Victron + LiTime MINI = beginner friendly off-grid

Today we build a simple 12v off-grid system
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Tinned Copper Lugs: amzn.to/3WiPB45
Hammer Crimper: amzn.to/3InPFKj
Ferrule Crimping Kit: amzn.to/3odMDS6
BusBars: amzn.to/42TSYB9
2awg cable: amzn.to/3OnBZmd
Pre-charge Resistors: amzn.to/3IqPA84
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CONTACT: [e-mail]
Business/Collaboration only. Please do not contact me for for personal project help, or advice.
================
DISCLAIMER: These videos are documenting my own personal projects, and experiences. These projects, and activities can be dangerous. I am not a professional. You should always consult with a professional. This content is for entertainment purposes only. DO NOT try any of this at home, doing so will be at your own risk.

[@BradCagle]

Amazon Affiliate links: Li Time MINI Battery 100Ah: amzn.to/3ZG8kXn Victron 100/30 MPPT: amzn.to/41JTG2A Hydraulic Crimper: amzn.to/3MC5AHs Tinned Copper Lugs: amzn.to/3WiPB45 Hammer Crimper: amzn.to/3InPFKj Ferrule Crimping Kit: amzn.to/3odMDS6 BusBars: amzn.to/42TSYB9 2awg cable: amzn.to/3OnBZmd Precharge resistors: amzn.to/3PEuRCk ================ AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE: This channel may earn an affiliate commission if you purchase products through links I provide. ================ CONTACT: [e-mail] Business/Collaboration only. Please do not contact me for for personal project help, or advice. ================ DISCLAIMER: These videos are documenting my own personal projects, and experiences. These projects, and activities can be dangerous. I am not a professional. You should always consult with a professional. This content is for entertainment purposes only. DO NOT try any of this at home, doing so will be at your own risk.

[@brianoreilly3035]

Interested to see ur fuse temp with 1/0 wire

[@eugeniuszsokoow2811]

What the model inverter u have? Please get me the link

[@onthelake9554]

Toss all this in Milwaukee Packout rolling box for a convenient portable protected supply. I tested mine by running a full size frig off it for a week on one 300 watt panel with the same size battery , charge controller and inverter (but mine was blue) . It worked great . Sun powered food cooling .

[@BradCagle]

Nice. I have a toolbox I bought for something like that. I need to do it :)

[@jasonbroom7147]

Heck, put TWO of these "mini" batteries in that toolbox, wired in parallel.

[@TheRoughGentleman]

Will it power a 2000 fifth wheel

[@justicejames8023]

Do you have a fuse

[@jasonbroom7147]

You want your fuse as close to the battery (or "source") as possible. Really like the ferrels, especially for smaller screw-down connections. A much simpler setup, with quite a bit more inverter output, is the MPP 2724 inverter/charger with two batteries, wired in series. You still want the solar disconnect, but from there it's two wires into the inverter/charger and then two wires from your batteries. Easiest off-grid system you can make, because it also includes several AC outlets.

[@BradCagle]

Yeah. I totally agree on the fuse. That way if the positive wire is shorted anywhere along the length it will pop the fuse. I'll check that MPP2724 out. Thanks!

[@tcathunder]

@@BradCagle Nice work... I run a 24/7 mining rig. Runs 1000 watts. Will that run the miner 24/7.. Thanks.

[@jasonbroom7147]

@@user-fg6lm3ef5o - So, you're saying fuses ARE a good thing?

[@LiLBitsDK]

his run up to the inverter is shorter than most peoples run to the fuse holder...

[@BradCagle]

@@LiLBitsDK Yeah, that's what I keep telling people but they don't seem to get it. LOL

[@andrewford80]

I love this. Just a bare bones system that gets it done. Nice one

[@BradCagle]

Thanks!

[@Robinsson91]

Perfect parts for a beginner setup!

[@BradCagle]

Definitely!

[@kenneth6847]

Thank you for the video and thank the other posters for providing their expertise.

[@BradCagle]

You bet!

