Lights in Off Grid Cabin - Solar power update

For more on this project visit my Blog: http://solarburrito.com

Installed part of the solar power system in the cabin including the 12 volt lights, battery and even a secret passage inside the wall. The cabin is near Bangor wa

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[reddwarf2956]

You might want to check if the charge controller needs more space and venting. When you have it in high use, open the panel and check the temp. If hot leave it open.

[SolarBurrito]

@reddwarf2956 Good call, ya I will see. there is a 1" vent hole at the bottom of the stud bay and 2 1" holes at the top for wires to pass through. I think I'll run only 1 75watt panel to start with. When will the charge controller make the most heat? When the battery is full and it's adsorbing the power?

[reddwarf2956]

@SolarBurrito I was looking at the video and thinking that it did not look fire safe to cover up things. That is the main reason for the statement. I have not tested a system like yours, but I know that those types of things get hot when work is being done like charging.

[SolarBurrito]

@reddwarf2956 Ya I gotcha, I should mention that I've used this system for 3 years in the shed and recent thefts have necessitated hiding some systems in the wall. I plan to monitor the heat output of the CC during a long stay. It's rated for 40 amps but only receives 4 from my panel and has never felt hot in the last 3 years so I'm not that worried about it but I'll let you know.

[krisk52193]

you forgot the other screw on your secret appartment.

[SolarBurrito]

@davettalashley Good point but no one on Youtube knows where my place is and I doubt the thiefs are on youtube.

[8digitPDX]

You might want to check into the cost of a battery pack from an electric forklift. Around here you can get a refurbished unit for around $500 with its own charger built in. People put them in cabins because they are extremely difficult to move without a bunch of strong guys or a forklift or winches. Means they are a lot harder for the scavengers to steal than RV batteries. You keep it topped off with solar, but if it needs a full charge, you do that with the generator every few days.

[RockyMissouri]

Where is that dog?? Cabin is cool..!

[1969626]

you should make a few more of those cote racks for your rakes & shuvles and what ever

[SolarBurrito]

@Gardensandcabins Well you can look into the max size for a storage building or shed in your area. If it's big enough for you and you don't live in it, you might get away with not getting a permit. Get the rules though so you know. Fines are usually triple what the permit costs, unfortunately it's only getting harder to get permits in my area.

[reddwarf2956]

@SolarBurrito So, I would highly suggest that you make sure that when you deplete the battery and have the sun out charging the battery to check the batteries and controller to make sure they do not get too hot. I know some people who use chargers for there EV which get warm, but they are not inclosed.