Off Grid Solar System Install for Cold Climates- Start to Finish! / Ep96 / Outsider Cabin Build

[@TheOutsiderCabin]

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[@TunTavernWarrior2]

Outstanding video!

[@ColdStartGarage]

Since you are not gonna full time at the cabin. I’d consider not putting your battery box underneath your cabin. I’d hate to see a freak thermal run away and it burning your cabin down. I knew a guy just charging a battery on his porch and his cabin was a total loss

[@greywolfwalking6359]

@@ColdStartGarage good point! Well presented!!

[@salimufari]

Regarding your Hot water heater. This is also a viable option for your heating needs. Should work well even at your latitude. kzbin.info/www/bejne/a5iYgYptbb2AidE

[@rhodact1231]

I am seeing a tree shadow on the top left of the solar panel. I hope you trim those branches. Great work! Such wisdom.

[@micahrogers4928]

I'm glad to see you honoring your fathers memory by continuing this build. We all think of him as we watch every episode. God bless, and keep it up.

[@CraigNiel]

Definitely, I couldn't help think his dad would have been there passing him up the solar panel etc... He's sorely missed. I also had a little chuckle thinking of his dad watching over him as it started to rain!

[@Tamac1979]

😔

[@alexkasacous]

One day I hope your daughter's children will share these videos with their children and realise that you and your dad built a cabin retreat for generations to enjoy, and they will smile and think "thank you!!!!!!"

[@adams8847]

Amazing

[@aprilsteel9466]

The Grandkids apart from claiming ownership of everything when you die and bleeding you poor while you are alive, will probably never think of you again bar maybe once a year if you are lucky , no matter how much you tried and put yourself out for them in the past..

[@tsangwaicheongbilly36]

GOOD JOB GUYS...

[@littlelamb711]

@@aprilsteel9466 Seems to happen a lot, but some families operate differently and he may have that. There are no perfect families of course.

[@comedianmattrossey]

Outsider, As I watched this video, I'm reminded of how much you and Senior worked together. Watching you drag the uprights for the solar stand really made me wish I could help you. For your own safety, please have someone with you when you're doing any work on the cabin or the property, especially to help you do things. Being strong willed and determined to finish what you start is a great quality. But being able to identify and ask for help is a greater quality. Watching you on your own standing the uprights up on top of the horizontal beams I was truly worried about them falling over on you and injuring you. It's not a risk worth taking my friend. Please find someone to help you and be there with you when you're doing anything there. Mrs. Outsider doesn't need or want to have to deal with any accidents that you could have been avoided by not being on your own. And none of us, your subscribers, want anything to happen to you. It makes me happy seeing you still progressing. Let yourself accomplish the end goal so that your family can all enjoy it together without any more un-necessary issues. Keep Safe and Always Inspiring My Friend, You're making Senior Proud! Matt - Toronto, Canada

[@TheOutsiderCabin]

I genuinely appreciate your concern. You raise some good points too! Building the array was certainly difficult for me. Mostly because there were several points where I would think to myself "Boy I could sure use an extra pair of hands here." Which would cause my heart to pang once again with the loss of my father. As I adjust to the reality of working alone, I've realized that I need to put a safety plan in place for myself. My first step is to show some close friends how to locate the cabin, and to check in with them whenever I head out there.

[@oakleyjack7600]

@@TheOutsiderCabin Safety Plan 👍🙏, also a hard hat for working under those falling branches. We Love you and your channel !

[@comedianmattrossey]

