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DIY Victron 120/240V Split Phase System for Beginners! No Programming Required
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- čas přidán 20. 12. 2022
- Preprogrammed Victron System Kits can be found with the affiliate links below:
6kVA System: www.currentcon...
10kVA System: www.currentcon...
20kVA System: www.currentcon...
48V Server Rack Battery Tower Package: www.currentcon...
Budget 48V System: www.mobile-sol...
Other 48V System Kits: www.mobile-sol...
obviously connect grounds to the ground bar.
Does off-grid solar confuse you?
Check out my DIY friendly website for solar system packages and product recommendations, and so much more!
www.mobile-sola...
Join our DIY solar community
#1 largest solar forum on the internet for beginners and professionals alike:
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If DIY is not for you, but you love solar and need an offgrid system, check out Tesla Energy! They will price out a system and get your house offgrid: ts.la/william5...
My DIY Solar Equipment Recommendations (Constantly updated! Check here first):
12V/48V Lithium Solar Batteries: www.mobile-sol...
Complete Solar System Component Directory: www.mobile-sol...
Complete 48V System Blueprint: www.mobile-sol...
Plug-N-Play System Recommendations: www.mobile-sol...
Complete "Add to Cart" 48V System Kits: www.mobile-sol...
DIY Friendly Air Conditioner/ Heat Pumps: www.mobile-sol...
My Favorite Online Stores for DIY Solar Products:
Signature Solar
Offgrid One-Stop-Shop. Best Value 48V LiFePO4, Victron and Offgrid Specific Heat Pumps:
www.signatures...
Current Connected
SOK, Victron, Mr.Cool Heatpumps and High Quality Components. Fantastic customer support:
currentconnect...
Litime
My favorite 12V budget battery!:
www.litime.com...
Epoch Batteries
My favorite high-quality 12V battery:
www.epochbatte...
Renogy
A classic 12V solar store that has been around for ages! DC to DC Chargers and more!
renogy.sjv.io/...
Rich Solar
Renogy's biggest competitor! Similar products, but at a better price:
richsolar.com/...
Battery Hookup
Cheap cell deals
bit.ly/2mIxSqt
5% off code: diysolar
Contact Information:
I am NOT available for personal solar system consult! If you wish to contact me, this is my direct email: williamprowsediysolar@gmail.com
Join the forum at diysolarforum.... if you wish to hang out with myself and others and talk about solar
FTC Disclosure Statement and Disclaimers:
Every video includes some form of paid promotion or sponsorship. Some links on this youtube channel may be affiliate links. We may get paid if you buy something or take an action after clicking one of these. My videos are for educational purposes only. Information is subject to change/update at any time. Electricity is DANGEROUS and can kill. Be smart and use common sense :)
DIY Solar Power with Will Prowse is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program,
An affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com
Preprogrammed Victron System Kits can be found with the affiliate links below:
6kVA System: www.currentconnected.com/product/6kva-victron-kit/?ref=cPwLcVc0SW-BjN
10kVA System: www.currentconnected.com/product/10kva-120-240v-modular-residential-off-grid-power-system/?ref=wp
20kVA System: www.currentconnected.com/product/20kw-120-240v-modular-residential-off-grid-power-system/?ref=wp
48V Server Rack Battery Tower Package: www.currentconnected.com/product/fully-loaded-25kwh-48v-server-rack-battery-kit-bundle-save/?ref=cPwLcVc0SW-BjN
Budget 48V System: www.mobile-solarpower.com/48v-complete-system-blueprint.html
Other 48V System Kits: www.mobile-solarpower.com/complete-48v-solar-kits.html
obviously connect grounds to the ground bar.
*Does off-grid solar confuse you?*
Check out my DIY friendly website for solar system packages and product recommendations, and so much more! www.mobile-solarpower.com
*Join our DIY solar community!*
#1 largest solar forum on the internet for beginners and professionals alike:
www.diysolarforum.com
Check out my best-selling, beginner-friendly 12V off-grid solar book (affiliate link):
amzn.to/2Aj4dX4
If DIY is not for you, but you love solar and need an offgrid system, check out EnergyPal! They will price out a system and get your house offgrid: energypal.com/diysolar/
*My Solar Equipment Recommendations (Constantly updated! Check here first):*
12V/48V Lithium Batteries: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solar-batteries.html
Solar System Component Directory: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solarcomponents.html
Complete 48V System Blueprint: www.mobile-solarpower.com/48v-complete-system-blueprint.html
Plug-N-Play Systems: www.mobile-solarpower.com/full-size-systems.html
Complete 48V System Kits: www.mobile-solarpower.com/complete-48v-solar-kits.html
DIY Friendly Air Conditioner/ Heat Pumps: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solar-friendly-air-conditioners.html
*My Favorite Online Stores for DIY Solar Products:*
*Signature Solar*
Offgrid One-Stop-Shop. Best Value 48V LiFePO4, Victron and Offgrid Specific Heat Pumps:
www.signaturesolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek
*Current Connected*
SOK, Victron, Mr.Cool Heatpumps and High Quality Components:
currentconnected.com/?ref=wp
*Ecoflow Delta*
My favorite plug-n-play solar generator:
us.ecoflow.com/?aff=7
*AmpereTime*
Cheapest 12V batteries around:
amperetime.com/products/ampere-time-12v-100ah-lithium-lifepo4-battery?ref=h-cvbzfahsek
*Renogy*
A classic 12V solar store that has been around for ages!
