Need info on small solar setups

[punikahakaiferret]

Started a new thread so I don't hijack the "Solar anti-theft" thread started by Ccat any more.   Sorry about that...

Now I can cut loose with all the details, haha!

Looking for recommendations on a very small off-grid solar setup.

Have no large draws...no TV,  microwave, range/oven, washer/dryer, dishwasher, desktop computer/monitor, stereo/gaming, none o' that stuff. 

Just an apartment-sized fridge, possibly a small chest freezer, laptop/phone charger, router, a few fans, lights, alarm system and assorted small occasional kitchen appliances. Everything else is/will be propane/self-contained solar or battery (like outdoor security lights and camera)

At some point I can upgrade and go bigger/more batteries, more panels, but am just starting out and need a basic small, lower-cost system, like well-WELL under $10k. I'll still need to get a generator (and would like to get the much-lauded Honda EU2000i.) Wanna think I'm not just "taking hopeful pills", like my dad always says.

So, anyone knowledgeable on specs, components, brands, parts and how to puzzle it all together, reasonable reliable trustworthy installers who don't just want to take advantage (and we all know who that is, right? ...run ...run far away), I'm just trying to gather info and fact-find.

Thanks to everybody for suggestions. Y'all are a great resource. And source of amusement and fun, as well! 

[kalakoa]

Most important thing is to learn how to build/maintain the system yourself.

[punikahakaiferret]

Definitely...I always like to know how to DIY my stuff, but this just seems like a lot of parts to take in all at once. Want it done right, but then be shown how it all fits together and how to keep it running smoooooothly.

[microage97]

I certainly recommend the Honda 2200! or what ever the current generation is labeled. I have almost 10,000 hrs on mine and its still running strong. You will need to run full synth oil, I use 10w-30...usually the cheapest jug.....I've had a few carb issues, but for the most part have been mine own fault, like getting the smallest bit of saw dust in the gas tank the plugged the jet in the carb at 1030 PM. Fun! I did replace the carb when the electronic servo started to act up, but other then oil changes it has been flawless. Make sure to change the oil about every 50 hrs as directed.....Definitely spend the 10.00 for an hour meter.

As for your solar set up, make sure you at least get 1 panel for every battery, if not more panels.

[achutch3]

Started a new thread so I don't hijack the "Solar anti-theft" thread started by Ccat any more.   Sorry about that...

Now I can cut loose with all the details, haha!

Looking for recommendations on a very small off-grid solar setup.

Have no large draws...no TV,  microwave, range/oven, washer/dryer, dishwasher, desktop computer/monitor, stereo/gaming, none o' that stuff. 

Just an apartment-sized fridge, possibly a small chest freezer, laptop/phone charger, router, a few fans, lights, alarm system and assorted small occasional kitchen appliances. Everything else is/will be propane/self-contained solar or battery (like outdoor security lights and camera)

At some point I can upgrade and go bigger/more batteries, more panels, but am just starting out and need a basic small, lower-cost system, like well-WELL under $10k. I'll still need to get a generator (and would like to get the much-lauded Honda EU2000i.) Wanna think I'm not just "taking hopeful pills", like my dad always says.

So, anyone knowledgeable on specs, components, brands, parts and how to puzzle it all together, reasonable reliable trustworthy installers who don't just want to take advantage (and we all know who that is, right? ...run ...run far away), I'm just trying to gather info and fact-find.

Thanks to everybody for suggestions. Y'all are a great resource. And source of amusement and fun, as well! 

---

There is a guy in Puna that sells small systems like what you are describing and appears in your price range as well. Here is a copy and paste from CL. I think he has other configurations at different prices as well.

Aloha Off Grid Puna!

This off-grid solar system will power a fridge, lights, blender, laptops, water pump, chargers, small tools, and a washing machine in bright sunshine. It uses proper DC circuit breakers to keep your family safe. (Can't get these at Home Depot!)

This system is ready to go, all equipment is brand new. Everything you need is there.

What is included:
50 amp MPPT charge controller,
3000 watt (6000w surge) inverter (pure sine wave)
3 x 375 watt panels (1125 watts total, can add one more)
4 DC circuit Breakers
Auto Low Voltage battery protection
4 Deep cycle batteries, w/ warranty
3 stage Battery Charger

Price is $4200 firm, cash only, includes Inst@ll@tion.

See my Reviews
https://www.facebook.com/KaiRasaSolar/reviews

Text 808-825-71sevenFive

serious inquires please
Puna Area Only

[Durian Fiend]

^That is a decent deal and should be plenty of power for OP. You might consider upgrading from the 4 golf cart style batteries to a couple of larger, maintenance free units.

This would add several hundred to the bill.

[randomq]

Aside from the fridge and oven I mentioned on the other thread, I'll note that Instant Pots use surprisingly little energy, if you want to do solar cooking.

And seriously consider LiFePO4 batteries, many ship here on Amazon.

[punikahakaiferret]

Thanks for all the great info so far!

I definitely would like to go with LiFePO4 batteries, know they are much more powerful and reliable

Funny thing, I bought an Instant Pot several years ago and, well...was not impressed. Have only used it a few times, and it makes far more food than I need at a time and generates far too much liquid. Kinda think it was a waste of money for me.

I eat very healthy, but very small meals and prefer fresh food.


Keeping all this great info in mind...keep it coming!

[Durian Fiend]

It's not real difficult to set up a small system. For starters, you need a breaker between the panels and the battery bank, then a breaker between the battery and your load.
Your load is the panel/fuse box, and it should have a breaker or fuse for every circuit. That's about it.

I've kept mine real simple by going with 12 volt rather than 24 or 48 volts. This requires a larger charge controller, so in most cases it's not advised. You should probably go with 24 volts.
I think water pumps are available in 24 volts, so no stepdown would be required.

[kalakoa]

Breaker from panels to charge controller rated at least 1.5x the panel Imp. Breaker from charge controller to battery bank.

If inverter, class T fuse between battery bank and inverter.

Automotive fuses are rated for 32VDC, they make a fine choice for DC distribution and sometimes the solar/charge side. Something like this:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001P6FTHC/

The little 1/8-hp water pumps are available in 24VDC. They are also available in 110VAC. In this case, two fuses, one at the battery (to protect the wiring) and one at the pump (to protect the pump). Example: 20A fuse at battery, 10-ga run to pump, 10A fuse at pump. (Note the oversized wire to compensate for the load.)

This arrangement is especially important for any device with a "death spiral". A 100W pump will draw 8.3A at 12V but the amperage draw will increase (W = V x A) as voltage drops (eg, marginal batteries). If there is no fuse to cut this short, the pump will flatten the batteries. Also important with flourescent ballasts (I like the IOTA) but nobody uses those anymore.

My favorite for low-voltage wiring is landscape lighting cable. Fine strands, thick jacket, UV-safe for outdoors. It's available in a 10ga for heavy loads (the pump) but the lighter 12ga is plenty LED lighting.

Regular light switches are NOT rated for DC but they work perfectly well for small loads like LED lighting. With plastic zip boxes and switchplates, it's possible to rig up DC LED lighting that looks totally normal. Wired a shack this way.