Victron Phoenix 1200VA LF Inverter: Extremely Low Standby Consumption and More!

[@WillProwse]

1200VA Phoenix Inverter can be purchased here (affiliate links): www.currentconnected.com/product/ve-phoenix/?ref=wp Bluetooth Smart Dongle: www.currentconnected.com/product/ve-direct-bluetooth/?ref=wp Large Victron Inverters: www.currentconnected.com/product-category/inv/inverter-chargers/?ref=wp Complete 48V system blueprint for free: www.mobile-solarpower.com/48v-complete-system-blueprint.html ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Does off-grid solar confuse you? Check out my DIY friendly website for solar system blueprints and packages, and much more! www.mobile-solarpower.com/ Join our DIY solar community! #1 largest solar forum on the internet for beginners and professionals alike: www.diysolarforum.com Check out my best-selling, beginner-friendly 12V off-grid solar book (affiliate link): amzn.to/2Aj4dX4 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ My solar equipment recommendations (Constantly updated! Check here first): 12V Lithium Batteries: www.mobile-solarpower.com/lithium-batteries.html Server Rack LiFePO4 deals: www.mobile-solarpower.com/server-rack-lifepo4.html DIY LiFePO4 Batteries: www.mobile-solarpower.com/design-your-own-12v-lifepo4-system.html 50-250W Solar Panels: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solar-panels.html 300W+ Solar Panels: www.mobile-solarpower.com/300w-solar-panels.html 12/24/48V All-in-one Solar Systems: www.mobile-solarpower.com/all-in-one-122448v-packages.html Plug-N-Play Systems: www.mobile-solarpower.com/full-size-systems.html LiFePO4 Battery Cell Deals: www.mobile-solarpower.com/raw-lifepo4-deals-page.html DIY LiFePO4 BMS: www.mobile-solarpower.com/raw-lifepo4-deals-page-676969.html 12V/24V Inverters: www.mobile-solarpower.com/inverters.html LiFePO4 Battery Chargers: www.mobile-solarpower.com/battery-chargers.html Solar Charge Controllers: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solar-charge-controllers.html Solar Panel Mounting Guide: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solar-panel-mounts.html Fuses: www.mobile-solarpower.com/fuses.html Battery Monitors: www.mobile-solarpower.com/battery-monitors.html Favorite Tools: www.mobile-solarpower.com/tools.html 12V fridges: www.mobile-solarpower.com/12v-fridges.html DIY Friendly Air Conditioner/ Heat Pumps: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solar-friendly-air-conditioners.html ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Online Stores for DIY Solar and Coupon Codes: -Current Connected: SOK, Victron and High Quality Components. Best prices and warranty around: currentconnected.com/?ref=wp -Signature Solar: Cheap Server Rack Batteries and Large Solar Panels www.signaturesolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek -Amperetime: Cheapest 12V batteries around: amperetime.com/products/ampere-time-12v-100ah-lithium-lifepo4-battery?ref=h-cvbzfahsek -Rich Solar: Mega site and cheaper prices than renogy! Check them out: richsolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek -Batteryhookup.com: Cheap cell deals bit.ly/2mIxSqt 10% off code: diysolar -Watts 24/7: Best deals on all-in-one solar power systems, with customer support and distribution here in the USA: watts247.com/?wpam_id=3 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Contact Information: I am NOT available for personal solar system consult! No exceptions! All emails asking me to design or help with building your system will be deleted. If you are a business or youtuber and wish to contact me, this is my direct email: [e-mail] Join the forum at diysolarforum.com/ if you wish to hang out with myself and others and talk about solar

[@sungoldpowerofficial]

the video is so perfect !

[@P_RO_]

Glad to see you testing Victron. Ain't cheap but lots of people like Victron!

[@wildness01]

The one other thing I wish you had tested on this (and other) inverters is how well the eco mode works. Ie will an led light bulb activate it? Will it run a refrigerator? Etc. Most inverters I've used fail both of these tests. Which makes the eco mode useless imo.

[@Lordlindef]

Great video. U rocking lithium and all off grid systems man. Have seen all your videos and gonne see all video from u in future for all time buddy. Ur the best for us all

[@TBButcher]

Hey Will, do you know how long the inverters can handle peak surge? I contacted victron and they were very rude and wouldn't answer my question.

[@johnnixon1026]

for a man who claims to be burned out, you still show more enthusiasm then any other person in your arena... thank you for continuing to educate us...

[@robbehr8806]

Cool! I live in Arizona, where we get a lot of sun and daylight is reasonably consistent. Here, people are becoming very interested in daytime boost cooling systems, such as a ductless mini-split which connects directly to the chain of solar panels through to an inverter, without a battery. The idea is the boost system saves money and also works as an independent off-grid backup. I'd like to see a video on systems that require little or no battery to start up and function.

[@charlesgwinn9832]

You need an adequate ATS automatic transfer switch. Review his vid on the MOES ATS. He tests it on some low power devices like laptop etc . That got me to thinking along your same idea. It'd make sense to run air conditioner unit(s) directly from solar panels via a voltage converter plus power inverter. Then tie it into an ATS such that solar is your PRIMARY source and GRID is your SECONDARY(for when low sunlight,clouds,etc.) Provided you have a capable power converter(smaller ones don't like heavy loads) then it should work. It would start off using GRID to get past the inrush current(which may overwhelm the panels alone) or maybe suck from batteries initially, then,once the wattage stabilizes at typical 500 to 550 watts,switch to solar only. Soon I may afford the components to test this although it'd be nice if Will did it first. With ever rising electricity costs, 5 to 10panels could be maximized daily to save money

[@260Xander]

I think you'll basically need SOME sort of super small battery in between. But yes that's doable on the cheap

[@Nic7320]

My first Victron purchase was a 24V, 1200W inverter. I bought it primarily because of the low standby power and it was a perfect fit for a 6S Li-Ion (NMC) Tesla battery module. Now I have 15 Victron devices and I'm convinced Victron is best equipment out there.

[@troy3456789]

Can you discuss your typical loading percentages of your victron inverters (percentage of max rated load)? Have you discovered the sweet spot of efficiency?

