Why You Should Use 48V For Your Off Grid Solar System

Рет қаралды 97,336

Күн бұрын

Don't buy 12V batteries when you can build a 12V converter for a 48V system. Link for circuit diagrams and materials: projectswithdave.com/48v-to-1...
Power Queen Website: ipowerqueen.com/?ref=gwq9cs98
Power Queen 3% OFF Site Wide CODE: Everyday3
Power Queen 12V (12.8V nom): ipowerqueen.com/collections/1...
Andonstar AD409 Digital Microscope used in this video - $63 off with this link and Amazon coupon combined (exp. 4/13/23): amzn.to/42NXFga
Tesmen TM-510 Auto-Ranging Voltmeter only $10: amzn.to/3LUCd3i
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
See the breakdown for this project on my website: projectswithdave.com/48v-to-1...
Check out my battery recommendations on my website: projectswithdave.com/batteries/
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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...
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Key components for convenience:
DC/DC Converter: amzn.to/40z0Vdt
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...
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Solar & Off Grid Materials & Components on my website: projectswithdave.com/components/
Tools:
Tools On My Website: projectswithdave.com/tools/
Klein Tools 11063W Wire Cutter/Stripper; amzn.to/3pjebm1
Titan 11477 Ratcheting Wire Terminal Crimper: amzn.to/3lQqg3I
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WANT TO GO SOLAR BUT DON'T KNOW WHERE TO START?
Try Energy Sage - It's free: www.energysage.com/p/everyday...
I used Energy Sage to research solar and receive multiple competing quotes for my solar install.
Solar doesn't make sense for everyone and I have found a great free resource that's on YOUR side. It's called EnergyPal, they will help you determine if solar is RIGHT FOR YOU and set you up with the lowest cost installation that meets your needs. If you follow my link to sign up you will get a $500 gift card when your install is complete! energypal.com/everyday-dave
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
01:15 12V DC/DC Converter Build Components
02:33 48V to 12V DC/DC Converter Build
05:09 AD409 Andonstar Digital Microscope
08:53 12V System Testing
18:11 12V VS 48V Off Grid System Cost Comparison
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.
Affiliate information and disclaimers:
Links in description may be affiliate links, we may get paid if you purchase something through one of these links. This helps out our channel at no extra cost to you. Thank You!
(As a SanTan Solar Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases)
(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.)
Projects with Everyday Dave 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: 199

@rednecktek2873 Жыл бұрын

I'm not sure how you can use the words Victron and Budget in the same sentence.

@anthonybianue9206 Жыл бұрын

😂 ha!!!

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

The 12V converter was the budget part, not the inverter. : )

@VinceBadovinatz88 Жыл бұрын

@@ProjectsWithDave I could tell that's what you meant

@theMekanik Жыл бұрын

Impossible 😂

@theMekanik Жыл бұрын

I don’t know why he’s using 100AH 12Volt Batteries 🤔 They make Rak Batteries that are 12Volt.

@WillProwse Жыл бұрын

I tell people this all the time but they still buy 12V batteries. I don't get it. Then they argue with me about how they like 12V and none of the reasons are compelling. I've done endless all in one one/converter/48V battery videos, but people still choose 12V. It's nuts.

@WillProwse Жыл бұрын

Cool back drop with the solar panels!!

@WillProwse Жыл бұрын

I wish companies would make 48V devices so people wouldn't need to ever use a converter. That would be nice

@WillProwse Жыл бұрын

I never mounted devices to polycarbonate. Neat

@Vibe77Guy Жыл бұрын

I was searching through various sources of batteries and found CMX/COREMAX Batt. The site makes some claims that look like they are the OEM manufacturer of several different brands, including RoyPow and EG4.

@zmarko Жыл бұрын

Are you going to tear one of these Power Queen batteries down, Will? Will be interesting to see your take on them also. Looks like a similar manufacturer to other 48v server rack batteries (SOK perhaps?).

@christelting1359 Жыл бұрын

Just going to throw this in. 48v inverters tend to be larger and hence cost more money and burn more power idling. My own advice to anyone starting out is to go straight to 24v system and get two identical batteries at 24v at the same time so that they degrade equivalently. Buy prebuilt new or build your own. After a year or two you can slowly upgrade and you will ready to engineer a larger system that is right for you. One nice thing about this option is you can always split it up later to have the original batteries serve power to separate locations or equipment. Off-grid isn't that complicated in the end. Hardest thing to understand is wire gauges and lengths. If you have lots of land/space then buy used panels vs the latest and greatest and you will save money and get more power.

@tinker3962 Жыл бұрын

Good plan for the budget minded and self motivated.

@VinceBadovinatz88 Жыл бұрын

Good comment

@VinceBadovinatz88 11 ай бұрын

@@tinker3962 yup

@davefroman4700 10 ай бұрын

Splitting it up only increases the costs. You can find smaller 48V inverters and charge controllers now. Secondly splitting it up increases the inefficiency. You have the added loses of a second setup, where as if you just move the power through the AC infrastructure is more efficient. It doesn't matter if a bigger setup is 10% less efficient because if you added the inefficiency of two smaller systems, it would be more than the larger one.

