We’ve built a solar battery box. This portable generator will find a home in our Roof Top Tent Trailer to power lights and cooler fridge. We use a Solar Suitcase to keep this box charged. The battery box will be portable making it easy to use for emergencies at home. We go through a step by step build process, along with the parts and tools needed to build the battery box.
Our Review:
We’ve built a powerful and portable battery box/solar generator that can easily be used when camping in our RoofTop Tent or having it as an emergency backup system for our home. This DIY project will help you create a custom power station that suits your needs, providing ample energy for various devices during your camping adventures.
The Foundation: Battery and Solar Panel
To kick off our project, we started with a 100 Amp Hour Energy battery paired with a 200-watt solar suitcase by Renogy. The solar suitcase, known for its quality construction, complements the battery perfectly.
The Toolbox: A Clever Choice
For the enclosure of our power station, we opted for the Ridgid 22-inch toolbox. This toolbox, part of a stacking set, provides an ideal housing for the battery and associated components. Its size is perfect for accommodating the battery, and its sturdy construction ensures durability. The top of the toolbox features a foldable handle, making it easy to carry, and latches that support the stacking system for future expansions.
Internal Components and Wiring
Terminal Fuse Block: Connected directly to the battery, this Blue Sea Systems fuse block with a 50-amp fuse ensures safety for the entire system.
Battery Cutoff Switch: Mounted conveniently on the exterior of the toolbox, this switch allows for easy control of the power supply.
12 Volt Fuse Block: Supporting six circuits, this component manages the distribution of power to various devices within the tent.
12 Volt Sockets: Two standard sockets and a USB-C port, strategically placed on the toolbox, provide accessible power for your devices.
Victron Energy Blue Smart Charger: Although primarily charged by solar, this 15-amp charger offers versatility with quick disconnect options for other charging methods.
Inverter Considerations
Unlike many setups, our power station excludes a dedicated inverter. We find that a small 200-watt inverter from Jackery, included with their portable power stations, suffices for our needs during camping trips. However, there's flexibility to incorporate a larger inverter if your requirements evolve.
Final Touches and Future Considerations
With careful planning and execution, we finalized our power station by adding necessary components and ensuring proper wiring. We also detailed modifications to the toolbox for a clean and functional setup.
Overall Thoughts
Our portable Solar Power Station is ready for action, providing reliable power for all our camping needs. If you have any suggestions or recommendations for improvement, feel free to share them.
Part 2 of DIY Solar Generator Build