[@mdude7778]

Will, you described my setup precisely. I bought a 4kw SungoldPower inverter for my well pump and a 1200VA Phoenix to run a couple fans and lights at night. Also bought another Phoenix for the barn. Still in boxes though. Now I need to hook it all up. Thank you for all your hard work in putting these vids together. You are a Titan!

[@SnifferSock]

Do you divide stuff between low power and high power? Or is there a way to setup the inverters where the big one will kick in automatically?

[@mdude7778]

@@SnifferSock Nothing automatic. The plan is to separate the circuits for low and high power inverters. Not sure yet how eco mode on the SungoldPower will play with a well pump. Will probably manually shut it off each night since it has remote control.

[@john0270]

Well if your running a victron multiplus you can have it setup where this unit can feed into the multiplus, and pass through. Then when your load increases past your programed value(say 7amps) then the multiplus fires up and starts assisting.

[@Bluntask]

So by combining a multiplus2 and an inverter can increase overall wattage past the multiplus’ 3k cap? Or run separate loads to it and then the rest to the multiplus2?

[@kineticmikemr1612]

Is your well pump 220v? And is the 4KW inverter able to start the pump with no issues?

[@JonMarinello]

Victron is simply the best manufacturer of all this kind of equipment there is on earth. I just love their stuff and their support.

[@randybobandy9828]

Ya and they charge alot for being the best. That's the way it goes. It's always best to find the product that is the best that isn't too expensive. There is a point of diminishing returns.

[@markarca6360]

When it comes to off-grid, Victron is the name you can trust!

[@imdo301]

Roger that

[@imdo301]

@@randybobandy9828i went from epever charge controller to victron on my boat and it changed my life.

[@MrDieselfitter]

Morning Star - Suresign fanless is probably more reliable

[@Dennis-nd5em]

The idea of buying these vs targeted cost of battery capacity for AIO device power overhead at night is the most interesting aspect of this video to me. I plan on exploring that more to see if its worth it on my end (EG4 6500) to buy 2x Victrons for tv/media/router + fridge and shut off the 6500s at night. If anyone else has done the math on this as id love to compare. I need to justify / have ROI buying more fun stuff. Will needless to say your the man, great video.

[@edcat6587]

You probably only need one-these can handle a high initial surge,and most refrigerators these days are pretty efficient.

[@McTroyd]

I've been thinking about building a small system for a shed to power some light-duty tools. I now think I have found the inverter I want to use. Thanks Will!!

[@pyronmasters]

Will, greetings from PR, thanks for every video, I finished installing my system just before Hurricane Fiona hit, it’s still holding (No power since Sep 17) I think your best videos are the “Solar Beginner” in your RV, and the mini generator guide. Some family members got the mini generators with the panels for charging phones and a couple os usb powered fans. In case anyone wants to know, my 5,400w Solar panel setup produced about 1.2kwh during the storm, 3.9kwh the next day (heavy rain all day), Monday climbed to 10.5kwh (little rain very cloudy, yesterday 14.3kwh. Again thanks for everything (You AND Hobotech)

[@keithbrookshire]

Dang man, when you were talking about the high cost I was thinking $1,000 +. $400 isn't that bad at all. Being limited to 1,200 watts is harder to overcome than the price.

[@steveguy7165]

That's almost the cost for a gallon of milk these days.

[@Ranch321]

@@steveguy7165 its cheaper if you consider the gallon of gas to get it.

[@fishhuntadventure]

@@Ranch321 what did you say? Did you not watch the video?

[@Ranch321]

@@fishhuntadventure where do you get your milk from?

[@fishhuntadventure]

@@Ranch321 cows. My point was 1200W; Will specifically mentions using it for a parallel system for continuous needs. It’s not that difficult - I’ve been over 4 years on a 1200W inverter. Even with a bigger off-grid household situation I can still see that being doable with some diversion from consumer mentality and instead doing planned usage.

[@sailinglatis]

Great to hear your review. I have the 800 for a small sump pump. I felt I had to have a product that was proven for reliability. Your review is the icing on the cake. I use the victron smart shunt on my boat and love it too. A little more money but I think both have the support and longevity of victron to make it worth it.

[@webwizsolar4686]

Thanks for another great video, Will. I have a phoenix 375w, 12v victron inverter. Even at 375w, it runs my whole house. LG refrigerator (110w), 55 inch TV (80w), lights, WiFi equipment, laptops, and phones. The inverter is amazing and have had zero issues with it. I did not have enough money to buy the phoenix 1200w inverter but also did not want to buy the bigger cheap Chinese inverters. I plan to buy the phoenix 1200w inverter someday if not, I will probably get another 375w or 500w and separate my loads. Will thanks again for inspiring so many people across the globe. I am definitely one of your biggest fans. With love from Africa!

[@webluke]

This is a great video showing an option for critical loads like a fridge, lights, and internet. Your bigger stuff you can run off a bigger inverter that could be controlled to come on when the sun comes up. This could save you on panels but also battery size too, saving even more money.

[@paulutd69]

I'm new to this... I do not have any solar yet but hope to in the future.... These videos are helping me to grasp some concepts. Thank you.

[@mikefranks4528]

Will, you hooked me up once again, my friend. I was so, so much on the EG4 train and was geekin' out to it that so much that I got tunnel vision and pulled the trigger to buy the EG4 setup. BUT now that I see the ultra-amazing efficiency of this setup (Phoenix 1200-small loads / (2) Multiplus IIs in split-phase - powering my 240v - 38 SEER mini-split and Cinderella Comfort toilet), my efficiency all-around will be well worth the cost of these expensive but ultra-efficient Victrons. I am so glad I watch your YT videos, sir.

[@andycanfixit]

I've been using a 48 volt 375VA Phoenix for almost 3 years now to power overhead lights and a couple ceiling fans. That way if I need to power off my main inverters I still have lights fed directly from the batteries and it eliminates the flickering I would occasionally get with some LED bulbs running off my Growatt inverters. It's run rock solid, has low voltage disconnect and just works. They make a solid product.

[@stereojos86]

Hello, do you know if it is possible to connect a Victron Phoenix 48 250VA to a 13S 12Ah lithium battery?