[@TheVaga9]

The most informative presentation I've seen yet. just good basic stuff!!! and all the little stuff he covers is fantastic and sorely needed and missing on some of the high falutin channels!!

[@BradCagle]

Thanks. Glad you like it 😁

[@mrobvious1100]

@@BradCagle great video a little over my head but I'm learning. I am a 70 year old retired firefighter. My wife is disabled and stays basically in the bedroom which is about 15 by 15 and we use an air conditioner in the window 24 hours a day. I have the inverter and just need to get to solar panels the controller and I don't know a marine battery or a lifepo4. What would your recommendations be to run that air conditioner Around the Clock. And then there's the aspect of what parts could be in the room and what parts need to be outside the wall of the house other than the solar panels. The panels would be approximately 10 ft away from the house facing sunrise for 12 hours. I was thinking of getting ( 3) 300 watt solar panels

[@zekecanada5244]

Thank you, thank you, Thank you. For keeping it sweet and simple.. .❤❤

[@BradCagle]

You're welcome!

[@Osborn-mj4qc]

Nice build. After a few weeks of testing after receiving the goods, the refrigerator, TV, etc., the capacity is completely fine. I bought a 24V 100Ah battery. High cost performance.😃

[@angel1111.]

Would it be a marine battery I'm going off grid trying learn

[@tonyromano8337]

@@angel1111. car battery works 👍

[@leeanderson42]

Why 24v and what sort of time are you getting out of it before you need to charge again?

[@Guttersmart]

​@@angel1111.I used deep cycle marine batteries to learn on because I got them for free. I learned marine battery are good enough to learn with for free. But when I bought 2, 100 amp hour solar batteries huge, huge increase in efficiency. I have no idea what the difference is but there is one

[@curtisscott4393]

You bought the whole setup just changed the size of the battery?

[@robert4027]

I love my victron 100/50 controller. No charge controller for the money can beat it

[@BradCagle]

I'm a victron fan, great stuff

[@user-hh6ex9md4w]

Great video! As someone who loves outdoor camping and values quality family time, having a reliable power source is essential. The Segway Portable PowerStation Cube Series seems like a fantastic option. With its massive capacity, fast recharging, and waterproof design, it's perfect for extended trips and unexpected power outages. Plus, the smart app control is a neat feature. Definitely worth considering for outdoor enthusiasts and RV lovers.

[@CherokezPittman]

Great video! I completely agree with you on the importance of having a reliable power source when camping or spending quality time with family. The Segway Portable PowerStation Cube Series seems like a fantastic option with its massive capacity, fast recharging, and waterproof design. The smart app control is definitely a neat feature. Thanks for the suggestion, I will definitely consider it for my outdoor adventures!

[@user-hh6ex9md4w]

Great recommendation! The Segway Portable PowerStation Cube Series seems like a fantastic choice for outdoor enthusiasts and RV lovers. Its massive capacity, fast recharging, and waterproof design make it perfect for extended trips and power outages. Plus, the smart app control feature is really convenient. Thanks for sharing your thoughts! Any other outdoor gear or home backup power products you recommend?

[@Thecherokee4x4]

Great video. Thanks for the advice and tutorials.

[@TurnFullCircle]

Absolutely excellent clear instructions...exactly what I wanted...cheers

[@BradCagle]

Glad to help!

[@vinny9349]

Nice build . Very simple.

[@BradCagle]

Thanks!

[@NukaVaultReadiness]

This is something I need to do with my LiTime 100Ah Mini (which I do enjoy the lightweight of it). Great video my man!

[@BradCagle]

Thanks! 👍

[@you166mhz]

I use a vice bench to tighten my cables ... works fine ...

[@Brad_Sevens]

This battery is pretty lightweight and portable. I can hold it with one hand. I use it to charge my device in a field campaign and the voltage is perfect for my purpose. It is so convenient to use it in this situation. I do not need to carry my large battery of 50 lbs around anymore.

[@BradCagle]

They are great!

[@da7heaven]

great video, simplifies the system for beginners like me.

