EcoFlow Alternator Charger Review
Vložit
- čas přidán 28. 05. 2024
- EcoFlow Alternator Charger Review. In this video I'll be talking about the new EcoFlow Alternator Charger. This is a phenomenal addition to their line-up and ultimately removes the need for solar panels affixed to your rigs! No more RV panels and no more expensive builds on your SUV.
Considering the cost of 1 400W panel is about $800, this being able to charge at a full 800W for only $599 is a steal! No need to worry about cloud coverage, rain, or time of day.
Get the NEW EcoFlow Alternator Charger and DELTA Series portable power station for up to 35% off.
Grab a FREE solar panel during the pre-order period from April 24 to May 23!
Click the links below and use my code 24EFRVECOSO for an extra 6% off all EcoFlow products. Valid until June 29th: tinyurl.com/5yn6tmxr
EcoFlow Website: bit.ly/4ahoyeS
Installation Video: • EcoFlow Alternator Cha...
#ecoflow #solarpower #powerstation
Installation video: czcams.com/video/cullv5RdcOQ/video.html
Get 5% Off Select Items at the official EcoFlow store with code: EFTOOL05
EcoFlow Main Page: us.ecoflow.com/?aff=795
You can purchase the EcoFlow Alternator from EcoFlow here: tinyurl.com/5yn6tmxr
Love this stuff! Thanks for the share. Like so many have commented, EcoFlow's not the first to do something like this, but the hope is that they did it well, and they offer better support than the others with their whole ecosystem. This is obviously a nice bolt on solution to one's mobile set up. Having something like this to an "overland" rig, that you can easily pull out and put into another vehicle is awesome! This also makes a great "fix" for any vehicle on-board system since it is portable - I'll take this + battery/generator over the on-board system that you have to option in an F150. Give it a few months and Bluetti, Anker and others will either make something similar or some other Chinese knock off will come out that basically steals the idea and sells it for cheaper.
Completely agree! Thanks for the comment!
This product seems great but it all depends how you use your rig. I’m so glad I have 400 watts of solar because I park my rig when I’m not camping for periods of time and my fridge and freezer stays on 7/365 with food or when I’m Boondocking for periods of time.
I'm not saying to get rid of solar panels completely. But it's the rigid setup that's unnecessary now. You can prop up a portable 400w panel that'll cost less money, less weight, less drag on aerodynamics, and frees up cargo space. So you end up in the sweetest scenario possible and you got there spending a lot less money.
Ecoflow makes great products. Thanks fir your review.
You bet!
Wow, so the only thing it CAN’T do is make me a drink after a long day. Amazing! ❤
😂
@@EcoSolarReviews - I meant drink, my bad. 🙄
I do take my solar panels way beyond where my vehicles can go. This does have some good aspects about it.
Yes, this is mainly for when you're traveling to your destination. Solar panels will do terrible during that time.
These look and sound brilliant.
Like too fit to our truck and caravan, hopefully they get sold in the Uk.
Thanks nice one go steady.
I appreciate the comment! It installs easily as far as the device goes. Running the wire was tricky in my FJ Cruiser only because I don't have carpeted floors so I had to run it along with the main harness of the vehicle which took up majority of the space. But it's a super small footprint compared to panels, way cheaper and a better, more consistent output! I'm surprised they're only $599 as I'd think that would cannibalize their solar panel sales.
@@EcoSolarReviews ahh interesting guess tapping into both markets then, eco flow seems too be coming out with some great ideas.
Thank you
That is some very intelligent dc-dc charger
It is. Something other chargers probably have a hard time creating due to limitations in how it interacts with other brand's systems. EcoFlow's app ecosystem is the most robust I've seen which allows it to do these extra functions.
@@EcoSolarReviews , does it come with 24volts?
As soon as this is available in Australia, im getting one
Nice!
Seems like a good converter. My camper van has a few parts that work together to do a similar job... heavy duty alternator, converter to charge the camper batteries from the alternator, battery isolator to prevent starter battery being drained. It charges at 60 amps and around 13 volts, so around 800 watts.
Nice!
This is a great idea and I think a must have if you're really in to these setups. Just a heads up though on standard solar panels, the price of panels is dropping and from what I hear they are really going to drop as much as 50%. If they do, it really wouldn't be a bad idea to have some stored away just in case.
I totally agree that you should have some portable panels. Absolutely. But those heavy setups people are attaching to their rigs is just unnecessary now. They don't produce the same wattage, they take up too much space, they weigh over 100 pounds, it's a lot of wiring, and they increase drag, causing you to have less fuel economy. This is a much better alternative for EcoFlow products anyway.
Looks cool
Thanks for the comment!
Toyota Fj Land Cruiser + Ecoflow the power of independence
Big facts!
Great product, great review, but My question is, if the product is comparable with other name brand solar batteries, besides Eco-flow products?
Great question! And the answer to that is a resounding noooo. It's proprietary to EcoFlow. Now if you wanted to accomplish something similar with other brands you could use a DC converter, but that would require extra equipment. Another thing you could do is use a Pecron 500W charger. That, I have yet to use but it seems like a Universal product even though they advertise it as being for Pecron models only. But I'm working on getting one right now that I could make a video on to keep everyone posted.
Again, great question and thanks for the comment!
599 😵 renogy fo a 50A dc to dc charger with a built in solar charge controller for under half that price (DCC50s) as do redarc fir just over half that price, ok if you already have an ecoflow i spose 🤔
If you're attempting to charge a power station with that DC-DC you'll need anderson connectors, which if it charges properly (I assume it would), that's a 500w input max. There's also no ability to utilize power from a power station to jump start the vehicle if needed. The DC-DC would make sense if all you wanted to do was charge and maintain house batteries on an RV. Or, if you wanted to charge other brand's power stations and were fine with the 500w (or less) max on most units.
@EcoSolarReviews no need to jump start with those dc to dc chargers I mentioned as they also charge the start battery preventing damage from running a LA flat , way better than allowing the starter battery to go flat in the first place
My power station only can utilize 200 watts for charging so I just use a pure sine wave 400 watt inverter plugged into a outlet running from battery. Simple for non-Ecoflow.