@@TheOutsiderCabin There's nothing saying you have to do it alone, and I don't think Senior would want you there alone for the safety factor of things, Especially with your wife and daughter not close by. Seriously, get someone to go with you. Telling friends you are going is great, but if something happens, unless they are psychic and able to teleport, they won't be of much use to help if you have an emergency. They won't be there right when you need them if they aren't there already. I wish I was close to where you are or where the cabin is, I'd be into giving you a hand. I'm in Toronto, but somehow I get the feeling you're not close to Toronto. Let me know. Maybe we could meet up and I could give you a hand from time to time. It would be incredible to get out of the city and into the woods where the real wildlife is. I totally understand how you feel when you think about your dad. Man I'm almost 51. Lost my dad when I was 8, and still there are times that it hits me. Especially if I'm doing things that would be something a father and son would do together. It takes time man, and really it's always gonna be a soft spot depending on the situation. Since your dad's been gone, you seem lonely on the videos, which is understandable. You have spent so much time with him there, and have many memories together. Just remember what I said, "As long as he's always in your thoughts and heart, he's never really gone". I do admit, I miss seeing him there with you to, and when I see certain things in the recent videos, even I have memories of him being there with you. But both yourself and Senior were sharing a part of your lives with us. Some of us who have been watching for years, like I have, since your 2nd course of logs in fact, have that connection to Senior as well. So we are all kind of there for you keeping his spirit and memory going. Even this video when you were building the other 2 uprights for the solar, I remember you both working on the 1 frame just a few months ago. What I can tell you is that Senior's still there. Watching, guiding, loving that you both got to work on the cabin together, and pretty much completed it together. He just taught you all he could and had to let you learn the rest on you're own as he can't teach you everything, but he did teach you the most important things you needed to learn and know. You won't realize this now, but give it time and you'll realize what I mean. And just so you know, if you want a hand, tell me how I can contact you directly and we can talk and make plans. I miss messaging with Senior. I felt so honoured when he started messaging me, I was so shocked. Ya know, if you look back at the last few videos before he left, there was a message I sent to him saying Hi and wondering how he was. The next video after was when you gave us the news. I hope he saw that last message I sent him. Stay Strong, Keep Safe and Always Inspiring My Friend, Matt - Toronto, Canada

[@maryfrederickson2526]

I so agree with this comment. I too built my cabin alone, in a far away part of Texas. I fell 10 feet on top of a ladder and was unconscious for about an hour. I broke my pelvis in 4 places, my spine in 2 places, broke 4 ribs, punctured a lung and smashed a clavicle. It took me about an hour to get to a phone and another hour for help to find me then 2 hours to get to a small hospital where I-had to be transferred to a large hospital. I was partially paralyzed. I am blessed because I can now walk and I am alive. Sometimes active people like us feel invincible.

[@Al-Hunt-acrylic-painter]

I totally agree with this. I remember that episode when the Outsider got his arm caught in that sander. It could have been so much worse and he's in the middle of nowhere on his own.

[@smiley9872]

Lumber that your Dad helped mill! How wonderful! He is right beside you, guiding you, and your Dear Mother is there too!

[@Yves_Cools]

@The Outsider : I highly recommend cutting off the tree branches that are hanging over your solar panels, they will drastically reduce the power output of your panels if you leave them like that.

[@TheOutsiderCabin]

Good suggestion! 🙂👍

[@samvalentine3206]

I am glad someone else mentioned this. It is very important to address as just a little shade on a portion of a solar panel can cut back on production tremendously.

[@Jennifer62389]

I'm sure he realized that

[@des782]

@@Jennifer62389 Apparently not !

[@whereisbrettagain]

might also be worth topping or felling a few that could fall onto the panels. would be a shame to see all that good work undone by a storm.

[@MegsCarpentry-lovedogs]

Lots of fascinating idea's and well done on getting all that you got done since your last episode. Quite impressive. I would expect that with you being without your father working by your side that getting enough content for an episode might mean the time between episodes would be longer. Your patience and determination are an inspiration! You are also such a "good guy" as well.💯 Take a deep breath. One step at a time. So many of us are here to continue to support you. Cheers from East Canada.🍁🇨🇦

[@bnewton5922]

You have definitely done your planning and the ideas for the future use for a shower room and a mechanical room are great. Of course the construction is above and beyond as all your projects. Great to get a video from you. Continue to keep your wife and family in my thoughts and prayers. Thanks for sharing. Stay safe

[@mikescozzafava6254]

I am so very sorry for th and your family. You continuing this project is an honor to his legacy. He is looking down and very proud of his son.

[@johndellarciprete1451]

Great work as always. I would highly recommend pruning the branches on the trees behind the array. Those shadows on the panels will greatly reduce your productivity. See timestamp 20:30.

[@arazriel]

+1 on this :)

[@esqueue]

@@arazriel I came here to type this.

[@TheOutsiderCabin]

Thank you, my friend. 🙂👍 Great point! I've been meaning to clear the branches above the panels, but just didn't get to it before the conclusion of this episode. The array will certainly need all the available sunlight it can get, especially in such a small clearing.

[@johndellarciprete1451]

​@@TheOutsiderCabin 👍 Great. It looks likely that you are using a standard inverter and not power optimizers / microinverters, even a small amount of shade on one panel will reduce the productivity of the entire string to that level. ie.. if one of your 4 panels is producing at 20% and the other 3 are producing at 100%, your production will only be ~20%. Something to watch for if you see your productivity dropping during certain parts of the day. Good Luck!

