We are going to be adding Solar Panels and Equipment to our home in the near future. I hope we can get all on video and provide the best information we can on the best places to buy and how to DIY. Currently we have researched every part needed and will be showcasing every step to the process of adding Solar to your lifestyle. Off-Grid with Battery Backup is where we are going to start. Roughly 3000 Watts of Panels is our current thought and add to over time until completely off-grid or for the most part.
We will be providing detailed info on Solar Panels, Inverters, Battery Options, Racking, Wiring, and more. Join us in our journey in our up-coming videos and posts! We have had Solar in our Barn for roughly 20 years and other than batteries; nothing has changed. This has proven to us that Solar is a viable option that can produce the electricity needed and actually pay for itself in a short number of years when you do-it-yourself.
Current thoughts on our products we will be using.
EG4 3000 Watt Off Grid Inverter – An All-in-One option that has the power you need and simplicity for beginners. Whether a seasoned pro or novice to solar. The EG4 Inverters have everything you need. Same price as a charge controller, charger, inverter, ect, in one package with no exposed shock points.
EG4-LL Batteries (48volt 100AH) – Screen, Extra Terminals, 10 Year Warranty, Fire Suppression.
EG4 Brightmount Rack – Note: Some panels are larger than others so if using 400 Watt Canadian Solar Panels you might only get 3 panels on per Rack. See Ballasted Rack option below if needed.
400 Watt Canadian Solar, Solar Panels – Quality and Performance.
EMP DC Shield | 48V – Keep lightning from damaging your system. Ground rods don’t always catch it.
100ft 10 AWG Copper PV Wire | Black and Red– Make SURE to get real copper wire. Many places are selling CCA Copper clad aluminum. Your not going to get the full voltage and fire hazard.
IMO DC Disconnect Rooftop Isolator Switch – Absolutely need one of these at your solar array and another inside or another type. Being able to stop the power with the turn of a switch is very important.
Ballasted Solar Panel Ground & Roof Mounts – No fuss and Simple. Nothing else like them. Throw dirt or gravel in. Put panel on and clamp. Not small so shipping is high and cant change the angle.
2nd Array on Pole Mount for Panels already purchased.
I have no doubt we can DIY the solar production desired after watching years of videos, previous knowledge and use. Certainly not new to electrical but setting up the Transfer box to critical loads / what I want to run daily; will certainly need help with due to my disability. I certainly don’t want anyone thinking that dealing with electricity is not dangerous. If you feel uncomfortable in any part of a Solar install; it’s not hard to find help.