Battery BACKUP for Home - DIY Step by Step
Тәжірибелік нұсқаулар және стиль
DIY home battery backup using Victron Multiplus-II and SOK 48V Server Rack batteries.
Current Connected Website Affiliate Link: www.currentconnected.com/?ref...
Find More information for this project and others on my website: projectswithdave.com
Downloadable Parts Lists with Cost and Circuit Diagram - Link: drive.google.com/file/d/1dMR7...
Watch the split phase upgrade install here: • DIY Split Phase Batter...
System Components:
SOK Battery 100Ah 48v Server Rack Battery: www.currentconnected.com/prod...
Budget Version from Signature solar: signaturesolar.com/eg4-lifepo...
Victron 48v Multiplus-II Inverter Charger 3000va 120V: www.currentconnected.com/prod...
MegaFuse Holder + 2 Fuses (58V 125A): www.currentconnected.com/prod...
1/0 AWG Red + Black Pure Copper Battery/Inverter Cables (1.5 Ft Battery Parallel Connection): www.currentconnected.com/prod...
1/0 AWG Red + Black Pure Copper Battery/Inverter Cables (4 Ft Inverter Connection): www.currentconnected.com/prod...
1/0 Battery Cable Lugs 5/16": www.currentconnected.com/prod...
Fully Loaded 25kWh SOK 48v Server Rack Battery Kit - Bundle & Save: www.currentconnected.com/prod...
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Learn more about solar power and home backup on my website ProjectsWithDave.com: projectswithdave.com/
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Check out my other projects: projectswithdave.com/#projects
Recommended sources for Bifacial and Discounted Solar Panels: projectswithdave.com/solar-pa...
Solar & Off Grid Materials & Components: projectswithdave.com/components/
Recommend Tools For Solar: projectswithdave.com/tools/
Learn how to do your own DIY Solar System: projectswithdave.com/#edu-video
Sources for LiFePO4 batteries: projectswithdave.com/batteries/
Inverter Solutions: projectswithdave.com/inverters/
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For great prices on used and clearance solar panels use SanTan Solar: www.santansolar.com/product-c...
For large orders and pallet pricing fro SanTan, contact Alex (480-360-6203; or alexanderson@santansolar.com ) and mention EverydayDave for 5% off.
Best Value Source For Solar Panels and Batteries - Signature Solar: signaturesolar.com/shop-all/s...
Quality & Service Source for Batteries and Inverters- Current Connected: www.currentconnected.com/?ref...
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Disclaimers:
This video is for information purposes only, and does not constitute professional advice. Solar systems can and do involve dangerous electrical connections. If you do not have experience with electrical wiring, please seek professional support.
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Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
00:45 Materials
04:59 Overview & Mounting
08:34 Sub Panel Wiring
09:58 Inverter AC Wiring
14:50 Battery Install
15:33 DC Wiring
22:11 48V SOK Battery Startup Procedure
25:22 Fridge Test
28:08 UPS Test
28:58 Miter Saw Test
29:54 Planer Test
Пікірлер: 554
I am not ready yet but sure appreciate your videos! I love how you have learned along the way.
When you pointed out the value of winding the wiring back and forth between studs in consideration of future modifications or improvements, I just HAD to hit the subscribe button! This alone is a very helpful suggestion.
Great video Dave! Well organized and presented content.
Thanks for the no BS video. Just facts, no hype, actual tests.
Subscribed. Love the video. Clear, to the point, you put a lot of care into planning out the system, and all with a great demeanor and presentation.
I stopped here for I had 30 minutes to "waste". Left with much gratitude for a smooth teaching style and a solid presentation. Thanks for the demo on the Temco crimper. I used your link and one is now on the way to my shop.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Glad it was helpful!
Keep making these!!! Funny, my favorite and smartest part is when you build that little "pop out" box that bridges the wiring and allows you to mount the outlet box at the proper alignment for the conduit. SMART DUDEEEEEE
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Thanks! It's the little things....
It must feel really good to have this level of self-sufficiency. Awesome video and I always learn something watching your vids.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
It is nice not to be worried about the price of electricity going up or the power going out. Thanks for watching!