[@BradCagle]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@jessemellon6258]

great video and demonstration !

[@BradCagle]

Thanks!

[@rockygrindstaff7312]

Great video! Very helpful

[@BradCagle]

Glad it was helpful!

[@stevenseigneurie5073]

Brad-I enjoy your videos, and most are helpful to some point. Would you consider doing a video on proper usage of a voltage meter ?

[@teresavichkon4053]

This is what i was looking for

[@fensterputzernuernberg]

its a great video,, easy to understand and and compelling viewing

[@gwb8445]

I put my system together twisting wires and using electrical tape from dollar store.😮 Works fine!

[@stingk5295]

Great Job!

[@darrylm3627]

😄Good Stuff, Great Tips

[@user-zw7ij3pf3t]

I have 2 Litime 100AH mini batteries and they're very responsive when it comes to email customer service and support.

[@ChrisEpler]

30A continuous you'd want 8 AWG wire, I think that Victron can handle up to #6.. I like to use as thick a wire as I can within reason, esp if it's short and cheap...it's just extra insurance and a tiny more efficiency.

[@Thuisbezorgdd]

10 AWG should be fine

[@realAmpereD]

Wrong, 10 is fine all day for 30A.

[@cowboyup545]

I used a old set of jumper cables wire, They cleaned up and work great.

[@Roll2Videos]

The hydraulic crimper is the only way to go. Nice hookup.

[@BradCagle]

Agree, at less than $40 no excuse not to get it :) Thanks

[@dworld77]

Thank you for the video .

[@RoyceMunday56]

Very useful. Thank you

[@BradCagle]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ChuckisOutside]

Thanks for the video. Could you list the links to purchase the fuse and solar disconnect switch. Good video.

[@ericwitt4586]

That’s what I’m gonna do at my off grid cabin it’s already got a functioning system it’s just old and I want to beef it up with 4 d8 12 vdc batteries and a new charge controller and a few more 100 watt panels I’ve got 7 grandkids and they love there electronics lol

[@MrSpaceace1999]

Maybe get the grandkids off the electronics and out in real earth

[@lawrencedavidson6195]

Nice simple little system. Greetings from Jamaica.

[@BradCagle]

Hey! I need to tour the Caribbean sometime, especially Jamaica :) Greetings sir

[@aaronsmith593]

Probably need to use 2 awg wire throughout. Also need to size appropriate fuse sizes. Not too low of amp fuses, and also not too high amp fuses, to start your wire on fire. When wires or connectors heat up, you need to size up the wire. And check all of your connections, bolts, screws for tightness as well.

[@WiSeNhEiMeR-1369]

Thanks good use of FERRULES on your stranded wire COOP the WiSeNhEiMeR from Richmond, INDIANA ...

[@BradCagle]

Thanks!

[@donjacoby8581]

You did an excellent job! I would like to see this simplified method for each victron item. Victron is very confusing and have busy drawings showing everything. Not easy to figure out for diy's. Thanks

[@BradCagle]

Thanks! glad it's helpful

[@weswalker1208]

We have those same Birds here Blackbird AKA Crackle in South Texas

[@BradCagle]

Yup, I'm in north TX :)

[@JohnThomas-ou2rn]

Good job. Simple, easy to understand, straight forward.

[@BradCagle]

Thanks!

[@panospapadimitriou3498]

nice battery . i m thinking of buying one for extra but will keep me back from 48v setup ... !!! maybe next year

[@acuraintegra101]

I solder the ends on just put end eye side in vice get some flux core solder and put into the end the wire goes in and take a heat gun or torch and begin to heat the end not to much to discolor just to melt the solder and then stick the wire In and hold till cool about 10 seconds and repeat till all ends are completed.

[@DD-sc4il]

super informative!

[@shedonnigel7866]

Thanks 🙏 very informative

[@HazMatMedic911]

Thank you for the video

[@IngBey-5710]

very instructif , thank you

[@BradCagle]

You are welcome!