[@test-193]

@@johndellarciprete1451 I agree with you regarding the partial shading issue. However, keep in mind that this dramatic loss of power only happens with SERIES connected solar panels. If the four panels are all wired in PARALLEL, you won't have that issue. (Of course there are downsides to parallel wiring too... mainly the power losses associated with higher current in a parallel configuration. And the increased cost of needing thicker AWG wire to connect everything.) My suggestion: If there is any possibility of partial shading, then go with PARALLEL wiring on your panels and pay a little more $$$ for the larger AWG wire.

[@sylviabrennan3032]

Well done Mr. Outsider. Your video was a joy to watch. 🙂🙃😉😉😉😍🤩👏👏👍👍👍👍

[@geraldmckillip5594]

You are very talented , Master carpenter !!! Love your Videos , still sending prayers for your loss , 🙏 ......

[@TheOutsiderCabin]

Thank you, my friend. 🙂🙏

[@Grizz270]

I miss your dad..no I didn't know him.. but I didn't realize how much he added to your videos...I'm not saying this is less of a video...it was very good and enjoyable as usual...I lost my mom in 92 and my dad in 95 ...water is still running under the bridge and life goes on...I really do appreciate your efforts to continue to still bring us these videos....cheers

[@camp.fish.repeat]

This build has been an emotional roller coaster. Absolutely amazing bro 🙏 Loving it

[@sandralovegrove2805]

you sure said that right! His parents were so awesome, no doubt he is too🌲🌲🌲

[@OffgridwithJayandJen]

That system as is should maintain your needs....providing adequate sunshine of course. We have an AGM battery bank as well due to being in Northern Michigan where below freezing temps are present for four or five months a year. They have treated us well over the last year and I think they will do well for you too. Glad to see you keeping the dream alive even though your father is no longer by your side. I know you have a hard time without him....I lost my father and best friend a few years back as well. I know you look at the positive of having this incredible experience with him before he left. My Fathers forced early retirement opened the opportunity for me to spend abundant time with him for many years before his passing.....Feel blessed for that and I know although you are not enjoying the Cabin WITH him the moments building it were some of the best times I'm sure. Best wishes my friend.

[@GPOutdoors]

Good morning Outsider! Love your channel and have been following your dream over the last few years. Again, my condolences to your family. I am sure you miss your dad but I am sure you have fond memories as you see various parts of your build that you worked on together. A few suggestions - I would highly recommend you add the other 4 panels now. You will not have enough power come winter. I am a little south of you in central Ontario and have an off-grid cabin in the forest for about 11 years now. That forest canopy will rob you of a lot of sunlight in the mornings and afternoons as the sun passes. You will only get about an hour of that 1kw per day and only on very clear sunny days. And remember, you don't get sun every day - even on cloudy days you will get some generation but it is very minor in comparison to sunny days, so that 5 hour average hours of sunlight you reference, is just that - an average across a year (calculated over a 10 or 20 year data set). I have 8 panels and also use AGM batteries ( good choice btw - mine have lasted 11 years now with no issues in our Canadian cold). I have more than enough power during the summer months but come January /February, I never have enough power and need to run a generator frequently to charge the batteries. ( I have 12 of those AGM batteries). Snow is not your friend in the winter and as you know, you can go days without a single ray of direct sunlight. :)) In all fairness, I have a much bigger load than you have there so I require a larger capacity and demand kW, but just thought I would pass on the suggestions. Be well and I wish all the best to you and your family. Cheers!

[@TheOutsiderCabin]

Thank you my friend! It's great hearing your first-hand experience with solar, as you've lived with it for over a decade now. Invaluable info. All the best!

[@pedromerces4232]

Please be sure to anchor your array structure frame. Those panels make great sails. Would be a shame if they pulled the structure off the footings. Keep up the great work. Deepest condolences on your loss. Was inspiring watching you work together; magical memories to be cherished...

[@Mudgrove]

Yes, that's what I was thinking - also to slide the batteries under the floor - excavate, as you know you have to do...but maybe incorporate at ground level two thick planks to act as skis for the box when you need to drag it out for maintenance/repairs. Also some foam on that door inner skin will help too. Cheers from Australia !

[@TheOutsiderCabin]

Thank you my friend. Yes, definitely! 🙂👍I plan to add bracing that is anchored right into the ground. I built the array to be heavy, but you're right, those panels can still act as sails in a high wind. The good news is that the surrounding cedar bush does an excellent job at sheltering the clearing. Much appreciated!

[@micheljean9446]

Great idea for a 4 in 1 units for your solar structure. I like your creativity. Everything you do is well thought of.

