Not All Batteries Recycle the Same
Lead-Acid vs. Lithium Introduction We are currently, and have been for years, taking out many old batteries in off-grid systems, mostly flooded lead-acid but also some sealed lead-acid, and replacing them with lithium. That raises an important question: what happens to all these old lead-acid batteries, and what can be done when lithium batteries eventually…
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When the Forest Burns
Protecting Your Off-Grid Solar System in a Wildfire Evacuation Introduction As an off-grid solar installer, I work on many systems tucked away in remote areas, often surrounded by dense trees. Like much of the world, we’re seeing a growing risk of wildfires every year. Right now, there are fires burning nearby, evacuation orders looming, and…
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12 – 24 volt DC Fridges
Are 12V and 24V DC Refrigerators Worth It for Off-Grid Living? SunStar 10CU Solar DC/AC Refrigerator – Black And Stainless Steel Introduction When you’re running an off-grid cabin, RV, or boat, every watt of energy counts. One appliance that can make a huge difference in energy efficiency is the DC refrigerator. Unlike standard household fridges…
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Solar Security
Solar-Powered Cameras vs. Wired Systems Introduction When it comes to protecting your property, the choice between a wireless solar-powered camera and a traditional wired security system has never been more relevant. Advances in solar panels, battery life, and Wi-Fi technology, especially the growing support for 5 GHz networks, have made today’s wireless outdoor cameras smarter,…
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After the Fire: Can Your Off-Grid Solar System Be Saved?
Real stories of cabins lost to wildfire, what survived, and what you can reuse. Introduction Over the past few days, we’ve had some rain. While it may have eased the fires a little, the danger hasn’t gone away, and given the way things are now, that threat will likely linger long after the skies clear.…
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Battery Protection
Why It’s Critical for Any Solar System Introduction Whether you’re running an off-grid cabin deep in the woods or a grid-tied solar system at home, one thing is certain: your battery bank is one of the most expensive and important components of your system. And like anything valuable, it needs protection. Too often, we see…
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Breaker or Fuse
What To Use in Your Off-Grid Solar System Introduction Over the years, I’ve worked on countless off-grid solar systems, some brand new, others installed a decade or more ago. And every now and then, I come across a system that was clearly installed by a particular individual whose work stands out. His style is unmistakable:…
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Why Solar Voltage Readings Don’t Always Match
Understanding Why Your Charge Controller, Inverter, and Battery Monitor Show Different Numbers, and When It Matters Introduction I get asked this a lot, especially right after a new installation, and sometimes even months later. If you’ve ever looked at your solar charge controller and seen one voltage reading, then glanced at your battery monitor or…
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5 Must-Ask Questions Before Buying a Solar System
Ask these 5 smart questions to find out if your solar quote is built for your needs, or just built to sell Introduction When we discuss solar with our customers, there are always many important questions to cover. Sometimes the customer comes prepared with all the questions, and other times, it’s our responsibility to bring…
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Solar Incentives: Help or Hype?
What to know before banking on rebates and tax credits. Introduction Right now, there are real opportunities to save on solar, including grants, interest-free loans, and other incentives available across many regions in North America and beyond. But as always, education is the key. Taking time to understand how these programs work, and where they…
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