Calculate Solar Cost For Your Home - geni.us/solar_reviews Ecoflow Delta Pro: geni.us/smzZiC Solar Wiring Parts Used: geni.us/oHnppd DISCLAIMER: This video and description contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission.
It's kind of bogus. You have to give your phone number which opens you up to installers using auto-dialers to call you. I don't mind my address because I can toss the junk mail. I think you should make it very clear that people will be receiving calls...Maybe for years. I did like your video and I will subscribe to your channel.
One of the companies I priced for Solar panels was $65,000 for my home, It would take me 36 years to pay for that at the cost of what I pay for my light bill now.
This is one of the best explanations I have seen on the differences between series, parallel, and series/parallel solar panel connections. Your drawings and explanation were very clear and easy to understand. I do feel you left out a couple of important pieces of information for people to realize when they are determining how to wire their panels and what to expect from them. The first thing is a realistic expectation of how much power they will get from a given panel. Most panels will output somewhere between 80 and 90 percent of their rated capacity. So, your panels had a theoretical max of 1,440 watts, but when you multiply that by .85, to account for efficiency losses, you get 1,225 watts. That's about the most anyone should expect from those four panels, no matter how they are wired. The other very important consideration when deciding how to wire up your panels is shading. If your panels don't have bypass diodes to address shading issues, then wiring in parallel, or series/parallel, can ensure you get at least part of the output from your solar array, when the array is in partial shade.
Hey Jason, thanks so much for the feedback. Both additional points are very valid. I actually am planning on doing some testing (wired in series) with shading and talking about the bypass diodes which these panels have 3. I also have some power optimizers to compare if they make much difference since the panels already have the bypass diode capability.
@@everydaysolar Thanks for good video, I am attentively waiting for your next video that address these issues. Right now I have 4 panels that each has Voc is 37.1 and Isc is 8.58 Amp with Ecoflow DP. Currently I wire them in serial, 4 more panels waiting to be wired when I see your next video. Thanks again.
@everydaysolar I have an issue understanding and I'm sorry, but earlier the setup wouldn't work because it exceeded the voltage. But now with 4 it work because you're using amps? But shouldn't it still not work since the 4 panels still exceed voltage?
@everydaysolar did you ever do a comparison of these with optimisers on? Someone was asking about this for 2 strings and shading mitigation when charging an ecoflow. But others have reported interference in MPPT readings for the Ecoflow because the optimisers also have MPPT and cause mixed signals and errors.
To make it easy; panels in series the voltage adds up current remains the same. Panels in parallel, the current adds up voltage remains the same. Nice production. Also more sunlight equals to more output. But you have proven which method is efficient under the present condition.
Agree. But in the video, when the panels were in series, he added up both the voltage AND the current of the panels when only the voltage should have been x3. Is there something about solar panels that allows current to add even if the panels are wired in series (which adds the voltage of each panel that is wired in series)?
Yes indeed...You absolutely "ROCKED" this DIY Solar explanation. I watched all three videos and now have a very clear plan to install my own. Well done Scott!
Excellent example. Love the simplicity you apply to this example. Many of us are not 'experienced electricians', so keeping it simple is GREAT. thank you for making this video.
You are wonderful at explaining things. I actually understood this with zero experience with solar panels. Thanks! I blame UA-cam for not suggesting me this channel earlier. ❤
Nice job. Helpful. Something to add at the end would have been solar panel tilt into the sun (beer can on panel leaves no shadow ) to see the max power you would get. Thanks for sharing
Great video. Thanks! You said in the beginning that you would talk about the disadvantages of parallel and series set-ups. What happened to that discussion? For example, aren't panels combined in series susceptible to shading problems where the no power is harnessed if even one panel is shaded?
I read the comment below that you agreed that these panels' specs aren't the optimum choice for the Ecoflow due to the Eco limitations. I just got the Pro and would like to know what specs to look for.... and avoid..... in four 400 watt panels to get the closest to 1600. And your drawing is the clearest wiring explanation yet - I haven't understood ANYONE else! Thank you!
What makes a setup easy is if you can just wire panels in series and get close to the maximum solar input wattage. For these panels I was maxing out on the voltage which meant I needed to start wiring in parallel. The challenge would be to find a panel with higher current output (closer to 15 Amps) and lower voltage output (closer to 35 V). Not sure those panels exist 🤷♂️
I just purchased an EcoFlow delta pro and four 415w bifacial Hyperion panels, they’re VOC is 37.45 and Amps are 14.02, in theory I could run these in series and my volts would be 149.8 , just shy of the delta pro’s limit of 150v. Is this a bad Idea get so close? Or am I better to run series-parallel and lower my volts to 79.9 and bring my amps up to 28.4? And if the delta only pulls 15A from that set-up wouldn’t I have to re-work the watt/law and calculate 15A X 79.9= and only get 1198.5watts??
Great video. Something I was hoping you would mention is that in series, if even one panel is obstructed with shade, it reduces performance for the whole string. Parallel wiring allows each panel to fall into shade separately. But again, there are pros and cons to each approach. Also, a general statement, is that panels need to be kept clean to perform as rated. Hosing then off or even brushing them is good maintenance but hard to do on the roof. For this reason, I am very interested in mounting at ground level, or somewhere I am comfortable reaching on a ladder.
@@sloanNYC The Ecoflow Delta Pro is expecting Direct Current (DC) power flow at its solar input. The power stored in it can then be output as Alternating Current (AC) by going through the inverter internal to the Ecoflow. It wouldn’t make sense to do micro inverters at the solar panels themselves because that would be creating AC power flow before reaching the Ecoflow box, which is only set up to receive DC at the solar port. For an Ecoflow, a traditional string of panels connected in series or parallel is really what it was meant to work with, whereas micro inverters would make more sense in a permanent home installation into your house wiring, which is also AC. The Ecoflow Delta Pro is intended for up to 1600 watts of solar input in DC, but it’s maximum volts specification makes that a bit difficult to reach. It’s more of a ‘portable’ setup that can serve a role in home backup, too. To your point, however, if solar panels were equipped with micro inverters and sent AC power to the Ecoflow, maybe that could feed into the regular AC charging plug just like when it is plugged into a household outlet to charge, and that charging rate would be faster than the solar input. Just not sure if the performance increase would be worth the extra hardware costs. Interesting concept, I will be thinking it through some more.
