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Easy DIY Solar Panel System Racking Install

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  • čas přidán 27. 07. 2024
  • Ready Rack by APA Solar Racking can engineer an American made screw system for your solar racking that eliminates the need for concrete! This is a DIY friendly solution for solar racking. See all the details as I expand my solar ground array racking system. You can get a quote for your solar system racking here: www.readyracksolar.com/
    Learn more about solar power and home backup on my website ProjectsWithDave.com: projectswithdave.com/
    Solar Noon calculator: www.gml.noaa.gov/grad/solcalc/
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    Disclaimers:
    This video is for information purposes only, and does not constitute professional advice. Solar systems can and do involve dangerous electrical connections. If you do not have experience with electrical wiring, please seek professional support.
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    Timestamps:
    00:00 Intro
    00:51 Screw Assembly
    03:02 Driving Ground Screws
    04:20 Installing Weed Block
    05:23 Racking Assembly
    12:12 Solar Panel Installation

Komentáře • 158

  • @WillProwse
    @WillProwse Před rokem +13

    Oh that's neat. I like that

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem

      I wasn’t sure about it when I first decided to go with it, but it was easier to install than I expected and I’ve had 60mph winds without even the slightest issue.

  • @4932gb
    @4932gb Před rokem +19

    I used ready rack for my 11K system. It is a well designed system. Very good quality. Nothing to complain about. I would do it again.

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem +3

      Thanks for reporting your real world experience!

    • @attiliojorge2765
      @attiliojorge2765 Před 11 měsíci +2

      How many panels does the rack fit and what is it the estimate price for that size?

    • @jimmy4518
      @jimmy4518 Před 5 měsíci

      what was the price old man

  • @JarredSutherland
    @JarredSutherland Před rokem +14

    I finally installed my ready rack yesterday. Due to some issues getting things aligned it took longer, but I will be mounting panels tomorrow. Also, that pro tip you gave is what I learned yesterday via some trial and error.

  • @typxxilps
    @typxxilps Před rokem +3

    12:43 Pro tip: we build brackets from home depot in a double L and 4 in total , 2 for the current panel and 2 for the next. The upper L will be put onto the lower horizontal bar or profil and the lower L mounted so to say upside down faces up that you can lay the panel onto them and adjust them easily without someone always having to hold that panel.
    You then have a master piece for the distance of the lower end of the panel to that profile where you mount the panels cause I bet the horizontal profiles and bars were perfectly aligned, and the the panels are a lot easier to align them perfectly this way. You can adjust the home depot plates , I mean 2 of these L each 40 cm long with holes in a pattern drilled already from the factory can also adjust close to the perfect position. The last mm can be adjusted by a rod of wood and you have the perfect line. If you have screwed the middle connector you pick up the 2 bracket assmeblies ( built out of for L) and move them forward to the next spot. If you have additional pieces you can build a U shape at the lower end which prevents those brackets from falling of if you push the panels in place. Hard to describe but if you think about very valueable especially on the roof or if you have to work on your own and not further helping hand is available.
    Cheap (20€ or 20$ for 4 of them) and easy to build cause you simply need 8 L pieces and some screws to mount the upper L with the back on the lower L and adjust it the distances. You can also bend an U at the lower end with the U pillars in a distance of the height of the panel, mostly 3 or 4 cm.
    Helps an awfull lot and can be reused later. And makes the aligning a lot easier cause your horizontal profiles are easier to align first and then you should get automatically the right alignment of the panels if they lay in these brackets. Attention: You might have to shorten the upper L to release it once the panel has been fixed. If the shorter leg is too long there is not enough space to the back of the panel, so 1,5 cm should be enough to held the panel in space but also short enough to release or recover the L from the holding position once the panel has been fixed.
    Hard to describe especially in a foreign language but it is a very usefull geometrical alignment tool only for that particular use case and of cause on a roof too.

  • @wills2262
    @wills2262 Před rokem +7

    thanks for doing these videos and making solar more accessible to the DIY crowd!

