DIY Solar Generator - Save Thousands by Building Your Own

DIY Solar Generator - Save Thousands by Building Your Own
Check out our follow up videos. building a better version:
• Build a Better Solar G...
Here are the components used in the follow up video
Here are the links to the components we used:
Battery: ipowerqueen.com/?ref=2o1mpvjk
Solar Panels: www.weizeus.com/?ref=BROCKMAG...
Inverter: amzn.to/3prRhwr
Check out more of our tractor videos here:
• John Deere 2038R and c...
Rockhill Farm is a daily equipment and rural living vlog. We mainly focus on tractors and working outdoors.
I really appreciate you taking time to watch this video. If you enjoy this type of content Check out some of the following links to support our channel.
If you are interested in a rock Hill Farms T-shirt check out our merch store
rockhill-farm.creator-spring....
Please subscribe to our channel here: / rockhillfarmandhomes
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You can now support the channel by buying us a coffee at the following link:
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Пікірлер: 447

  • @RockhillfarmYT
    @RockhillfarmYT Жыл бұрын

    Here are the components used in the follow up video Here are the links to the components we used: Battery: ipowerqueen.com/?ref=2o1mpvjk Solar Panels: www.weizeus.com/?ref=BROCKMAGGARD Inverter: amzn.to/3prRhwr Check out our follow up videos. building a better version: kzread.info/dash/bejne/eaycwZSOj8m5fpM.html Check out more of our tractor videos here: kzread.info/head/PLmYnhJtNUq7c2n8UTJASTf9qJQXQ_ngFP Rockhill Farm is a daily equipment and rural living vlog. We mainly focus on tractors and working outdoors. I really appreciate you taking time to watch this video. If you enjoy this type of content Check out some of the following links to support our channel. If you are interested in a rock Hill Farms T-shirt check out our merch store rockhill-farm.creator-spring.com/listing/rockhill-farm-logo Please subscribe to our channel here: kzread.info Follow on Facebook at facebook.com/Rock-Hill-Farm-102050688356056/ You can now support the channel by buying us a coffee at the following link: www.buymeacoffee.com/rockhillfarm

  • @chupacabra4897

    @chupacabra4897

    11 ай бұрын

    What LED light was that that wasn't showing any draw ? I want one lol

  • @HarryVonhoene

    @HarryVonhoene

    11 ай бұрын

    If you are in doubt, spring for the better inverter!

  • @michaelstanley3961

    @michaelstanley3961

    7 ай бұрын

    Just don't run motors pumps or charge lithium batteries, but for kettles most small electrical devices for camping will be fine, be running them for 2 years plus no problem.😊

  • @castleoracottage
    @castleoracottage Жыл бұрын

    And whatever you do--cherish the times you spend with your dad. These moments will come back to you in later years!! I know!!

  • @lockandloadlikehell

    @lockandloadlikehell

    20 күн бұрын

    That's the opposite of what happened Some dads are pos

  • @douggoff5784
    @douggoff578410 ай бұрын

    We have used the kzread.infoUgkxOTeIs0vv4_9B5hsmnLsk9r930uDQLu_Y for probably 30 hours with our camper and it’s been great! The noise level is really only noticeable when running the AC and other appliances like the microwave, hair dryer, or coffee pot. It’s not huge like other ones and it has wheels so even at 90lbs, I can move it!

  • @RobAbdul
    @RobAbdul Жыл бұрын

    It's really cool working with your Dad. Love Dad's T shirt message.

  • @introvertincognito4518
    @introvertincognito45184 ай бұрын

    Love Dads shirt!! Praise Jesus Christ. And thank you for this

  • @JCWren
    @JCWren Жыл бұрын

    There can be some issues with charging batteries in parallel. Ideally you should be using a balanced charger, and the batteries should be the same chemistry, capacity, and approximate condition. For periodic use, it's not going to make a big difference. But if you're using a DIY power station regularly, batteries will fail sooner when they're not properly balanced. Search for "charging 12v batteries in parallel", there's a bunch of articles on the topic.

  • @charlesmurphy4075

    @charlesmurphy4075

    Жыл бұрын

    Like when a tractor or diesel truck require 2 batteries. Same thing.

  • @Mr.J345

    @Mr.J345

    Жыл бұрын

    Your thinking series connection. Parallel requires no balancing

  • @SuperVstech

    @SuperVstech

    11 ай бұрын

    @@Mr.J345no, they are correct. Series is far more difficult of course, but parallel has specific wiring considerations to keep them at the same level of charge and discharge.