[@pocketchange1951]

👌👍❤️🇨🇦, everyone has to start somewhere, gr8 video

[@BradCagle]

Thanks!

[@LiLBitsDK]

heatshrinking the fuse isn't conducide to swapping the fuse if you blow it ;-) other then that it is a fine little system

[@fishycomics]

man I used an 803 C, and its portable ones, Lol thanks for the memories.. 12vdc 100 watt (8a) renergy, 200/300w inverter, 100AH lifepo. I use a china ceiling fan led lite the led only and can get some good use, its not enough to run for long periods of time if asked. you want a fuse by your Solar panel where I got mine

[@bill7884]

Best video I have seen

[@BradCagle]

Thanks!

[@AXNJXN1]

CORRECT on the in-line fuse; ALWAYS go higher than the rated capacity... Should have gone with 8ga but you honestly putting that IN the video is honest reflection and as you stated, NEEDS to be hot tested for continuity of the entire build. Great job!

[@BradCagle]

Thanks!

[@CherokezPittman]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts! I completely agree with you on the importance of using a higher-rated fuse for safety purposes. It's great to see the video acknowledging the need to hot test the entire build for continuity. Safety should always be a top priority when setting up off-grid power systems. By the way, have you heard of the Segway Portable PowerStation Cube Series? It has some impressive features like massive capacity, fast recharging, and comprehensive protections. It might be worth checking out for your outdoor adventures or home backup power needs!

[@alimardan4485]

Nice work 👍👍👍

[@BradCagle]

Thanks!

[@bitsurfr46]

Brad I like the Licitti battery box you featured in a recent video. There you have a starter system already made up for you. No tools to buy and no build time.😂

[@BradCagle]

Yup, I agree :)

[@victorthecarguy3126]

Was the fuse holder copper clad aluminum wire? They don't make cheap fuse holders with all copper. You provided a lot of great info. Thanks

[@BradCagle]

It was copper wire. I toss aluminum wire in the garbage anytime I come across it. The wire was not getting warm, it was the fuse, or fuse holder. I've come across heat issues with fuses, and fuse holders in the past. I just make it a habit to stress test them after install to see how they perform. If it's too hot for my comfort level, i'll replace it with something different. Thanks!

[@JorgeHernandez-ib1px]

Might be a dumb questions, Is the solar disconnect switch the same as a circuit breaker switch and how do you select the right one for your specific needs. How do pick the right fuse? What type of fuse is on the inverter and how do you pick the right size? Great video!!!

[@tomdemeo2708]

Great Video, as time goes by material prices dropping. However solar generators like EcoFlow on sale are cheaper ready to go and portable.

[@TheCornucopiaProject-bd5jk]

I can agree with you, however the simplest setup is still a solar generator. You get 12v outputs, 110v outlets,switches and monitoring. And you can use a standard battery as additional capacity. Also your setup limits you to that 1200 watt inverter. And you know how people are, they want to run a toaster, electric kettle or heat gun. Make it two batteries in parallel and always use bus bars.

[@DavidKing-bm3sh]

Thank you, lots of good info, for guys like me, who are just getting started. My question, is, can I change that battery, with jumper cable, from car battery on days of no sun?

[@jussikankinen9409]

Dc to dc, i boiled my car battery when tried charge, but relay system is same so dunno why boiled maybe too thin wire

[@robpeters7637]

Nice video. What size are any fuzes, resistors that were used? Is the breaker disconnect a "DC" Breaker and what size? thanks

[@jimgresham5529]

You should discuss wire gauge (size).