Agreed. That's also the limitation of bigger power stations with dc - dc chargers. They cap out at 500w. So if your station can't utilize that, this wouldn't be better than a dc to dc. But DEFINITELY better than a rigid solar setup.
800 watts is nice but a typical power station is 2000 watt hours. Even @800 watt output your looking at 3+ hours of run time to charge a ~2000 watt hour power station from dead zero. In that case your idling for 3 hours (if your alternator can deliver 66 xtra amps at idle) or driving for 3+ hours. These toyz are nice but for real power we are still a long way away from where we need to be - especially off grid in a vehicle.
I say all this because I run an F350 with dual alternators (400 amps each) with a truck camper on its back. I have 2 40 amp DC to DC chargers putting out ~ 80 amps and another 10 amps from a Blue Sea charger that came with the truck camper (Lance 850). While all of that is nice nearly 1100 watts while running is still not enough when you factor in demanding appliances such as DC air conditioning units that draw ~450 watts/hour.
You would have to move each day for nearly 3+ hours of driving to keep up or delete demanding appliances.
I agree that trying to exclusively use this as your only charging option is very limiting. If you're boondocking, it's worthless. This is for emergencies, night-time boondocking, or driving/traveling. You would still need solar panels, but the need for the added weight of rigid panels is no longer necessary. So the ideal setup would be this paired with portable panels that can be adjusted easily for optimal input and also weight reduction, and you keep cargo space in your truck or SUV. Plus it's less expensive to go this route with portable panels, and less points of failure when factoring in all the hardware needed for rigid panels.
@@EcoSolarReviews I run Ecoflow products exclusively for my power stations. However after some thought this might be a good addition to my current configuration.
As I said earlier I get ~90 amps off my dual alternator setup on the truck. That goes directly into a 300 amp hour lithium battery I use to charge my Ecoflow power stations with an on board inverter. Just looking at the main piece of that product makes me think I could swap out at least one of my DC to DC chargers and use that hardware to charge my power stations and not have any loss due to conversion from the DC house battery to the inverter which uses AC current to charge the power stations.
Hence negating power losses of ~20% or more due to the inverter.
You either take the power station inside house and charge it, or take a extension cord to the power station.
This is what I have been waiting on, since no power bank have in built alternator charging.
I have plans to build my own system with Victron components, but this will be way easier, and portable.
You’ll need to run you vehicle to charge your house batteries where solar is cheaper and the energy is free
I have a dc to dc charger on my converted bus and seldom use it as solar usually is all I need but when traveling once the starter batteries are fully charged I’ll use the charger if needed
Definitely way easier! Less wiring, and less components needed which reduces weight, increases cargo space, and reduces any points of failure AND offers the highest charge of any other DC - DC charger. Granted, it's proprietary to EcoFlow products. If you wanted something universal, a regular DC-DC charger or converter would be more ideal. Thanks for the comment! Apologize for the delay, been on vacation!
@@Justmekpc Don't really have that much sun, and have no access to power where my car is parked, but I can easily take the Ecoflow out and charge it inside.
@@EcoSolarReviews it doesn’t produce power no matter what the rating is it takes power from the starting battery and just transfers it to whatever storage system you have
@@dubious6718 they have their uses but they are a lot of money for a 75ah battery
Thank you for taking the time to do this review!
My pleasure!
Good 2 know, liked#1 N Subscribed!!!
Awesome, thank you!
I have a renogy charger like this on my small school bus I converted plus 200w of solar to charge my house batteries
These chargers are ok but nothing like the solar
I do like that I have it in case there’s been no sun for a few days but seldom use it
It can produce as much power as your alternator puts out no matter what it claims and your alternator is designed to run your vehicle so you don’t get the extra you think you will
My bus has a larger alternator as it used to run the back ac etc and I still wait for the starting batteries to charge before switching this on
Solar is cheap as 200w like I have today is barely $100 and a charge controller $12-$200 mines cheap and works fine
I run a fridge heater lights and fans off of my batteries and 200w works well most of the time
Solar isn't cheap. 200 watts IS NOT $100.00! ITS WAY MORE!
@@CHUCKSNORRIS google it a 100w standard panel is $59 now
I just looked again and you can get a 600w solar kit with flexible panels for $160 with the controller and cables
I bought mine 4 years ago and each 100w panel was $99 the cable was around $50 and the charge controller I’ve been using for four years was $15
Another $50-$100 for inline fuses and that’s on the high side
I bought lithium 3.2v cells and made two 12v batteries for $800 today you can order a 200ah battery for under $400
@@CHUCKSNORRIS the other thing people forget the dc to dc chargers hook up to your starting battery and don’t produce power as they’re taking power from the regular batteries which the alternator has to keep charged
If they pull more then they alternator can produce it strains the alternator
I also bought a third 100w panel and put a 30’ cable on it to a charge controller with alligator clips
It’s real handy to charge car batteries or my house battery’s in my bus if the panels on the roof aren’t getting as much sun like in the winter when the suns angle is lower
@@CHUCKSNORRISI don’t see my comment but yes 100w panels are $59 now
I just looked and you can get a 600 watt kit with flexible panels charge controller and cables for $160
@@CHUCKSNORRISmy 100w panels 4 years ago were $99 and solars gotten way cheaper
It’s one area that prices have dropped
Four years ago I made two 100ah batteries from cells for $800 today you can order a 200ah battery for under $400
wonder if you can buck of the end plugs and retro fit to another brand of solar generator ?
I'm considering trying! So that you don't have to keep running the wire every time too. You'd definitely lose the app support though.
I have been hemming and hawing on whether to get this since my Renegade has a built in power outlet. However, it only do 115V AC / 150 Watts. I stumbled across your review. Good stuff. You have a new subscriber. :)
I appreciate it! Yeah, the 150w is super limiting. If you have an alternator that is heavy duty you'll get the 800w out of this easy which can mean the world with a larger Power Station. Just sayin! LOL. Thanks for the sub!
