Unplugged Live - DIY Solar

Unplugged Live

Unplugged Live is a weekly livestream and podcast for DIY solar enthusiasts, off-grid builders, and anyone working toward real energy independence. Each episode features practical discussion, real-world experience, and honest conversation around solar power, batteries, inverters, home energy systems, and the lessons learned along the way.

Hosted by Adam De Lay, Eric from East Texas Homestead, and Rodney Hunt, the show focuses on what actually works in the on your property, not theory, hype, or sales fluff. Expect breakdowns of current builds, viewer questions, troubleshooting, industry news.

Play

Open in

26 episodes
weekly
Avg 1 hr 6 min
English

Episodes 26

Newest Oldest Longest

All20 Unplayed20 In progress0 Played0

Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.

S2 · E40
October 2 · 1 hr 3 min
Solar and Electricity Basics: Volts, Amps, Watts, and Battery Capacity Explained
Welcome back to Unplugged LIVE. This week the crew goes back to basics: volts, amps, watts, and battery capacity, explained the way we wish someone had explained it to us. The night opens with Eric's new security camera rollout, then flows into open Q&A pulled straight from the live chat, where the battery math takes over the show. Adam builds the water tank analogy on screen: voltage is pressure, amps are flow, and watt hours are the size of the tank. The crew works a real example: a 100 Ah 12 V battery holds about 1.2 kWh, and once you pick a depth of discharge you can math out how long a refrigerator runs and what actually happens at midnight when the power goes out. Battery bank state of charge drift, balancing, and the equal cable length myth get settled too. The back half covers the Section 232 polysilicon proclamation and what it may do to panel prices: a 15 percent tariff plus price floors of $21 per kilogram for polysilicon and $0.38 per watt for modules, effective December 4, 2026. Plus the EG4 12000XP warranty story, array grounding and ground rods answered from a viewer super chat, the Sunshine Roll Call (the community logged just over a megawatt hour this week), Eric's FlexBoss21 zero production mystery, and RE+ Vegas logistics. Topics in this episode: Back to basics night: volts, amps, watts, and battery capacity The water tank analogy: pressure, flow, and tank size Watt hours vs amp hours The 100 Ah 12 V battery: how much energy is really in there Depth of discharge and usable capacity Refrigerator runtime and sizing a battery bank What happens at midnight when the grid goes down State of charge drift, balancing, and the equal cable length myth Raspberry Pi 5 as a Solar Assistant node EG4 12000XP warranty story: swap or fix the old inverter The Section 232 polysilicon proclamation explained The $21/kg polysilicon floor and $0.38/W module floor from December 4, 2026 Copper, grounding rods, and array grounding Sunshine Roll Call: 29 on screen, community just over 1.1 MWh this week Rodney 136.1 kWh in North Carolina on a storm day Eric's zero production FlexBoss21 tampering mystery Copper thieves, trail cams, and protecting the homestead RE+ Vegas meetup: tickets, rooms, and plans Links and resources: Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/Bf7cb7rDnKk Signature Solar: https://signaturesolar.com/?ref=unplugged&utm_source=yt&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=ep40 - use code GET50UNPLUGGED for $50 off orders over $500 Current Connected: https://currentconnected.com/?ref=AzzpK9Fl&utm_source=yt&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=ep40 Watch and follow the Unplugged crew: Unplugged DIY Solar Adam De Lay DIY Rodney Hunt Eric | East Texas Homestead Home Energy Independence Watch us live every Thursday at 8 Eastern on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@unpluggedsolar Have a question or a solar setup to share? Email us at live@unplugged.solar with subject "Unplugged". Disclosure: This description contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Safety note: DIY solar, batteries, inverters, grounding, and backup power wiring can involve dangerous voltages, fire risk, and code requirements. Consult qualified professionals and follow local code and manufacturer instructions.
S2 · E39
September 25 · 1 hr 1 min
DIY Solar News LIVE: The $7B Solar for All Program Is BACK + Balcony Solar Goes Legal in NJ
It is the first episode of Unplugged Weekly, our new weekly DIY solar news format. Eric, Rodney and Adam break down the week in DIY solar: the news, the sunshine report board, and Q&A pulled straight from the live chat. The big story: a federal judge has restored the $7 billion Solar for All program after the EPA terminated it in August 2025. Two court rulings put the money back in play in September. Adam walks through what the program funds, and how to search your state name plus "solar for all" to find the grants and see who qualifies. Then New Jersey legalized plug-in balcony solar: up to 1,200 W per home, UL 3700 certified gear, no utility approval, no city permit, and landlords and HOAs cannot ban it. It takes effect March 1, 2027. Also this week: Pila Energy launched its plug-in mesh home battery at NY Climate Week (it powers out of a standard 120V outlet, and the crew digs into whether mesh anything here is real or a buzzword), UL launched a certification program for vehicle to grid so your EV can double as an 80 to 100 kWh home battery, and Goal Zero recalled 46,200 Yeti 3000X power stations because the circuit board can overheat (the fix is free firmware at recallsupport.goalzero.com). Plus hurricane season prep: test your backup power now, and how to size an inverter generator around the 75 percent sweet spot. Q&A covers rapid shutdown on a detached pergola, the AI agents Eric runs behind the scenes (Hermes, Ollama Cloud, Codex), Tigo CCA with the EG4 12000XP, where to buy panels in the southeast, and the RE+ Vegas meetup taking shape with a form coming on the website. Topics in this episode: The first Unplugged Weekly news format episode Solar for All is back: a federal judge restored the $7B program How to