@@natehowe7975 Totally understand. I’m just thinking once you go so big on solar you really aren’t portable anymore and your needs may fall into a weird gap. LOL.
@@sloanNYC That’s the journey I have struggled with. After a long power outage I started thinking about options to prevent it happening again. My design goal for the project has been to keep everything portable enough that I could take it with me to a friend’s house if they were the one having the outage. I try to stop myself at very permanent installations that need to stay with the home, but I am also not trying to run the whole home, just critical loads. By limiting my consumption plans to a few things like refrigerator, furnace, and window AC, I can look at smaller generation. If I planned to keep central air conditioning online that would require an entirely different plan. I got an Ecoflow Delta to experiment with and loved what it can do, given that it is pretty small. Then I got into the Ecoflow Delta Pro which can flex between portable (trunk of SUV / RV) but can also be useful to a house. I do have some portable panels I can stand up in the yard in an emergency, but I am wrestling with the idea of permanently installing panels on the roof. Given that my project is more focused on redundant options than offsetting the electric bill, I haven’t gone forward with roof panels. In the meantime, I can run a lot from the EcoFlow Delta Pro through the first day of disruption, then I can refill with portable solar panels and/or a small Honda generator that I modified to natural gas / propane / gasoline.
I am just now putting a small system together for some lights, a desktop and maybe tool charging, not big draw I went with Four 100W panels, into an 150/40 EPEver charge controller and Four 105 amp hour deep cycle batteries to kind of keep cost down, for a few days I was running them in 3P didnt bother with the last one it was just working, and even under load with clouds it was doing good, I can use everything for 6 to 8 hours with 1000W inverter and only draw down to 12.1v but if I can get a little better out of them on a little cloudy day, SWEET! I will try 2S2P next I will drop wown from 12 Ga to 10ga for even a little more percentage :)
Great video! It really drives home the point that your system needs to be designed with the parameters of each piece of equipment in mind so that you can achieve maximum performance (i.e., efficiency and effectiveness). The PV panels you choose need to be well-matched to hybrid inverter/controller/charger or whatever load you choose. As I have found in my research and readings, there is a lot more to designing a solar system than immediately catches the eye., and this isn't even touching the NEC regulations for grid-tied solar systems. Regardless, great job...very informative at the pragmatic operational level. Thank you!
Nice vid 👌 Could you explain why you can exceed the rated 15 amps of the delta pro? If you had a long term setup would there be any negative things associated? How would rate for inline fuse?
The short answer is amps are pulled, volts are pushed. So, if you push too many volts to the ecoflow, it won’t accept it. If you make too many amps available to the ecoflow, it doesn’t matter, it’ll just pull 15.
Easiest would be just to use one panel. Qcells does make a 475 to 495 watt 78 cell. Which means 45 volt STC at MPP. It should also be ok for use at -30 celsius (Canada) as the open circuit should be just under 60V, which many all-in-ones do not exceed. 72 cell is ok, but I find that it does not match as well as 78. If always in hot USA, it actually makes more sense to use a 84 cell, if such a thing exists. There are many benefits to using just one ginormous panel, ease of connection, no extra wiring or fittings and no voltage insertion losses.
Nice, If I went that route I would probably grab 2 of the ginormous panels and just wire in series since the voltage will still be under the 150V max on the EcoFlow and no additional wiring needed. I want to place this setup in a off-grid shed where I have some outlets, lights, and battery chargers for the outdoor electric power tools.
Hello friend, is it possible to place a delta pro 4 solar panels of 400 watts in the last way you showed in the video? In two parts of two in series panels?
I have a sloped roof that faces east and west; in the morning, there is shade on the west, and after 12 p.m., there is shade on the east. So, if I plan 5 panels on the east and 9 panels on the west, do I need optimizers on all of them to achieve maximum efficiency or Its enough to put microinverters on the east side panels and string inverters on the west side and combine both? Another thing is - is it advisable to avoid the 5 on the east and connect all of the 9 on the west in series for higher efficiency? I'm wondering - - If I have 15 microinverters on all of the panels, will it be expensive and ineffective because we get sun mostly on the west side and no sun on the east side after 12 p.m., so what is the point of having one on the east? -i am confused.. Could you please answer? I appreciate it.
Well done it’s finally sunk in, regarding wiring types from solar panels. Very well explained sir. Now I will be able to understand how the systems work. Thanks Bud, much appreciated.
Great video, thank you so much for spelling this all out in a way that makes sense. We’re just starting out with solar and an EcoFlow Delta, so this will definitely help.
Love your video, so clear with the diagram. Is there a limit of length for the cable between one solar panel like the 220W -Ecoflow and the Delta 2 Max and is 10AWG preferable to 12AWG? Thank you.
10 Gauge should have less line loss but I don't think there is a set limit on the length of wire. I picked up 10 gauge to make my own custom extension cables. Here is the one I picked up last week amzn.to/436SdE7
What is the max distance I should expect to go between the panels and the ecoflow unit? I'd like to put the panels on a shed in the backyard rather than on the house itself, but that would give me a DC run of about 200' or maybe a bit more (House is still being built, and shed doesn't exist yet!) Is the resistance going to kill me on that? Also, in a different video I saw you using the ecoflow pro ultra unit and you mentioned charging the batteries through the smart panel, but didn't talk much about it. Is it true? I could get just the ecoflex pro ultra and the smart panel, and it would just stay charged to use in case of a power outage? Thanks for all your videos - I just stumbled upon your channels today and have learned a lot binge watching probably 2 hours worth already!!
The 15 amps of solar limited by the Ecoflow Delta Pro would be ok on a 10awg USE-2 solar wire run 200' or more. Not the most efficient. Could you put your Ecoflow in the locked up shed? Then run the AC output to the house. DC loses power over distance, AC is greatly more efficient over distance Look up Nicola Tesla AC vs DC, the NY Worlds Fair 1893 😊
@@Papa-bh6zq Yeah, that really is what I am thinking I am going to have to do.. and for those reasons. My issue is that at least at first, I may not have any solar, so I'm not sure how I'd charge it, especially if I'm going to have to have a main-cut off in the house panel to isolate the shed when it's not powering the house. If I put at line from the house to the shed, then another from the shed to the house (Same conduit, opposite current flow) maybe I could do that. I dont know.. I'm going to have to think about this for a bit. Maybe the answer is that the battery stays in the house as a battery charged from the grid, until/unless I get the solar on the shed, at which point I would move the battery to the shed and forego the ability to charge from the grid. I'd just run the shed from the battery all the time, and use it on the house generator input as needed.. Lots of options... none perfect, but fun to work through to find the best!