@@EcoSolarReviews You talked me into it. I saw that this, the Wave 2, extra battery and car vent kit was on sale for $1,399. I was able to use some EcoCredits to get it down to $1325. That is still a lot of coin but to be able to charge my Delta2 and have some comfort camping will be worth it. :)
That's cause 150 watts is tested as a safe overload to your alternator, any load above that will burn out your alternator, see the comments..
@@AlexTorres-qv3hv Didn’t know that. Thanks for the info! 😀
Currently the Alternator Charger is on Pre-order. Installation video will be posted... just as soon as I get the thumbnail LOL. Thanks for watching!
Get 5% Off Select Items at the official EcoFlow store with code: EFTOOL05
EcoFlow Main Page: us.ecoflow.com/?aff=795
You can purchase the EcoFlow Alternator from EcoFlow here: tinyurl.com/5yn6tmxr
Question
I don't see the Delta Max battery listed as compatible, only the Delta 2 Max, can you confirm if the Delta Max battery is compatible since it has the correct connector?
It says it's compatible with the Delta Max 2000 but not the Delta Max. I did get something from them telling me what they MAY make compatible in the future and the Delta Max was on there but they could change it. I would go by what's on their site and assume it's not compatible. One thing I've experienced with EcoFlow though is that they have easy returns.
Wow. This is a great review. Thank you.
Very welcome!
Been running a dc to dc Renogy 3 yrs now , have high outpuut alt. Still will nvr replace my solar, use stand alone dc to dc 40 amp n , my renogy rover is 40 amp also. Resverse charge to jump i carry noco battery booost plus. 🎉
I don't see how it doesn't replace those rigid panels of yours. That's insane unless you did that first. Or if you have portable solar panels, if you do have portable panels, I salute you! Especially on the battery jumper. I have a bunch of them and they work well.
No free lunch, your fuel economy will be affected greatly. Keeping more batteries maintained increases load to your alternator, additionally reducing its life as well. I think that would be a great addition to solar, but not a replacement.
upgrade alternator--
If you're maintaining batteries using this device, it doesn't use the alternator... it uses the power station. Fuel economy effected greatly? How? To produce 800w it uses a whopping ONE horsepower. So you're saying 1 horsepower is more than a rigid system mounted to the top of your rig that weighs well over 100 pounds and is creating drag, and cost 4 times this amount?
Don’t worry about it lol. It’s a small difference unless you are constantly charging dead batteries without a break in the desert heat
The fuel mileage will be affected by a small amount. You can check the alternator current flow easily. I would start with all batteries fully charged the check amp flow to maintain the charge. Of course, at times, the alternator will full field. All in all, it should be fine. Btw car systems are measured in volts and amps, not watts. Good idea
@1politicalcowboy This device will definitely put an extra load on your alternator. 800 watts divided by 13.8 volts that alternators put out. So, about an extra 58 amp draw from your alternator.
I see this unit as a supplement to solar panels, not a replacement. Solar is still providing free energy from the Sun. But, if it is a cloudy day or you don't have enough solar panels, this is a nice supplement. It would also be useful for someone who is living in a car, rather than an RV and can't have much solar. But, a 100 amp alternator - which is typical in cars - is going to be strained by this thing. Replacing your alternator with a heavy duty high current unit seems in order, if you're going to use this.
Cost is relative to your ability to pay - so, expensive for some, cheap for others.
The most economical approach is to learn how to get by with less electricity.
I agree that solar panels are still required. But the rigid panels require more components and come with more weight, and take up more cargo space. I keep portable panels on hand because it's a direct connect to the power stations. But even with those. Nothing is providing a consistent 800 watts. That deifinitely depends on the alternator in the car. But most people overlanding have a vehicle capable of the full 800 watts. But this can be throttled in the app but the unit automatically throttles when needed and car accessories are always a priority which you can see if you watch the install video. czcams.com/video/cullv5RdcOQ/video.htmlsi=GKTC0S5oTwtrhjbw
Thanks for the comment!
Would this work with the original Delta 1300? It doesn’t look like the connector is compatible.
They sent me a spec sheet a few months ago that said that it WOULD be compatible. Maybe they're going to make an adapter? I'm not sure, but you are correct. In the video, it's connecting to the XT150 port which the Delta 1300 doesn't have. Also says that they may make it compatible with the River series as well in the future, but that's not a guarantee.
This is too costly to be the only solution unless you drive for several hours every day. I pay for solar panels once and the energy is free for years.
I used to say that until I went a week with zero sun in the first storm after my install. I have 500 watts solar and 200 Amp hours Lifepo4 batteries. No sun... no electricity. With this you get around that problem.
Exactly. That's why PORTABLE solar panels are needed I think along with this. You should never be without.
So this is a 60 amp 12 v DC to DC battery charger, but it works with the Ecoflow not any battery. Ok. Got it. Thanks.
Wrong and wrong
Is it adaptable to other battery packs or is it only work with the actual flow dark blue Eddie for instance
It's proprietary to Eco Flow Power stations only. You could cut the adapter off and splice Anderson connectors on there and charge other devices which some people have done. But I don't think you'll retain all of the app functionality then.
Will this work on the Delta Pro? Or do I need to buy a special adapter and the Xt150 cable?
Nope! No need for the cable. This will work fine!
insanel fast...
if and when I get an Ecoflow Delta or Pro I would also be investing in one of these....
Just a question though....if you have an EV (electric Vehicle) how would this work, is it basically the same though as a vehicle with an Alternator? As the 12V battery is charged of the main drive battery through high voltage cables
I'll reach out and ask, but in theory, it should work just fine. It would give me range anxiety big time! But that is a great question.
goodbye alternator, you were too good for this world! I'll check back in 3-6mo and see how you're doing. BTW, DC-DC charging is covered on a lot of other channels. In all seriousness, do yourself a favor and look for a larger output, heavy-duty alternator, or add a second alternator. Look at what Dodge and Ford run on their diesel trucks.