  • @keithcress1335
    @keithcress1335 Před rokem +8

    Thanks Dave! You do such a great job with your steady, cool, explanations. Nicely done.

  • @kiheidude
    @kiheidude Před 4 měsíci +1

    This video was SUPER helpful!! I am getting ready to do a 24kw ground mount system. Thank you for all the great information you are sharing.

  • @cranedaddy678
    @cranedaddy678 Před rokem +8

    I used ready rack for my 12kw system after seeing your original video on it. Overall I'm pretty happy with it. It's survived our Oklahoma wind and snow for a year now with no issues.
    I will say, you have some really REALLY soft dirt there. Getting my screws in the ground was a total nightmare due to the clay we have about 18 inches down here. I had to get grade 8 bolts for my screws because the original hardware would snap off rather easily. I got to dig up 2 different screw heads because of this 😢
    Also, my 35hp tractor would not screw in these screws all the way. Also, there was no way I was going to be lining up the bolt holes by hand. Luckily I rented a skid steer with a reversible head that made lining up the bolt holes easy.
    Overall I would definitely recommend the system but place a big BIG emphasis on getting the right screws for your ground type.

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem +5

      Thanks for posting your real world use case! This is great information for people to consider. For clay type soils, I think time of year can also play a big part. I made a point to install my screws in late fall or early spring when the ground is soft from rain fall. In mid summer, it becomes very hard, almost like concrete. I was worried about breaking bolts, but had no issues with that, sounds like my fears were not unfounded.

    • @cranedaddy678
      @cranedaddy678 Před rokem +3

      @@ProjectsWithDave very good point about time of year. I installed mine during Christmas break of 2021. It wasn't freezing weather but that still may have not been the best time.

  • @ssoffshore5111
    @ssoffshore5111 Před rokem +7

    I'm not sure this racking system is quite as HD as some of the others out there (although likely cheaper and easier to install), but it looks like a good option for those folks that don't live is areas prone to extreme wind conditions. BTW, I checked my location in CT and solar south was within 0.05° of due south... close enough for me!

  • @Harvey-nd1nw
    @Harvey-nd1nw Před rokem +2

    Hello I am doing solar system accessories, your installation video is very comprehensive, let me learn a lot. Hope to have more videos in the future, thank you

  • @duncanjames914
    @duncanjames914 Před rokem +8

    Wow, this was a great video tutorial. So many great tips plus your video format and pace were excellent. I learned a lot. Thank you very much!

  • @wildwestunlimited
    @wildwestunlimited Před 10 měsíci

    DANG man!!..... I thought I had a great DIY ground mount...... YOURS makes MINE look like a kindergartener made it!!! GREAT JOB!!!! I don't even think a hurricane will pull THAT outta the ground!!!!

  • @farmerj490
    @farmerj490 Před 8 měsíci

    Your video helped a lot in my decision of what rack to get. I'm really impressed with the kit and almost have it completed. I watched this vid several times as I was building which really helped in the assembly.

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před 8 měsíci

      Awesome! I'm glad I could provide some value for you.

  • @afos3462
    @afos3462 Před 6 měsíci

    Good simple instructions and good what and why explanations, well done and you have another subscription. Keep safe and good luck with your installs (from AF in the UK).

  • @dimitriosmyzithras6491
    @dimitriosmyzithras6491 Před rokem +4

    Very insightful! 👍🏻

  • @nikkithuillier5519
    @nikkithuillier5519 Před rokem

    Brilliant video Dave, so informative, I was hoping you would expand the array and record another video, Thanks!

  • @LincolnSP150
    @LincolnSP150 Před rokem

    As Usual, .... Another Excellent Video You Really Do It Up Nicely .... Bravo!!
    Thank You

  • @Just_An_Idea_For_Consideration

    Excellent and Useful Video
    thx

  • @fr33for3
    @fr33for3 Před rokem +2

    Great video!

  • @davidpatrick1813
    @davidpatrick1813 Před rokem +2

    What a nice set up

  • @Electronzap
    @Electronzap Před rokem +2

    Very cool system.