@SteveJones172pilot Put the Ecoflow Delta/Ultra in the house with an Ecoflow Smart Panel and run the Solar DC wire 10awg from the shed. This way, it will charge/ discharge off the Smart Panel automatically in Hybrid mode. Size your solar for up to 150voc and 18 to 20 amps. The Ecoflow will only draw the 15 amps it needs, so voltage drop will not be an issue. The Ecoflow will provide battery backup, and solar charging can be added later. Have fun
Thank you, sir! I've been subbed to your other channel for a long time and just recently discovered this channel! I'm in the process of building a "system" for my fridges and freezers in case the grid goes down and was procrastinating because I didn't even know WHERE to start!!! Well, now I've got great direction, thanks you, again!!!
thanks for the video! You have giving me good info, just trying to keep a frig, gas stove, a small chest freezer. Would like to get a washer on it and some heat. But that may not work on a Burnham gas steam boiler. But would like to get an eco flow generator for the house to power just what I needed during a black out if it happens.
"Prime Day(s)" is tomorrow and the 12th. Keep an eye out as there might be some really good deals on EcoFlow, Bluetti, and some of the other larger brands in the portable power station / solar generator space.
I used a killawatt ez meter to plug in each appliance I wanted to know power usage over 24 hours. Best 30 bucks spent. Oh and tiny dorm fridges don’t reach take out food safety temp quick enough…..66 watts when cycling but for beer rather than food in shtf.
Excellent, but the math broke my brain. I want someone to do the math for me please. I have right now 4, 400w panels @ 37.5VOC on one DP and 2, 430w @ 37.5 + 2, 400w@37.10 also 37VOC on the othr Delta pro. But in the winter only getting about 850w @ 138v during peak sunlight. I have 2 more extra 430w/37.5v panels I can add. How do I do it ? Or what is best configuration ? Thanks
Going over the maximum voltage risks damaging the power station. Going over the maximum amps is ok because the power station will only use 15 amps and ignore the rest. Wattage is just volts x amps. The power station will limit watts input automatically.
@@teuton6167 thank you for your answer so does that mean I could parallel the solar panels as much as I like (since paralleling the add on the amps but not the voltage) are there any disadvantages to paralleling? If my understanding is sound, then I should try to maximize the voltage(without going over) and keep the amps over the maximum at all time to get the most wattage?
Great video. One question though. If your doing series and parallel. The top series connection has 3 solar panels with the 45V, and the second series only has 2 panels with the same 45V then how would you calculate the Volts?
What is the Open Circuit Voltage of your panels? You should see the Voc called out on the data sheet usually located on the back? Also, are you bringing your panels into an Ecoflow Delta Pro?
So my question about this is in regards to the panels. If i keep my panels below the 150VDC limit but am generating 2000 watts or more can I still connect to ecoflow without causing damage?
What inline fuse do i get , 15 amp or 30 amps ?0r 40 amp. ? And hey can you tell he where you got the Helien 360 panels i cant find them anywhere, they are kool .
So. No matter how you configure those 4 specific solar panels, you're still never going to achieve their full power potential into the EcoFlo. Because either the total voltage (in series) is too high, or running them in parallel results in unused amperage. So, I'm assuming a better option would be to properly size your solar panels and battery power unit to avoid lost power.
What if you have a metal thing that you need to put another thing on? Would I use one of those things from Home Depot or make it myself? I'm running a something or other thing for reference.
Hello. I have three flexsolar 360w foldable panels. I can't set them up in vertical position because being foldable they wouldn't hold up a 90 degree angle. My question is, if I set them up in horizontal position, would it be the same procedure to connect them in series? 🤔
Great explanation! I got stock with my EchoFlow Solar panels, can’t find installer. Looking for licensed installer for my already acquired 8each 400 watts regid solar panels on my home.
Awesome video....what gauge wire did the electrician use to install the smart panel 12feet from the existing panel?......I would install mine about 25 feet from my existing panel.
Your videos are very informative and easy for anyone to understand. You break everything down for the layman and I appreciate it. Liked, subbed, and I’m binge watching your content. Thank you for the work you’ve put in.🫡
For the Ecoflo pro unit you had, you would have been better selecting your panels for your power system. 3 540 watt panels in series would have optimized your voltage at just under 150 volts and 11 amps of current. That in theory will give the ability to maximize your 1600 watt desired input. But it doesn't give you such a great parallel, series educational video. It might have been good to explain how to design your system for optimal function.😊😊
Unfortunately I was sold such an exact kit and I do get nearly 1600 W sometimes at noon. Problem is that for 3 in string VOC is about 150V (+/- 3%) which would borderline work at 25 Celsius. If it gets colder however, voltage could increase dangerously, at 0 Celsius calculated VOC could reach in my panels 162 Volts (+/- 3%) which would exceed DP 150 Volts requirement. Many talk about not going over that 150V even on coldest days so I'm stuck now with looking for a fourth panel and doing 2S2P setup, ugh! A major pain! And in the new setup the best input wattage I could get is maybe around 1300+ W as a lot of the wattage will get lost at peak, but I'll get it for a longer part of the day supposedly.
Outstanding job ! Lets talk cable gauge . . . Recently melted my 10 AWG gauge 2x50' line MC4 connector's where they meet for some unknown reason? At the time only one 430 watt solar panel was connected on a clear sunny day? So may I ask your opinion why this happened and what gauge do you run 8 or 10 AWG?
Hello. Thank you for the tutorial on this. It was perfect. How do I get around my scenario. I have an RV with 3-180W panels connected to a 40A solar charge controller charging 2-200AH Lithium batteries. How do i get the solar power to the Delta pro in this scenario?
Do you just want to charge the Delta Pro or are you trying to integrate it into your existing setup? Do you currently have an inverter connected to your 2 X 200AH batteries?
@@everydaysolar There is a Xantrex 1000W inverter in the system that runs nothing but the residential fridge. I ultimately would like to incorporate it into the existing setup. Unless you think there is a better option or setup
During the parallel portion of the video you exceeded the 15A limit on the delta pro. Does this mean it doesn't matter how far you exceed the current because the delta pro unit will just bottle neck it anyway? I want to connect 400W panels to my delta pro but they are 14A each and I want to connect them in parallel since the will be facing different directions... Will I have problems with this?
