Keeping Accurate Time with Solar-Powered Appliances
Asked by g3n3r4t0r210
Hey everyone! I've run into a bit of a strange issue with my solar setup. I've got several 120v appliances, like my coffee machine and a mechanical timer, and they just can't seem to keep track of time properly when powered by my solar system. A friend who's an electrical engineer mentioned that many of these devices rely on the frequency (Hz) of the power grid to stay accurate. Since I'm not connected to the grid, he suggested that this might be the reason for their time inaccuracies. I'm looking for recommendations for an electric timer or similar device that doesn't depend on the grid for timing. If anyone has experienced something similar, I'd love a specific product recommendation, maybe even an Amazon link. Thanks!
Answers
If you're not connected to the grid, your clocks will definitely wander. There are devices available that can sync with a GPS signal, so your clocks can stay accurate without relying on electrical frequency. Not sure how many inverters support this, but it’s worth looking into!
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It sounds like your inverter might be the problem. If it's a 50Hz inverter when it should be 60Hz, that could totally mess with your appliances. Generators can struggle with maintaining the right frequency under different loads, especially if it’s not an inverter type. Make sure your solar inverter is solid and can keep that frequency stable!
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I had a similar issue! Even plugged into a grid, I noticed that my Ninja coffee makers would gain or lose time. I found a timer that keeps accurate time even through power interruptions. It’s around $13 and uses a battery that charges from the wall, so even in a power outage, it stays accurate!
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g3n3r4t0r210: Thanks for the tip! I’ll check the settings to see if it’s set to 60Hz.