@christelting1359 10 ай бұрын

@@davefroman4700 I was describing someone starting out with solar. If you buy 16 cells you can have two 24v batteries in parallel. Yet you can still move to 48v later and double or quadruple the cells. In the beginning no one really knows what they want/need until they get their hands dirty. 24v is a cheaper and slightly less intimidating just getting into it while being able to convert your battery setup later once you grasp how much power each thing uses. For my setup I run as much as I can DC to DC. Yes there are smaller 48v inverters but not everyone knows how much power they use or want to use. 48v inverters are thousands of dollars. Off grid is a being mindful of what power your using and when. People starting out at say a 5k 24v system will gain the confidence and a couple years later buy 30k of batteries in a 48v config knowing it's a solid investment.

@racingtogreen2023 Жыл бұрын

I have all powerqueen batts in my systems, and have been looking at these closely for a small backup system for a separate off-grid system to use to power my Garage mini-split, and charge our Ford Lightning. I want to build a 48v system, at least once for practice for an eventual system we'll build in Panama. I'm at the age that the microscope is a huge find. Thanks!

@user-oy6xp9yk3k Жыл бұрын

I am setting up another network tower but this time at a remote location I was researching on the solar power that is when your channel popped up, you are helpful Sir, hello from Nairobi Kenya, Africa

@temirtaragay8932 10 ай бұрын

Hello Dave, Thanks for clear, well paced video and the content. I just signed up to your channel because I can see you have a sense of respect and willingness to help viewers who do not have experience in working with solar panels. I have wathced some videos on a youtube channel where the person was laughing at the viewers by fast forwarding his video and speaking intentionally faster and showing some formulas that dissappear before you can read them.

@s.mendez7160 Ай бұрын

Nice details in your video. We've seen people use the 48/12V Buck Converters in RV's hoping to supply 12V to their loads like slide-outs. Unfortunately the output on those are unregulated. Nice to see you pointing this out.

@zbigniewteterycz1571 Жыл бұрын

SUPER IDEA . SUPER POMYSŁ .POZDRAWIAM .

@LumenCache Жыл бұрын

I like the assembly jig!

@alexrapada 7 ай бұрын

Golden Content right here!

@shawndasharkk1138 Жыл бұрын

GREAT video thank you for your awesome insight Im trying to be like you how my 10 yr old boy THE joy of building in ele. and solar thank you dave

@ryanchappell5962 Жыл бұрын

You could also get the power queen 300ah 12v battery which has a 200a BMS. I agree about expandability though. If you want something REALLY powerful then higher voltage makes sense. Imagine trying to run a normal electric dryer off the grid. I think that’s about 5000w at full power. There are probably people that need 5-10kw of capacity. There are also larger buildings and workshops. Solar could definitely handle all that but you would need some crazy batteries

@evil17 9 ай бұрын

Yeah good job Dave, 48vdc is the new 12v/24v for most power hungry usages, homes, large RV’s etc. Main considerations for RV or van installations is weather u have the real estate if u want to use solar panels to get the voltage above 60v for charging purposes, but there a generally ways to do this. Cheers

@ShaneLeedham 8 ай бұрын

Most are even 120v minimum input. That growatt P model is the only one I can find for 60v. Do you know of any others, or have suggestions if I'm only running 2-4 solar panels?

@jasonbroom7147 Жыл бұрын

Another excellent video, as per your usual standards. For an off-grid home, or even a larger cabin or class A motorhome, the 48v system you built and the 12v accessory panel would make a lot of sense. For vanlife builds, most marine applications, or small off-grid applications, 12v and 24v builds probably make more sense.

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

Do you say that because you have too many 12V loads? Why not just get a bigger DC/DC converter?

@jasonbroom7147 Жыл бұрын

@@ProjectsWithDave - Yes, many of the applications I mentioned are designed to run off of 12v or 24v batteries. Converting lower voltages to 110/220, just to power small loads that don't draw many amps isn't very efficient. Many products ulimately use a lower voltage to run, so it's more efficient if you supply that voltage directly.

@Chris_at_Home Жыл бұрын

We have a remote cabin that has an old Trace 4048. I’ve been using it close to 20 years. I’m still using 12v agm batteries in series that I put in back then. I always tell people about high current loads and internal resistance in batteries. I worked in telecommunications for many years and most equipment was 48v. I worked one place where the cells were 1700ah. They weighed close to 700 lbs for each 2v cell.

@Chris_at_Home Жыл бұрын

@@jasonbroom7147 We have a remote cabin with a 48v system for an inverter and also a 12v system for RV pump and H2O heater electronic ignition. Also all the lights are 12V Led.

@dhayananthankanagasabai8880 Жыл бұрын

@@Chris_at_Home sorry by mistake I pressed

@rondunlap4628 Жыл бұрын

Thank you Dave' I have a 12v system and wanted to go to 48 volts without spending to many $$

@jamesrequa6926 5 ай бұрын

For your future convenience, no, lamp cord is not color coded but one conductor's insulation has a ridge so you can match it at each end.

