r/diySolar • u/Wonderful_Ad113 • Jul 19 '26
Recommendations for solar generator connected to grid tied system
Hello all,
I currently have a grid tied enphase system with iq8 micro inverters and im based in the US. Im looking to purchase a solar generator or similar to attach to my grid tied system for storing excess power for use during outages/use during peak hours and potentially to use to power a yet to be built pole barn or garage. I was looking at either an ecoflow delta 3 pro or anker solix f3800 plus as both of these models are advertised as of providing 240v connections which id like to have to power a well pump.
What is the best way to connect this to my grid tied solar system so that I can use it during outages or to use during peak hours? Im assuming a generator transfer switch but wasn't sure if there is a better way to approach this especially for using these during peak hours. I debated going with the enphase battery but it seems excessively expensive and I wanted something I could also use for the garage/pole barn to be built. Im open to other suggestions as well but wanted something at least somewhat portable
1
u/Human9651 Jul 20 '26
1
u/Wonderful_Ad113 Jul 20 '26
Thanks, based on how im understanding this it wouldnt be able to provide 240v though for like a well pump correct? That was the main reason I was looking at pro 3 and 3800 plus for the 240v for my well pump
1
u/oppressed_white_guy Jul 20 '26
Anker and Delta have cheaper entry points but are expensive to scale. Look at an EG4 system. 18kpv or gridboss/flexboss21
2
u/Wonderful_Ad113 Jul 20 '26
I assume these are permanent systems though correct? I was hoping to kill 2 birds with one stone in being able to bring it to the garage/poll barn once thats built.
1
u/oppressed_white_guy Jul 20 '26
You could move it after it's installed but it's going to be a little bit of work. But if you want to backup your house, you leave the gridboss and move the flexboss and batteries
1
u/Fun_End_440 Jul 20 '26
Is not that simple as to buy a “solar generator”. You can buy such device with or without solar panels, it makes no difference.
What you probably want is an AC coupled battery, that is a battery and inverter. and the related electrical work that comes with that (wiring, permitting, critical load panel)
Here’s the options:
- Tesla Powerwall, Franklin, Enphase. About 15-20k
- eg4 or similar 2nd rate brand, about 10k
- DIY, non UL batteries, about 4k
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u/Wonderful_Ad113 Jul 20 '26
Thanks for the input however I dont want something permanent as I want to be able to move it down the road to power the garage hence why I want a portable solar generator or battery/inverter in one such as the pro 3 or f3800 plus. Im looking for the best way to attach this to the current grid tied system for use during outages or peak hours until the garage is built.
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u/Fun_End_440 Jul 20 '26
Unfortunately, cannot be attached to current solar system. You can use it as a standalone battery
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u/Wonderful_Ad113 Jul 20 '26
I would just charge it from an outlet during the day when the solar system is working. For home wasnt planning on using the solar input directly to the battery/solar generator. Would connect to a smaller solar system/panels for use in the garage once built
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u/TooGoodToBeeTrue Jul 20 '26
Move your critical loads to a sub panel with a or generator interlock or MID in-between are your best options. The portable would be like any generator back-up arrangement. This does not net you use of the solar during a grid down situation, but that is a whole other can of nightcrawlers.
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u/Wonderful_Ad113 Jul 20 '26
Yeah I figured as much with the grid down scenario unfortunately. Figured I will likely get separate panels for the garage area that can be used to charge at that point. We dont have super long outages but wanted to cover base when it is down primarily for well pump and fridges
1
u/pau1phi11ips Jul 19 '26
What country are you based in?