find Solar for All grants in your state and who qualifies New Jersey balcony solar goes legal: 1,200 W, UL 3700, no permit, HOAs cannot ban it Pila Energy plug-in mesh home battery: real or buzzword? UL vehicle-to-grid certification: your EV as an 80 to 100 kWh home battery Goal Zero Yeti 3000X recall of 46,200 units and the free firmware fix Hurricane season prep: test your backup power before the storm Generator sizing around the 75 percent inverter sweet spot Rapid shutdown on a detached pergola The AI agents Eric runs: Hermes, Ollama Cloud, Codex Tigo CCA with the EG4 12000XP Where to buy panels in the southeast RE+ Vegas meetup taking shape (form coming on the website) Sunshine report: 174 kWh channel high from SurgeonTech in cloudy Arizona, 37 reporters on screen, Eric closed with 6.3 kWh in Texas Links and resources: Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/iT_lSmT5awQ Goal Zero Yeti 3000X recall fix: https://recallsupport.goalzero.com Pila Energy: https://www.pilaenergy.com/ Signature Solar: https://signaturesolar.com/?ref=unplugged&utm_source=yt&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=ep39 - use code GET50UNPLUGGED for $50 off orders over $500 Current Connected: https://currentconnected.com/?ref=AzzpK9Fl&utm_source=yt&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=ep39 Watch and follow the Unplugged crew: Unplugged DIY Solar Adam De Lay DIY Rodney Hunt Eric | East Texas Homestead Home Energy Independence Watch us live every Thursday at 8 Eastern on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@unpluggedsolar Have a question or a solar setup to share? Email us at live@unplugged.solar with subject "Unplugged". Disclosure: This description contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Safety note: DIY solar, batteries, transfer switches, generator interlocks, and backup-power wiring can involve dangerous voltages, fire risk, fuel and CO risk, and code requirements. Consult qualified professionals and follow local code. Never run a generator indoors, in a garage, or near windows.
S2 · E38
September 18 · 1 hr 13 min
DIY Solar R&D Wish List: The Products Manufacturers Have Not Built Yet
What products are the DIY solar manufacturers missing, and what would they make a killing on if they built it? Eric walked in blind to the topic, so every idea is worked out live, with the chat pile of AAA answers folded in. We cover the centralized communications hub every DIYer wants (the Victron Cerbo model that nobody else copies), the USB dongle grind, a brand agnostic monitoring hub and why it also solves the FCC remote access question, the universal battery communication hub and the battery to battery BMS Tower of Babel (JBD, Pace, Seplos, Pylon), Meshtastick and MeshCore control of inverters with no Wi-Fi, and the two GitHub projects that already exist for it. Plus Eric's watertight solar pergola roof and panel gasket ideas, the solar company that ships your whole kit with wiring diagrams and permit paperwork, the smart breaker and CT per circuit ideas, the inverter that auto starts a generator and the water heater timer trick for Chargeverter loads, alternator charging for 48 volt banks, a dedicated cell level battery screen that pairs like the Blue Eddy fridge power display, PoE powered monitoring per breaker, a customizable MPPT, a 120 volt smart outlet built into the side of the inverter, EcoFlow's Wi-Fi reconnection flaw, EV to MPPT high voltage handshake ideas, and the sunshine report with production totals from around the country. Topics in this episode: The R&D wish list format: what product should exist but does not Victron Cerbo: the single hub model and why nobody else copies it Dongle fatigue: four inverters, four dongle setups, zero local buffering Solar Assistant and the USB hub question Meshtastick and MeshCore: inverter control with no Wi-Fi, two GitHub projects already exist The solar company that ships wiring diagrams, labels, and permit help Chargeverter timer tricks: 240V water heater timers and smart plugs Smart breakers with timers and the whole smart panel price reality EV batteries under a trailer floor and the EG4 RX 60 under false floor idea Time of day charge windows and Blue Eddy battery maintenance mode Universal battery communication hub: JBD, Pace, Seplos, and Pylon all speak their own talk Per breaker PoE monitoring and the Emporia view comparison Customizable MPPT: low voltage high amps vs high voltage low amps Victron 8kW native split phase for the US market rumors EV to MPPT: the high voltage handshake problem and two step down idea Alternator charging for 48 volt: EcoFlow and Blue Eddie Sunshine report: 1.2 MWh channel day, 31 reporting, average 40.5 kWh, weekly highs 775 CTX and 289.4 WI RE Plus Vegas mid November: videos, live streams, and a possible meet and greet Eric's Solar Ports build on East Texas Homestead, new videos every Tuesday Links and resources: Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/BA2lvB1uTtk Eric's Solar Ports build series: https://www.youtube.com/@EastTexasHomestead Signature Solar: https://signaturesolar.com/?ref=unplugged&utm_source=yt&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=ep38 - use code UNPLUGGED50OFF for $50 off orders over $500 Current Connected: https://currentconnected.com/?ref=AzzpK9Fl&utm_source=yt&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=ep38 Watch and follow the Unplugged crew: Unplugged DIY Solar Adam De Lay DIY Rodney Hunt Eric | East Texas Homestead Home Energy Independence Watch us live every Thursday at 8 Eastern on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@unpluggedsolar Have a question or a solar setup to share? Email us at live@unplugged.solar with subject "Unplugged". Disclosure: This description contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Safety note: DIY solar, batteries, transfer switches, generator interlocks, and backup-power wiring can involve dangerous voltages, fire risk, fuel and CO risk, and code requirements. Consult qualified professionals and follow local code. Never run a generator indoors, in a garage, or near windows.