  • @exgenica

    @exgenica

    6 ай бұрын

    From what the "Power Queen" batteries (the ones used by these folks) product page shows, it looks like each LiFePO4 battery has its OWN BMS, so as long as the user is providing the correct voltage and power requirements, and an appropriate amount of charging, one shouldn't have to worry about balancing and so on. However, when initially connecting the packs together, I would ensure they are very close in state of charge to each other to prevent high currents/sparks in the cables when first connecting them together...and when in use you may want to ensure each battery alone could handle the expected load because the BMS of a depleted battery pack may "shut off" one battery pack, leaving the other(s) to supply all the power (although ideally if there is an overload the remaining batteries' BMS controllers should also in theory disconnect those batteries due to potential overload.

  • @jimbaranski4687

    @jimbaranski4687

    Ай бұрын

    Series charging is the thing that is difficult. For parallel charging, just make sure that the path to each battery is the same length. If you have a string of batteries in parallel in a row, connect to positive to the battery one end of the row, and the negative to the battery at the other end of the row. Make sure all the cables from the battery bank are the same length.

  • @bstamatin
    @bstamatin5 ай бұрын

    I like your video but i love your father`s t-shirt inscription: " We walk by faith not by sight "! Amen! Blessings from Greece !

  • @blktuscangirl6863
    @blktuscangirl68635 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much, for someone who has never camped and all of this is new, thank you so much for the simplicity.

  • @idk8964
    @idk896411 ай бұрын

    Even with Bluetti's 2048Wh AC200 on sale for like $1150 ish for prime day, which is actually incredible and hard to pass up, it's just extremely important to me to be able to easily replace broken parts. If something breaks in that thing, you might be out $1150.

  • @paulcasefarms9933
    @paulcasefarms9933 Жыл бұрын

    I love Keith's Shirt. That is far more powerful than either inverters.

  • @silverandblackentertainment

    @silverandblackentertainment

    10 ай бұрын

    Amen 🙏🏽

  • @PWoods-cd6tk
    @PWoods-cd6tk Жыл бұрын

    Good basic how to, but...1 LiFePO4 100 amp hour battery has more capacity than 2 lead acid, weighs 20 to 25 pounds and will last ten years. The cost is around $300. The max output of 1 would be 1200 watts, so you need two to run 1200 to 2400 watts. If you are starting from scratch and have to buy new batteries, I strongly suggest buying a LiFePO4. You can tip them over and not worry about spilling acid, you can safely use them and store them inside your house, you can run them down all the way and maintain most of the voltage until the very end, and they are so much easier to tote around.

  • @dexterousx92
    @dexterousx92 Жыл бұрын

    *Thank you for sharing this valuable information in the video. I would like to add that used batteries can often be found in major cities for around $40, and Walmart also offers some batteries priced at $86. Overall, this is an excellent idea for DIY enthusiasts who, like myself, enjoy building projects.*

  • @RockhillfarmYT

    @RockhillfarmYT

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for sharing

  • @spanishtreasure9551

    @spanishtreasure9551

    7 ай бұрын

    dont forget lowes has good stuff decent marine deka lead

  • @karl-heinzklimach1284
    @karl-heinzklimach128410 ай бұрын

    I did that ! Powered my in attached garage with 2 I00 watt solar panels via 2 Deep cycle boat batteries & 4000 watt inverter.

  • @nathanmaker7824
    @nathanmaker78248 ай бұрын

    when you connect the inverter you should always connect to positive on one battery and negative on the other one (this will draw and charge evenly from both batteries and prevent you damaging 1 battery or both)

  • @bobman4362
    @bobman436211 ай бұрын

    Watching now. Love your Dad's walk by faith shirt. Preparing for the coming days!

  • @akiko009
    @akiko009 Жыл бұрын

    That works. Something to keep in mind though is that unlike LiIon those lead acid batteries don't like deep cycling. But if you only use the top 10-20% of capacity, it's a great way to go.

  • @imnottheonlyone9171

    @imnottheonlyone9171

    10 ай бұрын

    If you use marine batteries or golf cart batteries they are made for deep discharge and are only a little more than regular car batteries or use gel cell but those are expensive

  • @akiko009

    @akiko009

    10 ай бұрын

    Yeah. Those will help. My recommendation is to go Lifepo4 if the budget allows for it, as they will most definitely pay for themselves in the long term. On the other hand Lifepo4 isn't as forgiving to high temperatures, which cuts into their cycle life. So if things might get hot where the battery is stored and used, Lifepo4 might not be the way to go. YMMW.

