Off-grid Solar for Dummies: Beginner Basics

Рет қаралды 466,971

Күн бұрын

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Does off-grid solar confuse you? Check out my DIY friendly website for solar system packages and product recommendations, and so 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
If DIY is not for you, but you love solar and need an offgrid system, check out Tesla Solar. Low prices and great warranty, and they can take your entire house offgrid with their new Powerwalls: ts.la/william57509
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My solar equipment recommendations (Constantly updated! Check here first):
12V/48V Lithium Batteries: www.mobile-solarpower.com/sol...
Solar System Component Directory: www.mobile-solarpower.com/sol...
Plug-N-Play Systems: www.mobile-solarpower.com/ful...
Complete 48V System Kits: www.mobile-solarpower.com/com...
DIY Friendly Air Conditioner/ Heat Pumps: www.mobile-solarpower.com/sol...
Complete 48V System Blueprint: www.mobile-solarpower.com/48v...
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My Favorite 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...
-Ecoflow Delta Official Site: My favorite plug-n-play solar generator:
us.ecoflow.com/?aff=7
-AmpereTime: Cheapest 12V batteries around:
amperetime.com/products/amper...
-Rich Solar: Mega site and cheaper prices than renogy! Check them out:
richsolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek
-Shop Solar Kits: Huge site with every solar kit you can imagine! Check it out:
shopsolarkits.com/?ref=will-p
-Battery Hookup: 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
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Contact Information:
I am NOT available for personal solar system consult! If you wish to contact me, this is my direct email: williamprowsediysolar@gmail.com
Join the forum at diysolarforum.com/ if you wish to hang out with myself and others and talk about solar
FTC Disclosure Statement and Disclaimers:
Every video includes some form of paid promotion or sponsorship. Some links on this youtube channel may be affiliate links. We may get paid if you buy something or take an action after clicking one of these. My videos are for educational purposes only. Information is subject to change/update at any time. Electricity is DANGEROUS and can kill. Be smart and use common sense :)
DIY Solar Power with Will Prowse is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program,
An affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

Пікірлер: 697

@JoyMG_ Жыл бұрын

I'm a beginner and have been so confused by this that I literally typed in solar 101 and got this 15 yr old kid who's blowing my mind with common sense teaching lol!

@lindastent-campbell5130 3 күн бұрын

I typed Solar for Dummies, lol

@JoyMG_ 2 күн бұрын

@@lindastent-campbell5130 😄

@williamjordan811 5 жыл бұрын

Ok, first of all, I did not need to buy your book, I am an ex Navy Electronics Technician and Reactor Operator, and I have a BS in Industrial Engineering, after getting out of the Navy, I worked as a Field Engineer for Northrop Grumman fixing all kinds of Servers, computers, networks, laptops, and huge plotters and printers. I bought your book. Because not everyone has had those opportunities I have had. I LOVE the fact that you have made this available in the Kindle format, as I now live in a Motor home and am disabled I do not have room for books. So in complete support of your efforts, I have purchased your book. You are doing great work with this resource. My compliments, very well explained and put in a way that most all folks can understand. Cheers and God bless

@WillProwse 5 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much!!!! Your comment made my day :)

@charlesmckinley29 4 жыл бұрын

William Jordan thank you for your service and your endorsement of Will. I know just enough to be dangerous and wanted to be sure his information is as good as it seemed to my limited knowledge.

@charlesmckinley29 4 жыл бұрын

DIY Solar Power with Will Prowse, Will plug your book a little more. I've been checking your videos out and this is the first I had heard about it. Thank you for all the work you have put into these videos.

@davidguillory4311 4 жыл бұрын

@@WillProwse can you help me out for a wheelchair? I have two battery to my wheelchair, and I wanna to get a solar panels for my wheelchair and I need help to get the right kinda solar system for it so I can go places without having to stop somewhere to charger.