A larger output... from your vehicle... 1st, you can regulate how much output comes from your alternator. You're still suggesting an alternator though. So you've invalidated your point. Those other channels aren't covering them well enough if you don't understand the value of this charger. Reverse charging isn't possible on those. Also, show me where someone is getting more than 800 watts out of their setup for this amount of money and this small of a footprint. Nowhere. Other Dc - DC chargers utilize solar inputs. Most cap out at 500 watts and you all love that. I'm confused on how you are complaining about 800 watts not being enough when 500 watts is?
@@EcoSolarReviews no sir, you’re confusing my comments with specs. You’re right it can definitely deliver the charge, but it’s more than the duty rating of your alternator. I’m not sure where you think the energy is coming from, but based on your comment I’m going to assume the battery. Which is getting charged from… wait for it, the alternator. But hey what the hell do I know, I’m just an electrician.
By the way, I’m not saying this is a bad idea. I suggested a solution in my first comment. Get a second alternator or a heavy duty unit that’s rated for these loads.
Why are you so angry?
Seems to be a product specific power inverter/ converter.
It is for certain EcoFlow products. It makes sense because of the app capabilities and it communicating with other products. You could probably make it work for other brands by modifying the cable but then it would just work like a DC - DC charger and well, that would make no sense LOL. Just save the money and buy one of those as you'd lose the reverse charging capability.
Definitely best to gather power as many ways as possible, starting with the cheapest.
Agreed!
Cheapest is solar, using a dc to dc charger will use extra fuel in the engine to.power the alternator 👍
@@Dirt-Diggler Turn off AC.
This is nice with a power station behind your truck and this device hooked up to your trucks battery u can power your house after work every time 😂😂😂😂😂😂
LOL, You sure could! 😂 😂 😂. You're giving me ideas! In a pinch that wouldn't be a bad idea!
Does it only work with ecoflow batteries? Or can I charge my bluetti with this?
Only EcoFlow. I think every brand that makes one of these in the future will be proprietary. You can accomplish the same thing with a DC to DC charger more than likely. But it won't have the same capabilities via the app. I have the new 800 watt Renogy coming and I'll do a comparison with that. The difference is, that one is universal and will work with all units but will be limited to the solar input of most power stations which is 500 watts or less for most units.
This is good for certain applications but solar panels don't require your engine to be running for hours to charge your batteries.
Thank you for your comment!
Just got one on Amazon.
Nice! Be careful with ordering solar/power station type products from Amazon. NO RETURNS!
While it will help on overcast or stormy days, you will see a power drop as your engine has to work harder and your fuel mileage will suffer. Also without pairing this with either solar panels or small wind generator you will need to start your vehicle occasionally during your time at sites where you stay more than one night. So you really haven't saved yourself anything.
These chargers are most efficient when you can turn them on or off and are paired with solar cells and used to supplement them.
Thanks for your comment!
It's not like I drive enough to make use of it. I like the idea, though. My solar panels are fine for now.
Thanks for the comment!
"400w panel is about $800"
Lol, what? You can get 400w of solar, a Victron 150/45 MPPT, and a DC-DC charger for under $800 ALL IN.
So you're charging while camping, charging while driving, and if and both if you really need to get the bank back up to 100% quickly. As of today, you can get 4x 100w BIFACIAL panels for a grand total of $238, the Victron (bluetooth) charge controller for $218, and the DC-DC Victron for $155. Total $611.
If you wanted to go up to that ridiculous $800 amount you mentioned, you'd also be able to fit a Victron 500amp Smart Shunt and a Victron LV disconnect. These aren't budget items, these are today's prices.
Appreciate your lengthy comment. I'll respond to each. First, your total is $611 for a POTENTIAL, under perfect conditions, 400w input and all that equipment and points of failure. Not to mention more complex installation and mounting hardware, so that increases your $611. This is $599 for 800w input and one single piece of equipment.
But if we're talking portable solar panels: us.ecoflow.com/products/400w-portable-solar-panel?variant=39998021697609. That's on sale.
Now if we're talking rigid panels, sure. You can get 100w panels for $53 each... from Temu. You can use those if you want. I wouldn't do it. But if you can find quality rigid panels for that price, please link us! But let's say you found these things. Your total, as I mentioned doesn't include mounting hardware.
In addition to that, this unit will allow you to jump start your vehicle if needed. All of that you mentioned can't do that. You would need to wait for optimal conditions to charge your battery/batteries. What if it's dark? You also have all that extra weight. This unit along with portable panels would be perfect, that is IF you have EcoFlow products or some type of adapter.
@@EcoSolarReviews Ok, I'll respond point-by-point in return.
$611 is not a potential of 400w, it's a potential of 620-800W (depending on DC-DC charger chosen, and the amount of incoming solar). Minimum is 220w (if using the 18 amp Victron and zero solar gain). Points of failure is not a consideration here; Victron equipment is exceptionally reliable, and is used everywhere from superyachts to small vans. Solar panels, the vast majority, are also highly reliable. We're looking at 10-25 year lifespans for most brands (and that's just to sub 80% rated output).
Solar panels in general tend to be the most reliable part of any energy system. There's also nothing complex about mounting panels, and installation hardware is cheap.
Comparing portable solar panels to a permanent install of a more complicated DC-DC charger (the EcoFlow) is not apples to apples. I own EcoFlow products, and love them, but if we're talking about hard mounting an underhood device versus mobile panels, there's no way you can compare costs.
As for the price of the panels, I have no idea where you're searching. Canadian Solar, one of the higher rated producers, sells a 395w panel for $120. NewPowa (another high volume producer) sells 2x 100w Bifacial panels for $119 on AMZ (today's price) (Canadian Solar 395W Mono-Crystalline Solar Panel (Black) | CS6R395, Newpowa Bifacial 200 Watt 12 Volt Solar Panels, 2 Pieces 9BB Monocrystalline 100W). Nobody is talking TEMU here, and you seem to be unaware that there is a massive global glut of solar panels right now, even leading to many large producers shutting down.