I own two EcoFlow Delta Pros. Is it necessary to use individual XT60 cables for each unit, or is there a method to link both XT60 ports on each EcoFlow Delta Pro to a single cable?
I love this video so much I have a question can you help me understand open circuit am I correct in visualizing like a complete circle like it's a complete circuit like a loop is that what you mean by open circuit
Hi, really great explanation on the wiring setup, i have a question regards to the flexible solar panel to the solid structure panel, do know if they produce the same amount of of power ?
That’s my set up DP with 3s2p ….2 strings loops. I have used panels 350w 48.2v …..bought panels for 75 each. Sounds silly but I cut almost 2 dollars off my bill every day till I die or equipment failure so eventually in 5 years I should get some profit. Gluck
That would be if you added up the Open Circuit (OC) voltage and used the Short Circuit (SC) amperage. In practice plugging these 3 panels into the EcoFlow delta pro it will adjust voltage to reach the Maximum Power Point (MPP) and this will result in the optimal power output. In my area on a nice sunny day each of these panels would adjust to around 40V and 8 Amps depending on intensity of the sun. So if we used those numbers we would get 120V at 8 Amps or 960 Watts which with a few losses from wires and connectors is close to the 890 Watts I was seeing. Sorry, this info would have been good to include in the video and good question.
@@everydaysolar Thanks, what is a good place to get decent panels online, the sites I have visited usually have a minimum and work with larger orders I would need only 4-5.
How can I set up a consult with you guys? I have some equiptment but am not sure I have everything I need and dont want to be in trouble when they are needed.
I have two Ecoflow 100 watt rigid panels and a delta max. I want to be able to operate basics during an extended power outage or a tiny window AC. What else do I need to have? I’m going to get two more panels. Any advice would be helpful.
Another question (please): Your EcoFlow handles over current, but not over voltage. I have cheap grid-tied inverters with limiters that have a max of 1000 watts output each. They have very low voltage maximum input so my 320 Watt panels can not be put in series. I have a number of them wired in parallel so that I can have at least three panels per inverter. I would like to put four panels per inverter but it would be over the max current input the inveters are rated for. Can I safely "over-current" my inverters by adding the fourth panel without fear of hurting the inverters as they will "current limit" and protect themselves? (Assume I have all the fuses, disconnects, ...... in place). Thank You!
When doing it in either way is it important to make sure your solar panels Watts need be the same? Example: Could i hook up 160W with 100W panel? just subd your channel.
Hello great video. I was wondering if you can combine 24v panels with 12v using series parallel? I have 4 12v panels and 2 24v. This is on a 48v system, controller can take 150v, 3.2k watts, 60amps. Question is more about the panel voltage than anything. Obviously the Voc and all need to work first. Thank you
wait... with his panels he is using wouldn't the series parallel total voltage still be over the 150volt limit of the Delta Pro thus risk damaging the Delta Pro Charge Controller?
Calculate Solar Cost For Your Home - geni.us/solar_reviews
Ecoflow Delta Pro: geni.us/smzZiC
Solar Wiring Parts Used: geni.us/oHnppd
DISCLAIMER: This video and description contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission.
It's kind of bogus. You have to give your phone number which opens you up to installers using auto-dialers to call you. I don't mind my address because I can toss the junk mail. I think you should make it very clear that people will be receiving calls...Maybe for years. I did like your video and I will subscribe to your channel.
One of the companies I priced for Solar panels was $65,000 for my home, It would take me 36 years to pay for that at the cost of what I pay for my light bill now.
This is one of the best explanations I have seen on the differences between series, parallel, and series/parallel solar panel connections. Your drawings and explanation were very clear and easy to understand. I do feel you left out a couple of important pieces of information for people to realize when they are determining how to wire their panels and what to expect from them. The first thing is a realistic expectation of how much power they will get from a given panel. Most panels will output somewhere between 80 and 90 percent of their rated capacity. So, your panels had a theoretical max of 1,440 watts, but when you multiply that by .85, to account for efficiency losses, you get 1,225 watts. That's about the most anyone should expect from those four panels, no matter how they are wired. The other very important consideration when deciding how to wire up your panels is shading. If your panels don't have bypass diodes to address shading issues, then wiring in parallel, or series/parallel, can ensure you get at least part of the output from your solar array, when the array is in partial shade.
Hey Jason, thanks so much for the feedback. Both additional points are very valid. I actually am planning on doing some testing (wired in series) with shading and talking about the bypass diodes which these panels have 3. I also have some power optimizers to compare if they make much difference since the panels already have the bypass diode capability.
+1
@@everydaysolar Thanks for good video, I am attentively waiting for your next video that address these issues. Right now I have 4 panels that each has Voc is 37.1 and Isc is 8.58 Amp with Ecoflow DP. Currently I wire them in serial, 4 more panels waiting to be wired when I see your next video. Thanks again.
@everydaysolar I have an issue understanding and I'm sorry, but earlier the setup wouldn't work because it exceeded the voltage. But now with 4 it work because you're using amps? But shouldn't it still not work since the 4 panels still exceed voltage?
@everydaysolar did you ever do a comparison of these with optimisers on? Someone was asking about this for 2 strings and shading mitigation when charging an ecoflow. But others have reported interference in MPPT readings for the Ecoflow because the optimisers also have MPPT and cause mixed signals and errors.
This is the clearest explanation and example I’ve seen.
For anyone teaching this subject, please take notes. This is how it’s done.
Thanks for the feedback 👍
To make it easy; panels in series the voltage adds up current remains the same. Panels in parallel, the current adds up voltage remains the same. Nice production. Also more sunlight equals to more output. But you have proven which method is efficient under the present condition.
Agree. But in the video, when the panels were in series, he added up both the voltage AND the current of the panels when only the voltage should have been x3. Is there something about solar panels that allows current to add even if the panels are wired in series (which adds the voltage of each panel that is wired in series)?
Yes indeed...You absolutely "ROCKED" this DIY Solar explanation. I watched all three videos and now have a very clear plan to install my own. Well done Scott!
Excellent example. Love the simplicity you apply to this example. Many of us are not 'experienced electricians', so keeping it simple is GREAT. thank you for making this video.