S2 · E37
September 10 · 1 hr 5 min
Plug-In Solar Q&A: 120V vs 240V, Zero Export, and Grid-Down Workarounds with Jeffrey
Plug-in solar is the fastest growing corner of DIY solar, and Jeffrey from There's A Trick For That is the guy who tests it hardest. He's back for round two, and the whole episode is plug-in solar: your questions, his real data, zero hype. We cover the 120V vs 240V question (including the two-circuit trick that gets real 240V from two micro-inverters), whether plug-in solar can pair with a whole-home standby generator, battery pairing with portable power stations and raw LiFePO4, what happens when the grid goes down, anti-islanding and why your inverter must shut off, the best zero-export options on the market right now, and why plug-in solar costs what it costs. Plus: Jeffrey walks through the plug-in solar laws sweeping the country (Utah first, roughly nine states with official laws now), the 1,200W continuous rule on a 15A circuit, why balcony solar kits get throttled, a buyer's warning on panel prices (the tariff-driven price floor and what to buy before December 4, 2026), and the sunshine report with weekly production totals from around the country and the world. Topics in this episode: Jeffrey's path from camping channel to plug-in solar specialist What plug-in solar is and why states are legalizing it Utah's first-in-the-nation law and the 1,200W continuous rule 120V vs 240V plug-in solar and the two micro-inverter 240V workaround EV charger outlets, 30A circuits, and garage installs Anti-islanding: why grid-tie solar shuts off when the grid goes down Generator pairing and the backfeed warning on non-bidirectional meters Battery pairing: portable power stations, raw LiFePO4, and the balcony kit battery-buffer trick Zero-export options on the market right now What plug-in solar costs and who it's actually worth it for Panel prices: the tariff cliff and what to buy before prices climb Symmetrical 240V loads and pool pump math Sunshine report: 2 MWh channel call, Arizona 218 kWh, international roll call Where plug-in solar goes next: distributors, panel stocking, and the balcony solar wave Links and resources: Jeffrey's channel (There's A Trick For That): https://www.youtube.com/@theresatrickforthat Jeffrey's website: https://theresatrickforthat.com Jeffrey's 6 months of real plug-in solar data: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5JQKUQZOMmg Jeffrey's first Unplugged appearance (Episode 26): https://youtube.com/live/C8_ghCURkAs Signature Solar: https://signaturesolar.com/?ref=unplugged&utm_source=yt&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=ep37 - use code UNPLUGGED50OFF for $50 off orders over $500 Current Connected: https://currentconnected.com/?ref=AzzpK9Fl&utm_source=yt&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=ep37 Watch and follow the Unplugged crew: Unplugged DIY Solar Adam De Lay DIY Rodney Hunt Eric | East Texas Homestead Home Energy Independence Watch us live every Thursday at 8 Eastern on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@unpluggedsolar Have a question or a solar setup to share? Email us at live@unplugged.solar with subject "Unplugged". Disclosure: This description contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Safety note: DIY solar, batteries, transfer switches, generator interlocks, and backup-power wiring can involve dangerous voltages, fire risk, fuel and CO risk, and code requirements. Consult qualified professionals and follow local code. Never run a generator indoors, in a garage, or near windows.
S2 · E36
September 4 · 1 hr 3 min
DIY Solar Trivia Night: 13 Questions, One Winner, and a MidNite SPD Giveaway
In this Unplugged LIVE replay, it is DIY solar trivia night. Adam De Lay runs the crew and the chat through 13 scored questions on panels, batteries, wiring, and safety while a live leaderboard builds all night. Perfect scores landed in the wheel of luck for a MidNite SPD giveaway, and @52gulfpapa took it home. We also run the sunshine report with weekly solar production totals from around the country, answer a super chat about the EG4 string calculator, and celebrate the channel crossing 1,000. Topics in this episode: What actually powers a solar panel, and how irradiance is measured with a pyranometer Series wiring and voltage math Watt hour math at 50 percent state of charge What a shunt does and why it matters Standard test conditions vs real world panel output BMS basics on lithium batteries Wire gauge for low voltage DC runs Heat derating and why panels lose output in extreme heat Bypass diodes and shading Surge ratings and SPD protection 120V vs 240V standards Parallel battery capacity math The MidNite SPD giveaway wheel and the winner Links and resources: Signature Solar: https://signaturesolar.com/?ref=unplugged&utm_source=yt&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=ep36 - use code UNPLUGGED50OFF for $50 off orders over $500 Current Connected: https://currentconnected.com/?ref=AzzpK9Fl&utm_source=yt&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=ep36 Watch and follow the Unplugged crew: Unplugged DIY Solar Adam De Lay DIY Rodney Hunt Eric | East Texas Homestead Home Energy Independence Watch us live every Thursday at 8 Eastern on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@unpluggedsolar Have a question or a solar setup to share? Email us at live@unplugged.solar with subject "Unplugged". Disclosure: This description contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Safety note: DIY solar, batteries, transfer switches, and backup-power systems can involve dangerous voltages, fire risk, and code requirements. Consult qualified professionals and follow local code.