@Electronzap Жыл бұрын

Nice testing.

@HL65536 3 ай бұрын

I built a DIY 48V off grid system precisely because of the lower losses, from raw 100Ah LiFePo4 cells and individual electronic components, DIY BMS (incl. datalogger for each cell), DIY MPPT (98% eff), only the 230V inverter was off the shelf (I'm not messing with high voltage (yet)). 48V was the sweetspot for efficiency vs safety (I can touch the battery without much happening, sometimes it tingles a little, but no more; also simple fuses are still available at reasonable prices). 48V is also a voltage that is still reasonably low so DIY voltage converters are still quite simple to build. All that with no chinesium parts (they all actually provide what's on the label). Next step for my future projects could be high voltage DC (300ish V). Many 230V AC devices can also directly be powered by 300ish V DC, which would eliminate the inverter (and its losses). But for that to be viable it would have to be a much larger scale (30+ kWh battery). And I would need to figure out how to use high voltage DC safely (need different fuses etc.)

@SmallVansBigWorld Жыл бұрын

Very nice video. Fun custom stuff that is diy friendly. I think they make converters that can output 13.5v instead of 12v. Or there are step down converters that you can set a custom voltage.

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

Yes I use similar products for other projects, but they seemed a bit too complicated for this "simple" illustration.

@whochecksthis Жыл бұрын

@@ProjectsWithDave actually, the exact same style converter is available with a 13.8V output. Way better for these uses.

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

I agree, that is a much better choice. I found the converter you mentioned and updated the schematic and parts lists to include that version. You can see the updates on my website: projectswithdave.com/48v-to-12v-dc-dc-converter-project-build/

@MichaelEricMenk Жыл бұрын

@@whochecksthis I have one of those 13.8V boost-buck coverters. A full 6 cell Lead Acid battery is 12.8, and 13.8 when float charging.. 12V automotive equipment works best between 12.6 and 14.4V. As you se in the video, the battery protection circuit activated in the fridge...

@s.mendez7160 Ай бұрын

@@whochecksthis But is the voltage output regulated????

@fredflintstone1428 8 ай бұрын

I'm just replacing my 32 x VARTA LFD230 lead-acid battery bank (2 tonne of lead) for a SEPLOS MASON 48V 15kWh LiFePO4 battery. Great video BTW.

@JamesG1126 5 ай бұрын

Why 15kwh? That's not much.

@SylvainDelisle1 Жыл бұрын

I suggest that the high lost of voltage on 12v car adapter to something around 9 volts when drawing 16 amps, is due to a connector which is rated to 10 amps max and very small wires guage. A quick mesurement at the closest point of the dc-dc converter would probably showing pretty closed to 12v, and maybe the reason why the converter stayed cold.

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

Yes, your are correct. I made an update in the description.

@HeidiandFranny 3 ай бұрын

I am struggling between 24V and 48V for our sailing catamaran. It is the solar panels that are pushing me to 24V. I really want an individual controller on each panel so I have the best power generation when the rig is shadowing a panel or two. The panels are 585W 44V each so I'd have to put two in series to get past 48V. The big draw on the boat are winches, windlass, and tender lift - all 12V. It is impractical to provide 12V@200A continuous from a 48V-12V converter or 24-12V converter so I'll need a 12V battery that can deliver that load. The house bank (24 or 48V) will not have any native loads beyond the dual 5K inverters except for maybe DC aricon in the future (currently 220VAC). I've been looking at the Epoch 12V-460Ah in a 2S2P configuration allowing redundancy and an additional 12V-460 for the 12V native loads. 24V seems easier to get back to 12V and with the solar panel voltage, I think I'm leaning towards 24V.

@TimRoyalPastortim 9 ай бұрын

Great video... you should try a Renogy 20-40-60 amp DC - DC converter. Victron also has some, but they are VERY expensive. The Renogy's are reasonably priced and would hold voltage under load.

@s.mendez7160 Ай бұрын

His design is using an unregulated 48volt to 12Volt buck converter.

@Trustedcoins Жыл бұрын

You can get a server rack version of those 12v batteries, all the benefits of extra wire management, but just one 200amp inline fuse, 12V 6144Wh LiFePO4 Battery Built-in 250A BMS

@LumenCache Жыл бұрын

Many factories here (I live in Shenzhen) use that DC/DC case but the circuits inside vary widely. That's a pretty steep voltage sag on the output if that's not from a long wire loss at high current.

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

The voltage sag was largely due to the wire loss. I re-ran the test and got about 11.4V at the same power output.

@LumenCache Жыл бұрын

@@ProjectsWithDave Current is the killer, and it's amazing how SLOWLY electrons actually bump and flow through wires. #PhysicsNerdStuff

@LumenCache Жыл бұрын

We passed the indiegogo funding round today! We'll be on schedule. Would you like to see one of the first ones to test?