You are wonderful at explaining things. I actually understood this with zero experience with solar panels. Thanks! I blame UA-cam for not suggesting me this channel earlier. ❤
Dude, this video is the one ive been looking for for the past almost 2 years. Thank you so much for breakfast it down as simple as possible.
You bet, happy to help!
Nice job. Helpful. Something to add at the end would have been solar panel tilt into the sun (beer can on panel leaves no shadow ) to see the max power you would get. Thanks for sharing
The old "Beer Can" trick. What project would be complete without at least 1 beer can 😂. Thanks for the feedback!
Beer??? Where?!!!?!
Great video. Thanks! You said in the beginning that you would talk about the disadvantages of parallel and series set-ups. What happened to that discussion? For example, aren't panels combined in series susceptible to shading problems where the no power is harnessed if even one panel is shaded?
This is the best explanation I've heard for this solar generator's requirements. Thank you.
You bet!
I read the comment below that you agreed that these panels' specs aren't the optimum choice for the Ecoflow due to the Eco limitations. I just got the Pro and would like to know what specs to look for.... and avoid..... in four 400 watt panels to get the closest to 1600. And your drawing is the clearest wiring explanation yet - I haven't understood ANYONE else! Thank you!
What makes a setup easy is if you can just wire panels in series and get close to the maximum solar input wattage. For these panels I was maxing out on the voltage which meant I needed to start wiring in parallel. The challenge would be to find a panel with higher current output (closer to 15 Amps) and lower voltage output (closer to 35 V). Not sure those panels exist 🤷♂️
I just purchased an EcoFlow delta pro and four 415w bifacial Hyperion panels, they’re VOC is 37.45 and Amps are 14.02, in theory I could run these in series and my volts would be 149.8 , just shy of the delta pro’s limit of 150v. Is this a bad Idea get so close? Or am I better to run series-parallel and lower my volts to 79.9 and bring my amps up to 28.4?
And if the delta only pulls 15A from that set-up wouldn’t I have to re-work the watt/law and calculate 15A X 79.9= and only get 1198.5watts??
@@Mr.Excitement-gn4evHi, I have the same issue). Have you fixed it already? How is looks your configuration? Thanks in advance
Thanks for making this so easy to understand. Really appreciated.
Happy to help!
Great video. Something I was hoping you would mention is that in series, if even one panel is obstructed with shade, it reduces performance for the whole string. Parallel wiring allows each panel to fall into shade separately. But again, there are pros and cons to each approach. Also, a general statement, is that panels need to be kept clean to perform as rated. Hosing then off or even brushing them is good maintenance but hard to do on the roof. For this reason, I am very interested in mounting at ground level, or somewhere I am comfortable reaching on a ladder.
Good call on the shading issue when it comes to series. Thanks for the feedback!
Wouldn't you start using things like micro-controllers when getting to these sized systems anyway? Over 1000w feels like a tipping point...
@@sloanNYC The Ecoflow Delta Pro is expecting Direct Current (DC) power flow at its solar input. The power stored in it can then be output as Alternating Current (AC) by going through the inverter internal to the Ecoflow. It wouldn’t make sense to do micro inverters at the solar panels themselves because that would be creating AC power flow before reaching the Ecoflow box, which is only set up to receive DC at the solar port. For an Ecoflow, a traditional string of panels connected in series or parallel is really what it was meant to work with, whereas micro inverters would make more sense in a permanent home installation into your house wiring, which is also AC. The Ecoflow Delta Pro is intended for up to 1600 watts of solar input in DC, but it’s maximum volts specification makes that a bit difficult to reach. It’s more of a ‘portable’ setup that can serve a role in home backup, too. To your point, however, if solar panels were equipped with micro inverters and sent AC power to the Ecoflow, maybe that could feed into the regular AC charging plug just like when it is plugged into a household outlet to charge, and that charging rate would be faster than the solar input. Just not sure if the performance increase would be worth the extra hardware costs. Interesting concept, I will be thinking it through some more.
@@natehowe7975 Totally understand. I’m just thinking once you go so big on solar you really aren’t portable anymore and your needs may fall into a weird gap. LOL.
@@sloanNYC That’s the journey I have struggled with. After a long power outage I started thinking about options to prevent it happening again. My design goal for the project has been to keep everything portable enough that I could take it with me to a friend’s house if they were the one having the outage. I try to stop myself at very permanent installations that need to stay with the home, but I am also not trying to run the whole home, just critical loads. By limiting my consumption plans to a few things like refrigerator, furnace, and window AC, I can look at smaller generation. If I planned to keep central air conditioning online that would require an entirely different plan. I got an Ecoflow Delta to experiment with and loved what it can do, given that it is pretty small. Then I got into the Ecoflow Delta Pro which can flex between portable (trunk of SUV / RV) but can also be useful to a house. I do have some portable panels I can stand up in the yard in an emergency, but I am wrestling with the idea of permanently installing panels on the roof. Given that my project is more focused on redundant options than offsetting the electric bill, I haven’t gone forward with roof panels. In the meantime, I can run a lot from the EcoFlow Delta Pro through the first day of disruption, then I can refill with portable solar panels and/or a small Honda generator that I modified to natural gas / propane / gasoline.
I finally found a video that breaks it down to where it makes sense! Thanks!
I am just now putting a small system together for some lights, a desktop and maybe tool charging, not big draw
I went with Four 100W panels, into an 150/40 EPEver charge controller and Four 105 amp hour deep cycle batteries to kind of keep cost down, for a few days I was running them in 3P didnt bother with the last one it was just working, and even under load with clouds it was doing good, I can use everything for 6 to 8 hours with 1000W inverter and only draw down to 12.1v but if I can get a little better out of them on a little cloudy day, SWEET! I will try 2S2P
next I will drop wown from 12 Ga to 10ga for even a little more percentage :)
Congrats!!!. Tis is the most explicit video I ever seen regarding solar power connection.
Thanks!
Finally, intelligent life in the solar panel world! Thank you very much. Can anyone recommend panels for EccoFlow Delta Pro, best bang for the buck?
the trees in your yard are beautiful
Great video! It really drives home the point that your system needs to be designed with the parameters of each piece of equipment in mind so that you can achieve maximum performance (i.e., efficiency and effectiveness). The PV panels you choose need to be well-matched to hybrid inverter/controller/charger or whatever load you choose. As I have found in my research and readings, there is a lot more to designing a solar system than immediately catches the eye., and this isn't even touching the NEC regulations for grid-tied solar systems. Regardless, great job...very informative at the pragmatic operational level. Thank you!