renogy.sjv.io/n1VjXx
*Rich Solar*
Renogy's biggest competitor! Similar products, but at a better price:
richsolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek
*Battery Hookup*
Cheap cell deals
bit.ly/2mIxSqt
5% off code: diysolar
*Contact Information:*
I am NOT available for personal solar system consult! If you wish to contact me, this is my direct email: williamprowsediysolar@gmail.com
Join the forum at diysolarforum.com/ if you wish to hang out with myself and others and talk about solar
*FTC Disclosure Statement and Disclaimers:*
Every video includes some form of paid promotion or sponsorship. Some links on this youtube channel may be affiliate links. We may get paid if you buy something or take an action after clicking one of these. My videos are for educational purposes only. Information is subject to change/update at any time. Electricity is DANGEROUS and can kill. Be smart and use common sense :)
DIY Solar Power with Will Prowse is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program,
An affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com
Will you be doing more on the Sol-Ark 15Ks soon? Did you have problems with it?
@@Mesabowhunter it's my friend's unit and he still hasn't installed it yet. He hasn't pulled permits either. I have no clue when it will get installed
Any plans in the future to try out a Schneider XW?
@@Keifsanderson I probably should
@@WillProwse
6:45 It's interesting that single cables are pulled in the US. In the EU, you just buy ready kable with thick 3x2.5mm2, 5x2.5mm2, 2x0.5mm2 respectively in the right colors and the whole thing is quite unified ;)
For someone your age to not only have the knowledge you have, but also be willing to share it is a god send to the DIY market place and I thank you for that.
100%
Yep❤
He is 38 years old......
Oops! I forgot to connect the loads ground conductors to the ground bus bar. Totally forgot to cover that and did not connect them in the video. I should have mentioned that in the video.
So treat it as a subpanel. Keep grounds in neutrals separate as I stated in the video and you will be good
What is the capacity of your batteries en how do you charge them.
"So if you want a system that works AND YOU HAVE A TON OF MONEY, Victron is for you." - I agree with Will
A ton of money? An average salary in my region is at least three times lower than in the USA and still Victron is the best you can buy and it is 100% worth that money…
EG4s I believe work well and is a good bang for the buck. Simple setup w/ UL Listing. BUT, the zero load capacity sucks compared to Victron. Hence, I went with Victron in the end.
@@thelwq Exactly, but some need more time with other brands to realize they should use victron.
@@HansKeesom Others simply cannot afford to buy Victron and therefore HAVE to buy other brands.
@@MrGarethrn In the long run I would say you cannot afford not buying Victron. Maybe something like a battery or solarpanels but the core system..... do yourself a favor.
Only made me appreciate my 6500EX's that much more. Also, really appreciate your videos Will. Your vids are one of the main reasons I took the plunge into off-grid solar systems.
Victron is a case study in "you get what you pay for." I've seen that name appear in numerous places around CZcams. All anyone ever complains about is the cost -- never quality, reliability, or support. For this being the Internet, that's pretty remarkable in itself. And at Current Connected, they're still under $1/VA for the system you showed. For a piece of critical infrastructure in an off-grid setting, that seems perfectly reasonable to me.
I'm fairly new to the channel and was already getting my withdrawal symptoms from not seeing uploads, but after seeing those previous videos, I can see why, they must've taken days, if not, weeks. Lots of troubleshooting!! Love your videos.
So much time haha I was going nuts
Ah, a man after my own heart! I've been following the difficulties with the other models and I'm ready for something that 'just' works.
www.mobile-solarpower.com/48v-complete-system-blueprint.html
Check out this system. It works well
Folks there are some very good charge controllers out there But I recently purchased a VICTRON CHARGE CONTROLLER 100-30 There are no words to explain this product but I can tell you in my words that the quality & the workmanship of this product is second to none. I am so taken back on how beautifully this equipment performs. The reviews of this product is right on and I highly recommend on a scale 1 to 10 9-1/2 seven STAR
I know this a test system, but for your inexperienced viewers, they should put a blanking panel in any holes they open up on the box that they don't use to meet code. Thanks for the video!
As someone living in a shaded area, I really appreciate you discussing systems from the inverter outward. You've answered a ton of my questions regarding "grid-tied battery as a whole house UPS" questions with your latest reviews. Similar setup and testing of Schneider would round out the pool of my contenders for no-solar backup options. Between peak-shaving and emergency backup, battery systems seem like a more reasonable emergency system to standby/portable generators... especially the ones that allow standby generator input if things get really messy.