@realeyesrealizereallies6828 10 ай бұрын

I would get the 60 amp converter for 12 volt loads because alot of products won't run if the voltage sags that low..Like compression fridges, etc. Wrote that b4 you got to the fridge, but it's true with many fridges..But, yes 48 volt systems are the way to go, especially with the all in one inverter/solar charge controller/ ac charger like EG4/MPP/Grow watt..The little EG4 3000 watt all in one can handle 5,000 watts of solar, allowing for expansion..Expanding battery capacity is tricky, you don't want to wait too long..A separate premade solar generator for 12 volt loads, can make sense also, plug it into the inverter and charge with solar, and the DC side will be efficient and mobile..

@dorusadriaanse5256 Жыл бұрын

It looks like the cables at the 12v test running 16A are quite long and thin plus not unwinded. This could explain the low voltage especially since voltage drops more over time due to heat in the cable.

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

Yes, I think you're right. I need to re run the test with shorter 12awg cables. Update: I ran the test again using 12 AWG conductors. At 153W, I had 11.4V and 13.4A, the input was 166W. 92% efficient. Much better result.

@Do_the_Dishes Жыл бұрын

FYI: The lamp cord is marked with ribs on one of the two conductors. The ribbed one is typically the neutral side when using it for lamps and such.

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the tip. I usually check continuity anyway just to be sure.

@Do_the_Dishes Жыл бұрын

@@ProjectsWithDave Same here, I guess it's the way my brain is wired. Assume it could be wrong and double check everything. I also mark all my DC stuff Red and black too.

@seymourscagnetti1413 10 ай бұрын

Great video/info. Is this the same principle used in major grid systems to send a million or so volts down a relatively smaller gauge cable and then step the voltage down as needed for distribution?

@ProjectsWithDave 10 ай бұрын

Yes, that is why the voltage on long transmission lines is so high.

@fezdk Жыл бұрын

Maybe try a multimeter on the buck converter output to complement the load testers voltage reading at those somewhat high amp loads... That wire on the 12v jack looks quite thin, so I think you're probably losing 1 volt just in the wire resistance.

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

I made an update with 12AWG wires, it holds 11.4V. It's in the Posts section on my KZfaq page.

@fezdk Жыл бұрын

@@ProjectsWithDave Ah, sorry! Didn't catch that you already addressed this 🙂

@alexbabcock1880 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for the content! I’ve never heard of XT-60 connectors before, they look cost-effective! Do you have any other recommendations for general-use, cost-effective connectors?/do you use these often?

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

They are a very common connector in the hobby industry for batteries. They come in multiple sizes, this size is good for up to 60A. Here's a link: amzn.to/40H0JJj

@diyrenewableenergyelectron4996 Жыл бұрын

It’s worth buying “AMAXX” XT connectors. They are more expensive, but are the OEM and the quality is much higher. I learned this the hard way.

@EclecticBuddha Жыл бұрын

12v is nice for single battery portable systems. I like having the ability to run small 12v electronics directly without an inverter. I wish there were electronics that run on 48v directly

@davefroman4700 10 ай бұрын

There will be in the future, thanks to EV's. Tesla is moving to the 48V architecture for their low voltage systems. Strictly for the efficiency gains. And with the Cybertruck coming out later this year is going to be the first to incorporate it.

@ciciedee5474 Жыл бұрын

Fantastic video. You intrigued me with monitor system. Please do video with whatever you monitor with. At present I'm doing Vue with Home assistant. One other thot is why 48v when 350v is available?

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

48V is still considered low voltage. It's safer to work with than 350V.

@slipkid35 Жыл бұрын

48V is the NEC's cut off for what's considered "low voltage", and generally it's safer to work with than the higher voltage stuff. Data centers and the telecommunications industry all run off of 48V DC and have been for years. And when you get up in the 300-400V+ range you need specialized equipment, training and tools definitely not something for the faint of heart!

@evil17 9 ай бұрын

Another good reason to run off 48vdc instead of using the inverter or grid power is the power efficiency (no wasted high inverter idle current) & redundancy backup if ur inverter shits itself u can still have lights, etc. Many of ur larger home LED panel lights will run between 40v-55v and can be wired with a cheap pwm dimmer control direct to battery, so their wattage can be controlled from a few watts up to 50w-60w for more conservative power control & good lighting.

@winstonsmiths2449 Жыл бұрын

With respect to Prowse and others, using 12v batteries as the base power source gives you more flexibility when stuff goes to hell. Worse case scenarios, you can gather abandoned 12v car batteries and build whatever sized system you need or are equipped for. The MPPT can be and should be a multi-voltage device. I use 24v and 12v batteries from 100ah to 200ah, but I SPd/S them to only 24v systems. Solar panel deployment space is one compelling reason for my setups. I cannot use more than 6 panels (200w) total with 3 in one area, and 3 in another area on my property/rental. HOA!

@BobBob-il2ku Жыл бұрын

This is why I want to go 12/24vdc being able to scavenge for batteries/parts for SHTF /emp

@winstonsmiths2449 Жыл бұрын

@@BobBob-il2ku I have 3 DIY systems and 2 all in ones, total about 10,000w real-world output.