  • @exgenica

    @exgenica

    6 ай бұрын

    You also need to use the right "float" charge when they are not being actively used or mainline charged after being used. The right float charge varies not only on the battery technology, but can vary depending on manufacturer. Not using the right float charge will significantly reduce the lifespan of a battery. Note: I've seen UPS units by highly respected UPS manufacturers that use MUCH too high float charges on their "gel-cell" batteries, which seriously reduces their battery life from what could be well over 5 years to less than 3 years. edit to add: Of course, they are happy to sell you replacement battery(ies) at usually quite high cost (sometimes using proprietary connectors to try to force one to buy only their replacement pack(s)).

  • @ssprofirewood
    @ssprofirewood Жыл бұрын

    This is a very helpful video. Great job, guys! Thanks for sharing. Take care 👍

  • @centralfloridagmrs
    @centralfloridagmrs Жыл бұрын

    I'm going to do this. Wow!! We need this in Florida

  • @HarryVonhoene
    @HarryVonhoene Жыл бұрын

    Don't recommend for electronics due to the modified square wave output. But for most tools and lights it will work fine!

  • @HarryVonhoene

    @HarryVonhoene

    11 ай бұрын

    @trentbishop7793 Just like the name implies, the voltage varies from + to negative 60 times a second. lights transformers, and most motors don't care, but it can play hell on some electronics. Google sine wave vs. square wave and you will see what I mean! Hope this helps.

  • @jasonm.1370

    @jasonm.1370

    11 ай бұрын

    Aka dirty electricity

  • @Cowboy_Steve
    @Cowboy_Steve Жыл бұрын

    Howdy Brock and Keith! Really cool how-to video. Shows what can be done on a budget. A couple homesteaders I follow made something similar. I'd like to make one eventually... be a lot quieter and lighter than toting a generator around the property where I might be needing power for a short time. Thanks for sharing 🤠

  • @malcolmrowe5031
    @malcolmrowe503111 ай бұрын

    Using Standard batteries with a large inverter will destroy the battery in no time, they aren't designed to push out the large current for a long time like a Lipo4 battery can

  • @kiowablue2862

    @kiowablue2862

    11 ай бұрын

    EXACTLY. Automotive starting batteries are designed to put out a large amount of current for a short time, e.g. 30 seconds. They don't do well when deep cycled.

  • @wesjordan1908
    @wesjordan1908 Жыл бұрын

    You can usually purchase used solar panels from your local solar farm as they replace them yearly and at that point your getting a commercial grade solar panel for next to nothing

  • @chrisloving6647
    @chrisloving6647 Жыл бұрын

    Got my 305 lipo4 set for about 500 dollars. Also make sure you are getting pure sine wave inverter. The modified ones can burn up some electrics. I am making a 305 ah (about 4kwh) with pv and 2000watt for a little over 1000.

  • @ericklein5097

    @ericklein5097

    Жыл бұрын

    Just made a long ass comment about how cheap it is to put together a 4kwh battery with prismatic cells. Can't believe more people dont know.

  • @yelowfruit

    @yelowfruit

    11 ай бұрын

    where?

  • @ericklein5097

    @ericklein5097

    11 ай бұрын

    @@yelowfruit Battery Hookup has 20S CATL modules made with uncycled 280Ah cells. They are 2 years old but will give full capacity and after a few cycles should give your typical 285Ah+ of new cells. I'd guess IR is probably a tad higher than normal but for an ESS its perfect. I think it comes out to $85 a cell which is dirt cheap for Grade A CATL cells (ok these might be considered high quality Grade B since they are NOS) Downside is you have to buy 2 20S modules to get that price. If you buy 4 20S modules that means you can cut the bus bars on the 4 batteries you don't use for the 16S 48V system (best voltage to use as its most common) and then string together the 4 sets of 4 to create a 5th battery . Someone here on KZread has a great video on doing it. Yes, its several thousand dollars but each 16S battery is 14kwh....so four modules would give you 70kwh which is more than enough to run a house for days including AC and hot showers.

  • @ericklein5097

    @ericklein5097

    11 ай бұрын

    305Ah cells, a 2000W inverter and how much PV for under $1k? I know you get those cells from 18650 Battery Store for about $120 if you don't mind high quality Grade B but shipping is going to be another $150. The cheapest 2000W pure sine wave inverter is $175 and even if you use used solar panels 2kw of solar will run you a couple hundred dollars. Then you need a charge controller and thats another $100 minimum.

  • @RockhillfarmYT

    @RockhillfarmYT

    11 ай бұрын

    We built a better version here Build a Better Solar Generator for 1/2 the Price! kzread.info/dash/bejne/eaycwZSOj8m5fpM.html

  • @gerrylepage4573
    @gerrylepage457310 күн бұрын

    LOVE THE SHIRT!!!