[@andycanfixit]

@@stereojos86 yep, they support a voltage range of 38 to 62 volts. You can set the voltage it should shut off as the low voltage for your battery bank as long as you have the Bluetooth dongle for it.

[@makesaveinccomm]

@@stereojos86 why only 12 Ah ? because of the space? You should have 100 Ah at least.

[@martijnheeroma5492]

yes have it like that, a 800W Phoenix inverter build in my battery box for 24/7 and a 5 kW Multiplus for the heavy loads. That is the ideal off-grid setup.

[@devonvankraft]

I bought 3 of those refurbished.. best deal ever ❤

[@KEAWE7]

Will, your excitement is contagious!

[@johnvasko4035]

I've got two 23 year old Trace SW2512 inverters that consume 12 watts on standby and have an adjustable search mode that uses a watt or two. 23 years old and still running! Trace was the original and as far as I'm concerned is the best.

[@dubas1974]

I have this unit for my off grid cabin in Colorado running starlink, led lights, tv on occasion and security cameras. works great.

[@frankschneider7826]

Hi, I normally not comment on YT stuff and your doing an awesome job, even I learned a lot as a EE from Germany living in TX for 15 years. To measure correctly the current for low volt consumption leave the minus cable and use a Fluke True RMS (177 or higher) between battery plus pole and inverter and use the current outlets on the Fluke.

[@GarthClarkson]

Great video Will. I live off grid and I have fried 3 cheap Chinese 1500 - 2200 VA pure sine wave inverters trying to run my fridge 24/7 due to the huge spike when the compressor kicks in every 10-20 mins (depending on temperature difference). Even though the Victron seemed so expensive I took the plunge and bought my Phoenix 12/500. The 500W Phoenix sucks up the spike (I measured/calculated it as around 1800w peak) in its stride. My normal average load is around 250 - 350w. Have had it for over 6 months now and it has proven itself here in Australia even on 40+ degrees celsius days (the chinese ones are cheap for a reason - insufficient cooling under higher constant loads and serious boasting in the spec sheets that do not match the hardware). I am now watching closely to see how it goes in winter where, ironically, it is harder for the compressor to kick in due to the lower ambient temperature (I live in the mountains 650m above sea level). The price of the 3 inverters that died only cost me half what the Victron did but the equipment that died along with them cost more than double, one example being my i7 6700 with 32G RAM and an nVidia GTX 970. Fortunately I was able to salvage the SSD and HDDs but it was still way more expensive than the Victron inverter. Lessons learned.

[@jimmybrad156]

Hi Grrarth, assuming it's ~22 deg C, with the constant ~250w load, how often does its fan kick in? I'm thinking of using one inside and I'm curious how much noise it might add to a quiet room. Cheeers!

[@jimmybrad156]

That sucks that a cheap one friend some computer gear.

[@GarthClarkson]

@@jimmybrad156 Hey Jimmy. I'm not sure but it is a fairly quiet fan compared to other inverters I have had. That being said, here in Australia it is illegal to have your solar setup in living areas. They must be installed in a separate shed or location in case of fire. So it is fairly irrelevant in my situation. Sorry I can't help you with that. What I have done since is installed a 3600 joule spike protector on the fridge and that has kicked down the transients really nicely so the inverter hardly notices it at all where before, even though it handled it it would sound like a welder when your rod sticks for a second or so...

[@jimmybrad156]

@@GarthClarkson I guess the spike protector is full of metal oxide varistors absorbing voltage spikes? Hopefully they don't get hot enough to reduce their life.

[@GarthClarkson]

​@@jimmybrad156 Cheers. I double-checked the spike protector and it is actually the smaller1800 joule model. It doesn't seem to get hot, even in the Aussie summer. I don't actually know/care what method/technology it employs to smooth the very short but steep transient but it is effective. Seeing as it has a rating I presume that it has been tested before going to market. The fridge only seems to run the compressor every 10-20 minutes. The duty cycle is governed by thermostat. It rarely runs the compressor for more than a few minutes, even in summer. While it is running it only uses around 35W. Even if it does have a reduced life it only cost $25-. So long as it doesn't fail short circuit I don't mind and if it extends the life of my $400- inverter and my LiFePO4 battery bank it's even better. I will repeat that even without the protector, my Victron Phoenix 12/500 handled the spikes like a champion where even not so cheap Chinese models rated at 2000VA only lasted a month or two before releasing the magic smoke.

[@k.kapper2657]

Yes, this Inverter supplies most of my 24/7 loads of the house. I took this because the 800W version is the recommended minimum version for refrigerator. The fridge makes no problems, but when the freezer starts, I hear noise from the transformer (magnetostriction) and the function of some sensitive appliances are disturbed. TV, laptops and Desktop PCS are not disturbed but i hear the starten of the freezer from the speakers of the PC which are connected by a small Power supply.

[@TheVeganTravelShow]

Glad to see you covering a product I’m familiar with here in Australia. I have always been very happy with Victron Energy products in my standalone solar van builds. I have used this in my most recent builds, they are great!

[@thinde88]

One of these seem like a perfect use case for a small stand alone system in a garage powering the door opener and some lights.

[@chuckzechman1497]

Great concept. I'm a fan of Victron products, but currently I only have two of their charge controllers running my garage/shop/mancave via a three 12 v battery system for lighting and and a six 12 v battery system thru a 3,000 watt Renergy pure sin wave inverter . Enjoy your videos, keep up the great content!

[@jannes6694]

Very nice! I have some victron components and if you are using cerbo or something like that ( i have raspberry with victron program running in it) you can access it from victron connect app -> from top corner VRM -> select your installation -> and again top corner select devices. And now you have list all of victron devices what are connected to cerbo or something similar. So no need of bluetooth in this case, all system settings can be configurated from there😀👍🏼✌🏼

[@upnorthandpersonal]

That's why I have two inverters. A large 6kVA low frequency inverter for summer, with an idle consumption of 75W or so, which I don't mind in summer. For winter, I just replaced my Phoenix with a Multiplus II 3kVa which only pulls 10W idle.

[@dmytrodance]

Hey, man! What you "night usage" system looks like? Would you replace Multiplus || 3kva with smth else?