Regarding jump starting; anyone can buy a $10 pair of jump starter cables and jump most vehicles from their battery bank, which you will have if you're running that EcoFLow (otherwise, what on earth are you actually charging at 500w?). DC-DC can also be reversed, allowing you to charge starter battery from the house bank. Lifep04 portable jump starters can be had for
@@GoodkatNWyou can also install a high current starter solenoid between your house battery and vehicle battery. The control wires can be run to the dash of the vehicle. Engage the switch and the solenoid makes the circuit from house to car batteries. Wait about a minute to give a little power to the car battery and then start the vehicle, turn off the solenoid to protect the house batteries. If you are using lithium iron phosphate house batteries check with the manufacturer to see if it is safe to use this setup for jump starting the vehicle battery. The current draw might be too much for those batteries with a built in BMS.
@@GoodkatNW You're totally right! Any of these beginner friendly, plug and play options are great for those who have "no idea what they're doing", and let's face it, that's the vast majority of people. A very small minority know you can get better, but better is dependent upon your viewpoint. One argues modularity and ease of replacement and fixing, another will argue that all-in-one is more than enough for their use case, so why bother with something that's hard mounting. I would love a channel created by an electrical engineer specialised in solar, who literally designs and builds this stuff because they could comment on the feasibility of whether or not the current tech out there can "do better" (smaller, more capable, etc.)
I have no doubt, for those that have an idea of what they're doing, and in an example like yours, having mounted it in a boat, the fact that you have something more capable, more cost effective, and tailored to your needs is way better than any of these shotgun approaches to solving most people's wants/needs with a singular product. But these all-in-one devices are getting a lot better, especially compared to where we were 5-10 years ago. I still have an Inergy Kodiak gen 1, and that thing keeps on ticking. It's far from perfect, but it's been modular and I've moved it around to more than 5 different set ups.
Appreciate the time you took to comment, respond and share your knowledge. Thank you.
So it keeps your alternator at max output. I can see why burning out alternators would be an issue. Another aspect I'm not fond of is connectors with just plastic clips. Wouldn't a regular battery isolator be simpler?
You can adjust the charging output in the app.
Exactly. Which is what makes this better than anything else on the market along with the reverse charging. It can also be rigged to work with other power stations as well, but likely without the app support.
The renogy does both solar and alternator (350$ cdn). Hence your starter battery will be trickled charged. Only put about 20% of load on your alternator FJ’s are pretty hardy so you could do the 50 amps which are batteries max charging flow ( generally).
You still need solar to charge the battery though. The Ecoflow doesn't require any solar at all to reverse charge. It'll pull from the power station. I wouldn't use this for that though, that would be an emergency situation. It's the 800w charging that does it for me. While you can get a DC to DC charger to do 720 watts, it has to use the solar input and most units are capped at 500 watts. The extra 300 watts is a big deal. All DC to DC chargers are going to use the alternator
@@EcoSolarReviews the renogy you can select the amount of solar vs alternator. The amount bewtween both. And no, you don’t need solar, you have the option to select all the way down to one amp from solar. ( the new dc to dc) the older models had those problems
Good evening, great video & subject , “ What’s you’re idea on I’ve got 3 different alternator’s flow please still , I’ve got 2 GM 10 SI High Amp Alternator’s 100A & a 120A low turn B.B. & a Ford Mazda 150A Alternator I want to make these alternators fixed in my home powered by 12v DC motors to charge my lithium battery bank 24v and the Energy created within The alternator is the purest sine wave what I’ve heard is you can directly put it’s Electrical straight into your breaker box !
That's a creative idea Mark! For home, personally, I wouldn't go that route only because the alternator would require gas to run. Let's the world ended and all the refineries were closed down. You'd be out of luck. Using solar energy is really the only way to keep everything going. I don't even trust these power stations long-term because if that event did happen, we'd run out of batteries at some point. But the batteries would certainly last longer than gasoline would.
I'd have to research that more. Definitely a smaller footprint than solar panels and easy to rebuild in the event of a failure! I've never heard of anyone doing a setup like that. If there was a way to pull it off without a gas engine being needed, I'd say that is the most efficient way to run a home.
Is there a way to charge a battery bank? Like a 48v or do you have to have the eco station?
You'd have to have a powerstation as that's the only thing that can connect to the charger.
Victron do a 12v to 48v dc to dc charger 👍 same thing but can be used on any system.
does it work with smart alternators ?
Yes it does!
Is this basically just a DC-DC charger?
Yep many many other B2B or DC to DC chargers out there, some even have a built in solar charge controller, only worth it if you already have an ecoflow 🤔
Yes nothing new other then the easy integration with other EcoFlow products.
Yes, with some differences. With a 60A DC-DC charger you can pull up to 720w, which, the 80w difference isn't huge in my opinion. You would have to use Anderson connectors to get the most out of it, but the power station would have to accept that amount in wattage through the solar panel ports. For example on the Delta 2 the max solar input is 500w. Same for the Bluetti AC180. Also this can jump a vehicle if needed. DC-DC chargers can maintain, but can't perform that function either, and then the app support.
That's what makes this a little more special than other DC-DC chargers. But understanding the limitations, you can get a 720w DC-DC charger for half the price of this. I don't know if there would be any damage charging it through the solar port though. Would make for a great experiment though!
@@EcoSolarReviews amazing. Thanks for this. Might be something we consider.
@@EcoSolarReviews There is a whole lot of cars and RV's with electrical systems that do not use powerstations like the Ecoflows or Bluetti ........
New subscriber always watching your videos very interesting❤❤❤
Awesome! Thank you!
Ecoflow has finally released a DCDC charger. Well done, albeit I think they go the year wrong: it's 2024 and not 2014. Thanks for sharing this humorous product release. Cheers
LOL, it is insane how so few people understand the difference between this and a DC to DC charger. What's funnier is how adamant all of you are. Maybe I just did a bad job at explaining it, maybe you guys are trolling. Either way I'm going to make another video comparing it side by side to a 60amp DC to DC charger so you all can understand the difference.