[@phillippmorris4109]

where did you get you switch from solar to controler and in line fuse that needs to be bigger thanks

[@junkerzn7312]

Nice starter build. I would make a few modifications though and the reason is that really NOBODY should be doing new systems with 12V batteries any more. There is just no reason to use 12V even in a beginner friendly tutorial when 24V and 48V LiFePO4 batteries are readily available. 12V seriously underutilizes the Victron and requires heavier wiring and generates a hell of a lot more heat and losses. So I would do this instead: * Victron MPPT 100/20 SmartSolar charge controller. This unit can handle 12V, 24V, or 48V. * 24V Inverter. Any brand. * And a 24V LiFePO4 batteries. Also any brand. e.g. 24V @ 50Ah has the same capacity as 12V @ 100Ah. * You can go with 12awg wiring, but actually I usually just stick with 10awg anyway because I like the feel of the wire better and losses will be lower. Or alternatively, go straight to 48V but in that case the smallest reasonable 48V LiFePO4 battery is probably going to be 50Ah, so the cost will be somewhat higher for the larger storage capacity. Still, if you need that much capacity, then I would go 48V across the board. The advantage of going to 24V or 48V is that you can expand the system later on without having to throw anything that you've already purchased away, the amperages are lower, losses are much much lower, heat is lower. The only issue to keep in mind is that the solar input on the Victron has to be +5V higher than the battery voltage. For a 24V system this means you need (for example) two 100W panels in series. For a 48V system you would need three 100W panels in series. I would still consider it to be a "starter" system though. Just having one little panel is a huge waste of effort. -Matt

[@BradCagle]

Hi Matt. I have starter videos for 12v, and 24v. I also have 48v starter videos in the works. Thanks

[@DeFiDuke]

can someone please do a head to head comparison of all the new 460ah lifepo4 batteries that are coming out? redodo bird, roamer, litime, epoch, basen, VATRER, power drag queen, etc.. thanks in advance! @@BradCagle

[@Electronzap]

Nice project.

[@BradCagle]

Thanks!

[@mrobvious1100]

I like to ask a dumb question. A bright sunny day in December at 35 degrees and a bright sunny day in July at 80°. Do the temperature conditions affect the solar panels ability to put the same W back into the controller? The batteries will be indoors. I'm just trying to figure out the efficiency of solar panels during the winter time when the sun is out not so much a cloudy day or snow or something like that to strictly sunny days

[@BradCagle]

Yes, cold winter sunny day will beat a hot summer sunny day as long as the angle is good.

[@cowboyup545]

Clean cut video. Watt panels did you use for your set up. Make a video on it. LOL Thanks Great video.

[@BradCagle]

Oh man, it's been so long I don't remember :) maybe I'll make a new video. Thanks

[@jcadag8789]

I am interested in making like that 12v 100Ah LifePo4 with solar charging at may 100w solar panel and maybe add another 100w later. I am not interested in the AC inverter since most of my electronics will just running off USB C's. I will be using some 12 volt to USB C and a that can produce QC 3.0 or higher and PD protocol. Most will just be using USB C PD in 5v, 9v, 12v and 20v for my laptop. I am adding an option to charge the Lifepo4 from AC just incase the wall outlet is still ok and the solar panel is not providing enough due to weather. Like the vid very straight and simple. I saved the vid on my laptop for reference in case internet is not available.

[@MHLivestreams]

Suppose you could run a 24v system then, and step down as required.

[@rkg456]

I am a newbie. Do you have Amazon links to the style fuse you used at the inverter and the white switch you used for the Solar input? As for the size of the fuse to use, what drives that for sizing. If you use a 40A MPPT do you just use 40A fuses also?

[@robersonmoron7891]

What fuse ?

[@BibiProvenceBBSmoothMusic]

Question I have a 2000 watt inverter, and dont want to use a lithium battery, but a simple lead battery. How Big of a battery should I use? Love your channel.

[@elyrobison6316]

I’m pretty new at this so I’m collecting information, this system is pretty simple but if you wanted to have it charging in a mobile system you’d also need a dc-dc additionally for the vehicle alternator to be able to charge it correct??

[@butchie2752]

Very informative. Is there a reason you went with that inverter? Amazon has a million and its sort of confusing.

[@Jeropa]

Nice video! Question: what happens when the battery is full charged, the sun is shinning and there is no load on the inverter? It looks to me this setup doesn't have taken this scenario in consideration, right?

[@BradCagle]

It just stops charging That's the job of the Victron MPPT charger.