  • @TheGoodlifeoffgrid
    @TheGoodlifeoffgrid11 ай бұрын

    Lots of money but for someone like me that is worried about anything electrical it dubs the job for me great job on the video just wish I could do my own 😊

  • @MrPabco
    @MrPabco Жыл бұрын

    Rock - Great video, very useful. I too can not justify (regardless of whether I can afford it or not) spending 3K for something I would only use occasionally. Are the high-end units nice, of course. Do they make financial sense for ME, not. For the record, I put in a Kohler 20Kw whole house generator with automatic transfer for switch for like 5K a few years ago. Looking at that comparison alone should give a good sense of value. However, I do give the manufacturing world credit for being able to teach the Gen Z'ers that they actually need this... Smile. Thanks for bringing us all alone. Great Video !!!

  • @brianrhodebeck6465
    @brianrhodebeck6465 Жыл бұрын

    For my tractors I use Grover technology. 12 V. Capacitors where I don't need a battery to start my tractor. Victron charge controllers with solar panels do really nicely with inverters and batteries Good video

  • @anthonyg6924
    @anthonyg6924 Жыл бұрын

    EXCELLENT EXCELLENT EXCELLENT ! That was a great video guys.

  • @sehajpreetsingh4177
    @sehajpreetsingh417710 ай бұрын

    This is much simpler and I can just go ahead and upgrade my car battery early and use that to build my backup battery. Thank you very much to you and to your Dad!

  • @barntt

    @barntt

    7 ай бұрын

    JFYI Car batteries don't live very long as a power source that will be deep cycled like this! These things KILL starter batteries!

  • @waynehobbs5175

    @waynehobbs5175

    6 ай бұрын

    Car batteries aren't ideal as they are not designed to deep cycle. Their plates are positioned to allow high cranking amps for a starter motor then rely on the alternator replenishing the power. Buy marine or camping deep cycle. Better still buy LFP which is half the weight and can get the full amp hours out of them. Lead acid batteries of 100Ah only have 50 usable amps before getting down to 12v. After that if not recharged immediately they degrade rapidly.

  • @corevalues6244
    @corevalues62449 ай бұрын

    As Americans, I like the way Americans think. Your the greatest !

  • @edwinsparks2165
    @edwinsparks2165 Жыл бұрын

    yo dope video!!!! shout out to your dad for his knowledge and experience!!!! So cool!!!!!!

  • @ezmac622
    @ezmac622 Жыл бұрын

    I LOVE your shirt! ✝

  • @RokDAWG1
    @RokDAWG1 Жыл бұрын

    Awesome information! Thanks for the killer video! It’s definitely worth saving time and money

  • @RockhillfarmYT

    @RockhillfarmYT

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks

  • @loubzac3
    @loubzac3 Жыл бұрын

    Great video! The inverter in the name brand generator is probably a pure sine wave witch is better and more expensive. Something to keep in mind for your electronics. I have been thinking about getting one but I can’t justify the cost. Great video on a cheaper option. Any power is better than no power

  • @lokosi

    @lokosi

    10 ай бұрын

    Hello good morning to you

  • @exgenica

    @exgenica

    6 ай бұрын

    Both the 2000W and 3000W Renogy inverters pointed to by Brock/Keith claim "Renogy 2000W *_Pure Sine Wave_* Inverter 12V DC to 120V AC" "Renogy 3000W *_Pure Sine Wave_* Inverter 12V DC to 120V AC"

  • @rickmercer8153
    @rickmercer8153 Жыл бұрын

    Very good information.

  • @hannahalexander7005
    @hannahalexander7005 Жыл бұрын

    Great help may the Lord bless

  • @TubeRadiosRule
    @TubeRadiosRule11 ай бұрын

    I use a CPAP and I used to take an RV battery and inverter with me when I went tent camping (I have a camper now, with its own battery). An RV battery will take a deeper discharge than a standard car battery.

  • @lovelygameworld4628
    @lovelygameworld4628 Жыл бұрын

    very good option for dig. thank you

  • @AM-ILJsus
    @AM-ILJsus Жыл бұрын

    Awesome 😎

  • @shellythie6227
    @shellythie6227 Жыл бұрын

    I would think that you would still have to open the lid so the inverter can stay cool running it's fan. You don't want it overheating!