I want to start off by saying keep up the great work, your channel is amazing. After watching this video I thought back to some of your original builds that you could test with a heat gun, now your systems have grown so you need to use a Tesla to test them. The solar community has come a long way thanks to you, David and Andy. Your mention the idle consumption on a few of your video’s and you have also mentioned the high cost of Victron products. I am in the process of building an off grid system on the 49th parallel and have returned my all in one inverter due to its high idle consumption (750 Wh/day) and purchased a Victron due to its low idle consumption (48 Wh/day). The all in one, fully loaded with panels, could not even generate enough solar power to keep the unit powered up on long stints of bad weather. My rough calculations of the addition panels (4 panels) and additional battery capacity needed for the cheaper all in one to work, is offset by the higher costs of the Victrons. I end up with a system that works year around at a similar cost. It would be great if you can do one of you white board videos on idle consumption showing some examples of the different units ideal consumption and the off setting costs for each type of system. I know in sunny parts of the world, it is not as much of a concern, but on the rainy west coast it sure is an issue. You also mentioned it would be great if victron would make an all in one, I do see one on their web page, it seems to be an amazing unit, but it is for 230v. I wish they would make an 120v unit too.
Great job will! I switched to Victron after issues with Growatt and have never looked back. Victron does make all in one units, they are just not available for the U.S. market and they are 230V only. Keep the Victron stuff coming.
Same here. Victron + SMA inverters and I'm more than happy with the quality
Those all in one cost between 3000 and 4000us$ in Europe for between 3 and 5000w output. I'm pretty sure the same victron stuff but modular costs half the price. Not sure about ROI on that one
@@richarddeutsch9984 think it's more cost effective to get a victron inverter with a dedicated mppt charge controller from victron, saves ~1k
Great video. I have had the Quattro 5000 for 2 years now and want to install another alongside for AC use in summer. This video bumped it up my to do list - very easy. Expensive for a reason. The monitoring software is brilliant. Greetings from Spain.
Nice review, Will. I install solar systems in RV's and will only use Victron equipment. As you said, it just works, and I can troubleshoot remotely. You may know that they got their start in the Marine world, and their products are perfect for RV'ers. My RV has a 24v system using Victron with Tesla modules for the batteries.
Very nice. I have victron 12 volt system now I'm trying to build a 48 volt system for my basically for my house. I'm using a 6500 sungold. I don't know if I'm going to be able to do it all these videos are so helpful but I'm just not that smart. It takes so much time and effort. I already bought the system now I got a wire it in I don't know if I can do it🙏🙏
Love the Victron but the UL Listed EG4 6500EXs are just my fav!
Update: Okaaaay, Will you got me!
I watched this over and over again and I am convinced ...to go the Victron route. I mean like Will said, "It just works". Not only does Current Connected preprogram the Victrons for your battery chemistry but they can also log into your system and troubleshoot/modify it as I learned in the video. I mean, you can't beat that. And they are ULTRA efficient!!! Sooooo, I just dropped thousands on a system, but I am swapping out my EG4 inverters for the Victron's. I would have to also get my Victron solar controller and CerboGX but hey, they are Victron as well. I'm cool with that. The Victron app/monitoring will be incredible!
Update 2: Signature Solar did me dirty, so I am not going to purchase through them. They have the potential of being great, but customer service was the issue. If you want to buy from Signature Solar, do it...just don't have issues with your order or you will find it hard to modify/cancel it.
I am going full Current Connected. Jason (at Current Connected) spent over an hour with me over the phone helping to design my system based on my expected loads. We are going with the Multiplus IIs in split phase as Will has setup in his video. He will design my system based on what I shared and will email me with a link to a "share cart" to show what I need to purchase. I then will modify if needed and give the go ahead. Such great customer service with them and they preconfigure the inverters! They are awesome, dudes.
♥
I am preparing to build my ststem. And, I live about 30 minutes away from Signature Solar's warehouse. But, you and so many others have experienced and shared about problems with their support team that at the end of the day, it ain't the sales team but its the support behind them that counts.
In Zimbabwe, you can install a budget 5KW system with a Must Inverter, 48V 100AH lithium and 6x450W solar panels for the price of a single Victron 5KW inverter.
I really appreciate all the work you have put into these videos. Thank you!!
I know right I'm trying to put together a system I don't think I'm going to be able to do it. I hope I can figure it out his videos are amazing
Once I got past the initial view of the cost of victron, Im a huge fan now. Fantastic quality, great software, and extremely dependable and consistent
Victron is quality ,you wont be disappointed if you buy there equipment
Victron is not only expensive, but they nickel and dime the heck out of you and you end up needing an entire garage wall to mount all the components to. They really ought to make an all in one unit with internal replaceable modules.
Still worth it in my opinion as they are also the most efficient. 11 watts idle They have good finished product. But depends on what you are running
@@STRUTZKOFF They are certainly efficient! Victron is good stuff, but an all in one would be awesome.
I agree they do nickel and dime you
@@STRUTZKOFF isn't that idle with literally zero load? I'm guessing that's a search mode where the inverter isn't even powered
They have all one units for sale. Check your facts before commenting.
Another great video Will. I totally agree that Victron just works! In this case, you do get what you pay for.