Another great presentation. Thanks. You are definitely old-school: aligning your screw-heads. Great to see teaching of the little things, in the trades.
@nialldaly7108
Жыл бұрын
Funny you should say that. I live in Ireland but worked for an American company here in the 80's and 90's "Wabco Westinghouse" which was owned by Union Switch and Signal and we always alligned the slots on the screw terminals Vertitally on our wiring of signal and track transformers and such. Reason I was told was not to trap moistre in the slots.
Thanks Dave! Another great DIY video! Learned the difference between ANL and CNN fuses, new to me!
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Yea, there are a lot of nuances when it comes to fuses. It requires some research for each situation.
Love the shelf bracket idea. Awesome tutorial!
Thank you so much Dave for all your efforts and sharing them with us.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Thanks for the encouragement!
Kudos for the torque wrench. This is a critical connection.
I designed and built a similar system of six GC-2 batteries charged by a 1 kW photovoltaic array and a 6 kW split-phase inverter. I was able to make substantial savings by winding my own transformers for the low-frequency inverter. The lead-acid cells were also chosen as a low-cost stopgap, the battery bus sags below inverter cutout voltage if the current exceeds 0.6C, so they're to be upgraded when the lead is dead.
Great video! You consistently meet expectations!
Great video as always. Makes me even more excited to install my Solark system! Now I'm gonna need to buy some of those SOK batteries.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Go for it! They are working great!
Thank you for the video! South Africa is currently in a national state of disaster because of rolling blackouts. Everyone is trying to get their hands on backup power systems. Your channel really provides us with a lot of much needed info on how these systems should be expected to work. Even though the electricity standards are different here in RSA it still helps.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
I'm glad it has been helpful for you.
@MichaelEricMenk
Жыл бұрын
Victron "European" model supports being connected to 400V three phase TN and 230V three phase IT/TT grids. Connecting to a 230V from a 400V TN grid would pretty much the same as in the video, just higher voltage between N and L1.
@kavostat8130
9 ай бұрын
Hi there How much is all these units together??
@ProjectsWithDave
6 ай бұрын
You can get the circuit diagrams, parts list and cost on the projects page on my website: projectswithdave.com/battery-backup-for-home-diy/
Thanks for the project Dave. Love it!
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Glad you like it!
Subscribed once I heard you say to align all the outlet box faceplate screws the same direction!! THAT IS A MUST!!!💥🤘
Hello, I am from India and working as solar rooftop designer. Your video help me a lots.
This gentlemen has a great setup.
A most excellent presentation!
Outstanding backup solution ever.
Thanks for taking the time to post this great video!
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks a lot of the video. I would really be interested to see something similar with a peak shaving system.
Another great one! Thank you for this. I was thinking about doing the same!
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Go for it! It works even better than I anticipated. I love it!
Great video. I just have one caveat which I learned the hard way. For such emergency backup systems you should assume the worst case scenario and place the battery and all components at least two feet above the worst potential flood level. You should also include some type of overhead protection from such things like roof leaks. Finally, make it as easy to operate as possible, without any special procedures because when it hits the fan, you will be reacting at a basic primal level with few reasoning abilities.
@charlieodom9107
Жыл бұрын
If my house floods, then power is the least of my worries! I'd be looking at a biblical type event!
@petebra11
Жыл бұрын
@@charlieodom9107 your whole house could go up in flames if the cells get wet. So you don't necessarily need a flood to warrant protecting your cells from water; your house is piped with it, it falls from the sky, animals urinate it, etc.
@sovereignmedia1885
Жыл бұрын
Use an IP65 electrical cabinet
@sovereignmedia1885
Жыл бұрын
@@charlieodom9107 yup. I you put it where the water floods. Anything else it protects well enough. I find these wood based installation highly unprofessional.
@optionstrader9637
Жыл бұрын
@@petebra11 lfp batteries(like he shows) won't burst into flames like that.. nmc and lipo however are way more reactive
Thank you for your video or videos. They are very educational! As a DIY’r I can not learn enough! I am reaping my rewards for my efforts from guys like you! God bless you and God bless America !
@ProjectsWithDave
8 ай бұрын
Thanks! I'm glad it's been helpful for you. My goal is to learn as much as I can and share what I learn with the community, It's nice to know it's valued.