[@jpthedelawarebeeman6239]

The inverter itself will draw power if it is left on even without a load and the controller will charge or not charge if the battery needs to be charged.

[@charlesd3376]

Will you tell what solar panels you are using? Thanks in advance.

[@BradCagle]

Sunpower 435w E-Series Commercial

[@sonnyrodriguez2016]

hey can you use same setup for car alternator battery instead of solar? or i needed a dc/dc charger .. can i use it both application solar and car battery thx

[@natesdiysolar]

Hey Brad. I was thinking of using this battery as an accessory battery in a polaris rzr sxs. But I think it's slightly to large.. capacity is awsome over AGM

[@BradCagle]

Yeah, pretty awesome the size to capacity!

[@lukeskywalker2116]

30A is right at the limit for 10AWG. 8AWG would have been a better choice.

[@ronb6182]

Yeah 8 and make sure it's battery cable the more strands the better.. never use solid 10 gage or even the few strands in number 8. Direct current flows better with stranded wire. 73

[@gameface7012]

P​@@ronb6182

[@davidhankins5708]

What kind of solar panel array were you using. How many panels and size. Thanks!

[@adamsisernik4556]

Which fuses I should buy (1) from VICTRON 150/35 into 48v battery and (2) from battery into Delta pro 3600Wh, 48V inverter?

[@FullyChargedZone]

Victron is the best solar charger I've used so far

[@BradCagle]

Same!

[@fredir3596]

I’m building a portable version of this; Victron 100/30, 12v 100ah, 100w panel. Can I run the solar input through the Blue Sea Systems fuse block (rated up to 100a)?

[@BradCagle]

I wouldn't recommend it.

[@fredir3596]

@@BradCagleshould I just run an in-line fuse in the solar cable?

[@BradCagle]

@@fredir3596 Yes that would be better.

[@enzosplatedeli]

Hi Brad.....what size solar panel you using on this system?

[@BradCagle]

435w

[@vaibhavsharma300]

does the inverter needs to be lifepo4 compatible cause it may over drain battery thinking its regular lead acid one. or u just rely on bms to cut off during over drain?

[@TWR1988]

I always jump with the Lithium spark 😂. PS;.. you should always hook up negative first.

[@user-ni9ny6ei6w]

THINK YOU HAVE THAT ASS BACKWARDS !

[@cooltrkin]

What did it cost?

[@georgerusu8423]

hi....a mppt victron 75/15 works with two 50 ah lithium batteries?...4x100w connected panels 2s2p set to 24v....would it work!? any recommendations?

[@BradCagle]

Yes that will work. Just make sure your combined panel open circuit voltage is under 75v. If you're using 12v panels 2 in series you're good.

[@morgantorres362]

good morning god bless you i have Victron SmartSolar MPPT 75/10 Solar Charge Controller w/ Bluetooth with 1 CHINS LiFePO4 Battery 12V 100AH Lithium Battery how to set up solar panel i need. , i need help

[@pavlitoboombito]

That should be good to run two fridges at same time right?

[@alihsas]

Regarding the Fuses you have added, based on what you choose the Fuse amp? ( all fuses)

[@BradCagle]

It's best to rate your fuses on the wire. So if your wire can handle 100A at max continuous, then you should use a 100a fuse, or breaker.

[@bugsocsollie1694]

😢i have a question that no one seems to be addressing. I plan on building this simple system for my cabin. Its only for lights, charging devices and maybe a fan and small fridge. My question is if its better to leave this sutem in plave and constantly be charging for months (2 to 6 consecutively) that im not at the cabin? Or is it better to shut it all down and spend the first day charging it all up?

[@BradCagle]

I would probably just turn the inverter off, leave the solar charger, and batteries on, and connected.

[@bugsocsollie1694]

@@BradCagle Thank you.

[@TOMVUTHEPIMP]

If you had a 50 amp controller could you pull more watts? Looks like you're being restricted at 30 amps.

