Eco flow or similar power station question

[guerdeval]

so, is it possible to just use one of these as a ‘hook up’ just like a petrol generator?, in other words can I just use it outside and run various stuff like the tv or anything up to the maximum of the Genny ?

 

[Admin]

so, is it possible to just use one of these as a ‘hook up’ just like a petrol generator?, in other words can I just use it outside and run various stuff like the tv or anything up to the maximum of the Genny ?

I use my EcoFlow Delta 2 outside to run my circular saw, induction hob, deep fat fryer and other electrical stuff. These units are not waterproof, but EcoFlow do make rain covers for them. The units come with different wattage outputs and different battery capacities.

 

[wildebus]

I have a Power Station with a 1500W PSW Inverter and used it in the garden a fair bit to run Saws and an Electric Lawnmower.

Something which was interesting (to me, anyway ) was how it interacted with the Victron Multiplus when plugged into the EHU Input ... The Multiplus would not 'see' the Power Station until I made some changes to the configuation to tell it there was "weak AC" input (plus a couple of other tweaks).
I don't know how typical that is with these type of devices or if it is just my particular model? Once settings changed, the Multiplus will use the Power Station. (It is not a 'sensible' way to use a Power Station generally, but there may be occasions it is appropriate, so worth checking it will work like that).

 

[Moped]

With a 3 pin adaptor for the hook up cable and using the onboard Ecoflow or other inverter it is possible to use these as a hook up power supply for a caravan or motorhome. You can power anything up to the maximum output of the Ecoflow or other unit.

With a largish solar panel array (400w or more), a high capacity 2kw capacity generator, and plenty of sun this could keep you going all the year round as long as you are in Spain in the winter. Still need gas for heating and maybe the fridge.

You can of course use these outdoors to power tools, kettles, toasters and other devices but they are not waterproof although covers are available.

 

[molly 2]

Yes you can connect ecoflow via hook up cable and use the van electrics , I run toaster kettle mimcowave , OK, BUT the incorrect polarity warning light comes ??? On

 

[Moped]

Yes you can connect ecoflow via hook up cable and use the van electrics , I run toaster kettle mimcowave , OK, BUT the incorrect polarity warning light comes ??? On

It comes on because there is no earth wire.

 

[trevskoda]

Why not just fitt better/more batteries and more solar panels, dont see the point to be honest.

 

[guerdeval]

Why not just fitt better/more batteries and more solar panels, dont see the point to be honest.

I have a Sargent 328 system apparently and it can only cope with a panel up to 120 which is what I have and 2 leisure batteries so if I don’t have mains hook up it seemed to be the best way to extend my time on a pitch without electricity,that or a petrol generator ,I was thinking keep the power station inside the van and run a lead through window to outside socket to avoid theft.

 

[1 Cup]

The boxes have low charge rates like 5 amps or is it a higher charge rate ? 100 amp = 1200 Watts, 200 amps 2500 Watts are they 12 v or higher at batterys ?

 

[wildebus]

I have a Sargent 328 system apparently and it can only cope with a panel up to 120 which is what I have and 2 leisure batteries so if I don’t have mains hook up it seemed to be the best way to extend my time on a pitch without electricity,that or a petrol generator ,I was thinking keep the power station inside the van and run a lead through window to outside socket to avoid theft.

Are you intending to keep your Motorhome for a reasonable length of time?

Asking as wondering why you are so intent on making no changes to improve the configuration and giving yourself such limitations? If say you were changing it in the next few months say, it makes sense not to spend money on changes you might not get full payback on, but if keeping for maybe 2 years, you could enjoy the benefits and your van would be more attractive and valuable on resale.

 

[trevskoda]

I have a Sargent 328 system apparently and it can only cope with a panel up to 120 which is what I have and 2 leisure batteries so if I don’t have mains hook up it seemed to be the best way to extend my time on a pitch without electricity,that or a petrol generator ,I was thinking keep the power station inside the van and run a lead through window to outside socket to avoid theft.