[@upnorthandpersonal]

@@dmytrodance I'm very happy with the Multiplus II - very low self consumption and the 3kVA is perfectly sized. I would only replace it with another Multiplus II 3kVA.

[@alrude2847]

I just added this to my RV with other Victron components. With it I can run all 120V devices other than AC, microwave, and fireplace. Not the end of the world. If I wanted to run any of these would require more solar and batteries both of which may come some day, but not anytime soon. In the mean time quite happy being self contained on or off shore power.. Thanks for the review..

[@jimm7165]

This review posted at a great time. I've had my eye on this inverter for my camper. I have other Victron equipment and wanted to be able to integrate it with the Venus OS on a Raspberry Pi. It's pricier than other inverters of the same size, but I won;t have to worry about it.

[@Openroadoutfitters]

You pretty much described my use case exactly. Thanks for validating my thinking :-). I use the Phoenix 12/500 to power the Internet connection and a couple of IP cameras in a remote cabin. The cams and the router are connected to a Kasa power strip that is programmed to turn on for a couple of hours in the morning and afternoon so those loads are not running 24x7. I like that the Phoenix can be monitored and controlled remotely. The other thing is that it's pretty snowy where the cabin is located, so it the panels were covered for an extended period and the batteries run down, I'm confident the Phoenix will restart when they're recharged. We have another inexpensive Chinese converter that we use when we're there for the daily convenience loads. It is a good, reliable setup and I really like all the Victron components.

[@javiercoronel1169]

Chii-knezeeee😅

[@bill2292]

Cool video, cool product. What we really need is a comparison video between a 48v all in one system VS a Victron system.

[@g-whiz286]

For more accurate low current DC measurements, I would suggest that you run the DC directly through your good quality DVM. Most of them will accommodate 10 Amps (max). This will be more accurate than doing multiple turns through your Hall effect clamp-on DC meter. A 3.5 digit DVM should give you accurate DC current measurements down to 1 mA.

[@aaronkatzen5973]

I just purchased this exact inverter from Victron for an off grid location that I have a couple small loads I want to power 24/7 including a mini fridge, some lights, and a couple fans for keep a shipping container vented and equipment cool. I originally got the 800VA model but upgraded to the 1200VA because I wanted to see if my 12k BTU Mr. Cool mini split would be able to run off it. Well you just proved it can. Now I’m really excited about this inverter. One thing to keep in mind is that the the Pheonix inverters are rated in VA and their actual watt ratting is lower. The 1200VA mode has a 1000 watt continuous output rating at 25 Celsius and 850 watt continuous output at 40 Celsius. The Mr. Cool pulls almost exactly 1000watts so it should be perfect. I was so excited when I saw this review from you. Thanks Will!

[@edcat6587]

I used to have a mini fridge,insulated it with closed cell foam insulation. Now I have a full size,(no auto defrost)that draws just about the same amount of power.i also insulated it. for the least power draw(most efficient)you can use a chest freezer with an external thermostat. I also run a regular,"garage rated"(more insulation,and will work at a wide range of external conditions) freezer,and that takes hardly any power at all......my fridge draws WAY more. Something to also be aware of with modern fridges is that many actually have "heaters" on the outside,to prevent condensation.....guess they do that cause it is cheaper than more insulation.....or the walls of the fridge/freezer can be thinner,thus more cubic feet inside compared to one with more insulation. This feature uses quite a lot of energy.....but it can be physically(electrically) disabled after you have gone past your warranty period.

[@mikebalentine]

I actually purchased the phoenix 48v 5000 VA as a dedicated inverter to charge my future ev truck and it ties in so simply to the rest of my Victron system.

[@rickharold7884]

Yes love it, and love Victron. We use for most of our components because power consumption is a big deal. We have off grid AI cameras that don’t have a generator so they have to be able to operate basically forever. Power consumption on the inverter is a big deal where we don’t go directly DC Love the review, oh yeah and these things are heavy I have a couple and I was like what the heck. Quality quality

[@NukeFPV]

Such a pity this unit doesn't have a UPS function. It would be perfect !! Even the cheaper Rynogy units have the UPS function..... However Rynogy units shouldn’t be used with LiFePo4 battery's due to their inability to change charging parameters to suite LiFePo4. Thanks Will for another great review :)

[@chrismiller8893]

I’d done a lot of other research on a good RV inverter but it wasn’t til I saw your video that I knew that the Victron Phoenix 12/500 was the right one for me. Thanks for the video, it’s a great inverter that I’m super happy with, especially the low idle draw in eco mode. Thanks Will!

[@charlesurrea1451]

Perfect for a greenhouse. I don't understand why people seem to insist on using ONE inverter in power systems. Sometimes two if it's a phase thing. With enough cap between the batteries and several smaller inverters makes more sense. Simply zone your use types. One for AC, another for lights and so on.

[@junkerzn7312]

One thing to note, starlink pulls somewhere around 40W 24x7, and a lot more when the dish is searching. Its not a low-power system compared to, say, a cable-modem which pulls less than 5W 24x7. Also it is fairly easy to power most cable modems directly from 12VDC (their power adapters are typically 12VDC), so the AC does not have to be used at all. The starlink, unfortunately, takes AC directly into the unit. Just a side note there, I know you were just using starlink as an example of a small load. Other useful small loads... things like ethernet switches (2W), POE switches (variable), small routers (10-20W typically), and wifi base stations (typically 15W each), all 24 x 7 loads. -Matt

[@WillProwse]

Good information. Thanks Matt

[@john_in_phoenix]

Thanks, I just got notified and paid for my starlink this week. Now I need to find someone to install it on the roof (two story house).

[@lowellmccormick6991]

After hurricane Katrina I ran a DSL modem and a Linksys wireless router off of a 60w Radio Shack inverter plugged into my pickup truck's cigarette lighter with 200' of 12 ga extension chord from the inverter to my home office. I recharged my laptop with the cigarette lighter charger when running around picking up supplies and waiting in line for water and ice. While I was out of electricity, I never lost the Bell South telephone/internet service. I was able to sit on the front porch and watch streaming news from the local TV stations on the laptop to stay informed for the week without power. I don't think the cable telephone I now have is nearly as robust.