[@annwithaplan9766]

@@TheOutsiderCabin - Yes, trees like that make good buffers from the wind.

[@catgynt9148]

@@TheOutsiderCabin since you plan to add a shower, be sure to add a driven grounding rod into earth and connect same to metal roofing, and panel rail system.

[@bobchirka5460]

Your innovation and creativity makes it fun and exciting to allow us to share your cabin journey. Thanks for sharing and God Bless you and family.

[@TheOutsiderCabin]

Much appreciated brother. 🙂🙏 God bless.

[@123turby]

Looking really good young fella. It’s a treat just seeing you in the woods. I miss that every day of my life. My youth was spent in the wilds of northern Ontario,unfortunately I ended up being a city slicker of GTA. That being said I did end up with a beautiful family. Life is a trade off sometimes. Stay strong my friend,piece be with you.

[@richardthomas1743]

HEY! Good morning and thumbs UP!!

[@sandravanlankvelt7975]

I miss seeing your dad right there with you for sure and I could not begin to fathom how much you miss him. I have felt the same way about my dad but I do know he is always in my heart and is spiritually still with me. Love the work you did on building the frame for your panels and that battery box is totally awesome and maybe add a LOCK to your battery box? Maybe if you have a family member or friends I bet would LOVE to help out it would be safer and easier my friend to have someone with you during the install of some projects like heavy lifting, etc. I am so proud of your accomplishments and you never cease to amaze me with your carpentry skills. God is Blessing YOU!!!

[@CCRider5312]

Glad to see you back Outsider ! My deepest condolences about your Dad, I been praying 🙏 for you and family, your Dad was a good man & I’ll surely miss him, he was always a friend to me in the comments! The solar is gonna be a awesome addition to your cabin. I hope God will Bless you richly is my prayers.

[@ffc3476]

Be well be safe

[@scottmcintosh2988]

When you add the charge controller use two charge controller as it will give you a lot more power Founding member of the Renewable Energy Industry of Nova Scotia !

[@Aussie-kim1631]

Hi from Australia 🙂 I have been following your cabin build for some time now and it has been lovely meeting your family along the way. I am so sorry for your loss..... I pray for you at times that you will be safe during the build. Take care...

[@gdubya83]

That craftsmanship is top notch. That battery box is fancy

[@scottsmith8546]

Great job Outsider! Looking forward to seeing all the wonderful things your going to do and making it completely off grid. PS - make sure to use metal conduit, so none of the critters can chew through any rubber/plastic wires.

[@catgynt9148]

Excellent suggestion. Do not rely on metal conduit to provide a true ground. Eventually corrosion will build up at metal-metal junctions (a normal function).

[@joannegerrard9414]

I thought about your dad several times in this episode. I am sure you miss him in many ways. I believe he is never far away and always looking after you and the family.

[@TheJimcrooks800]

Love it. Always thinking ahead in terms of your planning and also execution of projects. The multi-function structure in the clearing sounds fantastic and I'm sure it will be successful - even to Phase 4. So good to see your work ethic continuing and your motivation too. I hope you soon get to enjoy all your hard work - and your dad's - in that beautiful environment. Well done to you - and may you know God's Presence as you work.

[@olelenalundepluck3840]

You are a true craftsman. Your Dad taught you well. Everything you build is Beautiful….

[@curtism7203]

that solar will be nice! make sure to trim the branches above it! just covering one cell with shade will reduce the output of the array significantly!

[@tommybrown9034]

Use micro inverters on your panels that way you obtain the most power regardless. Even if one panel is slightly covered it will not bring down the whole array! Use: TIGO TS4-A-O ADVANCED OPTIMIZATION 1000VUL/TUV, 1M CABLE, MC4 COMPATIBLE

[@migdaliahernandez5520]

Im sorry for your loss. I've watched you and your dad build the cabin from scratch. Please show the cabin when it's completely finished. Thank you, I enjoy the journey. Many blessings!

[@harrytaylor6854]

Nice job makes a great shed and shower building great idea well done

[@pjwhalen5104]

So many caring and supportive people here following you. What a blessing! It is repetitive but I will say it anyway: Great work, thank you for sharing, stay safe and I miss your dad for you!

[@johna.9742]

So glad to see another video from the Outsider. It still pains me not to see your dad working alongside you but also makes me feel good knowing you are continuing on which I am sure he would have wanted.

[@ewetubin1]

Hi from N.S.😃 I have been non-stop watching you since I came down sick with.. a flu? Finally got a Canadian recommend! I am so sorry to hear of your Father's passing. I am sure you miss him a lot. You are doing just the BEST job! Thank-you for sharing your builds and your life with us. Take care and God Bless.

