I'm working on setting up an off-grid solar power system for my tiny house on wheels. The house isn't on the property yet, but I want to get my system in place first. I've got my solar equipment stored in an insulated shed next to where the tiny house will be. I'll be using a space heater during winter to keep the equipment functioning well. My tiny house has a 50-amp NEMA SS2-50R generator inlet on the outside, and I plan to position it close to the shed for short wiring runs.
Here's a rundown of my equipment:
- EG4 6000xp
- EG4 280ah 48v wall mount battery
- Hyperion by Runergy 400w panels (two strings of nine panels each on separate MPPTs)
I have two main questions: 1) For the output, I want to set up regular plugs inside the shed for the heater and a connection to the tiny house's inlet. I bought a box that isn't quite what I need and I'm wondering whether I can rewire it, or if I should just get a small breaker panel with a 50-amp breaker for the house and a 20-amp for regular appliances. Any tips or resources for learning how to do this?
2) For grounding, I'm unsure about the best approach. I've read differing opinions on whether to ground my system, as I don't have a foundation and I want to avoid creating ground loops. I'm also concerned about the safety of not grounding the battery, since the equipment will be in use. What's the safest way to ground everything?
2 Answers
To really nail down your off-grid lifestyle, you'll need to expand your knowledge about electrical systems and grounding. The resources Will Prowse offers are a great start, but tackling the grounding issue is crucial. A grounding rod is essential, especially if you're not sure about local codes. Just make sure to connect everything to the same grounding point to avoid ground loops. Check into local regulations and also consider reaching out to a professional for guidance if you're feeling uncertain.
Running heaters off batteries can drain them pretty quickly, which is something a lot of people overlook. Make sure to carefully calculate your power needs and always double-check your findings. I’ve experimented with different heater types and learned that keeping your shed warm can be tough, especially in cold weather. If your shed is insulated, you might consider using a wood stove instead to help minimize battery use since insulation can help maintain warmth better than electrical heaters.
So, is your shed really just a storage area? If it’s insulated well, maybe you wouldn’t have even needed a heater at all. What kind of setup do you have to help retain heat?
Absolutely, any specific books or websites you’d recommend for learning about these grounding systems?