[@lowellmccormick6991]

After hurricane Katrina I ran a DSL modem and a Linksys wireless router off of a 60w Radio Shack inverter plugged into my pickup truck's cigarette lighter with 200' of 12 ga extension chord from the inverter to my home office. I recharged my laptop with the cigarette lighter charger when running around picking up supplies and waiting in line for water and ice. While I was out of electricity, I never lost the Bell South telephone/internet service. I was able to sit on the front porch and watch streaming news from the local TV stations on the laptop to stay informed for the week without power. Kind of primitive, but it worked. I don't think the cable telephone I now have is nearly as robust.

[@NeverTakeNoCut-offs]

When it’s melting snow, it draws even more. Snow really croaks it. I’m going to have to buy the new Pro Antennae, which supposedly has a more powerful heater. If you have it mounted up high, like I do, you don’t want to be climbing up on a ladder in -20F..

[@danielfuller3049]

I just got a little one of these on marketplace for 1/2 retail 🙌👏🏻 setting up a little backup power supply, just to keep the fridges and router on. I love going to buy something and seeing that you have a review on it 👌

[@javiercoronel1169]

😮

[@diySolarPowerFunWithRay]

The victron software is awesome! I hate all the wires and different components you have to connect together though. Evern victron system looks super intimitating and complex. Wires everywhere!

[@adjake1]

I have the 800 version hooked up to a small lithium setup in my jeep that I only use for camping. I do not have much of a need for an inverter as most stuff I use is run off of 12 volt. All of my other components aside from my battery are Victron as well. I could have gone with a cheap china unit but I've used garbage in the past, and its always garbage. I wanted to know that what I have was going to just work no matter what. Ive only needed the inverter a handful of times and its been flawless. I have the remote mounted to a panel, I usually have no need to keep it on. This is a solid unit that will probably last me a lifetime. Its also nice using all Victron components so I have all relevant information on one screen in the app. While it may cost a little more up front, more than likely I will not ever have a need to replace any of the components so it will cost less in the long term. As far as the firmware updates. Victron updates the firmware pretty regularly which is a good thing. The latest update has all the important info on one screen now in the app, I've been waiting for that

[@jimmybrad156]

did you have to buy any bluetooth gizmo to get that data, or did it come as no extra cost?

[@russell7489]

As always your posts are Incredible. It's a great idea to use this to power small always on loads (or entire building) in a small off grid situation. For 'whole house' battery / PV systems, which I'm guessing 100w idle for all your equipment, just to make the math easier, it's 2.4 kw a day, and if you plan for a 3 day cloudy spell, that's 7.2 kw, or about $3,000 worth of battery and $1,000 max for additional PV panels to recharge on a sunny day, so $4,000 vs $1,000 for this inverter and a tiny bit of battery. Problem with the math is at least 1/2 the day you'd need the whole house system running, requiring $1,500 worth of battery PLUS the $1,000 of this system, putting the real cost at $2,500 vs $4,000, a $1,500 savings which on a whole house system is not a huge savings. PLUS To economize on full home systems, seems trickier. I'd imagine that one could connect this to your main circuit panel, with a breaker to keep from accidentally over loading it, so you could use existing wiring to power up small loads and use your brain to limit loads, but if you have a family, friends around, that probably isn't an option and you'd need a separate panel and wiring feeding small loads, along with 'signage' and warnings at the plugs so nothing else it added that you haven't sized the system for. Tricky one way or the other.

[@modernnomadtechnology9252]

After starting my system with a popular brand the starts with "R" and ends in "Y" which, as a newbie, I found to be a very helpful company, and relatively affordable, and fiddling around with other brands, I am beginning to migrate to Victron. I have a smart 150/100 cc, and I have converted a Power In into a fused battery combiner. I've been using a bmv-700 for many years. If my 12v2kw RY inverter ever burns up(good for several years now) I will most likely switch to a 48v victron inverter.

[@TBButcher]

R...y has had decent customer service in my experience, obviously they sell lower quality products than victron. My experience with victron support was horrible, very rude and refused to answer simple questions. Local victron retailers are likely helpful but victron direct is not

[@modernnomadtechnology9252]

@@TBButcher That's unfortunate about CS. This was my major reason that I stuck with the other brand so long, even though their gear is, as you say, inferior to Victron. It was fairly reliable, and not too pricey. The CS and replacement warranty is good. I will say, though, that victron has good web guides. Lots of manuals, etc. and I feel like Victron gear will be around for the long term. As with anything good, the initial investment can be a bit rough, but I don't think they'd be the choice of yacht builders if they were not reliable.

[@Thebluelandy]

Very good video, but I think you forgot to mention one of the biggest strengths of the Phoenix, the 1200VA version can handle up to 2200VA Peak power which is crucial for powering big power Tools like a saw or a well pump. We're using this unit in our garden to power the well and all power tools and it's flawless for years. while all our neighbors are still relying on generators were silent carbon neutral. Feels so great!

[@yv6eda]

Thanks for come back to small systems!

[@andrewholdsworth4421]

My money most will pay the inverter and the controller . A lot of choice is my issue before l bite the bullet and go for it . Brilliant Videos . 👍

[@freeradical431]

Cotek inverters are great. I ran an SK1500 or the last 10 years with no problems. Ran my pesky fridgidare clothes washing machine great and its really sensitive. Just went lipo 24v, and Growatt! Thanks to Will!

[@royrobbins2214]

Here's a tip for reading low currents. Use a smaller gauge wire and wrap it around your clamp on amp meter clamp, 10 times. Gives you X10 resolution.

[@michaelclemmer8167]

I agree with Roy. I have used this many times. Just use a wire that has a small enough diameter and is flexible enough so you can coil it around the clamp on ammeter. You can 'calibrate' it by using a bench supply, DMM and a precision resistor so you can test your setup for accuracy. Ive only used this with single layer coils. Just remember not to do anything that will draw high current through the wiring as the magnetic field can be strong enough to become a hazard to you and your instrument.