  • @sirrodneyffing1
    @sirrodneyffing1 Před rokem +6

    Screw piles, British patent from 1833. Great video, many thanks, very useful.

  • @daveedmateo94
    @daveedmateo94 Před 8 měsíci

    Thumbs up & subscribed! Excellent video and audio with clear understanding of project.

  • @pnowikow
    @pnowikow Před rokem +2

    Nicely done. Very informative

  • @diegofernandez4789
    @diegofernandez4789 Před 5 měsíci

    Love how you explain. Thanks.

  • @TushhsuT
    @TushhsuT Před rokem +1

    really awesome. dont know how expensive is it in compare to other racks, but looks really good. Many people do a rack without diagonal stabilizers, that is actually wrong. Just I would make them tighter, than one can do with bare hands and own weight.

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem +3

      Prices have gone up over the last few years due to the price of steel, but I expect that's the same for all systems. When I did my original analysis to other systems the pricing was similar, but I didn't have to spend any labor or money on concrete so I came out way ahead with this method.

  • @magnuseriksson5721
    @magnuseriksson5721 Před rokem

    It looks to be a nice system

  • @theheathkitshop2424
    @theheathkitshop2424 Před rokem +5

    Okay....Several things come to mind. First, my Ironridge ground mount didn't require 2' holes 7 feet deep. Granted I'm not in a hurricane area, but my rack is rated for 120mph. The 'rack' sure looks like Unistrut. The small cables seem to be more show and tell than anything else. I can't see how 1/8" cable is going to add much in the way of support. And lastly, how in the hell do you screw in the earth screws if you don't happen to have a tractor with a post hole digger attachment? Renting a bobcat would certainly put the screws to building a inexpensive solar mount.

    • @extragoode
      @extragoode Před rokem

      The only support that the cable provides is connecting the long posts to the others. Should the rack deflect a bit in the wind, they'll transfer some of the deflection to the next post and that post to the next post, so the only way if fails is if a force is applied to that's strong enough to break the cable or bend the whole rack. Commonly available 1/8" steel cable is rated for 400lbs tension and has a breaking strength around 2000lbs, so they'll do a lot more than nothing.
      How did you dig the holes for your concrete footings? The drawings in the video show the helix on the bottom of the posts are 6" wide, which I'm guessing is more narrow than the holes you had to dig. Anything that can remove earth with a larger radius than that should have enough power to drive these down. My point being that if you don't have something to do this you're probably renting something anyway.

    • @JorenMathews
      @JorenMathews Před rokem +2

      Renting a bobcat for a few hours isn't that expensive.

    • @glee21012
      @glee21012 Před rokem

      It's three weeks later. Yeah seven feet deep is stretch, a back hoe, 36-40" and a sonotube. Just like a deck. I am not a fan of steel direct in soil where in can rust away, prefer it on concrete with anchors..

  • @pvnmnn378
    @pvnmnn378 Před 3 měsíci

    What a high quality video

  • @clarencewiles963
    @clarencewiles963 Před rokem +4

    Try to get some WD40 Dry Lubricant it will 1) dry and collect no dust. 2) seal the nuts 🔩 from moisture, 3) makings it easily to remove if needed 4) removing moisture from electrical. I even used it underneath my car and lawnmower etc. thumbs up 👍

  • @stephansmith1937
    @stephansmith1937 Před 7 měsíci +1

    Good design

  • @glee21012
    @glee21012 Před rokem +1

    You don't need 7 foot deep holes, unless it is Alaska or Canada. Frost line in many states is 3 feet below grade or so.

  • @ProjectsWithDave
    @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem +2

    Learn more about solar power and home backup on my website ProjectsWithDave.com
    Leave comments and questions below, I answer as many as possible. Thanks!

  • @ChristmasEve777
    @ChristmasEve777 Před měsícem +2

    I just talked to this company today and got a quote and the price is ridiculously expensive! I cannot see paying more for the racking than I pay for the solar panels themselves.