  • @stormthrush37

    @stormthrush37

    10 ай бұрын

    Or you could cut a vent hole

  • @lokosi

    @lokosi

    10 ай бұрын

    Hi, I apologize for my manners for being too rude to leave a comment on your comment box without your consent. You always share great posts here,

  • @KravMike08
    @KravMike08 Жыл бұрын

    As a 42 year Master Electrician I can validate this set up!!!!!!!! 100% spot on iv'e been doing it this way for years and years...... I currently have a 1500 Watt power inverter and a huge deep cycle marine battery with the Harbor Freight 100 Watt solar charging system....... It comes with the charge controller and the system works like a charm!!!!!! I can run my fridge and internet and some lights no problem..... No way I was going to spend a couple grand on something like you said I can build from the things I have available to me in my shop.... Great job guys!!!! Very useful and practical set up that will last years and years!!!!!!!

  • @babyreps365

    @babyreps365

    Жыл бұрын

    Can you use the electric appliances while this is charging? I'm new to this stuff.

  • @KravMike08

    @KravMike08

    Жыл бұрын

    @@babyreps365 Absolutely but you cannot go over whatever wattage your inverter is.... And really you want to stay at around 50% max load so it will work longer and not strain the system..... 75% is ok but I try and stay at 50% or less

  • @keithmaggard9024

    @keithmaggard9024

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for the positive comment

  • @icecreamladydriver1606

    @icecreamladydriver1606

    3 ай бұрын

    I am happy to find your comment as I am old and know nothing about solar usage in any way. My husband uses a cpap at night that uses about 350w and I use oxygen at night only. I would use my portable oxygen machine in a grid down situation and it uses about 350w. Between the two of us it would be 700-800w. We would use this maybe 8-10 hours at night. How many 100w solar panels would we need and about how long would it take to charge them on an average sun day in order to use it the next night. Would this homemade generator work for our needs. Are there tweaks to make to the generator. I sure hope you see my question and answer it. Thanks.

  • @tinkering123
    @tinkering1235 ай бұрын

    Thanks...Just caught this one. You did a great job. Now I'm near 70 and just started my U-Tube. "Tinkering Geezer". You fellows made it look PROFESIONAL. WOW

  • @RockhillfarmYT

    @RockhillfarmYT

    4 ай бұрын

    Best of luck to you and making videos. Feel free to reach out if I can help in anyway.

  • @yoursurgerysister

    @yoursurgerysister

    4 ай бұрын

    II will subscribe

  • @richardclark8262
    @richardclark826210 ай бұрын

    Great job of breaking it down it is the best video on the subject I've ever seen

  • @RockhillfarmYT

    @RockhillfarmYT

    10 ай бұрын

    Thanks. We did a follow up with some better components Build a Better Solar Generator for 1/2 the Price! kzread.info/dash/bejne/eaycwZSOj8m5fpM.html

  • @pacificodeluta7507
    @pacificodeluta7507 Жыл бұрын

    Good job sir

  • @briantrout7051
    @briantrout7051 Жыл бұрын

    I like the concept of "doin' it cheap" but you haven't really come close to the capacity of that more expensive unit. Almost apples to oranges. I like apples. I like oranges. But I kinda think you did a little more blending than is honest. For running a few LED lights or even a bit larger load for just a minute or two, those two lead acid batteries might handle it. If you need to run a refrigerator and freezer overnight, I have a feeling I know which one will hold up. There are reasons why things cost as much as they do and it's not all "corporate profits". Building it yourself can save a little money in most cases. If you're honest about capacities, though, maybe not as much as you'd like.

  • @BamaJoe2023
    @BamaJoe2023 Жыл бұрын

    Good Idea Brock. That inverter has a cooling fan, do not run with the lid closed unless you add ventilation.

  • @75jcesar
    @75jcesar Жыл бұрын

    THis is, by far, the best DIY solar system video I have ever seen on the internet. Nice work you guys!

  • @raptureseason
    @raptureseason11 ай бұрын

    Pure Sine Wave Power inverters are the new big thing. ...but great video.

  • @keithmaggard9024

    @keithmaggard9024

    11 ай бұрын

    I agree this video we used what was readily available in our area or in this case we already had.

  • @Crustapher
    @Crustapher17 күн бұрын

    Love your dad's shirt. Solid verse. Old man tech is solid and somehow we lost that smarts.

  • @Tme10099
    @Tme100997 ай бұрын

    thumbs up for your dad's t-shirt. More precious than your excellent DIY.

  • @RileyMartin-st2tw
    @RileyMartin-st2tw Жыл бұрын

    good video

  • @2u263
    @2u2637 ай бұрын

    👍Thank you neighbor, this video is really helpful could be a life saver 👍

  • @RockhillfarmYT

    @RockhillfarmYT

    7 ай бұрын

    My neighbor?