[@susanalbone5101]

You certainly have things well planned out and your work ethic is second to none. It’s hard doing everything on your own but I’m sure your Dad is watching and guiding you every step of the way. Take care, be safe. ❤️ Dorset, UK

[@bwcok7947]

By wisdom, a house is built and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures. Stay safe and keep sharing the love.

[@kylesalmon6149]

It was so hard to watch this video because I have followed every step of this build. It’s so awesome to see you continuing. You are so admirable and by far my favorite channel to watch. This past Thursday, I lost my grandmother and my only grandparent I ever knew. It’s been so tough but nothing compared to your story. Keep up the good work, brother. We’re all watching and extremely happy you’re finishing this!

[@TheOutsiderCabin]

Thank you my friend, and my condolences to you in the loss of you beloved grandmother.

[@MegsCarpentry-lovedogs]

What a warm surprise to see your posted video this early Prince Edward Island morning. Well! There you are, solo. It must of been quite a feeling returning to work on the cabin without your endearing father. You have to figure out how to carry large structures without his help and his warm quiet presence. I miss him being with you. You will be OK. You are strong and patient. What an emotional time though eh! Bravo for all your hard work and taking what your father taught you and applying it. I have been thinking about you and where you had been and if you were doing OK. You got this!💯🙏🇨🇦

[@BB-uz6nh]

It is so energizing watching you power on in spite of all the life circumstances that have been encountered along the way. You are your own powerhouse young man and I love your plans for the solar building. I wish you great success in this and all future endeavors, have a great week !!

[@bethdurbin3279]

Hello Mr. Outsider. I’m new to your channel. Your video of the your episodes into one video was suggested to me and I had to watch it. My boyfriend joined me in watching your video as we both love log cabins and dream of living in one that is off grid. As we watched your video, I told my boyfriend how you and Mr. Outside Sr. was so smart and inventive to make things work. It reminded me of the saying “work smarter, not harder”. We both fell in love with you and your Dad’s cabin. Watching it come together was so beautiful and educating. Seeing you both work so hard and so happy doing it brought such joy to me watching you guys. When we was done watching that video I went to your KZbin channel and my boyfriend seen the video about your Dad’s passing, we watched it. We both cried, yes my boyfriend cried along with me as we heard the news. Heck, I’m tearing up just thinking about your Dad and writing this comment. I understand why you want to complete the cabin alone, even though your Dad isn’t here on earth he is closer to you at the cabin. That is something you two shared only together. I just ask that you carry your phone with you at all times so if anything happens you can call for help. Or ask a very special friend or family member to come with you and just do the video recording for you. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you for sharing this journey with us, sending your strength from Ohio.

[@TheOutsiderCabin]

Thank you Beth, for that very lovely and thoughtful comment. 🙏🙂 All the best to you and your boyfriend.

[@rikscarpino6299]

Another great video, I appreciate your attention to detail in all aspects of your off grid life style, building and processing wood. Your Father taught you well. My family and I enjoy watching your build and I admire your commitment to wood working. Hoping your summer is filled with friends,family and happiness. Thank you again for putting out Quality videos for everyone to enjoy and learn from. Sincerely Rik and family.

[@maodonimega]

I love the thought of you placing your hands over your Dad's handprints on the wood. Great work...keep it up.

[@jbgamblin]

Excellent I’ve been praying for you and hoping you have found comfort and the ability to move forward

[@TheOutsiderCabin]

🙏🙂 Much appreciated, my friend

[@johnball5616]

From top of roof off the one beam..you need a church bell. May you and your family be bless everyday..I watched all 99 episodes. Thankyou!!

[@kelleygiambro7542]

Great way to start my day!! Hope Mrs. Outsider and little Miss are doing well. Love your plans for the solar structure, and as with everything so far, it will be great! Much love from South Carolina. 💗

[@nenadaigle8734]

Can you come build one of those in my back yard? 😂 I keep getting pressured to put them on my roof and I have a feeling that will prove to be a bad idea in the future. My husband passed away 5 years ago and I’m already worried about replacing the roof. I don’t know where I’ll get the money. The last thing I need is to add more cost to having my roof replaced. Anyway, I love this idea. I think I’d rather have something like this built than have them attached to my roof. Love the cabin! Beautiful. You guys are so multi talented! I was once married to a an amazing carpenter in the 1980’s. He would have loved seeing video’s like this. You and your dad remind me of him and his dad. We lost him (Carl) many years ago and lost his daddy a couple of years ago. I really enjoy these videos. It just makes me feel close to him somehow. God bless you too and your family sweetheart. Stay safe and happy building. Enjoy! ❤

[@justnana2256]

Wow! What a large, solid setup you've made. Better then some of the professional ones I've seen. 🇺🇲👍❤️

[@sandmangti7040]

Like how the tractor has LED lights. Modern tech. Gotta love Summer. Great multi use plan. Garden out front.