@@EcoSolarReviews If in fact this product is not a DCDC charger may I suggest that you explain the reason instead of laughing at your commentators. You're either sponsored by EcoFlow or you're just rude. I took the time to watch your content, I gave you a like for your time, I did not insult you, my remarks were about the brand, yet you choose to personally attack me. Had this not been the case I would have returned to your channel. Thanks for making me aware of your character and saving my time.
They are the first company to make a charger for power banks.
No other have the ability to charge from the alternator.
Don't be so thin-skinned@@cyclemoto8744
@@dubious6718 Another good reason not to buy these products.
The only special thing with this is the price
Thanks for your comment!
So, is it much the same as an inverter?
No. It can do what a dc - dc charger can do though and more. It also reverse charges.
Only $5.99 what a bargain! Oh, $599.00. Plus Ca Democrat tax of $54. How about just go to Costco and get six deep cycle marine batteries and the Dual battery switch for much less. You'll never get stuck with the dead battery and you can power everything to your heart's Delight.
That's a lot of space taken up and wiring! Most people don't have the space or the savviness
If is capable to push 450 watts stable is a good deal
800 watts in my car. App allows you to adjust the numbers but yep, it's steady! A rigid solar setup would be around $2,000 and would NEVER produce 400w consistent.
Wow😊
Thanks for the comment Peter!
I hit stop at "wozzupeverybody!"
I appreciate the comment though!
as simple as it is it still looks like a pain with all the cables and the unit itself to do a job the ecoflo should do out of the box. but that comes when you invest in an eco system like ecoflo. id rather use a bunch of Anderson style plugs that are everywhere.
What do you mean by do out of the box? As for the Anderson plugs, on certain models like the Delta 2 for example or even the Bluetti AC180, the input through an Anderson port will be capped at 500w. That extra 300w is a big deal.
How is this better than an inverter? I can buy a pure sinewave inverter 2000 watts for half the price of this device and with an inverter I can power other items.
Now THIS is a great comment and worth discussing. So an inverter turns DC into AC. So it'll turn the 12V DC from your battery into 110/120V to power larger electronics. And certainly, you can charge your power station this way, and other power stations for that matter and with much more input. The thing is, if you are also looking to charge house batteries for your RV, the inverter won't do that because of the high voltage. So this will charge AND maintain house batteries as well as charge a power station at 800 watts max. But if we're talking about just charging up power stations, I think your idea makes WAY more sense.
Also to note, this will really strain your alternator. The cool thing about the EcoFlow is that it prioritizes car accessories, so if the alternator needs to send power to the headlights, it'll throttle the power it's pulling. Most inverters will just pull as much as it can. It'll also still be limited to what the car could provide based on alternator size. For anyone else reading this, just make sure if you go the inverter route, you get one that's Pure Sine because quality power stations won't charge on a dirty modified wave output.
You sound like that Dude from Tool Deals videos lol must be him
👀
How many Amps does it pull from your alternator?
It'll pull up to 66.6 amps. 800÷12
But you can already charge any ecoflow unit with the cigarette lighter, no?
10 hours vs 1.3 hours
What Larry said, humongous difference in charge time!
can you charge it by plug at home over night
The alternator charger doesn't get charged or holds one, it just converts the energy from the alternator to charge your power station.
@@EcoSolarReviews just thought a good feature would be to unplug it at night when Home take in and charge if not fully for charged on journey following day if not fully charged night before
if use with bluetti ac200max would of been lighter to take out to do then the power bank
do i have to run my car engine to make this work?
Yes, in order to charge the power stations the car has to be running. If you want to charge the car or house batteries with the alternator charger, or jump the car, you can press a button on it or use the app to have the car draw power from the powerstation.
WHERE can i get this and how much?
They're on pre-order at the Ecoflow site, they're supposed to start shipping on the 17th or so. Here's the link: tinyurl.com/5yn6tmxr
I don’t get it. If it only hooks up to your battery? Wouldn’t it be at the mercy of your vehicles alternator? And it doesn’t have any batteries of its own? It basically looks like a junction box?
Yep right in the name. EcoFloalternator charger. It uses the extra reserved energy of your alternator to charge your house batteries or power station. It can also pull power from your power station to charge the battery it's connected to or jump it.
For me solar panels are much better. You shouldn't go. In an emergency I can get charging through an inverter. And you don’t have to disconnect the additional battery to charge the remaining batteries.
I agree with needing panels for emergency. This makes more sense to me because I don't need the heavy rigid panel setup. With my RV and even my SUV's, weight is a serious factor. Portable panels are lighter and easier to store. They also don't take up as much cargo space. Not sure what you mean by disconnecting additional batteries.
Solar is passive and not to be replaced. It is allways no1. Once installed it just keeps going.
Yes, at a very, very slow and inconsistent rate. I'm not saying you shouldn't have solar panels. You should have portable ones! But what you no longer need is a rigid panel setup that's heavy, expensive, inconsistent, takes up cargo space, and creates drag.
I don’t understand how it will maintain a vehicle battery if there is no power bank in the idle vehicle or a solar collection bank. In order to maintain the vehicle battery you will need a power source to this charge controller.
You need a power station as you said, if you drove to a site or just drove around period. Or had one dedicated to your RV in place of a gas generator, you can have it maintain the batteries by utilizing the power station.
Something like this that can charge a plugin hybrid vehicle on the go will be awesome.
A plugin hybrid vehicle should be able to charge up it's battery with whatever extra power the vehicle alternator is generating.
My Toyota hybrid does not have a alternator it's a inverter
@@trevorhartley5166 interesting 🤔
No as it takes power from the alternator to use to charge something
Thanks for the comment!
Does it heat up? I don’t see any heat dissipation.