S2 · E35
August 29 · 1 hr 4 min
Grid Failures and Backup Power: What DIY Solar Actually Fixes
Hurricane Lala knocked out power to more than 180,000 people in Hawaii, and a derecho with 70 to 100 mph winds left 374,000 without power across 53 counties in Indiana. Gary, Indiana waited 14 days for the lights to come back on. Rodney, Eric and Adam break down what these 2026 grid failures mean for people who want real backup power. We get into the practical side: why a 72-hour kit is a good start but two weeks is the goal, which loads matter first (fridge, internet, lights, CPAPs and other medical devices), why a generator is only as good as your fuel supply, and how a solar roll call from the community stacks up. Plus a V2H reality check and what everyone is working on next. Topics in this episode: Hurricane Lala in Hawaii: 180,000+ without power The Aug 11 derecho: 374,000 outages across 53 Indiana counties Gary, Indiana: 14 days without electricity 72-hour kit vs a two-week backup plan Medical loads: CPAPs, oxygen concentrators and consolidators Generators vs solar: fuel dependency and pairing both V2H reality check after a Tesla Model 3 purchase Solar roll call from the community What each host is working on next Have a question or a grid-down story to share? Email us at live@unplugged.solar with subject "Unplugged". Disclosure: This description contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Signature Solar: https://signaturesolar.com/?ref=unplugged&utm_source=yt&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=ep35 Use code UNPLUGGED50OFF for $50 off orders over $500. Current Connected: https://currentconnected.com/?ref=AzzpK9Fl&utm_source=yt&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=ep35
S2 · E34
August 21 · 55 min
12 DIY Solar Rookie Mistakes We Made So You Don't Have To
Community Night! Eric and Adam walk through 12 DIY solar rookie mistakes from the forums and share their own experiences. EVMux had other plans tonight, so we pivoted to a phone stream. Rodney was out this week. We cover the big ones: starting at 12V instead of 48V, fake MPPT controllers, counterfeit wire gauges, bad MC4 connections, no fuses, reverse polarity, and skipping your power audit. Plus viewer stories from the chat. Topics in this episode: 12V vs 48V systems Wrong breaker for the job Starting too small Fake MPPT controllers Fake rated solar panels Fake wire gauges and copper-clad aluminum Bad MC4 connections Loose connections and thermal cameras Inverter too small / no headroom No fuses or wrong fuses Reverse polarity No power audit before buying Have a question or a rookie mistake to share? Email us at live@unplugged.solar with subject "Unplugged". Disclosure: This description contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Signature Solar: https://signaturesolar.com/?ref=unplugged&utm_source=yt&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=ep34 Use code UNPLUGGED50OFF for $50 off orders over $500. Current Connected: https://currentconnected.com/?ref=AzzpK9Fl&utm_source=yt&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=ep34
S2 · E33
August 14 · 1 hr 7 min
Do Solar Panel Optimizers Actually Work? Real DIY Solar Data
Adam has 24 solar panel optimizers sitting in his shop, ready to install on his coop array that battles tree shade all day. But before he climbs up and wires them in, he wants to know: do these things actually work? In this DIY community night, we break down what DC optimizers (Tigo TS4-A-O) are supposed to do for partial shading, string mismatch, and monitoring. Rodney shares real-world Tigo monitoring data from his parents' house showing 5-6% reclaimed energy. Viewers report 12-15% gains with optimizers on their arrays. We discuss when optimizers are worth the money, when you are better off just buying more panels, partial deployment strategies, the warranty impact of running without TAP and CCA, the high-pitch whine issue on ground mounts, rapid shutdown code requirements, and where to source wire for your solar project. Adam also confirms he has the Anker E10 Power Dock for an upcoming review. Watch us live every Thursday at 8 Eastern on YouTube: Unplugged DIY Solar Adam DeLay DIY Rodney Hunt East Texas Homestead Shop solar gear with our affiliate partners: Signature Solar Current Connected
S2 · E32
August 7 · 1 hr 10 min
EG4 Responds to the FCC Inverter Ban
In this Unplugged LIVE replay, Dylan Rup, Director of Technical Marketing at EG4 Electronics, joins the show to answer the DIY solar community's questions about the FCC's ban on foreign-produced solar inverters. We cover EG4's Commerce, Texas manufacturing facility and the path to 65% domestic content, what happened to the Nova and the new XR60 all-in-one 60kWh energy storage system, firmware updates for existing products, wired vs wireless connectivity, the LuxPower partnership, what to expect at RE+ in November, and a rapid-fire viewer Q&A on Tigo, buying decisions, and the future of inverter innovation. Read Eric's full article with primary government sources: FCC Bans Foreign-Made Solar Inverters (East Texas Homestead) Topics covered: EG4's response to the FCC inverter ban and existing product compliance What EG4 manufactures in Commerce, Texas and the Solar76 partnership Domestic content tracking and the 65% threshold through 2028 The Nova to XR60 strategy shift and the XR60 all-in-one 60kWh system Firmware updates for existing EG4 products Wired vs wireless: air-gapped systems and the EG4 dongle LuxPower partnership and the EG4 product pipeline GridBOSS, 12KPV, and 6000XP safety Sodium ion batteries and inverter innovation What to expect at RE+ in November Rapid-fire Q&A: Tigo, buying decisions, and firmware Watch and follow the Unplugged crew: Unplugged DIY Solar Adam DeLay DIY Rodney Hunt Eric | East Texas Homestead Home Energy Independence Watch us live every Thursday at 8 Eastern on YouTube: Unplugged DIY Solar Want to share your own solar setup? Send pictures to live@unplugged.solar with the subject "Unplugged". Affiliate links: Signature Solar: signaturesolar.com (use code UNPLUGGED50OFF for $50 off orders over $500) Current Connected: currentconnected.com Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links. If you buy through them, Unplugged may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Safety note: DIY solar, batteries, transfer switches, generator interlocks, inverters, and backup-power wiring can involve dangerous voltages, fire risk, fuel/CO risk, and code requirements. Consult qualified professionals and follow local code.