@erroneouscode Жыл бұрын

I too have stuck with 12v because I rent and most of my system is installed in my off road vehicle which I seldom drive having a second vehicle for everyday use. When I'm at home I power most of my house appliances with the aid of additional solar on my shed which I connect to the system in my vehicle. When I'm away from home the only thing I really need to power at home potentially from the grid is refrigeration. I will eventually make a small fixed system at home dedicated to that when I'm away. I prefer to take the power I produce with me. If I move or SHTF I don't want to have to dismantle and reassemble a system, or worse case abandon it.

@simon359 Жыл бұрын

I have a 48 V system already installed in my house. I’m wondering if you could do a video on two different battery bank brands hooked to a 48 V system. I’m wondering about the complications since your parameters have to be the same? 🖖 Doesn’t seem like there’s any videos out there on the subject, except Will Prowse, who doesn’t go into detail about how to do it. The last thing I want to do is destroy a battery bank.

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

Well, I'll have the materials to do that. I'll think about doing some analysis on the topic. However, It would be next fall before I was able to get to it. I'm pretty backed up with projects.

@sxsjerry5483 Жыл бұрын

I have a 6k sunny boy inverter, it has 18 panels on it with 2 feed circuits, it is clipping in the middle of day, would it better to use the 3rd feed circuit and break the panels to 6 per feed in circuit

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

Clipping is a result of not taking advantage of all the available current. Generally speaking you will get the best performance at the highest voltage, which would be the most panels you can fit in a string but still leaving margin to the max input voltage. Do not exceed the max input voltage. It is possible to get more power by breaking your system into three strings if the inverter has a max power limit for each input. If it is clipping at 6kW that's the most you can get out of that inverter in any configuration. Breaking the array up into more strings does not reduce the current, it reduces the voltage. I believe your inputs have a 10A current limit. If your panels are rated for more then 10A you will always have clipping no matter the configuration.

@JulianGoesPro 11 ай бұрын

Are you supposed to put the racks in this standing position? I thought it’s recommended to keep the cells with the contacts facing up? Thanks!

@ProjectsWithDave 11 ай бұрын

It is ok to have them in alternate orientations.

@calvinfarrow1720 9 ай бұрын

So I’ve done the same thing. I have two lp4 server rack batteries I have a 12v rooftop Air conditioner. I had a single step down converter. The AC requires 960 w the step down can supply 840. So it gets hot, I wanted to wire in a second step down converter to share the load. I had it all working for 3 months now. Until I added the second step down converter. I made the mistake of having two different kinds of step down converters one shorted out. I now have two the same. However after trying to wire them in parallel my AC won’t work. Could you do a video showing how to wire step down converter in parallel Or series? Currently I’m doing some troubleshooting to see if my original step down is shorted. Or if I fried my AC .

@ProjectsWithDave 9 ай бұрын

1000W at 12V is a significant load. In this case you would want to find a single high power DC/DC converter or build a 12V system.

@dougwilson8274 Жыл бұрын

Dave, can yo come up with a way to replace the 12v receptacle on the 12v compressor refer with a USB C connection?

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

Are you wanting a way to cut off the 12V cigarette plug and replace it with a USB-C plug?

@dougwilson8274 Жыл бұрын

@@ProjectsWithDave wanting to run dc compressor with USB feed to get ride of Cluny 12v cigarette lighter connection that tends to break quickly and is hard to keep connected while moving fridge around.

@temirtaragay8932 10 ай бұрын

I am having hard time to find 3 to 1 T connector for 8awg wires. Since I already have 50 feet of 8awg wires I would like to connect 3 panels in parallel. There is 8awg single wire connector available wich can connect 10 awg and 8awg wires but there is no 3 t0 1 T connector on amazon and ebay. What can you recommend as a work around to this issue?

@ProjectsWithDave 10 ай бұрын

If you are trying to combine different size conductors I would make a small junction box and use the Dinkle Assembly Kit DK10N. You can use it as a combiner or passthrough. You can find it on my components page on my website here: projectswithdave.com/components/ Or on Amazon here: amzn.to/450gPQg You can see how I used it in my system here: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/q7loltSh1afdZ6c.html

@tinker3962 Жыл бұрын

How do they work in big RV's with all the bouncing and temp changes? Any guidance?

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

While I don't have any empirical data for that, I think it would be no problem. The construction is well done. The case is solid steel, the batteries are held in place with steel U channel the BMS is bolted securely and all the wiring is secured well.

@evil17 9 ай бұрын

As Dave has said, these batteries are very robust and dont really get hot, but you would be advised to plan for some sort of ventilation in most battery and charging areas anyhow. In a larger RV/Motorhome/van they would an excellent choice if u have the realestate for enough solar panels to get ur voltage up high enough to operate a higher voltage MPPT AIO system. I have a 24v 3kwh AIO system in a stationary 40’ Bus on a property up north that works well, but I was considering a 48v 5 kwh system. I have 10kwh in 2 x 24v batteries I constructed with JK BMS’s. The bus is already a 24v system was probly the main reason for going the 24v route for me, but I do have a 48v system I also built for my house that works well too, it has 30 kwh of Lifepo4 made up of 3 of these sever rack type & a 15kwh battery I made with EVE type cells and another JK BMS, all in parallel, a 5 kwh MPPT AIO system, 10 kwh of solar grid tie pv. I charge the batteries by day timer for 6 hrs via a gpo and the AIO system, this runs most of my house and only uses about 15%-25% of the batteries capacity for 18hrs of use each day & I get about $30-$50 / month from my power company for the excess solar.

