Hey everyone! I've been checking out the Ecoworthy SL3500, which seems to sit between DIY options and brands like Anker and Ecoflow. It costs $1500 and features a 3600W integrated inverter/charger/MPPT on a handcart with wheels, plus it can prioritize power sources from AC wall, battery, or solar. However, it lacks USB output and I'm a bit concerned about the warranty since it only offers a 30-day return policy. The PV input is decent at 60-145V and 50A, which is significantly better than some competitors at this price range. I'm torn between going full DIY or opting for this system. What do you all think?
4 Answers
Having actually used the SL3500 at Burning Man, I can share some insights. Initially, ordering parts was confusing, and I didn’t realize I needed to buy an AC input cord separately, delaying setup. However, once I set it up, it performed well even under harsh conditions, powering my fridge and AC effectively. Just a heads-up, the WiFi monitoring relies on internet access, which isn’t great for remote use. Still, the portability and expandable storage make it a solid option for the price!
Honestly, for the price, it’s a decent deal. But you do have to manage some drawbacks, like missing features and the overall build quality compared to pricier options. It's not too surprising that you get a mix of convenience and limitations at this price point.
The SL3500 is definitely a step-up compared to many DIY setups, but there are a couple of things to consider. For instance, the voltage range limitation can be tricky, and the batteries are only connected in parallel without any advanced battery management system. This means the battery percentage readings won’t be super accurate. It would be great if they offered the inverter separately so you could pair it with better batteries. But for someone not wanting to dive deep into DIY, this could still be a good buy!
Yeah, I'm worried about the PV input setup too. It requires opening the box to securely attach the wires, which isn’t ideal. Seems like they’re close to making a great product but still missing some key details.
Can you share the link for that? I’m interested in a similar portable setup! Also, how did you handle the lack of local monitoring with the WiFi dongle?