R guy for the privilege. it took the import car company's to wake-up sleeping Detroit the first time, so now they all say there listening to us. Bull horn required!!

[@nicotwg8112]

I would love to see the process for making the system

[@Fixajo]

3:45 Jarrod's hidden hint game is over level 9000!! 🤣🤣

[@highwaymen1237]

If you run an alternator charging circuit does it have to have a switchable isolator like a boat? One of the best overviews of solar power I've seen. Thank you.

[@N3pea]

Need more of him! Revisit, update please.

[@dswilsonuscg]

Amazing charge unit thanks for showing us that

[@lnicoletti4096]

WOW Miles is Brilliant and a Nice Guy 🌞🌛

[@rikholliday8899]

Great Video Jarrod. Educational. Cheers

[@ahagan1930]

Very informative!

[@CaptR.B.]

Great episode. Valuable info sir.

[@RichCompMan]

That Solar Gen is just a rebranded Bluetti. It’s a very nice unit if you don’t need more than a 1000 watt inverter.

[@itsme_d7841]

😱 this is awesome, new follower. I will be contacting you for a kit.

[@playhawttt]

So appreciate these videos 🙌🏿

[@SlumpdWiz]

awesome video, made electric system make sense to me.

[@GaryOutdoorsLiving]

Very informative.. going to do a similar build with our rv. I'll upload a video of our solar setup as well. Thanks.

[@ryblife4616]

so as far as I see you made the a solar control FRY! setup if the battery gets disconnected your solar controller will say good bye in smoke?

[@MrlordS487]

Can you do a video of the all in one installed in a build/ powering the finished rig?

[@PatJuhNL]

You can’t go wrong with Victron 💪🏻👍🏻

[@andrzejtruszka]

That was actually interesting topic/video.

[@zannemairiwoods528]

After doing this fabulous solar off grid and it works Great , then , the vehicle has major issues under the hood , can this build be taken down and used in another vehicle ?

[@bque9444]

Thank you for this educational video.

[@highwaymen1237]

An overview of a wiring diagram would be very useful. Thank you.

[@yourmyboyblu6307]

Will be Ordering Soon Thanks Very Informative. Blu

[@zannemairiwoods528]

Would like to see what one needs for a 24/7 running full time ! For a tiny home (32 ft ) 300 sq. ft.