    • @majorhavoc9693
      @majorhavoc9693 Před měsícem +1

      Yeah, that's why they don't publish their prices on their website.
      They want to talk you on the phone and try and convince you why you need their product.
      If the price isn't display clearly, I walk away. They can keep it.

    • @ChristmasEve777
      @ChristmasEve777 Před měsícem

      @@majorhavoc9693 You're right about that. They're hiding something when they don't post the price. Yup, they need to give you their sales pitch. I'm moving to a new development. I'm going to see if I can get the builder to bury some metal posts for me for not too much money while they're building the house and then I can attach some racking to the posts myself after I move in.

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před měsícem +1

      Building your own racking can be much cheaper. However, if you have to get it inspected you will need an engineering certification making DIY much more difficult.

    • @ChristmasEve777
      @ChristmasEve777 Před měsícem

      @@ProjectsWithDave I'm planning on living out the middle of nowhere so I don't expect there to be any such requirement from the township but I better ask ahead of time. I think the AC side (grid tie) will be the only part that needs inspection and I would call in an electrician to do that part anyway. But if worse comes to worse, I'll end up caving and buying this racking system.

  • @darinbolt8357
    @darinbolt8357 Před rokem

    Thanks!

  • @samberardi5425
    @samberardi5425 Před 4 měsíci

    Hi Dave, very informative video. Could you provide a little more detail on the adapter to drive in the screws. Also how do you determine the soil type in a given are? Thanks for all your help

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před 4 měsíci

      I just measured the diameter and bolt pitch on my auger and had a friend machine an adaptor for me. Typically there are county maps with soil type for your area. Or you could dig a hole.

  • @greengooseman
    @greengooseman Před 3 měsíci

    on the cable suspension, I thought about using a long piece (8-12") of heat shrink tubing to secure the extra wire.

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před 3 měsíci +1

      Sure, that would work if it was a UV stable tubing.

    • @greengooseman
      @greengooseman Před 3 měsíci

      Great additional point!@@ProjectsWithDave

  • @michaelpiotrowski1435
    @michaelpiotrowski1435 Před rokem +2

    God Bless

  • @thechristofer92
    @thechristofer92 Před 5 měsíci

    this is structured is more stability for wind ?

  • @Alphasig336
    @Alphasig336 Před 27 dny

    Why not build a standard concrete column and mount 6x6 and build an angled deck surface without decking just joists. I plan on building 8’ from to 12’ back. With 2x6 on outside all the way around lag bolted to posts. Posts are 12’ on center. And 2x6” joist every 4’ with solar k2 tracks mounted to these joists.
    The reason mine is so high is I have a walkout basement the lower side southern face of my hose. Roof panel would have rarely hit above 50%.
    The added benefit is that above solar array is a 3 story solid wall of hardie which will add to reflection downward.

  • @scottszego3700
    @scottszego3700 Před rokem

    That is a thick ground/weed tarp. is there a specific name for it?

  • @NewLightEnergy
    @NewLightEnergy Před 10 měsíci

    Question for ground rod location? Should my 10’ rods be driven in by the pole with the conductors going underground to my solar shed or at another pole of the array about 12’ away from the conductor run pole? Fantastic videos across the board Dave. I’ve learned a ton.

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před 10 měsíci +1

      Generally speaking, you have one ground point for your house and everything goes back to that. Usually two rods at least 6' apart. However, I'm not an electrician. I suggest you ask your local inspector for their input.

    • @NewLightEnergy
      @NewLightEnergy Před 10 měsíci

      @@ProjectsWithDave Excellent, Thank you for the prompt reply, keep up your amazing works.

  • @seamusbtterfield
    @seamusbtterfield Před rokem +1

    You dont have enough space for all the solar panels? LOL you have an entire field. Im so so Sorry I could not hold that back hope you have a sense of humour.🤣 Still deserves a LIKE and best of luck.

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem +3

      😀 You and I are on the same page, but my wife doesn’t think giant solar arrays in the back yard are as beautiful as I do.

    • @glee21012
      @glee21012 Před rokem

      Million dollar house with 10 acres, doesn't have enough room.