July 31 · 1 hr 6 min
FCC Inverter Ban: What It Means for DIY Solar
The FCC just banned approval of all foreign-made inverters. Here's what that means for anyone doing DIY solar right now. Read Eric's full article with primary government sources: FCC Bans Foreign-Made Solar Inverters: DIY Solar Guide On July 28, the FCC ruled that no new foreign-made inverter can receive FCC certification unless 65% of its component value is US-sourced. If you already own an inverter with an FCC ID, you're fine. But new models, hardware revisions, and anything with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular communication may never reach the US market. We break down the actual ruling text from FCC.gov, talk about who's affected (EG4, Victron, SMA, SRNE, and every power station brand), and share our predictions for what comes next: communication-less inverters, a boom for Solar Assistant, and a possible component-based workaround via Victron's Cerbo GX. Plus: Adam's 12000XP is finally running, Rodney drove a Tesla Model Y Performance, the Sunshine Report hits 2 megawatts, and we answer viewer questions about solar yield reporting, adding a second FlexBOSS 21, and dongle setup on the V2 12000XP. Chapters: 0:00 Welcome and what's happening this week 2:40 Rodney test-drove a Tesla Model Y Performance 4:09 Adam's 12000XP is running (6000XPs are out) 7:14 The FCC inverter ban: how we found out 8:12 TL;DR: what the ruling actually says 10:00 65% US-made requirement and who's affected (Victron too) 12:30 The DJI drone ban parallel 15:30 Existing inverters are safe, but what about updates? 18:25 Chat Q: What does FCC have to do with solar? 19:07 The Wi-Fi dongle workaround idea 20:08 Reading the actual FCC ruling text 25:00 Wireless vs. wired: where's the line? 28:30 Power stations (EcoFlow, Anker) are affected too 29:00 We're going to RE+ 2026 30:00 Predictions: communication-less inverters and Solar Assistant 31:00 Victron's Cerbo GX loophole 38:48 Tangent: Flock cameras and surveillance 39:10 Sunshine Report: community solar production 45:25 Mid-show recap and podcast reminder 52:22 1984 and George Orwell 53:54 Q&A: How to read your solar yield 55:15 Eric shares screen: 12000XP solar yield (43.9 kWh) 57:17 Q: Orient Power battery settings on Mac vs PC 58:52 Q: Adding a second FlexBOSS 21 and dongle setup 1:01:12 What's coming up next 1:02:08 Adam: Starlink 1-year review, FCC video, EV side-by-side 90 days 1:04:50 Rodney: Bluetti charge controller testing 1:05:31 Sign-off Watch us live every Thursday at 8 Eastern on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@unpluggedsolar Watch and follow the Unplugged crew: Unplugged DIY Solar Adam DeLay DIY Rodney Hunt Eric | East Texas Homestead Home Energy Independence Want to share your own solar setup? Send pictures to live@unplugged.solar with the subject "Unplugged". Affiliate links: Signature Solar: signaturesolar.com (use code UNPLUGGED50 for $50 off orders over $500) Current Connected: currentconnected.com Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links. If you buy through them, Unplugged may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Safety note: DIY solar, batteries, transfer switches, generator interlocks, inverters, and backup-power wiring can involve dangerous voltages, fire risk, fuel/CO risk, and code requirements. Consult qualified professionals and follow local code.
S2 · E30
July 25 · 1 hr 9 min
Hidden Budget Killers in DIY Solar: What You Forget to Plan For
When planning a DIY off-grid solar setup, most people price out the "Big Three": panels, hybrid inverters, and battery banks, and think they have their total budget figured out. The reality? Balance of System costs, heavy copper wiring, specialized tools, and ground mount prep can easily add thousands to your final bill. In this Unplugged LIVE replay, Adam and Eric walk through the hidden budget killers that catch DIY solar builders off guard. They cover where you can safely save money, where cutting corners will cost you big time, and the 30% rule: plan to spend at least 30% more than your Big Three components cost. Topics covered: The "Big Three" vs Balance of System: what you forget to budget for Extra wires, battery cables, and AC wiring costs Copper wire pricing: Eric's real-world #6 to #3 AWG upgrade story Circuit breakers: why cheap DC breakers are dangerous and name brands matter Class T fuses and surge protection devices (SPD) as cheap insurance Multimeters: why you need a DC clamp meter, not just a cheap one Panel mounting: roof vs ground mount, torque specs, and fire ant damage Inverter self-consumption: how idle draw changes your battery sizing The 30% rule: budget 30% on top of your Big Three for hidden costs Eric's 12000XP upgrade from 6000XPs: breaker and wire gauge changes Lightning and EMP protection: SPD ratings explained Anker Solix E10 battery monitoring limitations vs server rack batteries Solar roll call: weekly production dashboard and community updates Eric's upcoming content: 17 episodes of porch build and solar shed project Watch and follow the Unplugged crew: Unplugged DIY Solar Adam DeLay DIY Rodney Hunt Eric | East Texas Homestead Home Energy Independence Want to share your own solar setup or be considered as a guest? Email live@unplugged.solar with the subject "Unplugged". Affiliate links: Signature Solar: signaturesolar.com - use code UNPLUGGED50 for $50 off orders over $500 Current Connected: currentconnected.com Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links. If you buy through them, Unplugged may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Safety note: DIY solar, batteries, inverters, and electrical wiring can involve dangerous voltages, fire risk, and code requirements. Consult qualified professionals and follow local code. Watch us live every Thursday at 8 Eastern on YouTube: youtube.com/@UnpluggedSolar