@TOMAS-lh4er 4 жыл бұрын

WELL ! I was the emperor of the world at one time ,and i made my own airplane after I swam underwater from my house to Hawie ! , then I became ruler of the universe

@michellehattlewright601 3 жыл бұрын

so happy to finally have someone start from the actual beginning and explain the very basics. Not everyone can explain things in an idiot proof manner without being condescending like you. Im so grateful to have found your channel. Keep up the good work.

@ronniewrong1539 Жыл бұрын

Here here. Guys like this kid are what makes KZfaq the best place to be. I love this channel.

@69mickdogg 6 жыл бұрын

After watching litrerally hundreds of videos, this is the First one that actually made any sense to me. Thank You so much!

@brandyprice7578 3 жыл бұрын

Im at the ad at the beginning of the video. I really hope I feel the same way after watching! I feel so stupid learning about these, they might as well be in another language. I dont understand it at all. Im a hands on learner unfortunately and theres no where i can just go "play" with solar panels!!

@brandyprice7578 3 жыл бұрын

Within 2 mins ive already learned so much. Makes sense with the whole battery thing. Its also good to know how that I can hurt myself so I need to be very careful. And wth this kid has his own book? Nice

@holdendeshawn835 3 жыл бұрын

a trick: watch movies at KaldroStream. I've been using it for watching lots of of movies lately.

@maisoncayson4542 3 жыл бұрын

@Holden Deshawn Yup, I've been watching on flixzone} for since december myself :D

@IJUSTWANNAFLYDJIDRONES71 2 жыл бұрын

Our Watched hundreds geewizz i thought i was slow.

@gionniutah542 6 жыл бұрын

I need everything in life explained and presented exactly like this lol

@larsturner310 5 жыл бұрын

lol That's what I'm talking about, Gionni. lol

@gingerspencer6628 3 жыл бұрын

@@larsturner310 I totally agree going to follow suit myself.

@larsturner310 3 жыл бұрын

@@gingerspencer6628 Nice.

@spiceweasel945 2 жыл бұрын

Absolutely. It’s called “good teaching” 😉

@RevLeonPLeon Жыл бұрын

Dude, you sold me within 15 seconds. Wow! I love how direct and clear you are. No wasting anyone's time. Bam! You're awesome!

@ISLAGIATT 5 жыл бұрын

“you can cause fires, and that’s really bad” LOL!!! THANK YOU SOOOOO MUCH for this very straightforward explanation. This has (probably literally) saved my life.

@brandyprice7578 3 жыл бұрын

Lol thats what I said. Fires bad. Got it!

@JustMeValerie6 2 жыл бұрын

Hahaha, i said the same thing. 😂😂 Loving this video, everything makes so much more sense now. Thank you!!

@rkrUT1 2 жыл бұрын

As a retired engineer (ME), few years ago I reviewed many KZfaq videos before getting started on my 2x100 watt solar panel system. I loved your video the most. Your description was most clear and helpful. Keep up the good work and maintain your style of explaining the way all can understand. Good luck. - RKR 210830

@GuitarGangsta 6 жыл бұрын

Man, this is the best no nonsense explanation of a basic hookup - unbelievable how people have missed explaining this stuff that simply for this many decades.

@zen1752 2 жыл бұрын

You look young but still take complete sense. Thank you. Some people inspire you are one of them.

@PatrickNdaiMcPato Ай бұрын

Finally I understand these things, in simple language. Thank you man. God bless you

@Steve_1999 6 жыл бұрын

I used to wire up & install car audio systems... This is all natural to me. I recently read your solar power book though lol! It's very well explained for anyone to understand.. Excellent book. You should definitely teach more.

@Melodyloveshorses1 6 жыл бұрын

I agree, Steve! I'm hungry to learn more about solar, wind, and medium & small sized turbine power. I hope Will will continue to find a way to study and make his future an even bigger success! I'm proud of you, Will. Don't give up! And Will, you may be qualified for a Pell Grant or other scholarships and funds if you wish to be an electrician or anything u want! (Y) I know it's hard, but again, you've persevered so much already- so u know what to do! 😀 Make-it-so!