[@michaelclemmer8167]

Oops, I forgot to add this: if a DMM is available and one is only measuring milliamperes then it is likely best to just insert the ammeter in series with the cable. Just use caution to not exceed the maximum current rating of the DMM by changing a setting on the device under test. I strongly encourage the test be 'hands off' as you do not want accidentally complete the circuit should a fault occur and all the voltage appears across you.

[@petergravy6893]

@@michaelclemmer8167 I agree, an auto range DMM in series will give an accurate reading of current, if just used for idle current readings etc.

[@RJAZ89]

You read my mind. I just got the 500w version for my portable solar bank. The cost is high, but it's actually able to handle its rating +++

[@James-ht5lp]

I think it's good to have a small 12v inverter that can power the basic required appliances, in an emergency you can connect your car to it to charge it if needed, especially if you are off grid! And if you have a riding mower, it would be worth fitting a car alternator to that you can remove the deck belt, and connect the alternator, or use its own pulley! 10-12 hp can generate tons of power to charge batteries,

[@treguridesuve4336]

Hey there buddy, took your advice on a simple agm solar power setup a few years back. Well if I had the amount of solar you have in your big home I could probably power all my needs in a place that has sunshine all year round. However, just a year into powering just 200ah of agm with 800 watts gave out. Still couldn't afford the lithium batteries so I bought another set of agm batteries. One year year later they gave out too. Also I fried many cells in my panels because I didn't have large enough solar wire for 800 watts. I had 10 gauge but I wasn't made aware from your setup that a lower gauge was necessary if your powering more than 200 watts on 10 gauge. Either way, my total investment of 2000 could have been better spent by just using a generator or portable power bank which would provide 10 times more power and last 10 times longer. Just an FYI.

[@westmc45]

I have the starklink and all my equipment is Victron Energy its all installed on my 47 foot sailboat the starlink works like a champ when I near shore since I have the RV version, yea even down here in Mexico.

[@Hedgy327]

Until 12 months ago I was using a 12/375 Phoenix inverter for my TV, satellite receiver and for charging phones, laptop, Dyson vacuum battery etc. It's surprising how small an inverter you can get away with. I upgraded to a 12/800 when I wanted to run a Mobicool MB40 cooler/freezer 24/7 in the summer following installation of an SOK 206ah lithium battery. My Victron phoenix inverters (and other Victron gear) have been rock solid. I'm surprised you were surprised at the ease of using the Bluetooth dongle 😂. Great review as always 👍

[@makesaveinccomm]

@@Erika_Kelly_Apparel at the store: they have a lot of refrigerator running , it will use a lot of power....

[@TylerTheCompiler]

Can't wait for your AC500 review!!!!! Hurry please!!!

[@adairjanney7109]

man God has blessed you from where you were at to where you are. Must be nice to have all those toys

[@tomaskey6844]

I have this inverter and it has been working great for a year or so now. It is in constant daily use in my van. I’ve run a small Instapot on it but I needed full sunshine to do it. It is the largest 12 volt inverter I’d get. The Multiplus units are what I want to put in my motor home. I’ve got the Cerbo GX and the display along with the cellular comm device but I can’t figure out how to configure all of it. I have the Lynx distribution system and love it but still don’t have the BMV set up right. I’m a bit autistic and get confused but one day it will click and I’ll get it all figured out but it still all works great

[@SingularlyNaked]

Two points: First, that very low 1W average is only when there is no load. It's putting a pulse down the line looking for a load once every 2.5 seconds, and that doesn't take much power. When there is a load, the inverter overhead will go up substantially. Second, the Outback inverters work the same way, at least the FX series. I have an FX2524 that I've set to send 6 cycles of test current every 2 seconds, and it draws an average of ~2.5 W with no load. That's more than this, but it's a 2500 W inverter. When it's supplying current, the inverter overhead is more like 26 W. (I chose it because it's sealed, and at our 1-season camp anything with a fan will probably be full of spiders by the end of an off-season. But the very low no-load current is also necessary.)

[@makesaveinccomm]

hello Singularly, do you have video show your outback? it total seal nothing can get in with heat-sink on back which I can run a small pc fan to cool it? please give me link video. thank

[@SingularlyNaked]

@@makesaveinccomm Sorry, I don't have any video of it. Not really much to see, it just sits there. It does come with an external fan and housing that you can hook up if you need to. I don't use that in my installation because we don't run it very hard and the ambient temperature is rarely over 32 or 33 °C.

[@priestesslucy]

Do you happen to know how the load hunting interacts with a freezer? Is the one watt enough to engage the freezer's thermostat reader and initiate the real load if the thermostat indicates a need for it?

[@SingularlyNaked]

@@priestesslucy If it’s not a super-fancy freezer it’s probably got a mechanical thermostat, which will change mode (on/off) without any power. And when it flips to “on”, the inverter will see the startup draw of the compressor motor, which is plenty to turn it on. I suppose some super-fancy modern freezers might have an electronic thermostat, in which case it almost certainly won’t draw enough to keep the inverter on. It may vary from inverter to inverter, and you can usually set it to just stay on. The Outback at least also has sensitivity settings.

[@john0270]

Remember you can feed a multiplus with this inverter(or lets say a small 1000watt inverter generator) to add capacity. So let's say your seeing anything from 400-3000 watts or whatever. You can set it up so this inverter or a generator pulls max 800 watts, and when the load is exceeded the multiplus will assist for the rest of the capacity.

[@longtimber1]

The Meanwell 1500 3000 48V has similar specs and has a build in solar charge controller. Super high reliability but older design. No failures after dozen deployed.

[@richardsandwell2285]

My 12 volt off-grid inverter uses 1 Amp on standby, in winter, far too much, I used to have to go outside to turn off the inverter before sleep, getting out of a warm bed and going out naked in the snow was not much fun. Pre made remote switches only came with a non extendable 15m long cable were expensive and over complicated, so I ended up fitting a relay across the on/off switch of the inverter and a cable to a switch by my bed.