[@speedywalden]

I've been living off grid with my Homestead strictly powered by solar and one thing I can say is you need to be able to change the angle of your panel's from summer to winter months. Every fall and spring I move adjust the angle. Its especially important the further north you live. Even if you dont feel the need to do this I'd mention it for people who are following your lead on this. I enjoy your work

[@KRYLOK]

Ontario truly is a gift, beautiful in every season!

[@carrie4910]

Im watching with my 8 yr old nephew (im babysitting atm). He heard a chainsaw and had to see what was happening. He saw you debarking the tree and just about exploded…’YOU CAN PEEL TREES?!?!’

[@stevengoodwin4237]

@theOUTSIDER, my wife and I have watched every video you presented on KZbin and watched some more than once! Love the quality and the precision craftsmanship you and your dad always used. Our prayers for you and your family. We miss your dad , fruit doesn’t fall far from the tree, he was a great man and so are you. We go back into our library to watch some of the previous videos and we find all the 👍 we give are gone!!! ??? Just so you know, you’ve always gotten a 👍from us👍👍👍 Never Give Up/ Never Forget ‼️

[@jenford7078]

Beautiful work on that box, it's nearly heirloom quality. Enjoyed this episode, you teach by demonstrating and those of us that are visual learners understand how and why you do things. I've been watching since you harvested your first trees for the structure and it has been so enjoyable!

[@eliezernegron333]

Mr outsider I have to say he's not my dad but i miss him in ur video .. Seen u work bye ur self is like i have to see his shadow thru yours . i can't explain but i miss him . and just bye seen u keep working is like his still there . thank you for not giving up on the build 🙏🙏🙏☀

[@BuildFixGo]

Very nice builds, should be plenty of power for you. In my experience AGM struggles in extreme cold, even the ones that are supposedly rated for it. If you ever need to replace them I’d take a look at Battle Born self heated lithium batteries. Great in cold environments and a 10 year warranty. A lot lighter to haul to the site as well!

[@markbernier8434]

Should also mention here that his 10,000 watt hour name plate rating will be lucky to deliver 3,000 in the winter without damaging the batteries. LiFePO4 batteries will actually deliver almost the nameplate rating.

[@kargmeister]

I have battleborn heated batteries at my off grid cabin and they are awesome. I ended up moving the whole system inside so when I go there in the winter I can use the internal battery heater until the building warms up then shut it off if I'm charging. I had a few problems when I first setup the system but was a result of my own error which have since fixed.

[@elizabethblanch5871]

Oh very nice system this would be nice for my outside kitchen/ green house. Keeping you all in our prayers for your loss.

[@andersmoulin5065]

I like the plan for your solar panels, shed, bath..house😁👍 Can’t wait to see the end result.

[@sandralovegrove2805]

😉I would luv an invite to visit in reality when all done 🌲🍁🌲

[@michaelmoore9078]

Your father is looking down smiling knowing you are keep up the great work you and your dad put in the beautiful cabin project always good memories to remember about your father keep up the great work much respect god bless

[@allanlindskoog]

It's wonderful that you can make your own lumber for all of the projects, and build them extra strong. But I'm sure the weight is sometimes an issue! Great looking project as always.

[@pkope6849]

Thank You for continuing on with your Dreams !!!! I'm quite certain your Dad was and is so proud of you.

[@stevejones9788]

Think about felling trees, for your firewood and lumber, to make the clearing bigger to increase the amount of time your array has more exposure to the sun from the east and west. Definitely trim the branches near the array so that they don't shade the panels. Does your controller allow you to hook up a generator to the system for charging the batteries in the winter when you will get very little solar ?