@jennyhoman195 Жыл бұрын

Thank you! I just came across your video as I am beginning my solar journey and this grandma is so grateful for your simple explanation. I will be watching all your videos over the next few weeks to learn all I can. I’m headed to Kenya in a few months to begin my off grid retirement journey.

@this-is-slammin-549 2 жыл бұрын

It is remarkable how well you explain things. You have a bright future ahead of you. Young people don’t embrace learning about trades the way you obviously have. And your ability to explain and teach is your unique gift. I’m off to Amazon to buy your book.

@borandell9915 3 жыл бұрын

I know the solar power world has changed a lot in 3 years but still to this day this is your most important video (IMO). I've held off buying a portable "solar generator" until someone can build one at a price point with the power of anything near what your DIY builds can produce. Thanks again Will.

@saoirses_travel_bug7426 6 жыл бұрын

And yes, yes, yes, more tutorials! :) You explain things so well so looking forward to you putting those up :) Much appreciated!

@divisionbreak 5 жыл бұрын

Thank you Will. The diagram you drew there is very clear, precise & easy to learn. I have watched many other RV's solar-electrical wiring set-up videos but I couldn't catch the details how they were actually connected to each component/equipment. Thank you very much.

@jerryjean2135 5 жыл бұрын

I'm glad that you mentioned your book. I just bought it. I'm going to Haiti and I will make good use of it. Thank you brother!

@jannezack 6 жыл бұрын

Who says you can’t teach an old dog a new trick?! This is great introductory material and was explained so clearly without getting way over my head too fast. I’m going to enjoy your book! I’ll also be watching your videos too! Thank you for keeping it simple!

@ritamurphy9426 6 жыл бұрын

This is great. When learning something new I need to keep it simple, learn the basics, then add details. You explained the basics perfectly! Thanks!

@stopmakingmemakeaccounts8648 2 жыл бұрын

The "for someone who" at the beginning had me instantly hooked. GREAT EXPLANATION THANK YOU SO MUCH

@takayama1638 6 жыл бұрын

I've seen a lot of solar videos, yours are some of the best!! Thanks Will.

@originalnightshade4582 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for this! I am a disabled female, that needs solar for when TSHTF! You made this so easy to understand, it was all in my head but watching this made it "click" Guess I understood more that I thought!! BLESSSINGS

@voyeurette1 3 жыл бұрын

Where are you? I am a disabled female in FLorida and would love to have others to discuss prepping with.

@HeliFly1987 6 жыл бұрын

Best video I've seen yet explaining this. The fact we have the same first name makes it even better! Thanks

@caravandanadventures Жыл бұрын

KZfaq search. This is the most to the point video I have found. Saved me very much frustration. It's to the point. Too many YT videos trying to gain views on bullshit. Thank you Will. Hope your Mom is doing fine. Long time viewer of yours. Peace.

@belowme9891 2 жыл бұрын

Awesome video. I've been living off off grid solar since 2015 self built. Teach the world.

@linda_sue 6 жыл бұрын

Best book EVER! Love this video, too! So glad I found it! I have your book and it's SO worth getting! Thank you for writing it and for how easy it is to follow! You're a very good teacher! We need this information!

@ubifidessemperspes 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you William! Your video has provided a clear introduction for this beginner!

@kevinhudson3032 2 жыл бұрын

A charge controller. A battery. A inverter and a battery. And worse and connectors. Best video so far. I watch many of them but am clueless. I signed up on the forum but haven’t been able to figure out how to engage or anything other than log in. But I’ll keep going

@peace2all 2 жыл бұрын

I’ve been watching dozens of your more recent videos over the past few months, and despite the fact I didn’t understand much of the technical jargon, I enjoyed your enthusiasm and energy. But this one video here is a game changer for me. Thanks so much!

@sunka4557 5 жыл бұрын

I'm impressed with your KZfaq presentation. It hits on most of the basic points and you push the safety aspect. I'll buy your book. It would be a good reference for when I make one of these soon.