Bypass the sargent for solar, and what type of batteries, if old type lead acid the change to lead carbon or lithium, problem solved.

 

[Moped]

I have a Sargent 328 system apparently and it can only cope with a panel up to 120 which is what I have and 2 leisure batteries so if I don’t have mains hook up it seemed to be the best way to extend my time on a pitch without electricity,that or a petrol generator ,I was thinking keep the power station inside the van and run a lead through window to outside socket to avoid theft.

That’s what we do. Keep the unit in the van and run the lead through the window which we can still lock latch.

You say “on pitch” so assume you mean off grid low cost campsites. Running it through the window not an issue in these circumstances.

When parked up in isolated wild camping spots though doing this is more problematic as it advertises the fact that you have something portable of value within the van. So use the unit direct.

We carry a telescopic ladder and place the portable 420w folding solar panels flat on the roof and feed the lead through a skylight. Laid flat on the roof they generate up to 320w per hour on a good U.K. day and this time of year they are good enough on blue sky days to fully charge a 2400wh battery from 0% to 100%. Still run the fridge on gas though. But kettle and toaster and ebike charging fine. The Ecoflow app is brilliant by the way!

Don’t lay the panels on the roof on very windy days though.

We also have the small River 2 unit which we use for USB charging and running the 12v TV and AC DVD player. It sits table top under the TV. We use the van 12v TV socket to charge this daytime using the fixed 100w solar panel as the lead acid battery is fully charged in a few hours anyway so this uses the excess charging available. Frees up even more lead acid capacity for basic lighting, water pump and heating pump use.

Generally the fixed 100w panel is enough to give us our daily 12v requirements through the original equipment lead acid battery.

But we do have a large van with plenty of payload and a layout and sufficient flat skylight free roof space capable of doing all this and storing the gear in lockers or the garage. So this suits us but may not suit everybody.

 

[Boris7]

Why not just fitt better/more batteries and more solar panels, dont see the point to be honest.

That’s the best idea Trev, but I also have an EcoFlow for work and therefore it’s very handy for back up for long stints off grid.

Also, if your starting with a standard off the shelf Motorhome the cost of an EcoFlow and portable solar panels (not EcoFlow panels as their overpriced) is much the same as fitting extra solar and all that goes with Lithium and an inverter.

It also means if you swop vans the EcoFlow stays with you.

 

[trevskoda]

That’s the best idea Trev, but I also have an EcoFlow for work and therefore it’s very handy for back up for long stints off grid.

Also, if your starting with a standard off the shelf Motorhome the cost of an EcoFlow and portable solar panels (not EcoFlow panels as their overpriced) is much the same as fitting extra solar and all that goes with Lithium and an inverter.

It also means if you swop vans the EcoFlow stays with you.

True but its more junk to carry, i would rather a fixed solution taking up no internal space storing, unless i get the six numbers up i wont be changing vans.

 

[Fisherman]

There are arguments for and against these things.
If I lived in an area subject to lots of power cuts I may well consider one.
Also you can’t argue with the fact you can take this with you to your next van.
But if I could find somewhere to simply fit an additional battery I would do so.
I did consider the EcoFlo River 2 which Phil highlighted in his video when Amazon were selling them for just £215, but did not buy one. But if they do them again at this price I may reconsider.

 

[Moped]

True but it’s more junk to carry, i would rather a fixed solution taking up no internal space storing, unless i get the six numbers up i wont be changing vans.

I know what you mean junk wise and depends on the definition of junk. I carry stuff that I don’t use daily but do use for emergencies such as bike repairs, potential van issues, clothes for all weathers, beach gear, hill and mountain walking gear, outdoor living campsite gear including BBQ and pop up gazebo, top up water containers, and more. The portable solar generators and panels have their own storage spots and don’t get in the way in the habitation area. In fact none of the above affects habitation living.

As for junk it’s Mrs Moped that insists on us carrying what I would define as junk but don’t tell Mrs Moped that!