You bet and thanks for all the great feedback!
Nice vid 👌
Could you explain why you can exceed the rated 15 amps of the delta pro? If you had a long term setup would there be any negative things associated? How would rate for inline fuse?
I was hopeful for this explanation as well.
Another waiter for such an explanation...
Another waiter...
now we need a waitress.
The short answer is amps are pulled, volts are pushed. So, if you push too many volts to the ecoflow, it won’t accept it. If you make too many amps available to the ecoflow, it doesn’t matter, it’ll just pull 15.
@@ConorLennon Thanks. Do you know why they're recommending inline fuses for parallel set-ups to prevent exceeding the 15A rating?
I enjoy the information given freely on this channel. It gives me confidence to tackle my own diy projects. Thanks!
Easiest would be just to use one panel. Qcells does make a 475 to 495 watt 78 cell. Which means 45 volt STC at MPP. It should also be ok for use at -30 celsius (Canada) as the open circuit should be just under 60V, which many all-in-ones do not exceed.
72 cell is ok, but I find that it does not match as well as 78. If always in hot USA, it actually makes more sense to use a 84 cell, if such a thing exists.
There are many benefits to using just one ginormous panel, ease of connection, no extra wiring or fittings and no voltage insertion losses.
Nice, If I went that route I would probably grab 2 of the ginormous panels and just wire in series since the voltage will still be under the 150V max on the EcoFlow and no additional wiring needed. I want to place this setup in a off-grid shed where I have some outlets, lights, and battery chargers for the outdoor electric power tools.
Is it safe to mix different brand and power panels ? I have a 160 watt ecoflow, can I combine a 200 Watt allpower? Would be charging some PS as yours
I just bought my first solar generator. This helped me out a lot
Thanks is what we are here for and thanks for the feedback!
Hello friend, is it possible to place a delta pro 4 solar panels of 400 watts in the last way you showed in the video? In two parts of two in series panels?
Very informative video
I have 3 x 100w. Can I run series - parallel on them? 2 x 100 in series and the other one in parallel
Thank you
I have a sloped roof that faces east and west; in the morning, there is shade on the west, and after 12 p.m., there is shade on the east. So, if I plan 5 panels on the east and 9 panels on the west, do I need optimizers on all of them to achieve maximum efficiency or Its enough to put microinverters on the east side panels and string inverters on the west side and combine both? Another thing is - is it advisable to avoid the 5 on the east and connect all of the 9 on the west in series for higher efficiency? I'm wondering - - If I have 15 microinverters on all of the panels, will it be expensive and ineffective because we get sun mostly on the west side and no sun on the east side after 12 p.m., so what is the point of having one on the east? -i am confused.. Could you please answer? I appreciate it.
Thank you I’m finally starting to grasp sizing a solar panel array
Happy to help!
This is the best explanation I've seen on wiring 😂
Thx!
Well done it’s finally sunk in, regarding wiring types from solar panels. Very well explained sir. Now I will be able to understand how the systems work. Thanks Bud, much appreciated.
I always thought the current was the Imp if u connect in parallel .Thanks again, learned something
Looking at your drawings really helps me to understand whats going on.
I just wanted this is a great very clear, easy to understand video on setting up solar! Great stuff! Subbed!
Welcome to the channel, much more content to come 👊
Great video, thank you so much for spelling this all out in a way that makes sense. We’re just starting out with solar and an EcoFlow Delta, so this will definitely help.
Same here... just bought my new set up
You make it so easy to understand. Thanks
You bet!
Love your video, so clear with the diagram. Is there a limit of length for the cable between one solar panel like the 220W -Ecoflow and the Delta 2 Max and is 10AWG preferable to 12AWG? Thank you.
10 Gauge should have less line loss but I don't think there is a set limit on the length of wire. I picked up 10 gauge to make my own custom extension cables. Here is the one I picked up last week amzn.to/436SdE7
Incredible video. You are doing some great work explaining all these different solar concepts. So glad I found your channel
What is the max distance I should expect to go between the panels and the ecoflow unit? I'd like to put the panels on a shed in the backyard rather than on the house itself, but that would give me a DC run of about 200' or maybe a bit more (House is still being built, and shed doesn't exist yet!) Is the resistance going to kill me on that? Also, in a different video I saw you using the ecoflow pro ultra unit and you mentioned charging the batteries through the smart panel, but didn't talk much about it. Is it true? I could get just the ecoflex pro ultra and the smart panel, and it would just stay charged to use in case of a power outage? Thanks for all your videos - I just stumbled upon your channels today and have learned a lot binge watching probably 2 hours worth already!!
The 15 amps of solar limited by the Ecoflow Delta Pro would be ok on a 10awg USE-2 solar wire run 200' or more. Not the most efficient. Could you put your Ecoflow in the locked up shed? Then run the AC output to the house.
DC loses power over distance,
AC is greatly more efficient over distance
Look up Nicola Tesla AC vs DC, the NY Worlds Fair 1893 😊
@@Papa-bh6zq Yeah, that really is what I am thinking I am going to have to do.. and for those reasons. My issue is that at least at first, I may not have any solar, so I'm not sure how I'd charge it, especially if I'm going to have to have a main-cut off in the house panel to isolate the shed when it's not powering the house. If I put at line from the house to the shed, then another from the shed to the house (Same conduit, opposite current flow) maybe I could do that. I dont know.. I'm going to have to think about this for a bit. Maybe the answer is that the battery stays in the house as a battery charged from the grid, until/unless I get the solar on the shed, at which point I would move the battery to the shed and forego the ability to charge from the grid. I'd just run the shed from the battery all the time, and use it on the house generator input as needed.. Lots of options... none perfect, but fun to work through to find the best!
@SteveJones172pilot Put the Ecoflow Delta/Ultra in the house with an Ecoflow Smart Panel and run the Solar DC wire 10awg from the shed. This way, it will charge/ discharge off the Smart Panel automatically in Hybrid mode. Size your solar for up to 150voc and 18 to 20 amps. The Ecoflow will only draw the 15 amps it needs, so voltage drop will not be an issue. The Ecoflow will provide battery backup, and solar charging can be added later. Have fun
The underground 10awg wire must be THWN stranded wire, not the more expensive USE-2 Solar wire for UV protection
You may look at the EG4 6000XP to be more economical.