@Sirus2828 3 жыл бұрын

I thoroughly enjoy watching your videos. You make them so informative and interesting. You have a talent explaining things. I spent 4 years doing electronic engineering and have learnt more from you than the college!! Well done, I'll be getting the book, and look forward to more of your videos!

@Bigboats619 Жыл бұрын

Wow, I found the answer I was looking for in the first 3 minutes of the video. Thank you.

@robertvandenbrink6187 6 жыл бұрын

Thank Will ...for a simple in depth explation of solar...I am setting up my first solar system tomorrow.

@agspr 4 жыл бұрын

Man, you explain things so well that I bought your book midway through the video, then came back to finish it. Thanks!

@user-cr2zl5rb2x 10 ай бұрын

Already bought four of your books. Sent them to two of my brothers and making notes in mine. That way we can all be on the same page and reference the same stuff. I appreciate your book and videos!!

@zawawiahamad2347 4 жыл бұрын

Love your simplicity reasoning. TQ.

@BillLowenburg 3 жыл бұрын

Great stuff, Will, thanks for diagramming it all out in simple form. Through your videos I now have a solid basic grasp of the components and overview of a solar powered off grid battery system. Keep up the great work - I’m buying your book as a reference and will use it when I build my system. Thanks!

@mrderekholmberg 5 жыл бұрын

I love it---- "this is so simply and the voltages are so low that you can't really hurt yourself, that bad"

@charlenelaguer7072 5 жыл бұрын

Will, I sure appreciate this video! You've done a great job in sharing with us how to do it as a beginner. Thanks so much..keep posting!!!

@terrahurst2228 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much!! I’m installing solar on my RV and have no idea what I’m doing. I’ve watched countless how to videos and have remained confused until I watched this video. You have a gift for teaching! Thank you!

@figgiefigueroa7372 3 жыл бұрын

First time I see your videos and I love it. Thanks for your dedication. I'm determined to learn about solar power. I see the benefits are immeasurable.

@lovepeacetrust22 3 жыл бұрын

I admire your expertise and patience in educating us. Thank you.

@MadSkilzGP 4 жыл бұрын

Its 17 Feb 2020 now and since finding your videos recently when needing to do an offline system at home due to Load Shedding here in South Africa ... I went ahead and bought your book as my support to you (Its the LEAST I could do) for all the information you have given me in the videos ... having successfully built a home system that works for me based on your videos. So thanks for all the great information that I think has helped MANY people! :) I wish you all the best brother!

@annag467 2 жыл бұрын

This is a great refresher, i bought your book on amazon! All the components you mentioned are ready to be wired, im actually picking up my solar panels, mounts and branch connectors in a few hours, cant wait to see how this goes

@message_temple216 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you for all your videos. They are the most informative for me. I am not a scientific/physics/electrical-know-how person AT ALL. But your manner of teaching the basics despite your expert knowledge is so so helpful.

@johnandmichelevaughan1638 2 жыл бұрын

What I know of this topic wouldn’t fill a thimble but this simple, clear, truly “for dummies” explanation has me thinking I might actually be able to do this and to be able to learn more! Thank you!

@donkimball6174 4 жыл бұрын

Well done Will with your explanations. I also appreciate that you communicate in an honest realistic fashion not geared towards bilking people out of money.

@ledesclos5321 6 жыл бұрын

You are an excellent teacher and so well spoken,. I have learned so much from you. God be with you.

@littlejohnnymiller3465 3 жыл бұрын

I know this video was made a few years ago. But I'm so glad I got to see it. Its starting to make sense now. Your a smart man and I hope your making lots of money with your knowledge.

@unhappyhousecat9303 2 жыл бұрын

Dude had to watch a few hour of your videos , didnt understand anything but I got everything I needed. Them boom watched a bunch of other videos about safety and grounding wore size etc etc. Came back and watched this again and I finally understand what your saying. Thank you very much.