It does get hot! I wouldn't recommend mounting it in an area where it won't get much air such as under a seat or inside a box or compartment. If it's open within the cabin like how I have it in my FJ (video will be posted this weekend), it should be fine since the inside of the cabin will be cooled anyway. The casing isn't plastic and I would assume it's a form of heavy duty aluminum like a Macbook Air or Pro so it alleviates the need for a fan. Just like any amplifier and those go under seats no problem all the time.
@@EcoSolarReviews it would be great if you can check the temp with a temperature gun. I see your point with the amplifiers but they don’t use anywhere near the kind of wattage this EcoFlows outputs. I believe the higher wattage amps do have fans or heat dissipating fins.
so no solar panel required.
Nope! The only time you'd really need one if you have this is for when you're just boondocking. For that you can just get some portable ones and have them tucked away instead of needing to build out a system which is FAR more expensive.
The installation video is not in the upper right corner
It's up now! czcams.com/video/cullv5RdcOQ/video.html
Please upload this vedeo, very interesting,
Here it is! czcams.com/video/cullv5RdcOQ/video.htmlsi=3ZrnwYn4qWTfVtQb
Victron Orion vs this?
Depends on a couple of factors. Do you have EcoFlow products? If so, are they Delta units? Do you want the ability to jump start your SUV or Motorhome? If yes to these questions, then I'd go with this because regular DC-DC charger will be capped at 500w max, plus you'll need Anderson connectors. I also don't know if that would cause any damage to the unit. I don't think it would, but it's technically a hack as it's not actually pulling energy from a solar panel.
If you're just looking to just charge and maintain house batteries, then I'd go with any other DC-DC charger as they're cheaper and will do the same job as this for less money. Hope that helps!
Waaaaaaaayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy tooooooooooooooooooooo muuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuch !
Oooooooooooooookkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk
First off , most vehicles aren’t designed with extra power for an external system. It going to wear out your alternator prematurely and your fuel economy will drop. Get a second alternator installed, like an ambulance setup.
With a six cylinder, probably notice some power loss as well. In the long term, you would be better off with the solar panels.
After initial cost the power generated will be free.
If you have sun every day..
It takes 1 hp to produce 800 watts sir, LOL. If your car can't handle that. You probably walk.
Say it louder for those in the back! Not just sun every day, though, sun with clear sky, no obstructions and pointed in the exact proper angle, and in order to get 800 watts you'd need a motorhome because NO car is that big! Not to mention this little thing called night. Happens every day and in the Winter, it's more darkness than light...
Where is the holder for that little tool? I’d lose that in the first 5 min.
LOL, yeah, I keep mine in the glovebox. I was paranoid making the video! A flathead screwdriver would work fine too though in a pinch. Just unsnap each side one at a time and you'd be golden.
Wouldn't a $20 solar charge regulator do something similar ?
Well, then you wouldn't waste gas or money.
Nope. I'm going to have to make another video explaining and showing the difference between the two. It's an extreme difference.
Be sure to do a long-term cost analysis of the cost of gasoline... it will make you sad.
Why not just plug your power station into the AC adapter??
You should before you leave the house, but once you're on the road that won't be an option after you've used it.
If you are going to burn gas for charging, you might as well buy a generator more power less fuel than a car would burn . Guess it all depends on how you need to use it
Are you suggesting using a gas generator in your car? That would be unsafe. After all, this is for charging your power stations while you're driving to your destination. A gas generator would surely have you in a ditch from all that CO you've inhaled lol. Plus those things weigh a ton and require a lot of maintenance. Don't generally fit in a car. List goes on.
@EcoSolarReviews I was thinking about recharging at your destination, which is why I said it all depends on how you need to use it . I think it would be great while driving not so great when camping
Most vehicles have alternators that barely keep up. And the excess energy is not free. There is a fuel cost. Just be careful!
1 hp for 800 watts. .5 hp for 400 watts. If your alternator is struggling then someone put the wrong alternator in your vehicle.
Sorry but you don’t understand automakers. They install batteries and alternators, among other things, that are just big enough to do the job. Anything else adds cost and weight. Ask anybody in the Northeast with the ever popular CR-V with the too small battery. I’m just saying you should know your vehicle. You are saying trust CZcams! My truck would have no trouble but I paid for that capability AND it was an option not available in many vehicles.
I can't spend any more money on ecoflow 😭
Also, why not just cigarette lighter plug in while driving?
Shop refurb on their eBay store! Stuff is cheap and you get 2 warranties, 2 year from Allstate and a 5 year from Ecoflow. ebay.us/DOoXQB You can get a Delta 2 for $499.
Cigarette lighter will produce a MAX of 100w if your lighter can produce that. This will produce 8 times more power so by the time you get to your destination your station should be full. Or even if you needed to let the car idle for a little bit in an emergency, you'll save gas.
is it just me, but that seems pricey. it's a fancy converter/inverter. $200 - $250 max
#smij #grownostr
Other inverters can't reverse charge, don't have the same app capabilities, and can't produce the wattage that this can
Please help us there a eco or solar way can I power a spider farmer 200w grow light 24 hour...sunny az
For this, you would need a large battery capacity. For those Winter months, we can experience darkness on a good day for 13 hours or so. On days with an overcast you may not get much of a charge at all. So to be safe and never be down you would need around 4000wh of battery capacity. That can go around 18 - 19 hours realistically without being charged. You would then need at the very least 400w solar panels which still won't get you the full 400w even under optimal conditions.
If it were me, I would get the largest battery capacity I could afford with 4000wh being a minimum, along with 600w - 800w panels to ensure you'd never be without light. A good setup will likely cost around $1,200 - $2,000. You can buy solar panels from Facebook marketplace however, and decent batteries from Amazon and an MPPT Controller. You'll have a solid setup then. I would charge the batteries up using a LiFePO4 charger initially. You can grab that from Amazon as well. Then install everything so that you're starting with a full battery. With enough capacity and 800w panels you should seldom have any downtime. Hope that helps!
Props for doing that one handed.
LOL, thanks!