[@b92555]

Just a note. When powering a refrigerator “search mode” could fail to restart. Fridges with computer controls need to have continuous power to function. They do not draw enough power to trigger restart of the inverter after shutdown of the compressor motor in the fridge. Older units with mechanical temperature controls will create the load needed to start the inverter and do well in search mode. I have a chest freezer that has old style controls that cycles on frequently enough to keep my other appliances with computer controls functioning. Finally I gave up on search mode and just use eco mode. This works because the low power draws are serviced with modified sine wave power but loads greater than 50 watts are powered with pure sine wave power. That way my 10 watt light comes on when I open the fridge and the fridge doesn’t have to wait for the chest freezer to function.

[@MegaCyrik]

Looking at min 1:14 i read that this inverter can only handle 900wart if its a little hot in the weather and a peak of max 2400watt. Did i misunderstand that page? If not then It feels like cheap vine in very expensive bottles when i see that. I currently use a one solar 1kwatt that cost me 110$. Works perfect, even has display so you can just take a quick look while walking by. Anyway.thanks for video, looking forward to the next.

[@derekwaggoner7584]

I have the 24v version. it runs the TV router sat dish and box and a couple lamps. it's been on 24hours a day for 9 months. good stuff

[@user-zo6xg8bx4l]

It would be enormously helpful if you would do a comprehensive video about the proper installation of a 12-volt system in an older motorhome. That's where most of us DIY RVers need the most help. Especially, as regards to the DC to DC charger involving issues to make sure you don't damage the motorhome's alternator. And how to handle the already installed crossover switch for the vehicle to house batteries. Thanks.

[@RobertVisser]

Thanks for all your work. Have you seen the announcement from Morningstar about the introduction of their expanded line of SureSine inverters and the GenStar MPPT DC charging platform? The new SureSine inverters include six models from 150-2500W . The launch webinar via BigMarker is w/ PV Mag on Sept 28th, "New Off Grid Launch: DC/AC Inverters and HIgh-End DC Charging System". There's also an interview w/ the presenters in the Sept 2 issue of PES Solar, p46.

[@disruptIT]

I have the 24v version. I got it because it has a wider input voltage range than alot of cheaper inverters. I use it with a 3.5 Kilowatt Lithium Titanate battery bank that needs to be okay with 30V ish input. Some other inverters listed 30V as the absolute max input but would make unpleasant sounds at 30 volts, and didn't feel comfortable using them. This one doesn't seem to mind at all. Plus I really like the automatic shutdown on low voltage, I mean it's never been needed but I'd rather my freezer cut off for a few hours than my batteries getting fried out.

[@HansKeesom]

Regarding sound, how is the noise under different loads? I am considering running a max of 70 watt on f.e. a 24/250 model.

[@mikaelreichel3759]

I am using the 24V/ 800VA version to drive a freezer on my boat both as dedicated inverter and not having to run the main 2kW inverter all the time, but also for its low idle draw. Having two inverters is good for backup too. The freezer has very large surge power need on startup, significantly over 1kW but only 60watts when running. You can hear the inverter growl for a second as the freezer demands power. First I bought the 500VA version and it could not handle the surge.

[@TBButcher]

Thanks for your info! I'd like to get one for my fridge, it draws less than 100watts but spikes to over 600w on startup. At one point I saw it spike for 12 seconds at 400w but usually for 1 second. Do you know how long you can spike above rated for without doing damage?

[@beebop9808]

Like the idea of having one of these little guys running my lights separate from my system in the solar shed.

[@ayusodos]

Just the inverter I needed.

[@mikelangford1835]

Dude, I enjoy your videos so much. I guess we’re the same kind of nerd. Thanks

[@johnmorton7577]

Man I learn so much from you thanks for the information you provide

[@Moes_Prep_and_Tech]

Victron Needs to Make Some Solar Power Stations, aka SOGENS, I love their Interface

[@jays2002]

More Victron videos please Will. Soon you'll be a Victron ambassador and they'll just send you stuff for free to review. I'm doing heaps of research on a 3 phase micro grid setup and Victron seems to be the only gig in town. Can you also do a video on connecting a grid tied Fronius snap inverter to a Victron micro grid setup? Thanks in advance 😉

[@rowanshole]

Yep, I have the 500w inverter with 300w 12v solar panels at 33.8° latitude and run my whole house with it. 640 liter inverter fridge, lots of led lights, charging 2 laptops, 18v batteries for tools, mobile phone booster system etc. I have 2400ah of agm 12v batteries and have had to put about 40 liters of fuel through generator/ victron 30a charger this autmn and winter to keep batteries good. Never had to do that before but la nina has made it a lot more overcast this winter. Im putting on 1500w 12v (configured 24v) shortly so I wont need the genset again. I cant fault victron products, nor their price. Remember the value of all the things you run off your system and ask yourself, am I really saving a few hundred dollars if this thing fries my laptops/ fridge etc?

[@royberger1558]

Hope you see this. Did you use an inverter-generator with the battery charger? Or was it a non-inverter generator? I'm just trying to confirm that my "regular" generator won't damage my Victron battery charger. Thanks.

[@rowanshole]

@@royberger1558 I use the Honda eu-22i inverter generator. Fantastic unit. Pricey for sure. I always switch fuel to cutoff so the generator exhausts all the fuel in the line and carburettor. This stops unwanted build up of gums/ deposits etc in lines and the nooks/ crannies and tiny apertures. now run a 24v 275w panel into 12v battery bank. Working perfectly for my needs. generating average of 1800 watts per day annually so haven't used gen set for months!

[@The_Zeroth]

Hey Will, did i miss something? why standby power consumption is important when you use the invertor for always on load? standby power consumption is important if you need to keep the invertor on standby and have it power a load that comes on and off; I think you should compare the efficiency of the little inverter under small load with other small invertors or bigger multipluses.

[@CorwinPatrick]

Standby is also analogous to its continuous consumption. It always draws that, even under load.

[@BenBrand]

Because if it's high standby but you turn it off overnight when there are no loads on it it does not matter as much. A smaller inverter for smaller 24hr loads is always on so the standby consumption ads up more quickly

[@Dennis-nd5em]

@@BenBrand Im wondering how feasible this is. In my use case i can see buying one for a 24/7 entertaining area in my living room which also has my router, and another one for my kitchen fridge. Thats at least 800$ to address the device overhead of my EG4 6500's. Im not sure if its worth it vs just leaving the 6500's on and using more battery storage, need to do the math.