  • @heart4Pahoa
    @heart4Pahoa Před rokem +2

    Thanks for the video. Curious if the auger poles would work in the blue rock (old lava) that the minority of us here on the big island of Hawaii have on our property under the 3-4” of top soil?

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem +2

      I don't know the answer to that, I would contact the company and see if they have experience with that situation. They do have a ballast system that does not require any ground penetration, that may be a consideration for you. Ballast spec sheet: uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5e4bf6aabc92428ec6194695/634ea02dcb50d20a20dac2ce_APA_SPEC_SHEETS_V01.4_GEOBALLAST.pdf

    • @heart4Pahoa
      @heart4Pahoa Před rokem +2

      @@ProjectsWithDave good information, thank you for the insight.

  • @jl9678
    @jl9678 Před rokem +1

    Great vid thanks. Im a huge fan of helical piles. My house is on them. I looked at their website though and there is no pricing which makes me think Im not going to be able to afford the system. Bummer.
    Question-what is your east west span between the piles? How many feet between each one? Thanks

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem +1

      It varies a little depending on your panel setup. Mine is about 9’.

    • @jl9678
      @jl9678 Před rokem +1

      Thanks very much for that info Dave

  • @dewholdingsllc1050
    @dewholdingsllc1050 Před rokem +1

    Thank you for the content. I am in analysis paralysis. Need to get something built. you are 2ns or 3rd person i have seen planned and built a solar array, both roof and ground, then wanted it larger with more panels. I think my goal is to overbuild a ground array rack system and then I have extra capacity for future expansion.
    Which is the best panel mounting orientation? Portrait or landscape? Seems like the size of newer model panels are growing also? does that factor into the rack mounting?

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem

      I can relate to "analysis paralysis." 😀 I don't regret making room to expand, but at some point you just have to make a choice and go with it. You can see my logic for sizing my original system in this video on sizing grid tie solar systems: czcams.com/video/rbFnZqA0GCI/video.html
      I targeted never overproducing, in retrospect I think overproducing a couple of months would have been a better balance for me. I prefer portrait orientation, but it is going to be dependent on your racking system. You will want to choose your panel first, then spec the racking to match. I would quote multiple racking systems and choose the one that best fits your needs.

    • @dewholdingsllc1050
      @dewholdingsllc1050 Před rokem

      @@ProjectsWithDave Thank you for the content. I’m off grid for now. Also plan is for a lithium ion phosphate cell and natural gas generator tie in. Why? The only electric provider in northern New Mexico doesn’t have any equipment I’m told supply chain shortages and hurricane Ian last year. So they are not running new customer lines until 2024. A year ago I was told by 2023. I got a quote from your favorite rack company but shipping is very expensive from OH to NM and I didn’t see any discounts.
      Do you have a code?

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem

      I don't have a code. I don't have an affiliate relationship with them.

  • @danw3113
    @danw3113 Před 11 měsíci

    I wonder if the ground screws can handle the clay/rock mix of the Ozarks?

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před 11 měsíci

      You could contact Ready Rack, I'm sure they have some experience to share on those soil types.

  • @mafosa9563
    @mafosa9563 Před rokem +1

    "CLEAN!"..

  • @Ilamarea
    @Ilamarea Před rokem

    Wouldn't it be beneficial to build a shed and use the panels as the roof? Is the open space important for cooling?

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem

      You get better performance on the ground. You can see the performance difference with a shed application here: czcams.com/video/mzqjCsZKUYQ/video.html

  • @kiiiburn
    @kiiiburn Před 27 dny

    What is the retail price of this? I don't feel like giving my information for some pricing. Like 16 total panels.

  • @grantcurrin4934
    @grantcurrin4934 Před rokem

    if you have a finance constraint, would it not be beneficial to put more batteries and less optimizers?

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem

      If you have a finance constraint, I would not use batteries. I would just have a grid tie system. Here are some details on how it works: czcams.com/video/IwUK1dNJ3n8/video.html

  • @boblatkey7160
    @boblatkey7160 Před rokem

    Try this in Santa Barbara County where the local jurisdiction thinks that they are smarter than everyone else and will require you to get wet stamped structural engineering on the plans which will cost you thousands of dollars and probably take about six months at a minimum to get done. I had a perfectly successful install business and I threw it all out the window in frustration with pulling permits and dealing with electrical utility interconnection agreements.