@tinker3962 9 ай бұрын

@@evil17 Thanks a bunch. Very helpful.

@igorkvachun3572 Жыл бұрын

Yes video👍 ⚡🔌🔋💡

@BobboNaught-YT 2 ай бұрын

I personally would use a Victron DC to DC converter instead of the Amazon special.

@davidalvarez6673 Жыл бұрын

I am building my first solar Generator with 4- 3.2v 230ah batteries do you have advice on a bms?

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

If you are building your own battery, I would check out the Lithium Solar channel or Will Prose channel they have several videos on the topic.

@Oxyandy Жыл бұрын

Daly Smart BMS if you want to see the ins and outs of your battery.. Simple no frills BMS also exists without any data

@marshal.van.mathers Жыл бұрын

What 48v-12v 20a dc-dc converter did you use?

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

Here's a link: amzn.to/3z7kTQI

@ChurchPointRiot Жыл бұрын

Can I mix and match 2 100W panels with a 165W inserted in a 300W inverter on my camper ?

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

There is not enough information to answer that question. If you connect mismatched panels in series, the voltages will add, and the current will be limited to the lowest of the three. As long as your inverter can handle the input voltage, it will most likely perform like three 100W panels. If your inverter has multiple MPPT's and is sensitive to low voltages, you could make two separate strings to maximize the output.

@ChurchPointRiot Жыл бұрын

@@ProjectsWithDave thanks Dave. I made an error. It’s not the inverter but the contrôler that is in question. I haven’t checked the inverter yet. The contrôler is made for 300 watts. Will the mix harm it ?

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

What model do you have?

@ChurchPointRiot Жыл бұрын

@@ProjectsWithDave after a lot of research I found out that my 165W panel is a Furrion FSFP16MW-BL. They sell it with the right cable connectors that are different than the MC4 and they don’t sell the connectors or cable extensions. Such BS is hard to understand. They will sell me a solar panel 165W for $830. Ça n you believe this ? They also state that their panels work only in series and two of them connected in series will work with my Furrion 300W solar charger. They really set me up. Any suggestions for a cheaper way around this ? I think I have no choice but to get their panel and be done with it.

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

Why anyone would spend $830 for a 165W panel is beyond me. If you want, you can put your own MC4 connectors on the panel. Here is a complete kit: amzn.to/3TUuhAt Here is a video showing how to do it: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/pa5jf9SF2pqmaHk.html Here is a 180W quality panel, I've tested with good results for only $170 with the current $20 coupon: amzn.to/3U5cfw3 Looks like your maximum input voltage is only 70V so that does not allow for very many panels in series.

@BobBob-il2ku Жыл бұрын

Thoughts on a 24vdc system?

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

It seem like an unnecessary mid point. You don't have the advantages of 12V power and the reduction in current is not nearly as significant as the 48V system.

@sleonard2649 Жыл бұрын

I have 48 volt systems for my home, rv and ebike. My frustration is the 48vdc to 12vdc converter. I looked into using a converter with an ebike battery for a trolling motor. Converters with a reasonable amperage and consistent voltage output are expensive! (I.e. automotive grade) Has anyone found something that works well at a reasonable price?

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

What current are you trying do provide? What are you powering at 12V?

@sleonard2649 Жыл бұрын

@@ProjectsWithDave The trolling motor pulls 30 amps at max speed.

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

Here is a 50A version, I haven't tested it, but it would probably work: amzn.to/3FWkqVC

@svenshanah 5 ай бұрын

Speaking of saving money. I don't, so buying a 12v battery once a month until I had 4 was the only way I was going to get to 48v in the beginning.

@lua-nya Жыл бұрын

... Why do you solder crimp terminals?

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

I did not solder crimp terminals in this video.

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

Link to detailed project breakdown: projectswithdave.com/48v-to-12v-dc-dc-converter-project-build/ Link for circuit diagrams and materials: drive.google.com/file/d/1TUxY7vWT-FdzB3GTjwNdMUEjv9KE3Dgs/view?usp=sharing Update: I ran the 12V power test again using 12 AWG conductors. At 153W, I had 11.4V and 13.4A, the input was 166W. 92% efficient. Much better result.

@arnecarlsson9740 Жыл бұрын

👏👏👏!

@samfish6938 2 ай бұрын

i would use cement board for fire prevention

@robbie31580 Жыл бұрын

Their prices have increased significantly. Signature solar has the best deals right now.

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

Signature solar is hard to beat, one of the best vendors out there for DIY solar. Here is my affiliate link: signaturesolar.com/?ref=SALE

@aullvrch 2 күн бұрын

12v batteries can be bought in 5kwh. & their price is on par with 48v 5kwh..

