Runing a 36K BTU mini-split in AZ ... for FREE !

[theoldwizard1]

No BS ! Cost of operation is ZERO ! ! Cost of the equipment is VERY LARGE !

Off Grid Solar Powered Air Conditioning

The system shown in the video is a prototype/proof on concept. He did say he was planning a permanent installation but it would take a few more weeks to gather all of the material.

 

[slow]

cool system, but I would need to wire in a generator interlock and just use the regular load center to power everything. Those cords would drive me nuts.

 

[LXCam]

Ya that's something alright. And 20yrs later it paid for its self.

 

[65ranchero]

Yea ! He's worried about the cost of electricity when he has a Tesla and a Porsche E Cayenne
But the system is nice and needs to be neatened up a bit

 

[Git]

Why?

I didn't watch the whole video, but he already has a grid-tied system. Nevada has a reasonable net metering program, not sure of why he decided to install a complete/separate off grid system

 

[theoldwizard1]

Why?

I think it is mostly to prove that it can be done and by people with "average" DIY skills.

He also said after the peak A/C months he hopes to be able to charge his electric cars.

 

[theoldwizard1]

Ya that's something alright. And 20yrs later it paid for its self.

I think that is one of the things that he wants to prove is that the cost of solar CONTINUES to decrease.

If you buy individual LiFePO4 cells directly from Chinese distributors and add your own charge controller, the cost per amp-hour is LESS THAN HALF of pre-fabbed batteries. You can get similar savings by buying a whole pallet of solar panels (re-sell locally what you don't use).

Inverters are still pricey except for some of Chinese ones. Those are still hit and miss.

 

[ambenz]

Location is everything and Vegas has a pretty good amount of sunlight...would never work in rainy areas.
I would be curious on the true investment on return compared with just running off the grid.
How long before you pay for it all, including the maintenance to keep the panels dust free?
If the drought conditions in the area continue, that cheap power from Hoover dam will dry up too...but by then, I think the city will fail for lack of water, same thing with southern Cali.
I don't see batteries and the minerals for making them getting any cheaper as that resource dwindles.
I suppose you have to look to alternate resources living in that area, nice to have a back up plan.

 

[reader2580]

There is nothing “free” about buying all those solar panels, inverter, and batteries.