[@foryouonly5229]

Please can 1200 watts on lights. small power tools. small air conditioners. small portable heater. television. small refrigerator. small microwave. small to medium-sized fans. If yes please which type of battery should i use 12.8v 100Ah

[@SuperRickyfree]

What gauge wire would be needed to connect a 30A charge controller to 12v batterie?

[@TheBillaro]

is that a standard starter battery for a car? isnt a leisure battery better? how long does it take to charge in that set up? what can you run and for how long off that? i want to run a laptop, phone, fan and small fridge/cooler

[@BradCagle]

No, it's not a car battery. It's a LiFePO4 Lithium battery for energy storage. Thanks

[@drlescrawford897]

Where did you get the resistor for the recharge? Thanks

[@BradCagle]

amzn.to/3PEuRCk

[@renmedia]

12V requires the most AMPS to charge and stresses the most all the cables and fuses. This is why i sugest to ether buy a 24V battery or add another one in series. Use the same solar charger, but change the inverter. You will have way better temps for everything.

[@shanedenmark5536]

Can you explain more about our using the resistor to charge the capacitors? What did you use, where did you get it?

[@BradCagle]

Precharge resistors: amzn.to/3PEuRCk

[@shanedenmark5536]

@@BradCagle Awesome thanks! What watt & resistance did you use? Theres a bunch of choices.

[@studioopinions5870]

question: how long does it take to charge that battery you have if it is nearly depleted? and using only 100W Solar Panel?

[@BradCagle]

If your panel is putting out a full 100w the whole time, then it will take about 12.8 hours to fully charge. Now you usually don't get 100w out of a 100w panel because you cant keep the perfect angle, and lighting conditions the whole time. I usually figure 75%. Honestly 100w panels IMO are not enough, I would be playing with 300+ watt to start with. Look for used panels in your area.

[@studioopinions5870]

@@BradCagle what happens if we use the old lead acid batteries, the kind that goes in a car, I know you can buy the solar Panels that unfold just in case your car battery dies. But what about a 100W big one? I saw a youtube video of a guy off the grid and built a tiny house, and used just one Lead acid battery and only used the battery to light up 12 volt items and phones and tablets. So is it dangerous? Or Safe? Thanks.

[@BradCagle]

@@studioopinions5870 Car batteries are not meant to discharge deeply. You can use it, but it will not last long. If you're going lead acid, you need deep cycle, and even then you can only discharge down to 50% or risk damaging it. Also lead acid batteries need to stay outside in a vented container as they will vent gas while charging.

[@studioopinions5870]

@@BradCagle Thanks! Terry

[@EnterOriginalUsernameHere]

For how much watt PV total does this victron 100/30 work? What victron would I require for a 1kw solar PV system?

[@BobBob-il2ku]

How do you size the solar disconnect breaker? Aka how many amps?

[@BradCagle]

Based on the PV wire you're using. 12awg PV wire is good for 20amps so usually you would get a 20amp fuse or breaker. 10awg is good for 30amps so 30amp fuse or breaker.

[@BobBob-il2ku]

@@BradCagle wouldn’t you size the breaker to be less amps than the wire can handle?

[@BradCagle]

@@BobBob-il2ku depends on how bold you are. 😂 If you want to be sure, do at least the breaker that matches the wire rating so 20a for 12awg. I've seen some systems that do 10awg with 32amp breakers

[@BradCagle]

@@BobBob-il2ku i think technically you size the wire and breaker to be 125% of your max load. So if your PV max is 16amps, then you use 12awg wire with 20a breaker/fuse, etc

[@southernprojectsyt6340]

also makes more work if you have to change the fuse.

[@steveleston1848]

do you have to be connected to the net in order to use the victron app on your phone? nice video thanks

[@BradCagle]

No. It connects through Bluetooth. Thanks

[@faithful53]

No one mentions that Lithium batteries don't like being cold or hot! Also the cost is twice the cost of lead acid. I have been using lead acid for about a year, very little matinance. I have 3500w solar

[@alsmokent5719]

do you have a similar video using multiple batteries