This is exactly the video I am looking for! Thank you!
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks, Dave, great video again!
Dave! Excellent job. I'll refer customers who ask me "How to...", to view this video. Thank you for following NEC.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Thanks!
Hey Dave, great video. I'm in the process of doing something similar at home. I chose an MPP LV-MK series inverter because of it's "double conversion" capability, but it's possible the Victron and others can do the same. This is less efficient, but results in 0ms / instantaneous transfer time when the grid power goes out. One thing I researched a fair amount was battery chemistry and optimal consumption behavior. From what I gathered, the lifespan of these SOK and EG4 lithium is way better than old-school lead acid / gel / AGM batteries. BUT... LiFePo4 don't like to sit idle at a fully-charged state. It reduces their life compared to daily charge/discharge cycles common to solar usage. That's why I chose gel batteries (Renogy 100AH deep cycle hybrid gel, valve-regulated/sealed lead acid chonkers). I would have tried silicate-salt, but they're really heavy and would have been at least $270 to ship. That and there isn't a whole lot of info about them.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Every battery has an optimal application and the only way to make the best decision for your application is to take the path you're on and do do a lot of research. Some more information to consider; with a good inverter, you can control the capacity level of your cells to maximize their lifespan. For instance you can make the max charge point at 60% or 80% to minimize the dendrite growth. Either way the LiFePo4 chemistry is the best for longevity if you go Lithium.
The cost efficiency and the wise application of user-administered components here is outstanding, you really know your stuff. Sadly I’m not quite so practical working with electrical wiring like this at all (I’m just a regular guy researching home battery backup). This sort of approach is a great way to break away from proprietary vendor specific products (which are also far more expensive). Is this sort of setup accomplishable with the help of an electrician, with me there to simply fund everything? I wonder about support as well. I suppose it would behoove the owner to at least get past the initial learning curve to make the most out of a system like this (even if they had professional help to prevent them from making dumb mistakes).
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
You should be able to find an electrician to help you assemble your system. Current Connected (link in description) is a great source to get your materials from because you can tell them what you want to do and they will pre-program the units for you.
This is a great backup system. I really enjoyed your demonstration.
@ProjectsWithDave
8 ай бұрын
Glad it was helpful!
Great video, I like your professional way of doing electric install.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Thanks! 👍
Awesome job with this step by step setup. Very neatly put together and testing procedures. Got a sub from me. Looking forward to your next video.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Awesome, thank you!
Very good on the detail on labeling the wires !
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Thanks!
Am so glad I've found your channel, covering standby power, I've been looking @doing this in different way to provide 24hr off peak lectricity charge batteries @night 1am-8am then use batteries to run bungalow day/evening! So l can have 24hr off peak should save bag of money with energy prices rising so much!🤗😎
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Glad I could help!
Thanks Dave for the response.
@ProjectsWithDave
Ай бұрын
No problem. : )
Great directional video! You are definitely not a novice installer. Neutral or negative wire is the “captain of the ship” first one on and last one off.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Thanks!
You did a really nice job on this video. Thanks.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
I appreciate that!
Thanks Dave, Don't forget the sub panels are never bonded and should be checked to see if there is continuity between the neutral and the ground as there should be none.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Correct, I didn't detail that in the video, but I confirmed by continuity check that the panel ground and neutral were not connected.
@offgridwanabe
Жыл бұрын
@@ProjectsWithDave I only mentioned because it seems there are quite a few panels that are bonded.
@admiralfirelam
4 ай бұрын
@@ProjectsWithDaveThe ground bar in the new sub panel looks way too close to the neutral bar for my liking. It only works because the panel isn't too congested, otherwise you risk ground fault through bonding
Fridges now days are very efficient,. Nice setup.
Concerned about the scene where you open the battery box and poke around inside. I saw a ring on your finger. With the kind of energy stored in those cells, any inadvertent cross contact done by your ring would likely result in the ring welding to the source and your finger being burned off. This would leave you with a mess and people nicknaming you "Stumpy". Always remove any and all bling before ever opening a energy source no matter what you think of it's on or not, hot or cold or not. It's always hot.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Great suggestion, thanks!
