Solar Shack Construction: Building an Affordable Solar-Powered Water Tote

Solar Shack Construction: Building an Affordable Solar-Powered Water Tote

Welcome back to Base Camp WNC! The time has come for another water project. As the title suggests, this is the most cost-effective solar shack I have ever constructed. While it's based on a 275-gallon water tote, this specific one wasn't originally for water. It was food grade, but it had been repurposed for other uses. Currently, it houses all the solar equipment, and there's also an RV outlet installed. Once I determine the generator type, another box will be added for generator input. Now, let's dive into the inner workings of this solar shack.

Inside, the Magnum sign inverter stands out, connected to eight 420 amp-hour, 6-volt batteries. They are arranged in a combination of series and parallel configurations. It's a 24-volt, 4,000-watt split-phase 220 inverter, termed the "44 Magnum". You can find more details on it online. Alongside the inverter, there's a solar charger. The main purpose is to run the RV outlet, but it's also adaptable for homestead use.

The current owners of the homestead are in the process of extensive renovations, tearing out floors and walls. They seem to have been inspired by TV makeovers but soon realized the enormity of the task. A challenge they faced was the county's refusal to provide temporary power due to missing house plans and septic tank permits, given the property's long-abandoned state. This solar shack will serve as a temporary power source for their camper. In the future, when the house is fully renovated with wood and propane facilities, this 4,000-watt solar setup will be a backup power source, supplemented by a generator.

The actual construction involved using an IBC tote, which was modified to accommodate the equipment. Essential modifications include:

1. Cutting and reshaping the tote for accessibility and equipment installation.
2. Installing batteries and setting up an inverter and charge controller shelf.
3. Weatherproofing considerations to protect the equipment from rain and condensation.

Given the affordable nature of this build – the tote's price has risen from $10 to $20 – the total cost, including paint, screws, bolts, and scrap wood, was under $50. Once the owners have permanent power, this solar shack can be repurposed for gasoline and propane storage.

At Carolina Homestead Planner, our mission is to provide innovative solutions like this. We'll be undertaking a full renovation of the old homestead, constructing new walls, and roofing. I invite you to join us for this journey. If you ever need assistance or ideas for a project, please reach out. Until our next update, thank you, and see you soon!

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