3360 Watt Solar Generator Build - BIG Portable Power

So, living through hurricanes can be quite uncomfortable not only during the storm, but after as well if power is lost. I decided to build my own Solar Generator (see my YouTube video) https://youtu.be/C_j97qyvzDU because I couldn't find one available on the retail market that could provide the capacity I needed to run a 5000BTU window air conditioner overnight. When dealing with everything associated with the aftermath of a big storm, solid rest (not sweating and sticking to your sheets) is invaluable!

The first step was to purchase battery cells and build my own 12v 280Ah LifePo4 battery so I had enough power to run the AC (or an entire living room full of electronics) for a full day or night. Then I properly sized all of the components in my design for safety/functionality, bought a big roll-around tool box, bought all of the components and got to work. The outcome was beyond my expectations.

Once fully charged (via solar panels or AC charger), I can run my AC all night keeping one room in my home cool so everyone can escape the heat for a while. I can run an entire living room (65" LED TV, Cable Modem, Wireless Router, X-Box, Laptop(s), and of course a fan) for 12+ hours. Party! I can boil water with a portable electric kettle to cook or sanitize for drinking. I can cook using a pressure cooker, rice cooker, etc. If I were in a cold climate, I could run a small electric heater for comfort.

The bottom line is that this generator was relatively easy to build (if you are in any way handy), provides a ton of power and functionality, and is about the third of the cost of a retail unit of comparable capacity. If you are interested in building one, watch my YouTube video https://youtu.be/C_j97qyvzDU and give it a shot! I promise you won't be sorry!

Here are some pictures, a basic schematic of my build, and a parts list with links:

Parts List:

210 Watt Solar Panels (If you cant buy used) https://amzn.to/3frlqUf

40A MPPT Charge Controller w/ MT50 Display https://amzn.to/3jel0BU

Battery (4 x 3.5v 280AH cells) https://amzn.to/3ynmqQC

BMS for Battery https://amzn.to/3Cb3ZBh

50A Breaker https://amzn.to/3ll7XBj

120A Breaker https://amzn.to/3foToIV

1200 Watt Pure Sine Inverter https://amzn.to/37jTc9D

12V Fuse Block https://amzn.to/3A0fwBm

DC Fan https://amzn.to/3ylkJmW

12V to 9V Step Down https://amzn.to/3C35P7b

Recessed Power Outlet Strips https://amzn.to/3A2ivJx

Wires 2AWG (lengths vary) https://amzn.to/3flRIQI

Toggle Switches https://amzn.to/3ylzfuZ

LED Landscape Lights 5 Watts https://amzn.to/3C8KVDr

Solar Panel to Charge Controller Connector https://amzn.to/3jjcuBo

Connectors https://amzn.to/3xlUFH5

16AWG Wire for 12V Accessories https://amzn.to/3llhk3S

Ready to Use Retail Solar Generators – If You're Not Up to Building Yourself

2000 Watt Solar Generator https://amzn.to/3ljJgoO

1000 Watt Solar Generator https://amzn.to/3xeHUxW

240 Watt Solar Generator https://amzn.to/2V9i3us

* I am a part of the Amazon Affiliate program and will receive a small commission if you use my links. The price will NOT increase for you if you use my links, but I will definitely appreciate the support.