@trollking202
10 ай бұрын
Also keys or watches
@kuzinit2374
9 ай бұрын
I suggest when you start buying your system you start out buying a hybrid wind / solar charge controller, and a charger/ inverter, so when you upgrade you don’t need to buy new components, now you can max out your solar panels and batteries for going off grid but still have the option to charge your batteries off the grid , or just help keep them topped off for longer life , keep in mind , when it is windy , wind generators work better then solar , but on no wind Days Solar works better , and it not only the wind you need to take into consideration, it’s the clouds also
@lexicase8805
6 ай бұрын
Could probably wear chainmaille gloves for protection 😂
@SVThailand
6 ай бұрын
It's amazing how many people I have met in my life that don't understand how dangerous rings are at work. If you're working around the house or at work, the last thing you should have on your fingers is a ring. If you do, you're either stupid or a cuck. I saw a man at Boeing field and airport in Seattle. Working on an airplane and a fuel truck. Backed up underneath the wing and knock the ladder from underneath him. He grabbed on to the engine pod where he was and I saw him fall but what I didn't realize until I got up close to him was it. When he fell, his ring had become caught on the edge of the engine pod and it took his finger and the tendon connected to his finger all the way up to his elbow out he was partially the gloved. That's what they call it when you the skin around. Your fingers comes off on your hand. All because he had a stupid wedding ring on
absolutely fantastic, i want to do all that!
Great video thanks for sharing. Most video's do not cover the breaker boxes to inverter part of the solar deal...In time shortly I hope to start this aspect of my solar deal packup. .
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Glad it was helpful!
Remove wedding ring when working with electricity! Neat set up!
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Thanks!
Very cool setup. I really like the new ECOFlow systems with there integrated power distribution system. It does cost more but I can use the ECOFlow batteries to power my RV or any other application for remote power.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Yes, the all-in-one options are getting very powerful.
Great video..I am interested in how you get this setup to only charge batteries from grid at certain times of day?
Great video Dave! I'm starting from scratch and this is pretty close to what I'm looking for. Primarily looking for standby backup power for critical circuits. I have considered solar but we simply have too many large trees to make it cost effective. Is it possible to have the UPS setup but be able to supplement battery charging with a gas generator when there are longer outages? I'm not clear that using a transfer switch on the multiplus a/c input would give the desired result? Or would it? Would the excess generator power charge the batteries? Are there other Victron models (or other brands) with better a/c input connections, not the push-in? Maybe the Victron Quattro Inverter is what I'd want? Thanks Tony
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Thanks! It can take generator input to charge the batteries, no problem. There are several other options on the market. I will demonstrate a few in an upcoming video.
Great video thank you for posting.
Hey, Current Dave, good job on having Past Dave set things up right for Future Dave, now you. The "extra wire" is called a "service loop" because it's typically set up as a loop to allow there to only be one splice to move it, not two. You may see these on utility poles as a run of fiber-optic or copper cable going back and forth between two poles to add length. If there's a fault, the extra material from the service loop is used -- one splice -- and the segment with the fault removed. If there wasn't a service loop it would require one splice to connect to the known-good part and one to extend to the service. With electrical it's not that big of a deal but with 640 fiber-optic strands it's a ***. It's convenient you can put all your stuff next to the load panel. Mine's outside the house, which presents its own challenges. Also in the US regionalism means some of us call it a "load panel" (nobody I know does this), others a "breaker box", and if you read the NEC, "panel board." Most techs I work with call it "breaker box." You did say "6-3" but didn't elaborate. Perhaps some of your newer viewers might be better educated if you explained that it means 6-gauge 3-wire cable, good for one phase up to 55A, voltage whatever residential you like. If you want split-phase (or "two leg") you'll want 6-4 to get the two phases (red+black for power, white for neutral, green for ground.) One other comment - 1/0AWG isn't a whole lot of headroom for "future growth". Its ampacity is a bit above 60A or just a bit about 6AWG. If you're sticking with single phase (110-120VAC) and ran 6-3 to the breaker box... you can save the $2/ft for 1/0 and just do 6AWG. Most houses in north America are wired at up to 200A (two phase) so 6AWG will carry half that load just fine. Also, while you're supposed to put the inverter 10cm away from other devices, it really depends on airflow... so in a basement with no airflow 10c may not be enough. On a wall in a hallway or in an HVAC-cooled room it's more than enough. Temp it with a laser tstat when off, temp it when on, and temp it at max perf and if you see it get hot, move it or put a fan on it. E
@ProjectsWithDave
9 ай бұрын
Thanks for the detailed feedback. I'll try and remember my new terminology... "service loop" since I seem to like to use it a lot. : )
you have done good job for the installation, ❤
great video. You or others might want to not wear a ring while doing this sort of work. Thanks for putting this together.