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem

      It's too bad the business environment is so unfriendly there. No one wants to have to move just to keep their business.

  • @DanBurgaud
    @DanBurgaud Před rokem

    Do you know how much force is exerted when a 100kph wind blew on the panels?

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem

      When you have a system designed, the engineering paperwork comes with all the loads defined.

  • @caustinolino3687
    @caustinolino3687 Před rokem

    Do they give you plans to submit for a permit or the whole thing assumes no permitting?

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem

      They provide the engineered stamped drawings for permitting.

  • @WiSeNhEiMeR-1369
    @WiSeNhEiMeR-1369 Před rokem

    HOWdy P-w-E-D-D, ...
    Thanks ...
    COOP
    the WiSeNhEiMeR from Richmond, INDIANA
    ...

  • @justinfowler2857
    @justinfowler2857 Před 5 měsíci

    How well does ready rack work if you have rocks? I live on on land with clay and glacial rocks.

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před 5 měsíci

      The tighter screw is for rocky soils. If you have very large rocks, I recommend you go with the ballast type system.

  • @PerfectorZY
    @PerfectorZY Před 11 měsíci +1

    For people without skid steers, what alternatives are there? I know I could rent one but if possible I'd like to buy something so I can use it over and over again. It's not clear to me that if I bought a post hole auger (the kind you can hold with your hands) that I'd be able to use it for this application. Thanks!

    • @stevenoble9984
      @stevenoble9984 Před 11 měsíci +1

      following. I have the same question

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před 11 měsíci

      If you have soft ground and make an adaptor for a two person post hole auger you might be able to do it. Where I live the ground is clay and very hard in the summer, but in the spring it's very soft. If you try it, or if someone else has tried it, let me know how it goes.

  • @supermo26
    @supermo26 Před rokem +3

    Cool. Have you tried Ironridge? I'm curious how they compare in price.

  • @jimdevilbiss9125
    @jimdevilbiss9125 Před rokem

    The screw system obviously is great. If you don’t live where I do go down, maybe a foot and you hit rock side of a mountain and rock yes everywhere.

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem

      They make a version that is just ballast that might work better for you.

  • @DenissBelajevs
    @DenissBelajevs Před rokem +1

    ❤❤❤

  • @dewholdingsllc1050
    @dewholdingsllc1050 Před rokem

    Any company make a fence post that can be installed on either of those ground anchors you show? I thinking about a vertical solar panel fence reason I am asking.

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem

      I think you could just order the screw with a longer post attached. As long as you had a way to drive that long of a pile.

    • @dewholdingsllc1050
      @dewholdingsllc1050 Před rokem

      @@ProjectsWithDave How deep did you go with the screw or auger style tip? What is your frost depth code? My project’s frost depth is 24” and the county construction code requires every thing to be buried 12 or more inches below the frost depth. Everyone I asked said the local contractors bury everything 48”. Would Fence post tips need such a depth?

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem

      Mine go down 3'. If you don't go below the frost line, the posts could move up and down and crack your panels.

  • @happyhamster1411
    @happyhamster1411 Před 20 dny

    What would the cost be for a 3-4kw system?

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před 13 dny

      You would have to get a quote, each system is a little different.

  • @drakemia4079
    @drakemia4079 Před rokem

    What about rocks

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem

      I don't have many rocks in my soil so I can't speak with direct experience. The longer narrow pitch screw I show in the beginning of the video is supposed to be for rocky soil. I'm sure rocky soil is more challenging.

  • @TheGuruStud
    @TheGuruStud Před rokem +5

    Cables are pointless. Just use regular ol chain link fence top rail (I'm guessing 3/4 to the top at horizontal would be the most stable).

