Will I move to a 48v system

indy_man · 29-06-2025 11:45AM #1

I have a 12 volt off-grid system in my shed, its useful to power my shed and runs pumps and lights in the main house when the electricity goes, which happens a lot for me.

I only have 1 x 350 watt solar panel and 200 ah battery storage.

I want more power and more storage.

I feel I have two options.

Improve my 12v system, a few more panels, more batteries and move from a poor 2000w inverter to a good 3000w inverter. I do have a good victron 100/50 charge controller.
Move to a 48v system, maybe a Victron 48v inverter, new charge controller and new batteries, my current batteries need improving so I would go for new ones.

Any advise what is best. I think if I move to the 48v system I have been chance of running bigger loads in the main house when the electricity goes? I just can't make my mind up.

graememk · 29-06-2025 11:56AM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058418313/will-i-move-to-a-48v-system

Say if you move to 48v and possibly a hybrid inverter running off grid, you'll need at least 4-5 panels to get it to startup voltage

You may then look into a grid tied system and still have the AC backup from the hybrid.

fred funk }{ · 29-06-2025 07:30PM

Yes. 48v much better and cheaper than 12v too. You can get a Victron Multiplus 2 48v 5000 fairly cheap these days. They're the best charger/inverter around IMO.

indy_man · 29-06-2025 08:50PM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/123590615#Comment_123590615

This sounds like what I need. Do you know if its possible I have my inverter in my shed 30 feet from house where my grid consumer unit is located? Trying to figure out how I can easily run as hybrid, use the batteries when they have charge then switch back to the grid when the batteries are nearly empty? Or do I just need to get the Victron Multiplus 2 48v onto the home consumer unit via a fuse and wire to the shed then it will just do the magic itself?

Sorry this is the area I don't get. I will get a proper electrician to do this but I just want to understand how it would work.

Also, if I loose the grid connection will the Victron Multiplus 2 48v kick in and power the house?

amovingstatue · 29-06-2025 08:58PM

a separate ATS switch prioritising grid supply is probably the most straightforward with a small distribution board feeding a few socket circuits. Needs to be manually controllable from outside the building as well though to be able to cut supply in case of a fire incident.

indy_man · 30-06-2025 07:19PM

Thanks.

Maybe something like this will do the job. https://www.amazon.ie/gp/product/B07RBNZHLD/ref%3Dox_sc_act_title_2?smid=A3IUX9VDQXPQEP&th=1

I assume I will bring the grid wire into it before it goes to the main consumer unit?

unkel · 04-07-2025 01:23PM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/123593869#Comment_123593869

I have that exact one for sale for well less than half that price. PM me if interested or on my adverts ad:

https://www.adverts.ie/other-electronics/victron-multiplus-ii-48v-3000va/37154670

Will I move to a 48v system

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