S2 · E29
July 17 · 1 hr 3 min
Building a Solar Plan Live: Beau from Better Together Homestead
Beau from Better Together Homestead (311K subscribers) has 4,000 watts of Sungold solar panels on a ground mount, and right now almost none of that power is being used. No inverter, no battery bank, just portable power stations. In this Unplugged LIVE replay, Eric, Rodney, and Adam build Beau a real solar plan on air. This is a live consultation, not a product pitch. The crew walks through Beau's electrical setup, his 200-amp panel, his 230-foot underground aluminum run, his daily energy usage, and his goals for off-grid capability. Together they work through inverter options (EG4 FlexBOSS 21 + GridBOSS vs 12000XP), battery sizing, wiring planning, and how to phase the build from panels to batteries to a full 14,000-watt array. Topics covered: Beau's homestead background: 7.5 acres, converted shed home, Texas 4,000W of Sungold panels on IntegraRack ground mount, no inverter yet AirSpool micro inverter and portable power station stopgap 200-amp panel, 230-foot aluminum underground run, 3% voltage loss Daily usage: 1,400 to 1,500 kWh/month, 46 to 50 kWh/day EG4 FlexBOSS 21 + GridBOSS for the house (hybrid, grid-tied with battery) EG4 12000XP or 6000XP for the shed/building (off-grid) GridBOSS manual bypass for emergency backup Battery installation and expandability with quick connects Anker Solix E10 as an alternative plug-and-play system Microinverters (Hoymiles) as a cost vs simplicity tradeoff Phasing the build: panels first, batteries second, expand to 14,000W Follow Beau: Better Together Homestead on YouTube Watch and follow the Unplugged crew: Unplugged DIY Solar Adam DeLay DIY Rodney Hunt Eric | East Texas Homestead Home Energy Independence Want to share your own solar setup or be considered as a guest? Email live@unplugged.solar with the subject "Unplugged". Affiliate links: Signature Solar: signaturesolar.com - use code UNPLUGGED50 for $50 off orders over $500 Current Connected: currentconnected.com Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links. If you buy through them, Unplugged may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Safety note: DIY solar, batteries, inverters, and electrical wiring can involve dangerous voltages, fire risk, and code requirements. Consult qualified professionals and follow local code. Watch us live every Thursday at 8 Eastern on YouTube: youtube.com/@UnpluggedSolar
S2 · E28
July 10 · 1 hr 7 min
$1,000 Backup Power Plan: Generator, Battery, Solar or Power Station?
If you had $1,000 to start preparing for a power outage, what would you buy first? In this Unplugged LIVE replay, Rodney, Adam, Eric, and the live chat compare practical beginner backup-power options: generators, portable power stations, 12V and 48V batteries, budget inverters, used solar panels, plug-in solar, wind turbines, and simple setups for keeping essentials running. This episode is for people who are not ready for a full whole-home solar system yet, but still want a realistic path to keep a fridge, freezer, internet, fan, electric blanket, or small loads powered during an outage. Topics covered: The $1,000 backup power challenge Generator vs portable power station vs DIY battery backup Used solar panels, budget inverters, and cheap starter hardware Why plug-in solar does not work when the grid is down 48V batteries and small power stations as a budget combo Hot-weather and cold-weather outage priorities Wind turbine ideas, Harmony Turbines, and RidgeBlade discussion Why “one is none” matters for backup power Watch and follow the Unplugged crew: Unplugged DIY Solar Adam DeLay DIY Rodney Hunt Eric | East Texas Homestead Home Energy Independence Want to share your own solar setup? Email live@unplugged.solar with the subject “Unplugged”. Affiliate links: Signature Solar: signaturesolar.com - use code UNPLUGGED50 for $50 off orders over $500 Current Connected: currentconnected.com Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links. If you buy through them, Unplugged may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Safety note: DIY solar, batteries, generator interlocks, inverters, and backup-power wiring can involve dangerous voltages, fire risk, fuel/CO risk, and code requirements. Consult qualified professionals and follow local code. Watch us live every Thursday at 8 Eastern on YouTube: youtube.com/@UnpluggedSolar
S2 · E27
July 3 · 1 hr 6 min
Summer Solar Q&A: Heat Wave Production Drop, Panel Sizing & Community Chat
Adam and Rodney host a casual summer night of DIY solar Q&A and community discussion. They cover how extreme heat is reducing solar panel efficiency across the country, check in with last week's SolMax Solutions contest winner Jacob, and talk through ground mount vs roof mount solar, large vs small panel tradeoffs, string sizing for the MidNite THE ONE inverter, and FlexBOSS MPPT amperage limits. Eric joins from a 1000+ mile road trip to share his cheapest electric bill ever and gas price observations across state lines. Watch and follow the Unplugged crew: Unplugged DIY Solar Adam DeLay DIY Rodney Hunt Eric | East Texas Homestead Home Energy Independence Topics covered: Heat wave impact on solar panel efficiency and production Solar roll call: community hits 2.7+ MWh of daily production Contest winner Jacob (SolMax logo designer) planning his first ground mount MidNite