@drbettyschueler3235 5 жыл бұрын

Fantastic! For the first time I understand what you were saying in your book. I'm one of those people who does best watching someone do something I've never done before. Fortunately, I've done enough wiring to understand your connections. I didn't really understand how the controller worked, however, as it seemed like I already had that capability on my Kodiak battery. I have other batteries, however, that don't have that capability, I wanted to use to keep my Dodge Grand Caravan's battery topped as it seems to discharge really quickly when not driven. So thanks for the help. I feel much more confident that I won't blow anything up now lol.

@stephanieamedee7172 2 жыл бұрын

Yayyy!!! I understood EVERY thing!!! I am just now exploring backup solar power for emergencies and I am SO glad I found you!! And yes, I need your book!!

@isabellel7677 6 жыл бұрын

You are killin it with the solar stuff. You are addressing everything!!🎉🎉🎉

@Kievlar Жыл бұрын

This video is for me whose got no experience with anything solar and electricity/circuitry. Very helpful! Thanks!

@eliseemmel 4 жыл бұрын

You are delightful! Thank you for helping this old lady understand this complicated stuff. I’m buying your book.

@k5jrx3 3 жыл бұрын

Amazing channel. Really appreciate your vids. I have a civil engineering background, and for the past 8 years own a family home renovations business. As a HAM radio operator I have been looking to convert my shack to all DC power. The less that my shack is connected to AC power, the better. You do a great job of explaining and teaching. As an analytical person I much prefer when someone just gets to the point, covers all necessary information, and is thorough without covering unnecessary information. Im looking at the West Mountain Epic PWRgate as the controller for the solar panel. I called their tech dept today to verify that the power gate is a replacement for a solar controller. Its a nice piece of equipment for radio operators since it allows us to connect a battery, a solar panel, and a power supply to feed our DC distribution system. Our radios prefer 13.8 volts, but can operate on less under less than ideal conditions. However, its important not to discharge the battery too much so as to protect the battery and the equipment. With all of that....I have taken in a lot of info from your many vids. Even some of these earlier vids are well presented. Good job

@samanthafernweh5125 4 жыл бұрын

Simple, clear , informative and passionately explained - excellent, thank you .

@esling77 3 жыл бұрын

Book is now on the way ! Planning on converting an old Sailboat over to Solar! Ty. I'm excited to jump in !

@robertthe13th82 6 жыл бұрын

Thank you Will, I'm going to build my own setup.

@TheAmazingFantazmo 5 жыл бұрын

Watched the video and went strait to amazon to buy the book, hello from Manchester 😁

@2002honda954 Жыл бұрын

Thanks Will just bought the book and love the videos.

@yrankin1 6 жыл бұрын

Good job Will! You talked me into an Inergy Kodiak a few videos ago :)

@kellymanas6133 2 жыл бұрын

I love a young guy teaching such a well executed lesson. Thanks! I think I need your book.

@GSBMxyz 2 жыл бұрын

Best solar power channel ever!

@FargoFX 5 жыл бұрын

Excellent video. Just the kind of simple, clear tutorial I’ve been looking for 👍

@veronicasnider3838 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the logical and clear explanations of the system. You did an amazing job!

@larsturner310 5 жыл бұрын

Got the book. Looking forward to reading it.

@laurajphillips 5 жыл бұрын

You are an excellent teacher, I know I could do this without a problem!!! Thank You!!!!

@hammer1312 3 жыл бұрын

Will. You are a super smart young man. I know this is an old vid . I watch ALL of your vids. You are hands down the best solar you tuber out here bar none. Im still trying to understand my solar. I just got it hooked up 3 days ago. It's a small 200 watt system and i have 2 100 amp hour agm batteries. But i AM learning. And it's thanks to you. So see an old dog can learn new tricks. Again tyvm and God bless you. ✌ Puff Puff Passin By.

@blessed7927 4 жыл бұрын

Wow thank you! I'm a woman and this was very helpful. You explain everything so clearly! Thank you and God bless you! Will check out your book too.

@gbankson1968 5 жыл бұрын

This young man represent very well! Great Job!!