  • @2u263

    @2u263

    7 ай бұрын

    🤣Not literally friend, a way of melting divides among us. Besides your sharing such important information seems very neighborly. A good thing. Thank you @@RockhillfarmYT

  • @AdamNicholasSievers
    @AdamNicholasSievers Жыл бұрын

    Made one years ago, tool box with a truck battery in it. Everything wired through a low voltage cut off so I didn't over drain the lead acid battery. After taking it camping about 3 times I was tired of lugging the damn thing around 😂

  • @edilsantos9671
    @edilsantos967110 ай бұрын

    Love the bible verse on your dads t-shirt 👕 🙏

  • @davidyummus6259
    @davidyummus625911 ай бұрын

    A long way from ideal I put an old Car Battery I had in an old Cooler I had then mounted an Inverter I had to the lid of the Cooler,...Ran my Internet Router/Gateway for 8 hours with more to spare :)

  • @reypalabao986
    @reypalabao986 Жыл бұрын

    Wow nice power

  • @andrewanderson1436
    @andrewanderson1436 Жыл бұрын

    Not a bad price point considering how much folks probably already have laying around. I could build one today with all the stuff sitting in my little shop.

  • @jonmac3569
    @jonmac3569 Жыл бұрын

    Make sure you are getting an inverter that is pure sine wave if you are plugging in sensitive electronics. I am not sure if Harbor freight is making pure sine wave inverters yet, maybe.

  • @jimbob1096

    @jimbob1096

    Жыл бұрын

    They have one

  • @adamchuilli9416
    @adamchuilli94165 ай бұрын

    So educational and helpful! Appreciate you guys!!

  • @adamchuilli9416

    @adamchuilli9416

    5 ай бұрын

    Im looking into making something like this using 2 H.F. batteries 35A/H ea. and a solar panel, controller, inverter and case for running a cpap machine independently while camping. This video was exactly what I was looking for. I think the 100W panel will recharge batteries just fine if im getting 6hrs sleep using the machine.

  • @marvindiamonjr.9631
    @marvindiamonjr.9631 Жыл бұрын

    That was interesting!

  • @waynehobbs5175
    @waynehobbs51756 ай бұрын

    A good video guys but a few things you do or omit are not necessarily good advice. You cabled the two batteries together in parallel good but, the inverter and any solar controller should always go to positive of battery A and negative of battery B so both batteries draw equally. Fuses are required on all positive cables to protect the cables. Cable sizes need to be as short as possible and the guage needs to reflect power draw. For example that 1500W inverter is going to draw 125A with 250A start up surge so that needs 00AWG cable and 300A fuse. Pairing batteries should only be done after ensuring their condition SOH is virtually identical. I appreciate what you are trying to do but if you factor in the real cable cost, fuse cost, cable connectors etcetera your budget will be a lot higher. Mount the inverter on top of the box, not inside as it will get hot. Most have suggestions of gaps required. I have a 200AH LFP battery and 2000W inverter (240v here in Australia) and am going to build my own battery box. These aren't generators BTW as they merely convert 12V DC to 110v or in my case 240v AC supply. I like your plastic trolley box! Please accept my comments as constructive criticism not meant to sound nasty. Be safe guys. Shalom

  • @Ks1bigdad783
    @Ks1bigdad783 Жыл бұрын

    New subscriber. Good stuff. Thx!

  • @CherokezPittman
    @CherokezPittman7 ай бұрын

    User's Comment: "This solar generator looks amazing! I've been looking for a reliable and powerful portable power station for my camping trips. Definitely going to check out this Segway Portable PowerStation Cube Series!"Your Reply: "I completely agree! The Segway Portable PowerStation Cube Series is a fantastic choice for your camping adventures. With its massive capacity, waterproof design, and fast recharging capabilities, you can rely on it to keep your devices and appliances running for extended periods. I highly recommend giving it a try!"

  • @holdfast7657
    @holdfast7657 Жыл бұрын

    Add 12V ports and then you can also charge from your vehicle and easily use 12V accessories. USB ports are a useful as well.

  • @keithmaggard9024

    @keithmaggard9024

    Жыл бұрын

    The inverter has usb ports the 12 volt is a great idea

  • @hammerdownfpv6351
    @hammerdownfpv6351 Жыл бұрын

    Just make sure the inverter has pure sine wave or you could fry your electronics, PC, TV, ect.

  • @winstonsmiths2449
    @winstonsmiths2449 Жыл бұрын

    The loose end of that positive flailing around made me nervous LOL! I use a 3 inch piece of heat shrink tubing, tape one end closed and slip it on the end of the cables I am working with. No chance of touching the wrong power post. I have a few made up ahead of time so when I need to connect or disconnect the cables, I slip the appropriately colored tubing on the loose end.