[@catgynt9148]

As so many others have mentioned I’m sure your Dad was right there with you as you resumed construction. How do you plan to connect the solar array to your cabin? I would assume buried conduit but with all the tree roots presentation it will be a monumental project. One suggestion; I had to wire something similar and built a split rail fence along a wooded pathway. I attached electrical conduit to the backside of the bottom rail along the pathway. In the clearing near our barn I relied on an underground trench. Friction fit or glue your conduit together. Use a vacuum on one end to pull a light rope or fishing line through the conduit first. Use the line that you pulled through, pull your actual pull rope through the conduit. Use the pull rope to pull the wires that will carry low voltage from your solar arrays to the battery box and higher voltage back from your inverter to supply electricity to your workshop, demand heater and lighting. Remember to leave a length of pull rope in the conduit with the wires to facilitate pulling additional wires at a future time. I have installed wiring this was both professionally and personally. In multiple cases I and my successor were thankful that we left a pull rope in the conduit for future needs. Wishing you and your family a blessed week, gentle weather, nourishing rain and restful evenings. Peace brother.

[@UKCG_2]

Would it make more sense to house the batteries and power pack right under the solar panels and then just bury a 120V cable run back to the cabin?

[@RushworthRob]

I'm a teacher, not an electrician, but that's what I was thinking. Electrical problems with the batteries would be well away from the house in the case anything sparked or got hot. But what do I know? This is a great build; I know that!

[@UKCG_2]

@@RushworthRob agreed. Housing all the components with the panels is something several KZbinr’s have done.

[@samvalentine3206]

Agreed. More efficient and less cost. The thick DC cable would be limited to the array and into the battery pack. From the inverter to the cottage could be 120c AC - a thinner gauge, therefore save $$.

[@TheOutsiderCabin]

Good question! From my understanding, there is less power loss by keeping the batteries with the power pack at the cabin, than with the panels at the array. An electrician would do a better job at explaining why though.

[@UKCG_2]

@@TheOutsiderCabin You can find KZbinrs who've incorporated their batteries and inverters inside their house (Lumnah Acres, Red Poppy Ranch) and those that have placed all the components outside and just run power to the house (Tiny Shiny Home, Simple Living Alaska). If you want a more educated opinion, however, I'd try Wild Wonderful Off-Grid (he's an electrician by trade), DIY Solar Power with Will Prowse (very knowledgeable DIYer), or Engineer775 (an engineer specializing in off-grid power systems). Best of luck.

[@bobkids009]

Intelligent man always comes out with good ideas in life....Well done buddy......glad to see you are back in track alone ( without daddy accompanying ...... ) God Blessed you and your family.

[@martin_mue]

Another possible use for the multipurpose building would be solar wood trying. Put glass onto the lower bay of the roof and enclose a space behind it. The solar panels would always produce enough electricity to run a few fans for moving air.

[@janebello761]

Watching here in the Philippines ❤️❤️❤️

[@expierreiment]

I totally get the appeal of super sturdy overbuilt things. But there is also beauty in saving materials and smart engineering. There is even a whole cult following for drilling lightening holes into stuff just to make something as light as possible without compromising on structural integrity.

[@andyrobinson339]

Brilliant! Did I miss something or is the solar frame attached to the base at all? If not I would worry that it could shift over time. Great editing!

[@TheOutsiderCabin]

Thank you! The frame is attached to the base, but I also plan on adding some sand bags to the base, and a couple braces anchored into the ground at the back.

[@jeffreylocke8808]

Off grid power and water collection from your new structure of solar panels. Win-Win I would say!!!

[@Jameson4327]

You’ll be removing more trees around the Solar array? I truly like your idea. Until your next video. P.S. I like your new tenets they help with any insects.

[@TheOutsiderCabin]

Than you! 🙂 I will eventually remove some more trees around the cabin and array. Although I've been taking my time, considering which trees absolutely need to go, and which ones I can keep. As you will know, it's easy to cut a tree down, but much harder to put it back. So I want to make sure that I'm managing the area as best as I can.

[@macEboy]

Your videography is improving on a regular basis. Well above many and exceeded by few. Your father is watching I'm sure and is undoubtedly very very proud. Cheers my friend. Mac

[@Colette-x6h]

Good Morning from Colorado young man!

[@scottcrew5705]

I really appreciate your video creation. No fast edits and natures’ own soundtrack throughout and I’m not subtitled to death. Your videos are like meeting a ole friend and having a good chat! #TeamOutsider

[@GiladGur]

I don't think I have ever seen such a well engineered sofisticated setup for solar panels. BRAVO my friend. You are a true pro....

[@sifibuckle]

I see someone else mentioned this but it was a trigger for me, trim the trees around your Solar Panels! The first thing I saw was shade on the panels, you need to keep them clean and clear to optimise the power output! Trigger out of the way. Kia kaha bro, our heart out to yours whanau (family) as you continue your journey with your young family building memories. Continuing to build on the legacy that your whanau (Father, Mother, Grandparents and greater family) are creating here in the woods and farm. Thank you for allowing us to come on the journey and experience the mana and love you have for your whanau and the foresight you have to build for future of your children and their future.