Solar vs MidNite Power brand history explained Large vs small solar panels: hardware costs, shipping, and shading tradeoffs String sizing for MidNite THE ONE: 300V per string across 3 MPPTs FlexBOSS 21K MPPT 26 amp limit with large format panels TIGO TS4-AO optimizer specs and cost vs benefit Adam testing Anker Solix E10 at full 10kW capacity claim Air conditioner startup tests planned in 95 degree heat Eric's cheapest electric bill ever: $42 in Michigan Utility rates across the country: California at 70 cents/kWh, Chicago at 29 cents/kWh Off Grid Wannabe sold 1 MWh back to the utility in June E15 ethanol gas warning for vehicles older than 2001 Eric's road trip: gas prices from $3.40 in Texas to $4.35 in Illinois Bitcoin mining with excess solar production (paused due to heat) Bahamas resort producing 16.84 MWh of solar in a day Happy 250th Independence Day and Happy Birthday Rodney Want to share your own solar setup? Send pictures to live@unplugged.solar with the subject "Unplugged". Affiliate links: Signature Solar: signaturesolar.com (use code UNPLUGGED50 for $50 off orders over $500) Current Connected: currentconnected.com Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links. If you buy through them, Unplugged may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Safety note: DIY solar, batteries, transfer switches, and backup-power systems can involve dangerous voltages, fire risk, and code requirements. Consult qualified professionals and follow local code.Watch us live every Thursday at 8 Eastern on YouTube: youtube.com/@UnpluggedSolar
S2 · E26
June 26 · 1 hr 10 min
Plug-In Solar, Battery Hacks, and the SolMax Solutions Rebrand with Jeffrey
In this Unplugged LIVE replay, Jeffrey from "There's a Trick for That" joins Eric, Rodney, and Adam to talk about DIY solar builds, plug-in solar systems, battery hacks, and real-world product testing. Jeffrey shares his solar journey from camping power stations to a 111 kWh "Tower of Power" battery build, his 240V plug-in solar system, and cold-weather battery testing with the EcoWorthy QBix 100 Pro. The episode also includes the live announcement of the SolMax Solutions rebrand (formerly MidNite Power) and a three-system giveaway. Watch and follow the Unplugged crew: Unplugged DIY Solar Adam De Lay DIY Rodney Hunt Eric | East Texas Homestead Home Energy Independence There's a Trick for That (Jeffrey) Topics covered: Jeffrey's DIY solar journey from camping power stations to full solar builds The "Tower of Power" - 111 kWh of battery storage 240V plug-in solar systems and how they work Balcony solar legality across U.S. states EcoWorthy QBix 100 Pro battery with cold-weather charging Anker Solix power station hacks and upcoming content WattCycle adapter cables for EcoFlow and Pecron SolMax Solutions rebrand announcement (formerly MidNite Power) Three complete solar systems given away to viewers Solar roll call - community hits 4 MWh of daily production Want to share your own solar setup? Send pictures to live@unplugged.solar with the subject "Unplugged". Affiliate links: Signature Solar: signaturesolar.com (use code UNPLUGGED50 for $50 off orders over $500) Current Connected: currentconnected.com Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links. If you buy through them, Unplugged may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Safety note: DIY solar, batteries, transfer switches, and backup-power systems can involve dangerous voltages, fire risk, and code requirements. Consult qualified professionals and follow local code. Watch us live every Thursday at 8 Eastern on YouTube: youtube.com/@UnpluggedSolar
S2 · E25
June 19 · 1 hr 2 min
MidNite Power THE ONE Inverter Deep Dive, Permits, and Viewer Q&A
In this Unplugged LIVE replay, Rodney goes solo for a full deep dive on the MidNite Power THE ONE all-in-one hybrid inverter and the MNPowerflo16 LiFePO4 battery. We cover the specs, pricing, who this system is built for, and tease a huge giveaway coming next week. Plus viewer questions on DIY solar permits, battery setups, and PV fuse holders. Topics covered: MidNite Power THE ONE inverter specs (11.4kW, 3 MPPT, 600V PV, 120/240V split phase) MNPowerflo16 battery overview (16.1 kWh LiFePO4, plug-and-play) MAP pricing: $5,499 inverter / $4,499 battery Who this system is built for Pulling your own permits for DIY solar Permit requirements and workarounds Trailer mounted systems and portable setups Viewer battery setups: Jackery, EG4, off-grid configurations MidNite Power rebranding contest and voting info Next week's giveaway announcement: complete MidNite Power system (over $10,000 value) PV fuse holder issues and troubleshooting Links and resources: MidNite Power Vote on the MidNite Power rebrand Signature Solar (code UNPLUGGED50 for $50 off orders over $500) Current Connected Watch and follow the Unplugged crew: Unplugged DIY Solar Rodney Hunt Adam De Lay DIY Eric | East Texas Homestead Home Energy Independence Watch us live every Thursday at 8 Eastern on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@unpluggedsolar Want to share your own solar setup? Send pictures to live@unplugged.solar with the subject "Unplugged".Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links. If you buy through them, Unplugged may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Safety note: DIY solar, batteries, transfer switches, and backup-power systems can involve dangerous voltages, fire risk, and code requirements. Consult qualified professionals and follow local code.
S2 · E24
June 12 · 1 hr 6 min
Where Does Your Solar System Stand? Backup Power Tiers & Big Giveaway Announced.