I know right you do get what you pay for
I have two of these inverters in a 240V split phase setup. Something to be aware of for those of you using batteries without a low temperature cutoff. The Victron comes with a temperature probe and you can set the low temperature charging cutoff, however, it did not work when they were in split phase mode. I could only get this feature to work in single phase mode.
Will, I have watched most of your videos. I’m a beginner to the off grid Solar world but I am well versed in the electrical field. I would appreciate your in put on my system. At first we were just setting up off grid to handle an RV this summer. I bought all Renogy products trying to keep it al one manufacturer. I bought the 3000 watt inverter, the 100 amp controller and 20 100 watt panels. I have six 200 AH gel batteries. This was all a twelve volt system. I connected the panels in a Eco Worthy 6 string Combiner. First problem. Obviously it was too many amps for the combiner box. Second, I’m producing over 80 amps and the batteries can only take 60. The next step was I’m going to 24 volt so I bought a Sigineer 6000 split phase converter. I am redesigning the system to 24 volt. I need 240 to run a well pump.
it would be better for you to regurgitate all of this on his website. Check his description for that forum.
You were the first channel I subscribed to years ago.
I watched some of your videos where you became ... As you say "raving"
I love it!!! I think you are right on the mark!
Keep your direction...
Hats off.
Another way to "pull" the wire through is as follows. Using a "balled" up paper towels tied to a nylon string longer than the conduit you are using. With a vacuum cleaner on the opposite end to suck the ball of paper towel through the conduit leaving enough string on the far end. Attach the nylon string to the wire bundle to be pulled through and pull. As long as it doesn't get hung up somewhere, it should pull through easily enough. That's it.
Sweet trick.
Way too much work. Just straighten out the sealtite, add a little liquid dish detergent to the end of the taped conductors and push it effortlessly thru the conduit.
Been doing this since '74. Save the vac and mouse for long conduit runs.
Lots of great info in this video! That said I would like to add a few notes that may help some based on questions I get in my professional life surrounding these types of systems.
If you are new to off grid energy systems and/or Victron don’t start with paralleled inverters.
In addition to needing exactly the same DC in conductor length and gauge, you also need to have the exact same OCPs from the same manufacture and ideally from the same batch. Your inverters also need to have as similar to same batch as you can achieve. When these inverters are programmed in parallel they effectively become one inverter. Small variance in internal component resistance can lead to nuisance shutdowns.
To expand on the neutral-ground point. Your electric system needs neutral bonded to ground at one and only one location. Victron inverters have an internal relay that achieves this by remaining close when no AC in is present. When AC in is added that relay opens. Victron assumes that N-G bond is being done either at the genset, shore power pedestal, or main AC panel when AC in is being used on the inverters. If your genset doesn’t have this get an in-line N-G plug adapter. Not doing so may lead to GFCIs nuisance breaking.
Do not try to run split-phase paralleled systems with small shore AC in (less than 50A or 4 wire). The load assist will tank your batteries (even large ones) extremely fast.
As always, RFM and review the NEC.
@TheJCaruso1 Thanks for chiming in to share your professional knowledge. Definitely most appreciated in this forum where there are a lot of newbies like myself. I am new to off grid energy systems and Victron. But, I NEED to start w/ Victron split phase paralleled inverters to achieve 240v for 2 of my applications (mini-split & incinerator toilet). So, I am afraid to not heed your warning unless you have a better Victron-solution for my application. So, some recap and questions:
1) I will definitely ensure that my DC in conductor lengths and gauge are exactly the same along with the OCPs. Fuses or breakers?
2) Is it okay to apply the in-line N-G plug adapter off of my genset even if my genset has a proper N-G bond for extra assurance?
3) So, are you saying that these RV parks that have a 30 amp and a 50 amp pedestal, to only use the 50 amp connection? And never use the 30 amp connection?
4) What does “RFM” mean?
Sorry for so many questions, I am just trying to get things right on my first attempt.
Thanks man. I don't buy into the 'two parallel units' bandwagon. It smacks of a SALES GIMMICK / click bait fad. Just more cost, complexity, and headaches. And if ya need redundancy ya can just keep the old inverter you grew out of as a backup.
The Victron power equipment has always been a reliable choice. The only negative reviews I have seen in recent years has been in reference to the small Victron MPPT charge controllers being very RF noisy. Not an issue for power systems but for those of us in the amateur radio community we take the RF noise level seriously especially when we can see it on the waterfall displays of our radios. I’m sure Victron will solve the problem.
I agree. I don't get rf all the time, but when I do it is a s7.
I’m going to use the MultiPlus-II 2 x120V for my 5th wheel solar upgrade. Perfect for an RV with 50amp. I used Victron gear on my van solar build and was hooked. So much you can do with their stuff.
Me too! :)
That’s what I’m running in my RV with 3 SOK Batteries
I think the MP2 2x120 are just hype. You’re running a 50a rig with 2400w of inverter power… 1200 per leg and it’s not really a 240v compatible inverter. Maybe it’s ok for leisure Walmart parking lot stops, or just limping along to the next plug in. But, there’s no way I’d limit myself to such a small amount of power in a large rig.