@susanmaguire4452 6 жыл бұрын

You are a great teacher. Thanks.

@frankieshankly703 2 жыл бұрын

Watched many videos of this guy, he really desreves your attention. Cant say much more but I will make my system from his guides.

@whereislei929 2 жыл бұрын

the absolute MOST informative and HELPFUL. beats every other video, THANK YOU

@garytredwell5649 4 жыл бұрын

Bought the book because Will is a very good teacher and I will build a system in the future with this knowledge.

@sparkie3231 6 жыл бұрын

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!! And have a wonderful Thanksgiving week. Hugs, B

@JoshForet 6 жыл бұрын

Hell yes. This was made for me. Appreciate it Will!

@mr.johnson3827 6 жыл бұрын

Not to be disrespectful, but you imply that a lead acid battery is between $700-1000. Not true. And 2- t-105 is above ave for a beginner, with normal needs. You said your "bank" (more than one) is $800 and #240. How many ah you talking? I'm sure you'll agree, a beginner can build a 200w, 30ish amp mppt controller, with around 200ah amg. System for around $1000.

@maryholland4565 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for making this easy to understand! I am looking into living a bit off the grid.

@suefreivald7031 5 жыл бұрын

OK. My husband has worked as an electrician and he understands all this stuff. I am a mom, a nurse, an equestrian - and I know nothing about this stuff. I want and need to understand and my husband wants to be sure than in any situation I can function efficiently and independently. Your site is indispensable. And I know your book will be for me as well! Ordered it today. Your videos are coherent and clear, but the non-technical mind appreciates being able to look back, reference, refresh, understand. Thank you.

@numnumlandful 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for this! I finally get it! I think! I've ordered your book, and look forward to setting myself up with solar in my box truck.

@TheJestar30 11 ай бұрын

This is what I needed to begin this work....My friend, ty

@beckydavidson6322 3 ай бұрын

thank you for this video. I had been searching for a video to dumb this down for me and luckily enough came across yours.

@philo2808 6 жыл бұрын

Thanx Will for taking the time to explain it,still have the book though.

@Addiezmom 5 жыл бұрын

I highly recommend the book! I bought mine on Amazon Kindle and have it on my tablet. Works great for me!!

@randyedwards1091 Жыл бұрын

Very good communication. You are the best solar teacher on there, without a doubt. Still I wish you were my neighbor. I want solar , but I hear so many horror stories. Thanks for the info.

@seariousjones 3 жыл бұрын

Only video that has made sense to me! THANK YOU!! Bought your book straight away!

@ML-uk6lu 4 жыл бұрын

Perfect diagram. NOW I SEE!!!! Thanks.

@mobilehomelife4028 5 жыл бұрын

Well worth watching for a solar novice like myself, got my kindle version of the book, you never know when you may not have Internet to re watch. Although my background is in computers, this video was a great help.

@chadbarbour4706 4 жыл бұрын

Really enjoyed watching your video. It’s basic and explains every do and don’t to an extent. I watch other videos and they’re all over the place. First time I took in information about how to set everything up and how to without wanting to fall asleep. Looking forward to picking up your book. Thank you for making this video and a book about solar power. :-)

@awkward-stranger 2 жыл бұрын

Thank gawd! Finally something for dummies!🤔

@artb8300 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us...! You are great and I appreciate you making it plain for me.

@JohndaCosta 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your knowledge!

@craiginbatonrouge8161 6 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for simplifying this.....

@chrismaggio7879 5 жыл бұрын

THIS is the video I needed! Thx! Iwill look for the book.

@anastasianikolaou3492 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you!!! I finally understand how this works! Next step, buying your book 👍

@grantmoorhouse4825 6 жыл бұрын

Hey that was good! I learned a lot! Thanks. Subscribed!

@ericlayton913 3 жыл бұрын

Will, you are the man! love your videos.

@bruchlandung1 4 жыл бұрын

Hi Will Even I understand what you are talking about. I am a kind of person who needs it explained the easy way step by step. All your videos are very helpful and in combination with your book