Some folks use MPPT others Voc and Isc (I use the Voc/Isc for fear of hurting my equipment). Which is correct?
Thank you, sir! I've been subbed to your other channel for a long time and just recently discovered this channel! I'm in the process of building a "system" for my fridges and freezers in case the grid goes down and was procrastinating because I didn't even know WHERE to start!!! Well, now I've got great direction, thanks you, again!!!
thanks for the video! You have giving me good info, just trying to keep a frig, gas stove, a small chest freezer. Would like to get a washer on it and some heat. But that may not work on a Burnham gas steam boiler. But would like to get an eco flow generator for the house to power just what I needed during a black out if it happens.
"Prime Day(s)" is tomorrow and the 12th. Keep an eye out as there might be some really good deals on EcoFlow, Bluetti, and some of the other larger brands in the portable power station / solar generator space.
I used a killawatt ez meter to plug in each appliance I wanted to know power usage over 24 hours.
Best 30 bucks spent. Oh and tiny dorm fridges don’t reach take out food safety temp quick enough…..66 watts when cycling but for beer rather than food in shtf.
If I’m using the delta pro with 2 400 watt solar panels, How should I set them up? Series or Parallel?
That's what I'm trying to figure out too ? Seems like parallel would produce more watts but amps is still below 15 amp
I'd like to see a small 220 volt stick welder hooked up to that ecoflow split phase outlet. Subscribed. Nice clear explainations. Thanks.
Excellent, but the math broke my brain. I want someone to do the math for me please. I have right now 4, 400w panels @ 37.5VOC on one DP and 2, 430w @ 37.5 + 2, 400w@37.10 also 37VOC on the othr Delta pro. But in the winter only getting about 850w @ 138v during peak sunlight. I have 2 more extra 430w/37.5v panels I can add. How do I do it ? Or what is best configuration ? Thanks
Does going over over the max current or wattage damage the power station？
Sorry if this seem like a silly question.
Going over the maximum voltage risks damaging the power station. Going over the maximum amps is ok because the power station will only use 15 amps and ignore the rest. Wattage is just volts x amps. The power station will limit watts input automatically.
@@teuton6167 thank you for your answer so does that mean I could parallel the solar panels as much as I like (since paralleling the add on the amps but not the voltage) are there any disadvantages to paralleling? If my understanding is sound, then I should try to maximize the voltage(without going over) and keep the amps over the maximum at all time to get the most wattage?
For my 3 kw system I have installed 16 awg PV wire with 7 plates of 330w in series. Should I reduce the wire gauge or not
Great video. One question though. If your doing series and parallel. The top series connection has 3 solar panels with the 45V, and the second series only has 2 panels with the same 45V then how would you calculate the Volts?
I just have a fridge that uses 200watt...can u make a video on getting the right system 4it?
Thanks, clear explanation… I have 3 of 400 watts… can use 2 in series and last panel connected to rest of open wires? Thanks
What is the Open Circuit Voltage of your panels? You should see the Voc called out on the data sheet usually located on the back? Also, are you bringing your panels into an Ecoflow Delta Pro?
So my question about this is in regards to the panels. If i keep my panels below the 150VDC limit but am generating 2000 watts or more can I still connect to ecoflow without causing damage?
What inline fuse do i get , 15 amp or 30 amps ?0r 40 amp. ? And hey can you tell he where you got the Helien 360 panels i cant find them anywhere, they are kool .
I have 4 100 watt renogy panels...can I use that brand to charge an ecoflow?
What was the orange tool you used to take apart the connectors?
Just a standard plastic MC4 tool.
So. No matter how you configure those 4 specific solar panels, you're still never going to achieve their full power potential into the EcoFlo. Because either the total voltage (in series) is too high, or running them in parallel results in unused amperage. So, I'm assuming a better option would be to properly size your solar panels and battery power unit to avoid lost power.
That is exactly correct. These panels are for another project so I definitely didn't purchase them sized for the EcoFlow 👍
What if you have a metal thing that you need to put another thing on? Would I use one of those things from Home Depot or make it myself? I'm running a something or other thing for reference.
Hello.
I have three flexsolar 360w foldable panels.
I can't set them up in vertical position because being foldable they wouldn't hold up a 90 degree angle.
My question is, if I set them up in horizontal position, would it be the same procedure to connect them in series?
🤔
This is awesome information and a great video. I'm just getting into solar and this video was really helpful.
Awesome, happy to help. Best of luck on your DIY solar projects!
I am guessing the parallel comfiguration performs well in cloudy conditions
Great explanation!
I got stock with my EchoFlow Solar panels, can’t find installer. Looking for licensed installer for my already acquired 8each 400 watts regid solar panels on my home.
Are you trying to tie into the grid or just into a Delta Pro?
Awesome video....what gauge wire did the electrician use to install the smart panel 12feet from the existing panel?......I would install mine about 25 feet from my existing panel.
Would it be possible to have a 300 watt panel but at 12v? I myself wanna get close to 1600 watts on this as well.
So it is ok to go over on amps with parallel connections?
Your videos are very informative and easy for anyone to understand. You break everything down for the layman and I appreciate it. Liked, subbed, and I’m binge watching your content. Thank you for the work you’ve put in.🫡
Thanks so much for the feedback and support!
Well done. Thanks for educating me.
Very good explanation. Thank you.
For the Ecoflo pro unit you had, you would have been better selecting your panels for your power system. 3 540 watt panels in series would have optimized your voltage at just under 150 volts and 11 amps of current. That in theory will give the ability to maximize your 1600 watt desired input. But it doesn't give you such a great parallel, series educational video. It might have been good to explain how to design your system for optimal function.😊😊
Unfortunately I was sold such an exact kit and I do get nearly 1600 W sometimes at noon. Problem is that for 3 in string VOC is about 150V (+/- 3%) which would borderline work at 25 Celsius. If it gets colder however, voltage could increase dangerously, at 0 Celsius calculated VOC could reach in my panels 162 Volts (+/- 3%) which would exceed DP 150 Volts requirement.
Many talk about not going over that 150V even on coldest days so I'm stuck now with looking for a fourth panel and doing 2S2P setup, ugh! A major pain! And in the new setup the best input wattage I could get is maybe around 1300+ W as a lot of the wattage will get lost at peak, but I'll get it for a longer part of the day supposedly.
