Q-Dog
¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Hello.
Last year we had about 3 weeks worth of power outages due to hurricanes, the longest being 6 days, so I decided to make some changes to how we do backup power. We have a small inverter generator that can handle our basic needs, but we need to move it around and run extension cords through the house to get power where we want it. So, first I decided to run a couple of dedicated circuits for critical loads. While researching how to do that I came across various portable battery "solar generators", which then gave me the idea to build my own battery backup system permanently mounted inside the house. I guess, a UPS for the fridge, computer and network gear, and a few lights. My thinking was something big enough to keep things going overnight until I decided to drag out the generator.
After lots of calculations and studying spec sheets for batteries and inverters I settled on a Victron Multiplus and 200AH of 24 volt LiFePo4 to get started. I chose the Victron for it's power boost function and ability to vary the input current draw which should work fine with my small generator. I now have batteries and the Victron mounted to the wall in our laundry room and did some tests to see if it would do what I hoped. I was able to run the main fridge and small dorm type fridge for 30 plus hours and still had some capacity left in the batteries, so, my calculations so far are about what I expected. We had a storm the other night and when the power flickered I plugged a couple of loads into the Victron and actually hoped for a power outage. The switchover from grid to battery was seamless and I have to say I am now ready to permanently wire this thing into the house.
My thinking is to run the system separate from the regular house circuits, and drop new outlets behind the refrigerator, TV and network stuff. This would give us the ability to choose battery backup or normal grid outlets.
I really don't know much about solar except that when I first looked into it 30 years ago it only made sense for people who didn't have access to grid power. That said, I realized with a few solar panels on the roof, the system could practically run our fridge forever. And that's how I ended up here, looking for DIY solar to add a little capacity to the battery backup system. I signed up just to be able to see the photos and diagrams people have posted on the site ... but now I am posting. I'll probably have a few questions later, but I am the kind of person that tends to look up things and try to find answers on my own before I ask for help.
We have cheap electric rates, so I am not doing this to save dollars. But, I do like the idea of being a little bit more self-sufficient. And driving 20 miles to find a gas station when your power has been out for 3+ days isn't that much fun, so solar charging the system makes more sense every time the power flickers.
I wish I had found this site before I bought my batteries. I am pleased with what I have, but I could have gone bigger for not a lot more dollars. Oh well. I have a feeling I'll be adding more battery capacity in the future.
Brian
Last year we had about 3 weeks worth of power outages due to hurricanes, the longest being 6 days, so I decided to make some changes to how we do backup power. We have a small inverter generator that can handle our basic needs, but we need to move it around and run extension cords through the house to get power where we want it. So, first I decided to run a couple of dedicated circuits for critical loads. While researching how to do that I came across various portable battery "solar generators", which then gave me the idea to build my own battery backup system permanently mounted inside the house. I guess, a UPS for the fridge, computer and network gear, and a few lights. My thinking was something big enough to keep things going overnight until I decided to drag out the generator.
After lots of calculations and studying spec sheets for batteries and inverters I settled on a Victron Multiplus and 200AH of 24 volt LiFePo4 to get started. I chose the Victron for it's power boost function and ability to vary the input current draw which should work fine with my small generator. I now have batteries and the Victron mounted to the wall in our laundry room and did some tests to see if it would do what I hoped. I was able to run the main fridge and small dorm type fridge for 30 plus hours and still had some capacity left in the batteries, so, my calculations so far are about what I expected. We had a storm the other night and when the power flickered I plugged a couple of loads into the Victron and actually hoped for a power outage. The switchover from grid to battery was seamless and I have to say I am now ready to permanently wire this thing into the house.
My thinking is to run the system separate from the regular house circuits, and drop new outlets behind the refrigerator, TV and network stuff. This would give us the ability to choose battery backup or normal grid outlets.
I really don't know much about solar except that when I first looked into it 30 years ago it only made sense for people who didn't have access to grid power. That said, I realized with a few solar panels on the roof, the system could practically run our fridge forever. And that's how I ended up here, looking for DIY solar to add a little capacity to the battery backup system. I signed up just to be able to see the photos and diagrams people have posted on the site ... but now I am posting. I'll probably have a few questions later, but I am the kind of person that tends to look up things and try to find answers on my own before I ask for help.
We have cheap electric rates, so I am not doing this to save dollars. But, I do like the idea of being a little bit more self-sufficient. And driving 20 miles to find a gas station when your power has been out for 3+ days isn't that much fun, so solar charging the system makes more sense every time the power flickers.
I wish I had found this site before I bought my batteries. I am pleased with what I have, but I could have gone bigger for not a lot more dollars. Oh well. I have a feeling I'll be adding more battery capacity in the future.
Brian