@ProjectsWithDave
8 ай бұрын
Glad it was helpful!
I tried to click "Like" on this video about 6 different times, only to find out I had already done so. :)
Great video thank you Dave I have learned so much from you. I do have a question can I hook the battery system up to my system since I feed it back to the power grid. Sorry if I am not using the correct thermology still learning.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Yes, these batteries can be connected to grid-tie systems as long as the inverter is designed to manage the power.
Another way to take care of the inrush of the inverter when it is first setup is to use a variable DC power supply to bring the Voltage up on the input with the batteries turned off. Serves the same as the precharge resistor in that it allows a control over the current the capacitors draw. That is how I do it on my 6K inverters.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Thanks for the tip!
@M35a2guy
Жыл бұрын
I like that idea !!!!
you'll be able to extend the fridge power draw if you set it right above freezing and cutting the power to it off and on. a fridge can keep cold for long periods of time.
I like your explanation good job
Very nice demo. Very cool. Thank for sharing
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching!
Nice job. Two things -1. the cable lengths from the battery to the Inverter should be as short as possible and the cable lengths the same length - preferably not coiled. 2. The fuse should be less than 12 inches from the positive side of the battery - best practice. There are lots of discussions about this on the web.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Thanks. 1) The cables should be as short as possible, however, I plan to make changes later so I didn't do that in this case. Series cables don't need to be the same length and coils in DC lines are not a concern. 2. For the fuse, in this case, there is not a significant difference with the 1/0 awg cable I used and the short distance between the battery and the inverter. Thanks for the feedback!
agreed... dropped a dozen of used solar panels on the roof... $100 mppt contol... runs the house on a 3000 all in one inverter... charges at night if needed. but no backfeed.
Very nice presentation....I don't usually reply. But this time, you deserve it. A couple of suggestions. You might talk a little about battery chemistry and the advantages of LiFe PO4 batteries. And you might also talk about how a solar array could be added to slow battery depletion.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Thanks for the tips!
It's greate video. I was looking for this. Thanks.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Glad it was helpful!
Dave good job I am thinking that is a project I need to do I have an oxygen concentrator that needs to run 24 hours. Fortunately we have not experienced any prolonged outages here but the system you have setup would make me rest easier at night.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Yes, the UPS function worked great.
This is by far the best explanation I've seen! Thank you! Can this system be used for residential peak shaving? 🤔
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
I have not tried to use the system for that purpose since we don't have variable rates where I live. However, a quick search on the internet shows people are using similar setups with the Multiplus II for peak shaving. You would likely need to power something more substantial than emergency circuits to take advantage of the power management.
Voltage droop doesn't happen until the wire is tasked to carry more current than it is supposed to carry. Watch your meters while the load goes up. I saw 104volts when you made one pass that connected with the log well. Michael in Colorado.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Yes, that's pretty close to the minimum I measured.
I hope that dewalt has a 220 option. It would get a lot less bogged down and never go over 15 amp because it's not starving. Good vid on the entire setup.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Thanks! Yes, 220 would help the planer quite a bit.
Great video, great minds think alike. One thing I added was a manual transfer switch so if I have to service my Victron I can feed sub panel from main panel.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
That's a good idea. Since I'm constantly running various test conditions, that would actually be helpful in my situation.
I like this setup a lot. I may just build a system like this that's portable so I can plug into my generator inlet or take it with me. Seems much cheaper to expand than the all in one's. I could probably even use it to power a 120v welder completely silently.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
The Victron inverter in this setup has a fairly loud fan when it is under high loads, so not completely silent.