The Sargent system limitations did mean a significant outlay to get anywhere near what I wanted power wise. And basically I have got what I wanted without paying the significant labour charges for the work. And I have portability. And yes, Ecoflow solar panels are relatively expensive but they are good performers in cloudy overcast conditions and are IP68 certified so can remain outside in all weathers. IP68 certification is a must have for me in a portable folding panel.

 

[trevskoda]

I know what you mean junk wise and depends on the definition of junk. I carry stuff that I don’t use daily but do use for emergencies such as bike repairs, potential van issues, clothes for all weathers, beach gear, hill and mountain walking gear, outdoor living campsite gear including BBQ and pop up gazebo, top up water containers, and more. The portable solar generators and panels have their own storage spots and don’t get in the way in the habitation area. In fact none of the above affects habitation living.

As for junk it’s Mrs Moped that insists on us carrying what I would define as junk but don’t tell Mrs Moped that!

The Sargent system limitations did mean a significant outlay to get anywhere near what I wanted power wise. And basically I have got what I wanted without paying the significant labour charges for the work. And I have portability. And yes, Ecoflow solar panels are relatively expensive but they are good performers in cloudy overcast conditions and are IP68 certified so can remain outside in all weathers. IP68 certification is a must have for me in a portable folding panel.

Now i know why i built my own van and no sargent sys installed, all my units are seprateand easy to fix any unit should it fail, i can also plug my van into the house electric to power the c heating and a few lights should the grid go down.
Never seen the point in a bbq when there is a cooker in the van, same as folk doing it in the back garden 5 ft from the home cooker LOL.
But to each there own and to do as they wish.

 

[exwindsurfer]

Now i know why i built my own van and no sargent sys installed, all my units are seprateand easy to fix any unit should it fail, i can also plug my van into the house electric to power the c heating and a few lights should the grid go down.
Never seen the point in a bbq when there is a cooker in the van, same as folk doing it in the back garden 5 ft from the home cooker LOL.
But to each there own and to do as they wish.

I am the same as you Trev no Sargent sys and all individually fused simple and easy to sort.

 

[wildebus]

just a comment on the Sargent units .... exact features vary depending on model but they are basically:

• A 240V Consumer Unit with RCD and MCBs
• A 12V Power Distribution Unit with Fuses and Relays
• Remote Switch/Information Panel
• Tank Sensors
• AC-DC Charger (from EHU)
• DC-DC 'Split Charger' (from Alternator)

The Charger side of the Sargents can be very poor in terms of capabilities but is simple enough to bypass. I still use the Sargent EC325 in my Motorhome, and like all the information and distribution side of what it provides, but I just don't use the Charging bits.
EHU Charging is via a Smart Charger (part of the Multiplus, but could be any smart charger) connected to the battery and just leave the Charger Switch off.
'Split Charging' is from a B2B connected direct to the batteries and just remove the "D+" signal to the Sargent to stop the built in charger working
Solar is from a MPPT Controller connected direct to the battery.

It is very easy to bypass, and it is also with a bit of forethought very easy to reinstate the Sargent Features 100%. I can change back and run the Sargent as provided by flicking 2 switches and moving two plugs - couple of minutes work. Physically removing the extra chargers maybe 30 minutes work - so you don't even have to leave your upgrades in if you sell.

 

[Moped]

For those interested in this sort of thing the Aferiy 1997wh power station with a 2000w inverter can be had for around £899 and occasionally for £749. Considering 2000w inverters are around £200 and 200ah batteries are around £700 the Aferiy may have an appeal for those on a budget. It also has a 12v 25amp outlet that enables you to directly plug this unit into your onboard DC battery circuit after you disconnect the lead acid battery. You just need to install a battery changeover switch next to your lead acid battery and an appropriate socket for the lead from the power station and away you go.

Check out YouTube reviews and there are plenty.

Not wishing to promote any particular product and I do like Ecoflow gear but the above did catch my eye.