    • @AmandaComeauCreates
      @AmandaComeauCreates Před rokem +1

      I imagine less likelihood some derpy kid runs face first into a pole - plus great hanging space for drying blankets

    • @travelfeet
      @travelfeet Před rokem

      wouldn't poles have to be cut to a more precise length, when cable is infinitely adjustable at the point of installation? Cables only work in tension of course, but that's why the "X". I've done similar instals with both poles and cables and the cables were much easier DIY.

  • @ciciedee5474
    @ciciedee5474 Před rokem +2

    Please setup the new panels virgin. No optimizers and no microinverters. Use this as control set. Compare the different systems. Thank you for the great videos

  • @dewholdingsllc1050
    @dewholdingsllc1050 Před rokem +1

    Did you compare readyrack with unirac large array system? cost/benifit, or pros/cons?

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem

      I did not.

    • @dewholdingsllc1050
      @dewholdingsllc1050 Před rokem

      I’m also trying to compare the Everest rack system. I think it is best to prepare the rack site and over build by a few panels for future expansion. Everyone I have asked wishes they had built a larger array.

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem

      That's because It's addicting to produce your own power...

  • @zeroibis
    @zeroibis Před 2 měsíci

    Would be cool to see a version of this for quick antenna mast installs. Sometimes you just need to be able to have a decent base for a mast that is not going very high. Would be cool to see a short one designed to attach to an auger just screw into the ground and bam you have a mounting point to install a metal pole off of. You could even use 5 of the things so you could get a really solid base for a taller mast.

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před 2 měsíci

      Yea, I was thinking it would be a great solution for a windmill. Seems like there are a lot of possible applications.

  • @richpate9436
    @richpate9436 Před 3 měsíci

    DIY friendly? All I need is a $20,000 tractor and a $3,000 screw implement. Easy! I'll just mortgage my home. Thanks.

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před 3 měsíci

      You can rent a skid steer for the day. That would still likely be cheaper than concrete.

  • @milkhbox
    @milkhbox Před rokem +1

    As a solar installer; I can tell you these screws only work if you've got good clean dirt.. if you have lots of rocks or god forbid you live on shelf rock, then these screws will not work.
    We use a very similar screw system (sunmodo) at my workplace and I hate it.. the crews who drive the screws have to auger rock out and set them in concrete half the time, anyway! XD

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem

      My soil has very few rocks, so no issues for me. They do make a screw for more rocky soil, but I haven’t had the opportunity to try it.

    • @savedforever7702
      @savedforever7702 Před rokem

      I don't have any rock but I do have clay will this be an issue? Thx

    • @milkhbox
      @milkhbox Před rokem

      @savedforever7702 Clay should be fine. The screws are 5ish feet long with only about 18 inches above grade. (If it's done correctly. XD)

    • @savedforever7702
      @savedforever7702 Před rokem

      @@milkhbox gotcha. Thanks for the quick response. Yeah I'm having to find a rack with 125 mph wind rating to get permitted I'm noticing a lot of the cheaper ones are in the 115 Max wind and I'm assuming this rack is probably around the 7 or 8k range as far as price goes. Probably way out of my budget. I'm seeing a lot of great racks being built out of timber. Then you got to get engineered and probably won't look as good in 5 or 10 years .

  • @billn8555
    @billn8555 Před 4 měsíci

    LOL, im not affiliated wit ready rack, but they gave it to me free... LOL

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před 4 měsíci

      Just to be clear, I did not get paid to sponsor them, nor do I get revenue if you purchase their products. I just try and make sure any possible conflict of interest is understood by the viewer. As for this racking system, I purchased the racking for my original install at full price, because it was the best option for me. Thanks!

  • @christopherfairs9095
    @christopherfairs9095 Před rokem

    An admirable system but, having eliminated the concrete, why did you need to put down all that stone? Wouldn't sheep manage the grass and avoid ground maintenance?

  • @sc-uk5xg
    @sc-uk5xg Před rokem

    It changes everything for people with no mechanical ability or logical reasoning.