@jake-mv5oi
Жыл бұрын
@@ProjectsWithDave quieter than a generator though, I bet.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
yes
great video you did a good job
Great video! And thank you. How are you managing your ground relays? Turning it on or off? I have something very similar to this but using two multis configured in split phase. My neutral and ground bond is at the main panel. My critical load panel will not have a neutral/ ground bond on its own but will connect net/ground at the main load center. In theory I would think you would want the PE lug on the case of the inverter to be run to the main box and bonded there?
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
The load center has it's own independent ground connection. For the neutral, if you look at the circuit diagram for the Multiplus II, it shows a neutral/ground bond relay that switches on when the shore power is cut.
I did this for my RV .. 3kw hybrid all in one POWmr, 468.00 + 2x 200ah lifep04 (469.00 ea) and about 90.00 worth of breakers and 8awg cable and connectors . 20amp power outlet .. and 1kw of solar panels 24v system .. under 2200 for the entire system
@ProjectsWithDave thanks for the video. Subbed to your channel. One quick question: if i want to run this system as a stanalone mobile unit (ie not connected to the main house distribution board) so straight from a plug point in my home to the ac-in of inverter, do i need breakers inbetween, or can i just connect directly?
@ProjectsWithDave
9 ай бұрын
Thanks for the sub! If you are plugging into a generator plug port on your house, it will have a breaker where it comes into your load center. You would just need to make sure it is sized appropriately for the size of wire you are using on the output of the inverter. However, If you are making a stand alone portable system, I would add a breaker in a small box on your portable unit, for the extra convenience and safety of being able to quickly and easily turn off the power at the source.
Thanks for the great video. What is the transfer switch you arr using? I'm building a similar system and want to add a transfer switch to have the chance to use a gas generator to feed the charger in case of long outages. Thanks!
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Thanks! Here are two options similar to mine: TCA1006DR Outdoor Transfer Panel - 100A and 60A Generator: amzn.to/3FWIuI1 TCA1006D Indoor Panel/Link Transfer Panel: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000HRWGPS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
This is close to what I am planning. One difference is to drive 240V split. So with current Victron components I'd need 2 MP II/Quattro, or an MP II/Quattro + Victron autotransformer... OR wait until Victron comes out with a single unit that supports 240 split.
Ive built a couple batteries for my off grid home. I used the eve280k cells this last time and nissan leaf modules the first time. Both my batteries have much more capacity than those server rack batteries qnd i have much nicer more capable bms. The nice thing about your server rack batteries are the ease of install.
@ProjectsWithDave
10 ай бұрын
I've considered building my own batteries just for fun. But it's hard to justify with what's available off the shelf these days.
@matthewknight5641
10 ай бұрын
@@ProjectsWithDave I like the battery and solar build stuff as a hobby and since finding out about having stage 4 cancer it's helped keep my mind off bad stuff. I'd have probably bought the server rack batteries but they are kinda an expensive way to get 30 kw or so of power storage compared to building your own. I like the look and convenience of the server rack stuff tho.
Thanks for the great content. It's nice to see that it handled the planer load, (what's the ambient temp in the inverter room) would be great to see more load testing and see how it compares to the datasheet ratings. I do have a request, could you measure the no load idle current of the inverter? According to the Victron community forums, it seems to be common to get a unit that draws 60%-80% more than the datasheet rating. Victron's response has been, performance can vary unit to unit, and there is no fix besides replacement.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
The ambient temperature at the time of testing was about 65deg F. I get about 9W at idle. It has the lowest idle consumption of anything I've tested so far.
Excellent video, thank you. If I had a enphase micro inverter grid tie solar system, would this diy video tutorial work ?
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Yes, this system works independently from your solar system. It works even without solar. I am working on a video with some hybrid inverters that can AC/couple with systems like Enphase to charge the batteries from solar. Stay tuned.
I might use this for my network and server rack instead of a factory ups because i cant get 240 to my rack and the victron specs fit the bill I will probably still have a smaller ups because the switch from battery to inverter is quicker but it should still work.
Instead of bending your length of hook-up wire 11:00 I'd just put a 'loop' in the wire, it's easier to do, and handy when using an Amp Probe for current readings. .