  • @bondee5865
    @bondee586510 ай бұрын

    That was helpful, practical and simple; THANKS

  • @RockhillfarmYT

    @RockhillfarmYT

    10 ай бұрын

    Thanks

  • @keithmaggard9024
    @keithmaggard902411 ай бұрын

    I have a small one set up on a shop that isn't located near my house I use it for lights and fire up the generator on the occasion that I need more it keeps me from spending a fortune on wiring and paying a monthly minimum on a building I don't use much.

  • @bubbaredneck75
    @bubbaredneck758 ай бұрын

    this is what im going to do once i finish my house. reuse my current system from this old camper and use my craftsman tool box the wife got me years ago.

  • @TomekiaLloyd
    @TomekiaLloyd2 ай бұрын

    Thank you for this!

  • @SuperVstech
    @SuperVstech11 ай бұрын

    Never hook loads cables both to the same battery in a parallel configuration. Same with chargers, always spread to opposite ends of the battery bank.

  • @lunax71
    @lunax719 ай бұрын

    You can buy reconditioned batteries at auto salvage yards. for $50 or $40 with core. Good as new. 😊

  • @shootinon3
    @shootinon3 Жыл бұрын

    Just sub due to your dads shirt. First time viewer less than 2min in

  • @nathanlambardi2551
    @nathanlambardi25514 ай бұрын

    outstanding

  • @seansysig
    @seansysig Жыл бұрын

    Brock the diy version needs battery terminal insulators and the box needs to be ventilated as charging batteries release hydrogen sulfide gas! Don’t use in an unventilated space!

  • @diannaday2180

    @diannaday2180

    8 ай бұрын

    Making that box extremely flammable no lighters or open flame should be used around it. Ventilation is a must for sure even a little exhaust fan may be useful.

  • @RockhillfarmYT

    @RockhillfarmYT

    8 ай бұрын

    @diannaday2180 I didn’t cut any holes in it for cords… It can only be used with the lid open

  • @PatrickDickey52761
    @PatrickDickey527617 ай бұрын

    I will say this. There's a reason for spending the money on the LiPO4 (Lithium-Ion Phosphate) batteries instead of car batteries. When you use a lead-acid battery, the voltage drops almost immediately. When you use the Lithium-Ion battery, it' maintains the voltage until it's about 80% depleated--then starts dropping. Also, the minimum voltages are different. You can run a Li-Ion battery down to a lower voltage before it damages the battery.

  • @bluegrallis
    @bluegrallis Жыл бұрын

    I have thought about doing this for my corn burner stove. I would make a quick disconnect for the inverter, so I could use it on my truck for "portable" power when needed. "My truck" is a 1995 E350 with 7.3 diesel and has a HUGE alternator( it was a cab chassis with an ambulance box on back when new). I'm not sure of the amperge output, but I imagine it's pretty healthy.

  • @keithmaggard9024

    @keithmaggard9024

    Жыл бұрын

    In a power outage I rigged one up to run my parents pellet stove so they would have heat

  • @keithmaggard9024

    @keithmaggard9024

    11 ай бұрын

    During a power outage I set one up to run my parents pellet stove so they would still have heat

  • @SupergiantgeckosLLC
    @SupergiantgeckosLLC10 ай бұрын

    Here’s a Cost effective idea: how about using street rental escooter Li-ion battery packs?they’re practically free😊

  • @henryax
    @henryax Жыл бұрын

    This good

  • @captaincrustyradio
    @captaincrustyradio11 ай бұрын

    Enjoyed the video. When all the high tech lithium batteries with their circuits no longer work, i will still be using the lead acid batteries. I love the low cost, wide availability of lead acid batteries. Also, how many structures have burned down from EV vehicles. Why do airlines worry over lithium batteries. I would wear the "hillbilly" comnent as a badge of honor. Folks that can drop $3k on a solar generator, good on you. I would rather own something less efficient that i can build, work on, replace parts from the shop stock pile, etc.

  • @lokosi

    @lokosi

    10 ай бұрын

    Hi, I apologize for my manners for being too rude to leave a comment on your comment box without your consent. You always share great posts here

  • @richardclark8262
    @richardclark826210 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much

  • @cooltrkin
    @cooltrkin Жыл бұрын

    I know this video was made a month ago but right now you can get 4 lifepo4 100AH batteries for 1057.00 Not bad really. 4 gel batteries cost that much.

  • @crherniman

    @crherniman

    Жыл бұрын

    Where are you seeing the best deals on them?