Let's talk about the fuel / gas , it's gonna cost a ton , bad idea from Ecoflow 😭
I know right! Let's talk about the fuel/gas it's gonna cost to drive these cars. Bad idea from... well, every automaker 🙄
If you do not have a heavy duty alternator, that unit is worthless. To be honest, why not just purchase a gas powered generator? Your vehicle uses fuel, so does a generator. I can jump start my vehicle using my RC car or RC plane battery. I did it last summer at the airfield when my grandson turned on the lights while we were there for 2 hours. I cannot see buying anything like that. It makes no sense.
Buying a gas generator makes more sense? Where would you put it? Where would you run it? Surely not inside the vehicle. They're huge.. Oil changes, spark plugs. They're loud. How does that make more sense? Lol
@EcoSolarReviews When does lugging around a heavy lithium battery disguised as something else make sense? You said you need to charge it off your vehicle's generator or a solar panel correct? There is nothing " fantastic " or magical inside one of those units other than a battery and a converter to switch it from A/C to DC. Most vehicle alternators were designed to do one job, thats keep the 12volt Lead acid battery charged. A lithium battery requires a higher charge rate, does it not? The electrical system in any automobile today was never designed for Lithium batterys. Most older RV converters are not as well.
You don't need this. All you need is a Chinese step up converter if you're not on 12 volts and an MPPT. Voltage from the alternator is then input right alongside the solar panels on the same circuit.
And does that produce 800 watts? Nope. Is it as heavy as your panels? Nope. Does it take up the cargo space like your panels? Nope. Does it have the same amount of wires as your panels? Nope. Does it cost as much as that setup you just mentioned? Maybe, if you're getting cheap Chinese stuff like you mentioned which I'd never do. But I've seen dc to dc chargers for $7 on Temu! If you're brave enough to try them, let us know how they work! I'm genuinely interested!
$600!? Nah, i will settle for the $140 PECRON 500w charger plus a $10 XT60i cable! That extra $450 would buy you an Ecoflow River 2 Pro, an ICECO VL45 fridge/freezer or go a long way to buying an extra Delta 2 Smart extra battery! The only way i would purchase this is if i opted for the Ecoflow Delta 2 bundle that includes the charger, 110w solar panel plus Delta 2 for $999!
I'll be waiting for deals, and for the price to drop. Everything is expensive at release.
@@dubious6718 - $250 is the price point that makes the most sense for me!
Well first off, thanks for putting me on to the Pecron charger. But that's just a DC to DC charger. It can't do reverse charging like this does. But if you didn't need that feature, a DC to DC charger would make more sense.
Looks like its charging at 400w, so half the power. So you need 2 Pecron's to compete, more mess, if you can even connect 2 cables..
@@dubious6718 - Depends on your situation! I own an Ecoflow Delta 2 that will max out at 500w solar input! Therefore, an 800w charger would be a waste for me.
Way too many proprietary plugs, and i see no active cooling capabilities so 60 amps of dc is gonna get hot and start derating quick
Yes, this is an EcoFlow product for EcoFlow products. Not sure if you've ever had a car with an amp or installed one but they pull way more and last years under people's seat and underneath carpet.
This is simply not an alternative to solar system. Solar system produces its own energy from sun. Where is this one is just a rechargeable battery.
It's not a battery at all. Your solar setup also can't produce 800 watts.
Or buy a Renogy dc to dc 750watt charger for 200$
They don't reverse charge and they cap at 500 watts, even if it's a 750w unit because of the solar input
@@EcoSolarReviews then get two it’s better and cheaper😆 I have ecoflow stuff and they are not that great and over priced.
you do realize any energy taken out of the alternator puts more drag on your engine, which means you're fuel usage increases. might be good for going downhill and it turns on but not on all the time. only really good for cloudy days where solar can't help and battery is low, then use it, otherwise you're just burning more fuel.
Or at night, or when you don’t want your neighbours know you have solar panels.
So are you saying the 1 hp from the alternator consumes more fuel than a rigid solar setup on the roof of your rig that weighs over 100 pounds and contributes to drag?
Only useful for cloudy days where solar can't help and the battery is low. I agree that it's useful for that, but saying "only" is a stretch considering I've never seen a solar panel setup produce 800 watts consistently.
Your AC consumes more energy.
Hard sell for the price and average overlander Alternator amp. Your FJ can only put out 130 amp. Say you get the max 66 amps you need to pull 800 what's. Thats also roughly 1 hp required. 1 gallon of gas gets 120k BTU but engine well they suck for efficiency So you get about 2.6 hp from that gallon. So cut that to half gallon needed to put that 800 watts Max for 1 hr. 2 kwh unit from dead is gonna need 2.5 hrs to charge. All math in my head so pretty rough . But basically if you used it few times a week, you would spend more on gas and wear and tear than a 800 watt solar setup. Not saying it doesn't have applications but it seems pretty pricey in the long term for not so much energy. Especially in a gasser.
I'm going to respond to this in a video.
🤔... no sun alternator 800 watts for a gas/propane generator
?
@EcoSolarReviews no sun for days on solar panels. couple the 800 alternator on a generator with no 800 watts to quick recharge batteries... tell me surely u saw that
That thing overworked my alternator and burned it out in less than a week. Cost me $700 for a new alternator.
Interesting because it's not out yet? How'd you pull that off? LOL
Okay now thats funny!!!@EcoSolarReviews
Canada.
Maybe you should have read the manuals, and then adjusted output.
But you still have to use gas to charge the damn thing isn't that like stupid free energy but now they say hey this is better because you hook it up with your car and you start your car which you are spending gas and how much is gas is better but it's counterproductive I mean oxymoron type of stuff like what's wrong with free energy know they're psychologically effing you saying look you can charge your stuff faster if you use a car so you still using gas I'm sorry I'll stick with the free energy which take longer but I don't have to buy gas gas is the reason why I got a power station I need to get a power station to recharge it up with a gas guzzling car am I is it me or is it or is it the world cuz I don't think I'm that stupid you got to start your car up to make this thing work right now isn't the whole point of it is not to use any thing that you have to pay for???????!!!!! But again it's for convenience how stupid can we
Thank you for your comment!