@@RollinHomies Agreed this unit isn't for everyone. It is a bit under powered. In my case it is a good option since I don't have a residential fridge, washer dryer or any 240v appliances. If I did, I'd go with dual MP's.
@@RollinHomies not really hype at all. I’ve installed many in various RVs and have had 0 complaints. Many people aren’t looking to power several big tickets items at once while camping. A single multiplus II can handle a 15k AC unit and residential fridge at the same time. Or in the case of my own 5th wheel I commonly run the microwave, toaster, coffee maker, heated blanket, camera/phone chargers etc without even thinking about it. Another awesome feature I am able to run BOTH AC units off my little 2800watt inverter generator because of the load sharing feature. Combining solar and my little generator uses less than half the fuel my big 5500 built in generator would use.
If I need more than the 3k multiplus can give me all I have to do is hit the button to fire up my big generator but so far I’ve never needed to except to run a welder.
So excited to see another Victron video from you. Pleasant surprise to complement my morning coffee. Thanks Will
Such a great demo video, thank you!! Seeing you actually hook it up means everything to me. I am not an electrical engineer, technician, and have little knowledge of these systems. But with enough analysis, immersion in all things electrical, a study of Victron components, wiring basics, and oversight by an electrician, I can revamp the older power grid in my RV. I appreciate this video very much!❤❤❤
By the way Victron does have an Inverter + Solar charger called EasySolar series. They also have a built in Cerbo GX on both EasySolar and Multiplus series. Personally, I prefer individual components in case one runs bad.
Excellent video. I have been running 2x Quattro 5000 48v units + Victron Autotransformer for a few years now in my RV coach. 16x 200W panels on the roof. 6 Tesla Modules (going LifePo4 soon) They just work. Runs everything including the 3 AC units. I even added a 14-50 outlet for friends RVs to plug into. Charged my friends Tesla at the racetrack a few weeks back. He was blown away. Check out the whole write on up on Victron ESS. It's amazing, These can be paired with standard home solar inverter systems to provide battery backup solutions. As you said, I really hope Victron gets UL Listed in the US and allows backfeeding to the grid. I may or may not have been offsetting my home power for a year or more using ESS. 🤫 Come on Victron. Almost ready to build my permanent home system and would love to use Victron for all of it.
I just upgraded my van to a Quattro 5000 12v. I am SO HAPPY with the unit. Oodles of features, super well built. Just wonderful.
I have a multiplus II In my motorhome and I love it. Just doing 120 V and it was very simple.
Age is NO restriction to knowledge & the passion you deliver in your videos make it evident that like all good teachers you try to make things easily understood.
Thanks for your continued delivery of your experience & practicality to what could be a complex subject.
Have a good Christmas & New Year. Stay safe and well.
My vicron equipment is super solid. Money well spent.
A screwdriver and a hammer tightens lock nuts well too.
@@USA-GreedyMenOfNoIntegrity After doing this for 20 years I can attest that it doesn't damage the screwdriver. Everyone that I have ever worked with does it this way too.
Thanks champion!
Working on a microgrid project in Federated States of Micronesia & they follow US Standards, You made things a lot easier for me to understand.
Regards
Land Down Under
Finally you are reviewing quality equipment. Love your channel man.
Great video will. You can use just an interior aluminum flexible conduit instead of the liquid tight. A lot cheaper and you can install them side by side as the fittings install inside the conduit instead of outside.
Yeah why don't I use that more often. I like that stuff
Great Video Will. Victron do have an all-in-one. It is called Easysolar II GX. It comes in 3 or 5 Kw, 24 or 48V. I installed it last month and it is a great unit. I do not have a ton of money but still went for it anyway. It is an investment.
I've been window shopping, and the Easysolar looks like a good idea - what I don't understand is how well it would/could handle multiple strings - where the strings are for arrays in different orientations.
Not a USA unit though.
It's not designed for North America.
@@WillProwse
Yes, it is 240V. Maybe they will produce a 120V model in the future. It was interesting how you discovered its limit. I wonder what my 5KV unit's limit is. Till now I only drew 3.2Kw max. You got my curiosity going to discover its limit. I am not as confident as you doing this but I guess there is little risk that I will burn it or something.
@@WillProwse hey Will is that wire wrapped around the out the 120 volt output causing any problems Seems like it being around all 3 wires it may cancel its self out I bet if only around the hot wire it would
I enjoy watching these videos but it’s all way over my head. Just trying to pick up some nuggets so I can potentially build my own camper setup. I feel like an old dog though watching you. Keep it up, I’ll keep sponging what I can.
Oh, and thanks Will, love your videos buddy, I’ve learned a ton from them!
Just to point out that the 3000VA rating only applies to a resistive load. All Victron kit is specified this way. A rule of thumb is to multipy the VA by 0.8 to get real watts into any other type of load. Victron may appear to be expensive, but it is built to last. My 10K Quattro has been running 24/7 for 8 years now and never missed a beat. Keep up the good work with the videos.
This is what I was going to reply. Looks like they force the 80% rule.
