I'm putting together a solar setup for my 24-foot tiny home and need some advice on creating a solid hybrid system. I want it to primarily run off solar power but also have the option to plug into the grid when necessary. Here's what I'm hoping to power:
- A 9,000 BTU mini split for cooling, especially during hot summer days
- My laptop and workstation
- Interior lighting and some basic electronics
- Occasional use of small appliances like a coffee maker
My goal is to have a reliable system that can keep the mini split running for long hours when it's hot outside. I have a budget of around $5,000 to $6,000, but I'm open to spending a bit more for a better setup. I would really appreciate input on:
- The number of solar panels I would realistically need
- Recommendations for batteries, inverters, and charge controllers
- Any important tips or brands that I should consider or steer clear of
If anyone has experience with a similar setup in a tiny home, mobile unit, or RV, I would love to hear about it. I'm looking to make my purchase soon and want to ensure I get it right the first time!
2 Answers
First, it's super important to get a good idea of your power budget. You should estimate how many kilowatt-hours you'll need each day. For example, if your mini split uses around 8kWh daily, that’s a solid starting point. I'd suggest around 4000-6000 watts of solar panels might be necessary to cover your needs, especially if you plan on using it for long hours on hot days. Just don't skimp on battery storage – around 13kWh could be pushing it, but could work if your load is managed properly! It’s all about balancing what you have and what you need. Definitely calculate both your power and energy needs for a clearer picture!
I have a similar setup running a 12k mini split in a mobile unit, and honestly, it’s a balancing act. I'm using a 3000W all-in-one inverter/charger with 200Ah of batteries, which lets me run the mini split all night, but the battery does dip down to about 40-50% by morning. You might be able to make it work within your budget! I got my gear at decent prices before tariffs raised costs. Panel prices are still pretty reasonable, around $200 for a 400W panel, so if you act quickly, you could snag a good deal before prices go up. Just make sure to account for any cloudy days where you might need a backup!
Great point! Power needs are easier to sum up, but daily energy needs can get tricky. It's crucial to keep that in mind when sizing your batteries.