@BobBob-il2ku Жыл бұрын

Wouldn’t you be better off using a buck converter that goes to 13.8vdc since that’s what most appliances use?

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

I do have an adjustable version. I can set it to whatever output voltage I want. However, it seemed a little too complex for this video and it's a bit more expensive.

@BobBob-il2ku Жыл бұрын

They make these same simple cheap version you showed but with 13.8vdc out instead

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

Oh, I didn't see that. Do you have a link?

@Istandby666 Жыл бұрын

When I worked for a government contract electronics company. If we needed a tool. We would walk across the street to Klein Electronics and put it on the tap or pay out of pocket.

@dan2304 Жыл бұрын

Why not go to high voltage batteries. 600 to 800 volts DC from the 25 kW PV. Battery is 600 VDC 160 LiFePO4 batteries.. 20 kW 3 phase hybrid inverter. I have the option of on or off-grid. High voltages while dangerous if not installed well has a much higher efficiency.

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

The nice thing about 48V is it is below the threshold where electric shock is less likely to be fatal. If efficiency is your main concern, than yes higher voltage is better.

@Mywhtjp Жыл бұрын

I'm about to purchase one of them Victron Multiplus's. Guess I will switch over to 48v. I already have 4 BB 100Ah lithiums.. Just need to find someone to wire it up.

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

My Victron works great, you won't be disappointed. For sure go with 48V. They now have a UL listed version ( www.currentconnected.com/product/pmp482305102/?ref=pwd ) . Also, if you purchase it through current connected they double the warranty.

@user-oy6xp9yk3k Жыл бұрын

How long have you had(using) 100Ah lithium

@Mywhtjp Жыл бұрын

@@user-oy6xp9yk3k almost 2 years..

@Mywhtjp Жыл бұрын

@@ProjectsWithDave I've been on a road trip.. but am in Reno now. Am picking up my Multiplus in the morning. I think I have found someone that can wire it up.

@Etheoma 5 ай бұрын

Personally I would go with a 48 to 24V converter because a lot of 12V appliences also run on 24V and it makes doing long runs eaiser and the 48 to 24V get you more power for the same price as what causes the unit to heat up is the amperage not the voltage. For anything that needs any other voltage than 24VDC or 230VAC I would just run 48 volts to it and have a small DC to DC converter for it in situ like my 5G modem for example which only need 12V 3A and you can get a multipack of veriable voltage 3A down converter for like $15, and also maybe lights, although you can get 48V and 24V LEDs, I would probably want the LED to be votlage regulated so I would probably buy 24V LEDs and obviously run them off the 24V converter. And yeh 12V 3A is overkill for a 5G modem, it's just the plug it comes with it never actually consumes anywhere near that amount of power.

@ProjectsWithDave 5 ай бұрын

That's a good idea. The smaller wattage converters are very inexpensive.

@aullvrch 2 күн бұрын

If you’re running mostly 12v appliances then why choose 48v and loss efficiency on your buck converter? The real killer for 12v is the solar chargers on the market for 12v (say victrons’ smart solar chargers) are around $600 per 1kw of solar input, whereas 48v is 4kw per $600.. If you’re never going to expand your solar array then it would be fine.

@ProjectsWithDave 2 күн бұрын

If everything you are powering is 12V it makes sense to run a 12V system. Otherwise, as you said, you can get more power for the same money on the charger and inverter side.

@adamgerald849 8 ай бұрын

Why wouldn't you just buy a lot of 12v and wire them in strings of 4 to get multiple 48v strings?

@ProjectsWithDave 8 ай бұрын

It cost more to do it that way.

@yellowgreen5229 10 ай бұрын

I am doing the same but 60v as that is the voltage of my car.

@Iamandthatiam 10 ай бұрын

yeh but there are 12v server rack batteries u can compare it to

@ProjectsWithDave 10 ай бұрын

12V is just an inefficient voltage to work with. It requires much larger cables to carry the higher amperage.

@Iamandthatiam 10 ай бұрын

@@ProjectsWithDave that is not the point I was making. I said there are 12v SERVER RACK Batteries just like that 48 one you have.

@ProjectsWithDave 10 ай бұрын

Ok, yes I've seen those. It is certainly a more convenient form factor for larger power storage situations.

@rosstaylor3927 Жыл бұрын

EG4 has a better deal With shipping to northern Ohio EG4 48v 100ah is $1653.22 Power queen 48v100ah is $1823.24

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

The Power Queen I referenced in this video is the 51.2V (48V), 90Ah, 4.6kWh (currently out of stock). Here is a link for your reference: ipowerqueen.com/products/power-queen-51-2v-90ah-lifepo4-battery-built-in-90a-bms?ref=gwq9cs98 It is $1,199.99 including shipping. With my discount code, you can get an additional 3% OFF Site Wide CODE: Everyday3 $1,200/4,600Wh=$0.26/Wh The EG4-LifePower4 51.2V (48V) 100Ah, 5.12kWh battery is $1,499 plus shipping (Apparently $1653 to your location). Here is a link for the one I am referencing: signaturesolar.com/eg4-lifepower4-lithium-battery-48v-100ah/?ref=SALE $1,499/5,120Wh=$0.29/Wh Now, the EG4 version has more features and may well be worth the extra cost, but the Power Queen is still the lower cost option. Hope that helps.