Yes I mentioned that in the video. I was just surprised that the EV charger power factor was that low. Typically we can pull more.
I don't have a ton of money and I'll probably never build a system, but I love learning this stuff! LOL
There is the Victron Easy Solar II GX (3kVA and 5kVA) with MPPT(250V/70A and 100A) and GX (internet connectivity). They are 230V, so you need an AutoTransformer for Split Phase. There are UL Listed 3kVA 48V MultiPlus II Available now in USA.
I can’t stop watching and learning. I don’t even own a solar calculator.
My system is modular but I completely agree, All in one systems so long as they are repairable are the way to go. They are already half way there by shipping them pre programmed so why not take things all the way and ship them as prewired all in one systems as well, especially as their competition is doing exactly that, those mpp systems aren't going to stay hard to program forever and then it will be even harder to justify paying two or three times the price for a victron.
It's nice to see the 1000 amp Overkill bus bar. I spent some time hunting for a 500+ amp bus bar and ended up buying the Victron Lynx Power In. Both products are the same price. For the price I'd go with Victron again though.
Your excitement when something works is so cute 😂🤣 I work in IT and that’s how I feel , as a home owner I’m dabbling into electronics .. I own a condo right now but I’m highly interested in solar going into homeownership and real estate in the next two years , I want to cut costs where I can so I can increase profit I ran across your channel years ago I actually thought you invented the titan batteries , I like solar but it’s not an option for my condo so I’m just building my knowledge base until then , I also like how you mentioned (on your website) you mine ethically with your setup ! I wanted to get into mining also but didn’t like the energy drain on the grid that’s an awesome idea.. thanks so much for sharing and putting your content out! Highly appreciated
I just wrapped up installing my first Victron 3000w inverter in an rv for a customer, and they were trying to achieve being able to run everything in there rv at the same time. I got finished with my install on the inverter backed up with 4 battleborn batteries, and at 2200w 2300w I would also go into overload. Since i work for a pretty big company we ended up having a Victron Expert come by and run over my install, and sure enough they said that there 3000w inverters are only 2400 continuous and 3000w peak. I was kinda shocked considering all of our rv 3000w inverters are 3000w and peak 3600w or something. So i was blown away that they are able to sell something that isnt even really rated for what they advertise. All in all tho I love Victron, Was a pain in the ass to install in an rv tho, but i believe they will last a very long time, and love the fact that it is software base, so if a new battery comes out they can add a profile for them.
This info is on their spec sheet for the unit. 30000 VA (note the VA) continuous at 25C and the next line 2400 WATTS continuous at 25C. To me this unit is like a small Growatt without the Solar Controller. If you need 240V split phase and use 2 units you find, from the spec sheet, that their No Load consumption is not that much lower than the AIO units. For example, two 5000VA Victrons will give 4kw continuous at 240V and draw 70 watts No Load while a SAMEX 4kw at 240v draws 30 watts and a Schneider 6.8Kw at 240v will draw 30 watts.
I think the "hype" around Victron is a "bit too much"
They don’t advertise it as 3000w, it’s 3000va. Sounds like misplaced blame.
"When you buy Victron, they just work" high praise!
Love your videos, Will. Very informative, easy to understand and what's more important is how confident your actions looks like :)
I keep watching your videos because I know I want backup power for my house - so batteries + inverters on standby....I have 2 solar arrays, 5.4kW + 2.5kW, and want AC coupled but I cannot figure out when and what to possibly go with. Since I have a small house I definitely want to stick with a smaller system (or see about running it 20 feet away from my main panel in the basement I guess, but it would be nice to not have to do that! Decisions decisions..
I have the Victron Multiplus 12/3000 (not the Multiplus II) in my RV. The 3000 rating does trip up some folks. I went into it with my eyes wide open and knew that it was a rating of 2400 watts. That's enough to run the air conditioner just fine. I've also charged my 2019 Leaf SV+, albeit with a 120v EVSE from a 2015 Leaf that draws fewer amps. The Victron Multiplus is an incredible piece of equipment. The surge capacity is excellent, it's quiet and it integrates well with the rest of my Victron landscape. I'm kind of surprised that Will didn't get closer to the 2400 watt rating. Current Connected is good, but I would be pouring through the logs and settings to try and figure that one out.
The Quattro is super cool. Obviously a lot of money, but highly integrated.
I do enjoy your tutorials. They are entertaining (you are entertaining) and you always insert personality and your own knowledge. That's priceless. There is something I've been holding off saying, and I'm finally at the point I can't take it any longer. It's about the equal length conductors.
TL;DR - you can easily have a couple of feet difference between two parallel conductors and see no difference.
E
Discussion:
The reason this is the "rule of thumb" comes to two different things. First, the parallel conductors need to have the same conductivity. That means they should be of the same general material, same general design, same general cross-section (i.e. gauge), and same general length. That will provide the same electrical characteristics including ampacity, resistance, capacitance, and induction. So, it's not just "length."