Great idea EMP proof for your house
Awesome videos! Slowly going through all them. One question regarding the yellow romex that backfeeds the subpanel via the 50 amp breaker, isn't 12 guage too small for that?
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Thanks! Glad it's been helpful. I'm using 6AWG for the 50A breaker. kzread.info/dash/bejne/dK6Bo7lxm7qWc7g.html
Dave, Your batteries would get more even distribution if you used a busbar and had equal length cables running to each battery from the busbar. It probably doesn't seem like there's much of a difference as it's currently configured, but I suspect it will add up over time. Also, you might want to build some kind of a protective cage around those batteries if you're going to be parking cars around them. You never know what can happen... BTW, no link to the fuse(s)? ;)
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
I linked to a Megafuse instead of the CNN fuse since that's what they stock on Current Connected's website. Makes it easier to order everything from one site. Or you can get the CNN fuse here: amzn.to/3SYhpIJ And a fuse holder here: amzn.to/3yKdves
@deang5622
Жыл бұрын
"even more distribution"? What does that even mean? Equal length cables? LoL...oh dear.
@ssoffshore5111
Жыл бұрын
@@deang5622 No, I said "more even distribution". And yes, current will take the path of least resistance, so if the resistance isn't even, the distribution to the batteries or to load won't be either.
@xyvyx
Жыл бұрын
in the case here, I think he could even current draw by keeping most of his wiring intact, but moving the positive inverter supply to the other battery. With 3+ batteries, though, I think you'd need a bus bar.
Thank you...
Thanks Dave for a great and detailed presentation. I just have one question you covered very quickly 7:00 , in the event of lost power and battery gets low, how would I go about connecting electric generator from subpanel to the UPS panel to charge the battery.
@ProjectsWithDave
8 ай бұрын
In my case, I have a transfer switch that switches the AC input for the sub panel between Line in and Generator in. If the power has been out for a few days and I want to recharge the batteries, I can start my generator and plug it into the outdoor generator plug that is connected to the transfer switch. Then I can flip the transfer switch and the sub panel and inverter AC in will see power again and start to charge the batteries. If you have a small generator, the inverter has the ability to limit the input load in the settings so as not to overload the generator. Hope that helps. You can see another way to wire it more directly from this split phase example: kzread.info/dash/bejne/m6SAtLCgnLfKmMo.html
Very very good , the detail is very Specific I’m doing the same exact thing you are but not as highest quality equipment Victron inverter is very nice in the way that the subject I have a cheap Chinese in Vernon five kVA 230 V one phase 48 V battery bank issue with the battery bank they recommend 200 amp hours and I bought 280 amp hour batteries I was just going to backfeed it into a 30A double pole breaker I have it all power manual transfer switch which does six circuits 30A , the invert is a hybrid it’s like 98A x 1 but what I’ve learned L one is 115 V the neutral is 115 V ground is ground so technically I have two phase of the same phase 115 V in my breaker box at home I’ve only got one 220 V breaker for the Central AC which would not be used if we have a gradin situation , I like the idea of the way you did the sub panels that’s got me thinking about doing a sub panel I have a brand new breaker box home line 100 amp something like 30 spots I’m just make that until my battery back up wire over all the crucial loads ” like you did thanks for the heads up on marking each wire what source it is cause when the electrician rewired my house he did not mark in the box whatever the breaker is I gotta sit there and turn everything on and stop flipping break-ins to figure out what they are very good job sir sorry for being long-winded but you’re teaching on how you did this very good ! Hit me back if you want with any more in-depth information !
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
The sub panel gives you a lot of options for managing the circuits and for future expandability.
HOWdy P-W-E-D-D, ... Thanks for the INSTRUCTION & IDEAS COOP the WiSeNhEiMeR from Richmond, INDIANA ... ...
3kw solar/10kw batteries is the perfectly proportioned starting point from my experience, its even capable of running a small split system Ac all day and throughout the night depending on your location. There are far cheaper solutions than the Victron for a budget system unless you want to run a mitre saw which a cheaper inverter might not be able to handle the large start up current of.