@ctrlaltdebug Жыл бұрын

The future is probably going to be 120v systems, making inverters more efficient.

@ferdm9646 7 ай бұрын

Well, I agree with you for the 48v system but you should never feed a 12v fridge for just 12v cause the 12v system is just over 12.6v and can go as high as 14.5v depending on the battery type. Feeding it 12v regulated power will cause stress to that expensive refrigerator and not to mention that a cheap Amazon eBay buck converter will produce heat and potential power loss. Using the word " suck " for the 12v system will be ideal when you install a larger offgrid home but for campervan and small houses 12v system is the most cost effective option ever. Not to mention the batteries are also expensive compared to the panels and converter. Next time you use the word " suck " be sure to tag your title with what you're referring to.

@ProjectsWithDave 7 ай бұрын

In my wiring diagram and referenced material list I now include a 13.8V version that works better: projectswithdave.com/48v-to-12v-dc-dc-converter-project-build/

@ferdm9646 7 ай бұрын

@@ProjectsWithDaveCongratulations, this will be helpful.

@Orentas01 2 ай бұрын

Your voltage drops because of thin and long wires to the tester

@ProjectsWithDave 2 ай бұрын

Yes, exactly.

@samfish6938 2 ай бұрын

power queen seems to be all 12 volts

@carmp3fan Жыл бұрын

You’re very likely running into low voltage issues because of wire size.

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

I was thinking that might be the problem as well. I ran 12awg to the socket, however the wire for the test circuit was smaller. I might try it again with 12awg the whole way.

@seniorcarlos686 10 ай бұрын

Hello everyone

@theMekanik Жыл бұрын

I believe 1 volt is the way to go I prefer using kable the size of Arnold Schwarzeneggers Biseps 💪🏻 and the Flexibility of a Konkrete Slab. 🤣🤣🤣

@Trustedcoins Жыл бұрын

So there is 30% conversion loss to power your 12v device from 48v battery. Doesn't seem that the 12v sucks, you can send up to 20 amps down 12awg wire, you didn't need to lose the 50w of power to do that, might as well have powered an inverter and connected 12v dc power bricks at that conversion loss! Who powers a heaterg un the whole day anyway? What my point to say is that some people that want compatibility with their low voltage devices without the conversion loss might as well have 12v DC systems.

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

I think a big portion of that loss was in the cable I was running to the tester. I need to run a test targeting the DC/DC converter efficiency.

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

Update: I ran the test again using 12 AWG conductors. At 153W, I had 11.4V and 13.4A, the input was 166W. 92% efficient. Much better result.

@cotybair796 6 ай бұрын

I just don’t have 1500 just for the battery that’s how much have to spend for the entire system

@theMekanik Жыл бұрын

12 Volt is the Best that’s why we still use them in Kars and Power Tools 🤣🤣🤣🤣 I’m all for 48 volts but they don’t make anything with 48 volts.

@jussikankinen9409 6 ай бұрын

24v better

@dave_ecclectic 4 ай бұрын

I don't understand why you would need 4 batteries when you can buy a single battery that is 12v @ 400 amps just like you can buy a single battery that is 48v @ 100 amps.

@ProjectsWithDave 4 ай бұрын

You can do that, but you will still require larger wiring due to the low 12V operating voltage.

@McCuneWindandSolar 7 ай бұрын

yea not the cheapest per watt. you can get 100AH batteries at 1200 for a 100AH battery. So that statement is not longer true. You can get 304AH for $1700 now.

@ProjectsWithDave 7 ай бұрын

Fortunately prices are constantly improving. Always shop around.

@theMekanik Жыл бұрын

You kan buy a 12V Rak Battery 🔋💁🏻‍♂️

@rosstaylor3927 Жыл бұрын

You should do your homework before reading a script from a company that gives you free stuff

@ProjectsWithDave Жыл бұрын

@theMekanik Жыл бұрын

No you only need 2 12Volt Server Rak Batteries 🔋🤣

@theMekanik Жыл бұрын

From what I understand running a Buk Konverter burns up power to get it down to 12 volts. Source HoboTek

@larryphillips4164 8 ай бұрын

Me a month ago: “ oh my rv came with 1 solar panel and 4 6volt agm batteries so I’m gonna stay on 12 volt” Me: 1 week ago “goddamnit. Shoulda went 48v… fuck.”

@sticks0012 Жыл бұрын

Voltage and amperage are inversely proportional.That is why 12 volt systems don't suck!

@jussikankinen9409 6 ай бұрын

1200w coffee boiler takes 100A from battery, many watts

@sticks0012 6 ай бұрын

@@jussikankinen9409 It all depends on what one is running more often.If i can run 12volt appliances with no conversion i save on inverter losses.Build a 12volt system with higher output bms and larger awg i still can have my cake and eat it to.More upfront cost but depending on appliances the 12volt system is safer and actually more efficient in some cases.