With respect to JUST length, as with anything else, how much one cable differs from the other affects the result. The larger factors (ampacity and resistance) can at some point reach the level where one cable is preferred by electron flow to the other, and overall there is no longer 2x ampacity in 2x cables. That doesn't mean "measure it to the milimeter" or "cut both cables from the middle of the same manufactured spool. It means "generally" and "within reason".
For one example, a 6ft segment of copper cable at 20°C has a resistance of 0.0004 ohms per foot. All other things being equal your standard multimeter will not detect the difference between, say, a 6' cable and an 8' cable (0.0008 ohms) but if you have one with 3 digit accuracy you'll see a 5' cable 0.001 ohms different than a 9' cable. Clearly trimming the cables to within inches of each other is whittling away at 1/12 of the foot... or 0.00003 ohms per inch.
Why did I suggest the multimeter? It is a tool that runs electrons across a conductor and conducts measurements. It is IDENTICAL to using the cable as the BMS does -- to run electrons through. If the multimeter with a 3-digit accuracy shows 0.000 it's not going to affect the other uses of that cable. Even in industrial high-speed cabling like the backbone of an aircraft or car harness wiring, wires are guided as needed, not necessarily for length. A wire undergoing three 90° LBs on the outside of the cable management system will be longer than that same wire routing on the inside of the CMS.
Ampacity is directly related to the surface area of a cross-section of the cable (gauge) and while machine strand cable building is great, you can rest assured some strands are longer than others. Overall we talk about surface area/gauge, but there's a lot of air between strands. Solid core doesn't have this consideration but none of us want to bend that or run it through conduit. Finally resistance, induction, heat, insulation, sheathe, conduit, all these are also factors.
In short, (no pun intended), you can skip the often-repeated "advice" as it really is about as much old wives' tale as anything.
Gosh I really need to cover all points in these videos. So the reason why it matters is when you have these in parallel it has nothing to do with current sharing between the units. The communication cable will actually have current on ground if there is a large differential in potential between the two units. It is a bad design. And it has nothing to do with actual current sharing on the main supply conductors. I really wish I covered that in the video so you don't have to type all that out haha.
@@WillProwse Thank you for clarifying... my bad for assuming :)
I've been waiting for that exact same thing from Victron..I'd buy it in a heartbeat
I just installed the multiplus II along with the victron shunt trip, USB Dongle, and Solar controller, I love how informative the app is. I was unaware of the resistive load to charge the capacitor however, I am only currently running wet flooded batteries until I can get the wife to approve more budget to move to lithium
Thank you, Will, for explaining in simple terms for us that want solar but are way less smart than you!
There is a difference between VA and watts. I learned the hard way. I purchased 3 Victron Quattro 15k 48V 200 amp Inverters thinking they would produce 15,000 watts. In reality they only produce 12,000 watts.
I appreciate your videos. They helped me a lot.
The "Easy Solar II GX" has it all in one Will. The Cerbo and the MPPT are all built in there. Second, the rating of 3,000 watts is not continuous, the 3,000 is "cascading" or surge. The 3,000 is 2,400 watt continuous at 25C
AFAIK, this product is not suitable for the NA market (i.e. they only have 240V/50Hz variants).
Thank you very much for your clear explanation. I intend to copy this system in my house in Davao, Philippines.
My Multiplus-II, with minimal torque on the battery terminal, it sheared off and inside was powdered metal with the outside tinned. Thought the battery terminal would be stainless steel but it isn't. They fixed it under warranty but it cost me $100 to ship it to the repair center. Have the new one installed but not powered on fully yet. Still have some wiring to do.
Very surprised that the Solar charge controller is an add on. Thanks for the video. Good stuff.
It is rated for 3kva and 2.4KW continious power. It can carry a surge current of 5Kw.
You also get the GX model, it includes a Cerbo/Venus and a MPPT.
I have a 4 year old home that had approximately 50 inspections, with a main and 2 sub panels, and in North Carolina they are apparently ok with ground/neutral bonding in every panel.
Good god man, you are bulking up. Good job. But now to content comments…Great video. I’m eventually looking to set up a total solar to my travel trailer. This info is great.
Great Video! Been waiting and hoping for a Victron overview. My plan is to install one of these units in my off grid cabin, don't think i will need split phase but I will leave space for future upgrades. What would be nice is a 5000w 120v Victron system!! I would buy that in a heartbeat.
Hi, thanks for showcasing a product that works as expected! 😊
That is funny because it's true.
yes, I would be disappointed to only get 4600 watts out of 2 3000-watt Victron inverters,,,,,, but some say you needed larger Victrons >>> say 2 of the 5000-watt Victrons to get to a higher output and a better power factor....... it seems they were only 92 percent efficient 4600 watts out of a 5000-watt battery draw max output before shutting down....I do not own any Victron inverters but am seeking a larger low-frequency (LF) inverter for off-grid builds.....Victron is very expensive once you add in all the do-dads.....keep up the great videos helping the masses to make better more informed choices in their solar PV quests....cheers
Victron Energy is a European company, if they have taken the effort to produce a US variant (i.e. 120V/60Hz) it surprises me that they wouldn't take that extra step and get it UL Certified, especially as the 'big ticket' features all relate to syncing supplies e.g. to the grid. This seems like an uncharacteristic oversight from Victron that will undoubtedly hit sales.