@deang5622
Жыл бұрын
They are NOT 10kW batteries! They are 10kWh batteries. The video producer even got the units right, so why can't you?
@jedics1
Жыл бұрын
@@deang5622 yawn
My main panel is located in my bedroom and I don't have room to install equipment needed to do this setup. I do have a small 1k watt solar system. Unfortunately I have to use extension cords when I need to run refrigerator or anything else.
Great video. Just one question, inside the multiplus there is a separate ground terminal. What should this be grounded to?
@ProjectsWithDave
7 ай бұрын
That is only needed for an off grid situation where there is no household ground. In my configuration, the AC input has a ground wire that goes back to the household ground, so no need to add an additional connection at the ground terminal. Hope that helps.
Great video thanks! Looking at doing this myself, just wondering if there is a way to ensure battery charging is done at a cheap/off peak rate or with excess solar only? I’m on a grid tied solar system. Thanks.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Yes, there are charge controllers that can manage the time of day. SolArk is one, but there are other, you just have to look at the specs.
@oleww50
Жыл бұрын
@@ProjectsWithDave I see, ok great thanks for your reply 🙂
Great video. My electrical engineer father in-law will enjoy watching when he visits during the holidays. I see you have solar too. Can I add this system into my solar set up? Currently have a 12kW system tied to the grid. What a good resource to find out more?
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
My solar system is grid-tie. This backup system can run completely independent of your solar setup. This is the video of my original grid-tie install: kzread.info/dash/bejne/kax1mNOIp9G_krA.html
Definitely a great planned out & executed system, Congrats! One question: might you know the AIC (Ampere Interrupting Capacity) rating for that fuse? Always good to double-check it's capabilities to quench a DC ark and prevent a fire hazard. Great video, looking forward to your future content 😊 🙏.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
2,500 A interrupting rating. You can download the spec sheet here: www.littelfuse.com/products/fuses/specialty-power-fuses/lift-truck-fuses/cnn.aspx
@meganwinters5163
Жыл бұрын
@@ProjectsWithDave awesomeness! Thank you!
This was a well done video.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Thanks!
@jfraz6246
Жыл бұрын
@@ProjectsWithDave if you were in Chesapeake Va area, id be coming by to pick your brain haha. Did you need to get this inspected?
very impressive
Great Video !!
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
Thanks!
Exactly what i want to build for my house. What is your opinion of using a 5k sol ark since i would like to add solar? Just seems like easier way to go but will it hold up as well as the victron. Great video
@ProjectsWithDave
7 ай бұрын
Yes, if you only need single phase, the SolArk 5k would be a good option. I have a friend that installed a 15K and he is very happy with it. They make quality equipment. Current Connected is a great source, they offer great service and technical support, here is my affiliate link if you want to purchase through them and help out the channel: www.currentconnected.com/product/sol-ark-5k-1p-all-in-one-on-grid-off-grid-hybrid-inverter/?ref=pwd Some differences to consider: The SolArk consumes 60W at idle and the Victron 5kVA only consumes 15W at idle. The Victron uses a low frequency transformer and the SolArk is transformer less, so the Victron will do better with induction loads like power tools. The Victron will require an additional unit to add solar later like this one: www.currentconnected.com/product/victron-smartsolar-mppt-rs-charger-controller/?ref=pwd Victron 5kVA link: www.currentconnected.com/product/victron-48v-multiplus-2-5kva-120v-inverter-70a-charger/?ref=pwd Hope that helps!
Great Master!
Great review. You mention the capability to take 20 Amps of a generator and boost it another 25 amps... But what about the opposite? Can it go directly from solar (without battery) @30 amps and then boost it to 40 amps as needed from the grid or a generator if needed to drive a heavier load? Glad to see that the fuse holder has a cover! However, I am not a big fan of the "push in " connection method that the MultiPlus-II uses for the wiring for the AC connection. I don't mind the convenience, but I would prefer something that I can tighten down to make sure that there is no chance of something pulling out.
@ProjectsWithDave
Жыл бұрын
This unit is an inverter/battery charge controller. It does not have solar capability. With Victron that is a separate unit. The connectors aren't my favorite either, but to be fair if I set them properly I can't pull them out. That being said I also preferer the control of a lug connector.