  • @FullyChargedZone
    @FullyChargedZone2 ай бұрын

    Cool Power Station

  • @breakdownbill1
    @breakdownbill1 Жыл бұрын

    I have both set ups. A Bluetti 200Max generator then my own set up. Renogy solar charge controller. 2 agm batteries and a 3k watt power inverter from harbor freight. The Inverter is not pure sine wave and I’m scared to plug anything into it,,specially small items like charging laptop and phone. Since I have the Bluetti my homemade set up I’d only for emergency use. Don’t want all that weight and used up space in my cargo trailer that is off grid. 😊 Thanx for the rolling battery cart idea.

  • @alvarogaitan2529
    @alvarogaitan2529Ай бұрын

    thanks, great job

  • @nicklittleton3336
    @nicklittleton33367 ай бұрын

    this is excellent. thanks fellas

  • @RockhillfarmYT

    @RockhillfarmYT

    7 ай бұрын

    Thanks

  • @kathrynralli4557
    @kathrynralli45572 ай бұрын

    Very good.

  • @keithmaggard9024
    @keithmaggard9024 Жыл бұрын

    I think we may be missing the point i have thrown one of these together ina few minutes during a power outage out of things i had and that exact geniverse with pannels list for 3700 it is an amazingly powerful product we aren't really saying something put together on the cheap is better but it ain't bad for the price

  • @Desert-edDave
    @Desert-edDave11 ай бұрын

    LIFEPO4 batteries like what are used in nicer commercially-available power stations are safe for indoor use, charging/discharging lead-acid batteries can release gas - might not want hydrogen gas in your home - Also something to keep in mind when in a box like that when housing certain types of batteries that can produce gasses. If kept in a sufficiently vented garage or shed or something, deep-cycle lead acid batteries are a great choice with a MPPT controller.

  • @user-nj9uh3ju6v
    @user-nj9uh3ju6v7 ай бұрын

    yea those inverters

  • @78shaney
    @78shaney Жыл бұрын

    Nice video. In Australia your dad would be known as a bush mechanic. Just gets it done!

  • @rwstarke
    @rwstarke Жыл бұрын

    Not enough power for Tooltime Tim. Harbor Freight panels overpriced. I use Newpowa panels. Geneverse overpriced. Don't pay over 75 cents per Wh.

  • @dement3djoker
    @dement3djoker Жыл бұрын

    you both seem special to say the least... take that as you want it.

  • @walterschrier704
    @walterschrier704 Жыл бұрын

    Get a lifepo4 (lithium iron phosphate) battery, good for 3k cycles, much lighter too. About $120 for a 30ah unit

  • @ellisdee2013
    @ellisdee20138 ай бұрын

    I'm pretty sure the positive to that inverter should go to the positive on one battery and the negative from the inverter should go to the negative on the second battery. Also, it should have a 100 amp fuse on the positive. Probably a good idea to have a fuse on the positive coming from the solar as well... I'd definitely be spending a few more dollars and not just throwing electrical together halfassed...

  • @michaelillum563

    @michaelillum563

    8 ай бұрын

    My thoughts exactly. This vid is full of bad practice and safety hazards. They didn't even compare battery voldtage before connecting them.

  • @RockhillfarmYT

    @RockhillfarmYT

    8 ай бұрын

    @michaelillum563 when you have been successfully doing something for over 20 years it is less compelling listening to the reasons that it won’t work

  • @ellisdee2013

    @ellisdee2013

    8 ай бұрын

    @@RockhillfarmYT what you're doing obviously works, but it's not evenly pulling power from each battery, which will cause one to go bad before the other. The fuses are just a safety precaution that could prevent an electrical fire...

  • @RockhillfarmYT

    @RockhillfarmYT

    8 ай бұрын

    @@ellisdee2013 modern inverters have built-in overload protection. We also did an update video.

  • @kc9pxz
    @kc9pxz2 ай бұрын

    I subscribed because of this video for my pop up camerer that I live in

  • @TheHappinessOfThePursuit
    @TheHappinessOfThePursuit Жыл бұрын

    Put some referral link is the description, I’d rather give you a % when I buy another inverter or battery. You can put what you would buy if money was endless, and what you would do if you had zero funds. Everyone wins by your experience, thanks! ❤

  • @lawrencedavidson6195
    @lawrencedavidson61953 ай бұрын

    A 50ah LiFePo4 is now less than $200 now and will out last the 2 lead/acid batteries you have. Nice build anyway. Greetings from Jamaica.

  • @kiowablue2862
    @kiowablue286211 ай бұрын

    A better lead-acid solution would be golf cart batteries. They're designed to put out a substatial amount of current for a muxh longer period of time than an automotive starting battery.

  • @Electronzap
    @Electronzap7 ай бұрын

    Nice