I just got my multiplus II today and I got it installed. My mk3 is on the way.
in Europe there is the Victron with 240V AC. I can hang up to three on the network in a star configuration. That gives up to 400 volts.
The European grid system is much more efficient than split phase
Appreciate all the effort and your examples through out the years. Thx
20:13 there are Victrons available with the Cerbo built in. I like having mine separate, for the same reason I like my smart Tv not to be built in, the Victron and the Tv will far out last the ‘Smart’ part. Buying the Smart part separate, Cerbo, Appletv, FireTV etc can be updated easily without replacing the whole thing.
Single box - about time Victron!
Great video - one minor correction right in the first few minutes. You say to get split-phase you will need to place the two 120 Amp inverters in series - not correct. Split phase is not 120 in series but two off-phase legs with a Neutral.
Love Victron stuff, but they are definitely not cheap. I have 2 of their charge controllers and a battery monitoring system with shunt for our 12 volt system in the RV. However, for our off-grid property I got one of the 48v Growatt 3k all-in-one units and so far it's been running flawless. Their software is a bit more finicky, but I can monitor it from everywhere with my phone too... Got 3800 watt of used panels from Santan Solar connected to the Growatt, 2 server rack batteries and plan to add more units as needed for our future house build. So far the whole system cost me less than 6k and that includes the electrician I hired to properly wire up and ground my outside panel! :)
im in the market for an inverter, Victron is the way to go me thinks, no surprises, easy config, and online tinkering and monitoring. I might save my pennies and go for the 5k Multi 2 gx and be done with it, should be more than enough to run my house with two oldies bumming around in it.
A Multiplus vs Quattro comparison would be super helpful.
Quattro has 2 AC inputs & outputs. Output #1 has AC power all the time (from inverter or AC input) while Output #2 only has power when the Quattro has AC input. It's intended for RVs and boats, so you can put things like the electrical hot water heater on the second output, so it doesn't drain your battery.
As for the two inputs, only one can be used at a time. It's effectively a transfer switch. Hook one up to your generator, and the other up to your grid. The Quattro has a relay to start / stop your generator, so you can have it automatically turn off your generator when grid power is available.
Other than these I/O features (which can be critical in dorm setups) the units are identical in terms of their inverter / charger capabilities.
@@PsRohrbaugh Thanks buddy, I am rigging a sailboat for camping. Thats why I am here, I have narrowed the search down to Victron. Just could not get a handle on which would be best for a boat. Multiplus vs Quattro.
when doing parallel wires make sure they are the same length down to the half centimeter or the shorter one will take all the current.
also if you look at Victron's data sheet it says max 2400w/3000va
Totally agree on your thoughts about a true Victron all-in-one solar inverter, that would be sweet!! But they don't exist and I took your advise and just ordered me an LV6048, can't wait to hook it up!!
Lv6048 is fantastic!
Nice to see you doing a 204 Victron setup. TY
HOWdy W-P, ...
Thanks for the EXPLANATION & REVIEW ...
I've always admired VICTRON Components
but
am quite happy ( so far ) with my GroWatt SPF 6000 DVM-MPV Split-Phase
COOP
the WiSeNhEiMeR from Richmond, INDIANA
...
Continued, I see some systems use optimizers, and some do not even use combiner boxes. I used the combiner boxes because I liked the protection.
Will Prowse Truth in Advertising: "If you want a system that works, AND YOU HAVE A TON OF MONEY, Victron is for you." I love it.
QUESTION: Hey, Will, can I connect 5.4kWh of solar to my MPP Solar 5048?
Thanks for bringing this down to my level Will!
You have to look at the specs, they are rated for 2400watts continue 3000watt is peak.
I wanted to do a full victron system before I saw the total. Just not for me. Cool products, I would even consider using one of the Phoenix inverters for my well and septic pumps.
Great video I’m an installer and gaining knowledge by the day thanks
Victron should have a grid assist setting where if your load exceeds the output of the inverter, it will pull the remaining power needed from the grid to supplement the inverter. Seems like it would be easy to add.
that is a nice system, I plan on replacing my Schneider CSW 4024 system with this or very similar.
Don't you just love it when a product "just works". It's like Apple macOS computers just work whereas Microsoft Windoze computers only just work :)
Silly question: connect another Chinese inverter intro Victron inverter as grid so you can output higher, lower you idle consumption
Awesome video, Will!
I have lots of Victron mppt and one Victron 3000 48v inverter and I love them, my 2 China inverters doesn’t come close to it, but price is crazy high
Please test a Schneider XW PRO. Very impressed with mine.
Tell me more! Lol I’ve been eyeing the Schneider 6848(?) and wondered what the consumption actually is. Also , if a gas generator can be programmed to turn on and off as needed to replenish batteries. And anything else you’re willing to point out. I am kind of sold on the victron mppt will liked, and the batteries may be dyi 30X packs and/ or trophy batteries…
Yea that’s juicy!! Victron stuff works great.
Thank you for the detailed info on connecting AC side!!!