  • @Xingqiwu387
    @Xingqiwu387 Před 9 měsíci

    DIY is all I see! Clearly there are no commercial vendors for these systems because everyone is having to build them themselves. You'd think where there's a market, there's an industry to fulfill that need, but I guess not. Not everyone is a "do-it-yourself" capable person, we'll just have to keep buying electricity from the city.

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před 9 měsíci

      There are installers, I found one through Energy Sage before I decided to go DIY. It's a free service to help you get competing bids. Here's my affiliate link: www.energysage.com/p/everydaydave/

    • @Xingqiwu387
      @Xingqiwu387 Před 9 měsíci

      Thanks for the info! We actually tried them but they have a catalogue of preliminary questions that is thicker than the US tax code! We gave up. @@ProjectsWithDave

  • @davidniquot6423
    @davidniquot6423 Před rokem +1

    0:29 - Concrete is cheaper
    0:57 : Readyrack .. blablabla .. those screw are a pretty old system, and we use them for houses for decades : This is clearly an advertisment for Readybolocks

  • @samfish6938
    @samfish6938 Před rokem

    looks like an ad to me

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem

      As I stated in the video, I don't make any money if you use them.

  • @EelingStudios
    @EelingStudios Před rokem

    Nice bit of chemtrailing going on there.. 😕

  • @typxxilps
    @typxxilps Před rokem

    12:02 - big mistake and also dangerous cause a plastic zip tie will rod away and then the cable end will get loose maybe even under tension and might hit the white foil and damage that. And then you are screwed cause you will not recognice what is happening cause moisture will get in directly condens under the electric surfaces and cause what ?
    corrosion which grows over time and equals what ? additional resistance and therefore less power from that particular panel which also kills the string, I mean decreases the production of the whole string.
    Get metal cable ties VA2 or so cheap from china and everything should be fine even though I suggest to cut the rest off that it never could hit the white foil. Best and easiest way.
    The current long cable will not make you happy or help you but can cause big damage. Those cable ties rot away in about 5 years , most likely lot earlier in your region with the snowy winter and a lot additional reflection of UV light that kills the plastic.
    Here plastic zip ties are forbidden for electric installations at all due to these reasons.

  • @dewholdingsllc1050
    @dewholdingsllc1050 Před rokem

    Energy pal is a waste of time don’t bother. You should warn your subscribers that the energy pal website is not sophisticated enough and limited to grid tie systems and they can’t help you if you have new development plans and there is no current ability to tie into the existing coop. So they will not help with any off grid systems. Also they stated they don’t have any subcontractors that can work with the newest 2023 equipment such as the hoymiles 4-1 micro inverter as an example.

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem

      Thanks for taking the time to let people know your actual experience.

  • @Jennifer-007
    @Jennifer-007 Před rokem +3

    Nothing pisses me off more and makes me unsub quicker than when someone says "I'll put the link in the description, then doesn't bother doing so, but instead fills that area up with a bunch of affiliate links or other revenue streams. The description area is for info on the video, not an advertising space... I'll go find the solar noon link myself... I'd paste it here for others but CZcams deletes comments if you include links....don't say you're including a link if you're not and instead going to just puke affiliate links.

    • @supermo26
      @supermo26 Před rokem +5

      It's better to be pissed off than pissed on, unless your into that.

    • @ProjectsWithDave
      @ProjectsWithDave  Před rokem +3

      Link to the Solar Noon calculator is in the description towards the top. Thanks!

    • @AdministrativeReload
      @AdministrativeReload Před rokem +1

      Affiliate links and sponsors are how CZcams content creators make money. If you don't like it, go pay for cable.

    • @Jennifer-007
      @Jennifer-007 Před rokem

      @@AdministrativeReload I already pay for CZcams Premium to not have ads, CZcams IS my cable...if you want to turn your video into an infomercial that's your choice, just don't tell people you're including something of actual value to the topic then not do it... you sure didn't forget all the affiliate crap.

    • @AdministrativeReload
      @AdministrativeReload Před rokem +1

      @@Jennifer-007 well bye then I guess🤷

  • @393boss
    @393boss Před rokem +1

    great vid