Thanks for your update, I have 3 265w solar panels and 2 190w solar panels how can I connect them
Thanks! I needed that.
I have seven panels (to fit roof size max) does that mean that I have to wire up in series?
So just using the ecoflow wiring kit and the ecoflow delta pro will not be automatically optimized for lets say 2 400 watt portable panels?
How would I run 3 220w ecoflo high capacity panels to a delta pro 3 for the best option for a home back up pass through energy
could this also be done the same way if you were using 2 100 watt and 2 150 watt panels together?? THX
Great Video, you showed the actual harvest thanks
You bet!
Outstanding job ! Lets talk cable gauge . . . Recently melted my 10 AWG gauge 2x50' line MC4 connector's where they meet for some unknown reason? At the time only one 430 watt solar panel was connected on a clear sunny day? So may I ask your opinion why this happened and what gauge do you run 8 or 10 AWG?
What is the name of the connectors where you connected via parallel?
Hello. Thank you for the tutorial on this. It was perfect. How do I get around my scenario. I have an RV with 3-180W panels connected to a 40A solar charge controller charging 2-200AH Lithium batteries. How do i get the solar power to the Delta pro in this scenario?
Do you just want to charge the Delta Pro or are you trying to integrate it into your existing setup? Do you currently have an inverter connected to your 2 X 200AH batteries?
@@everydaysolar There is a Xantrex 1000W inverter in the system that runs nothing but the residential fridge. I ultimately would like to incorporate it into the existing setup. Unless you think there is a better option or setup
During the parallel portion of the video you exceeded the 15A limit on the delta pro. Does this mean it doesn't matter how far you exceed the current because the delta pro unit will just bottle neck it anyway? I want to connect 400W panels to my delta pro but they are 14A each and I want to connect them in parallel since the will be facing different directions... Will I have problems with this?
Hey did you manage to wire those at the end? I am thinking of doing the same
@@isaacperalvillaverde1986 my panels are still collecting dust as it is the rainy season where I am. I'll probably get around to it in November
I own two EcoFlow Delta Pros. Is it necessary to use individual XT60 cables for each unit, or is there a method to link both XT60 ports on each EcoFlow Delta Pro to a single cable?
Hmmm, I just use individual cables one for each unit.
great breakdown, very easy to understand.
Thanks!
off topic a little, i have a ecoflow 1000 delta 2 can i charge my jackery 500 with it and what would i need to do that thank you
Sure, you would just use the 120V wall plug from the Jackery in the 120 20-Amp outlet from the Ecoflow.
I love this video so much I have a question can you help me understand open circuit am I correct in visualizing like a complete circle like it's a complete circuit like a loop is that what you mean by open circuit
This is the video I needed! Thank you 🙏.
You bet!
Hi, really great explanation on the wiring setup, i have a question regards to the flexible solar panel to the solid structure panel, do know if they produce the same amount of of power ?
Hi, wondering was there a inverter used ?
Wow! Very helpful. Was confused about this part and this vid really helped me to understand all this.
Happy to help!
good video. Of course 2x3 panels would get you much closer to 1600W max.
That’s my set up DP with 3s2p ….2 strings loops. I have used panels 350w 48.2v …..bought panels for 75 each. Sounds silly but I cut almost 2 dollars off my bill every day till I die or equipment failure so eventually in 5 years I should get some profit. Gluck
Yes, RAID10 my solar panels.
thanks for the video, now I understand better.
Great!
may i ask what is the total current going into the ecoflow unit ? 13.3 a ?? thanks
so am I to understand that in theory 3 panels in series would put out a total of 145.8V * 9.4A = 1,370.52W ?
That would be if you added up the Open Circuit (OC) voltage and used the Short Circuit (SC) amperage. In practice plugging these 3 panels into the EcoFlow delta pro it will adjust voltage to reach the Maximum Power Point (MPP) and this will result in the optimal power output. In my area on a nice sunny day each of these panels would adjust to around 40V and 8 Amps depending on intensity of the sun. So if we used those numbers we would get 120V at 8 Amps or 960 Watts which with a few losses from wires and connectors is close to the 890 Watts I was seeing. Sorry, this info would have been good to include in the video and good question.
@@everydaysolar Thanks, what is a good place to get decent panels online, the sites I have visited usually have a minimum and work with larger orders I would need only 4-5.
It would be nice to see the effect of shading on one panel in the case of series or parallel connections.
Exactly what I was thinking. ❤
Great channel! Thanks for putting all this together. Super helpful.
You bet, thanks for the feedback!
How can I set up a consult with you guys? I have some equiptment but am not sure I have everything I need and dont want to be in trouble when they are needed.
I have two Ecoflow 100 watt rigid panels and a delta max. I want to be able to operate basics during an extended power outage or a tiny window AC. What else do I need to have? I’m going to get two more panels. Any advice would be helpful.
Another question (please): Your EcoFlow handles over current, but not over voltage. I have cheap grid-tied inverters with limiters that have a max of 1000 watts output each. They have very low voltage maximum input so my 320 Watt panels can not be put in series. I have a number of them wired in parallel so that I can have at least three panels per inverter. I would like to put four panels per inverter but it would be over the max current input the inveters are rated for. Can I safely "over-current" my inverters by adding the fourth panel without fear of hurting the inverters as they will "current limit" and protect themselves? (Assume I have all the fuses, disconnects, ...... in place). Thank You!
It doesnt matter that the amps are over the rated limit? Ecoflow automatically reduces to 15 amps?
Yes the charge controller with throttle the current limiting to the maximum the unit can handle.
@@everydaysolar does that go for the other parameters as well? Can I hook a 2000 watt solar array to it and it will only allow 1600 in?
When doing it in either way is it important to make sure your solar panels Watts need be the same? Example: Could i hook up 160W with 100W panel? just subd your channel.
Hello great video. I was wondering if you can combine 24v panels with 12v using series parallel? I have 4 12v panels and 2 24v. This is on a 48v system, controller can take 150v, 3.2k watts, 60amps. Question is more about the panel voltage than anything. Obviously the Voc and all need to work first. Thank you
Are you using both inputs on the ecoflow unit or all panels into 1
wait... with his panels he is using wouldn't the series parallel total voltage still be over the 150volt limit of the Delta Pro thus risk damaging the Delta Pro Charge Controller?