[@ardenfreyjr.5500]

It is good to see you out and at it again. I am sorry for your loses this past year or so and I pray for you often . I wish I were close enough to lend a helping hand so I watch each and every time you post a video. If you ever need some thing you can message me and I will see what I can do to help. I mean this with all of my heart. Be well, Be blessed, and take care.

[@garrettstitt5489]

You are absolutely amazing; planning, operation, and execution. You might consider one day opening “Camp Outsider” - where you have guest volunteers willing to help build your vision while honing their skills of the craft.

[@jward5758]

I’d say he does this to be aware from ppl not invite them in

[@geraldgauthier8717]

You are something to watch that is for sure! You and your dad are awesome. I know he's gone now and what a Legacy he left!

[@mateiciuc1953]

For sure, your father from where hi is now, is happy for what you continue to do about yours common project. God help you!

[@karenolson5556]

I have to say...Your pretty TALENTED....for being so young!!!!! You can't be much more than in your early 30's. I can see that your a Perfectionist...you do an EXCELLENT JOB!!!

[@sandralovegrove2805]

Hey Outsider, Sandra from Montreal here been beside you all the way, I am a long time subscriber. thank you so much for posting ~ You are🦉🦋🌲🌻Living the Dream 💚🧚‍♂

[@nightsong28540]

Very nice job, I've got a feeling your dad was watching you and he was also saying you're doing a nice job. Stay safe, be careful, take it easy and keep dry and cool.

[@marianfrances4959]

I'm sure you miss your dad immensely. Our parents and grandparents teach us so much, and continue to do so beyond our time together. Cabin looks solid and awesome. Go solar! 👍😎🇨🇦🌞🌲🔥

[@radar2ana]

Mr. Outsider, may God bless you, and all the projects.

[@suejackson1731]

l like the idea of the solar/shower build great idea. My condolences on your loss you worked well together, as you were working l imagined your dad say how do you want to do this and you wanna put it this way way?. l am sure he looks down on you smiling. God Bless you and your family. Sending love from the uk.

[@prestongilbert4199]

As I watched this "icing on the cake" video, I had the sense that your dad was there with you, guiding and commenting and approving. I miss him as I know you do too. I am a 71 year old man with a 35 year old son ........................

[@Visigoth_]

This deserves a 👍 just for that kickass "A-frame leaver." 🤔 very cool.

[@scottmcintosh2988]

Get a grey water tank heater so that the batteries will be warm and efficient ! Great video ! Founding member of The Renewable Energy Industry of Nova Scotia advised the NS Energy Strategy heat those Batteries in Canada cold climate !

[@deborahjohnston5425]

You are so strong and amazing to go forward the way you are without your father and best friend by your side. He is so proud of you. You have so much good memory and a beautiful cabin and so many thing to remember him. My heart was broken for you. Keep going strong and may the Lord bless you and your family and keep you safe. I love watching your videos and my husband loved them too before he passed away 2 years ago. Take care.

[@Reet64]

My heart aches a little for you seeing you do this on your own. But what a legacy he helped leave for his family. I like to think his presence still guides you.

[@Ursaminor31]

Blessed by the presence of robins!

[@chriscatherine5151]

I love the Robin's singing in the background ❤ we moved to Texas from Culpepper VA. The blueridge mountains are very much like the woods around the cabin and I miss them.

[@MrGeroth]

I hope that future generations of your family get to enjoy this cabin and they tell the story of the build.

[@earlshaner4441]

Good morning everyone from Syracuse NY USA and thank you for sharing your adventures and thoughts

[@yvettekinchking8838]

Your vision is endless. My goodness your family is blessed watching from England stay safe with that heavy dangerous work.

[@87xfute]

Thanks Outsider, I hope you and your family are all well and God bless you all my friend. Seeya Rob

[@Ritcheyyy]

I was using lead batteries with my victron system for about 3-4 years and looking back it was a nightmare, so little capacity from 4x120Ah gel batteries. Since I switched to 2 li-ion modules from vw id.3 2x6,85kwh it has been a dream, you must for your own good replace the lead to lithium, its worth every cent.

[@bridgetpainter8194]

It's great to see your solar panel build, you are so neat. I was over in SA seeing my family after waiting four years. I'm sure you miss your Dad. Take care :)

[@williamkolis1567]

I’m amazed at how easily that bath came off!