[@The_Zeroth]

I think both Ben and Patrick are making a wrong assumption, that "Standby consumption is a constant draw." Victron uses a trick to achieve this low standby consumption, the trick has its own downsides, that's why Victron lets you turn off the low consumption standby mode, once you put a 24/7 load (Say ~ 200W) on the invertor, the invertor can not use that low consumption trick anymore. so its irrelevant what is the deep standby consumption when your invertor is always under load and can not enter deep standby. another words, you can not say my donkey is better than other donkeys because it doesn't eat while sleep, what matter is what it consumes while the donkey works, specially when in your use case you are not gonna allow the donkey to sleep at all. I hope this makes sense;) So Will compare the efficiency please!

[@mckenziekeith7434]

@@The_Zeroth Agree. Not sure about that analogy, but you are right. The ECO mode power consumption only matters if it is in ECO mode. For example if you have a refrigerator, maybe the ECO mode would help because (maybe) the refrigerator would only trigger the inverter to come out of ECO mode when the fridge tries to power on. Then again, modern refrigerators might have always on circuitry and might not work properly in ECO mode. I don't know.

[@MrFredsDIY]

Nice video! This inverter fills a common need for sure!

[@timgerk3262]

Good info! And that test rig doesn't look too bad either. Would appreciate a refresher on the balance of system modules, wire-ways, panels etc. that are always mismatched and almost offensively ugly.

[@EarlAlvinDaniels]

Thanks for the useful info. It's great that you are knowledgeable and even better that you find so much joy ("it's so cool!") with good technology. 🙂

[@hegefarms4260]

I just bought this inverter in 24 volt/ 1200 VA to run my New Fridge and small 7 cubic Freezer powder with 4 Li Time 100AH Batteries setup in 24 volt with 2. 100/30 Victron MPPT Controller's just setting it up week of 1/28/24. I hope it all works

[@EdJronline]

Will... your videos are awesome. I've watched close to all of them and some more than once as well as read your book. Still don't feel real confident to design a system. My girlfriend got a new building (25×34) built and wants a small system in her shop big enough to run lights and perhaps a few tools like drill or sander every once in a while. There is no heat or air so I'm wondering how the high and low temp will affect batteries or system? How small of a system do you think she could get by with? Located in Southeast Missouri so sun is pretty good and building may be dark for several days at a time.

[@Rick-wy4od]

The low standby current is only part of the equation. You really should have tested under-load efficiency too. LF inverters are typically not as efficient under load, so depending on how long you run those small loads, a higher efficiency HF inverter may actually be not that far behind in Wh's consumed. Horses for courses, I guess These inverters are probably good for sporadic small loads but a HF inverter is likely to be more efficient for constant loads, or loads that run for longer periods.

[@revtoyota]

Hey Will... I would love to see you address replacing a lead acid to lifepo4 in a UPS. I have seen people say it is fine to add lifepo4 to a standard UPS (cyber power, APC) and others scream it will burn down the entire neighborhood (exaggeration but you know what I mean) if you replace a lead acid for a lifepo4. A few companies (Chins, Ampere Time) have UPS in the title and description of Amazon posts post that they are ok for a UPS. Keep up the great work man.

[@evil17]

Good vid & info as usual Will. Victron is nice, clean & reliable gear I believe, but it gets extra pricey for us Aussies who seem to like paying thru the arse for most things. I only have a couple of Smart shunts at this stage for a 24v & 48v system but am looking at more of the blue stuff for future builds/expansions. cheers

[@katecapil4574]

At 1:10 it says continuously power only 1000watt/900watt. Is that correct understood? From at 1200watt inverter?

[@miguelv431]

1200kva not watts

[@jimmybrad156]

@@miguelv431 va, not kva.

[@jimmybrad156]

1200va with a power factor of 1 = 1200 watts. 1200va with a power factor of 0.5 = 600 watts.

[@HippocratesGarden]

Victron costs more.. yep, and you get what you pay for. Even for my new DIY system on a homestead, going straight Victron. Already have a small 12/125 Phoenix, just for the Starlink. Will be going dual Quattro's for the rest of the big system.

[@williamfairley2502]

Good one Will ,THe victron inverter is 1200kv not 1200 w.

[@jimmybrad156]

va, not 1.2megavolt :p

[@idipaikia2558]

I am your admirer, God bless you and all your KZbin knowledge you share

[@cramarc666]

I use it on my woods house powering no problem lights/phone/pc No brainer with the bluetooth dongle able to program shut off nad everything !

[@richardthibeault7796]

thank you will Prowse everything i ever wanted in a youtube video

[@r8edrv4fun65]

$400 isn't bad at all! Dependable brand and cool feature 😎

[@jaysunkreuze1466]

Yeah, thise efficiency specs are insane. Perfect for my 48v car hauler project coming up. Yhe 1200 watt model will run the 8000btu inverter AC unit no problemo. And since 2 is 1 and 1 is none, ill have THREE because the price is pretty good for that efficiency.

[@john_in_phoenix]

I have one, and it is a great small inverter. It is great for running a fridge (it's an LG inverter fridge, I don't recommend due to poor shelf design). Yes, it is heavy.

[@waynert69]

Perfect use running the residential fridge in an RV and you can leave the big inverter off except when needed.

[@termiterasin]

Can you do a video recommending a theoretical setup for a truck towing a RV? solar system in the truck, panels mounted on the RV, and a 30A 120v plug connecting the two!

[@panossef1624]

My axpert 5kva hybrid inverter its about 5w in stand-by mode and it needs about 80w load to open full operation. With victron the budget was 3 or 4 times the money i spent. The advantages of the victron are the toroidal transformer, the monitoring application and service support.

[@James-ht5lp]

Happy holidays, hope all was nice merry new year!

[@JonahsEpicYT]

I bought a Chinese inverter from WZRELB (yep, it was so bad I remember the brand name), and it almost burned the house down. If it weren't for the plastic cover around the batteries I had powering it, i think it would have exploded and caught the batteries on fire. Seriously looking at purchasing one of these inverters.

[@timaz1066]

I have the Victron 12 oh 3000 W multiplus II In my motorhome and I love it. Thank you for the video.