Where does your backup power plan really stand? In this episode of Unplugged LIVE, Rodney, Adam, and Eric walk through five practical tiers of energy preparedness and help you figure out what level your solar, battery, generator, or off-grid setup is actually at right now. Watch us live every Thursday at 8 Eastern on YouTube to participate in the discussion: Unplugged Solar on YouTube The conversation starts with a simple question for the audience: are you still fully dependent on the grid, do you have a basic emergency generator plan, have you added a small solar and battery setup, are you running a larger hybrid system, or are you truly off-grid and self-reliant? The guys break down what each stage means in the real world, what it can and cannot power, and what it takes to move up to the next level. Rodney also shares a recent issue with his GridBOSS and hybrid inverter system, where the setup unexpectedly started pulling from the grid in the middle of the day. That leads into a larger discussion about why even a great system needs a backup plan, why screenshots of your settings matter, how communication issues can create single points of failure, and why simple off-grid inverters like the 6000XP can still have a place even when hybrid systems offer more automation. The hosts compare different ways to build resilience into a solar setup, including transfer switches, interlocks, spare inverters, generator inputs, battery expansion, and keeping a path to power critical loads if one piece of equipment stops behaving. They also talk through audience examples, including systems with multiple 6000XPs, 21 kW of solar, 64 kWh of battery storage, and people working their way from basic backup toward full hybrid or off-grid capability. This episode also includes the latest Unplugged solar roll call, where viewers check in with their daily kWh production and location, plus a big announcement about upcoming system giveaways connected to MidNite Power's rebranding contest. The guys discuss the chance to win an MNPower One inverter and MNPowerflo 16 Battery package through the name and logo contest, plus an additional live-chat giveaway planned for the June 25th stream. Along the way, the crew gets into real homeowner realities too: rising utility costs, property taxes, government solar incentives, community-scale solar ideas, water usage, and what it actually takes to keep a home running when life, weather, and equipment do not cooperate. Topics covered: The five tiers of backup power and solar preparedness How to know whether your system is grid-dependent, hybrid, or truly off-grid Why small solar and battery systems still matter GridBOSS, FlexBOSS, 12kPV, and 6000XP reliability considerations Why every system needs a bypass or fallback plan Transfer switches, interlocks, generators, and spare equipment Solar roll call and audience kWh production MidNite Power rebranding contest and system giveaway details Upcoming guest Jeffrey from There's a Trick for That If you are building a DIY solar system, upgrading your backup power, trying to get off the grid, or just figuring out what your next step should be, this conversation is a practical reality check. The goal is not just to own solar equipment, but to know what your system will actually do when the grid goes down. Hosted by: Rodney, Adam, and Eric from Unplugged LIVE. Watch live every Thursday at
S2 · E23
June 5 · 1 hr 9 min
DIY Solar Lessons from Jasonoid: Power Stations, Battery Hacks & Honest Testing
In this Unplugged LIVE replay, Jason from Jasonoid joins the crew to talk portable power stations, battery expansion hacks, honest performance testing, transfer switches, plug-in solar, backup power, and real-world tradeoffs for home, camping, and RV power. Jason explains how his channel moved from 12-volt fridges and DIY batteries into portable power stations, then digs into product naming confusion, third-party battery expansion, high-voltage ports, server rack battery limits, transfer-switch setups, EcoFlow DPU troubleshooting, Flex Boss 18 / 12KPV communications, and what real-world testing shows that spec sheets often miss. Watch and follow the Unplugged crew: Unplugged DIY Solar Adam De Lay DIY Rodney Hunt Eric | East Texas Homestead Home Energy Independence Jasonoid Topics covered: Jasonoid’s channel background 12-volt fridges, camping power, and LiFePO4 batteries Portable power stations and home backup Honest power station testing and grading data Battery expansion ports and DIY battery hacks Plug-and-play solar and smart home load offset Transfer switches, generator inlets, and outage prep Server rack batteries, BMS limits, and series connections EcoFlow DPU, Flex Boss 18, 12KPV, and Grid Boss troubleshooting Chapters: 0:00 Jasonoid joins Unplugged LIVE 5:00 Solar roll call and host updates 8:18 Portable power stations and home backup 13:49 Honest power station testing and grading data 20:10 Expansion battery ports and 48V loads 24:57 Confusing product names and solar marketing 32:12 Solar production roll call results 34:39 Plug-and-play solar and smart home offset 41:19 Expansion ports, charge controllers, and voltage limits 47:59 Flex Boss 18 / 12KPV troubleshooting 50:01 Most powerful power stations vs DIY systems 55:07 Home loads, transfer switches, and power outages 58:41 Two transfer switches on one panel 1:01:53 Wrap-up, Jasonoid’s channel, and community updates Share your solar setup: email live@unplugged.solar with subject “Unplugged” and tell us what your system is like, what challenges you faced, and what you’d change next time. Affiliate links: Signature Solar: https://signaturesolar.com/?ref=unplugged Coupon Code: UNPLUGGED50 — $50 off orders over $500 Current Connected: https://currentconnected.com/?ref=AzzpK9Fl Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links. Unplugged may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Safety note: DIY solar, batteries, transfer switches, and backup-power systems can involve dangerous voltages, fire risk, and code requirements. Consult qualified professionals and follow local code. #DIYsolar #OffGridLiving #Unplugged #PowerStations #BatteryBackup
S2 · E22
May 29 · 1 hr 6 min
Living Off-Grid Since 2007: Rudy Wright's Decades of Solar Experience and DIY Lessons
In this episode, Eric, Adam DeLay and Rudy Wright take a deep dive into over a decade of living off-grid with solar power. Rudy, a seasoned installer and solar enthusiast, shares lessons from building his off-grid property since 2007, evolving from a simple battery backup setup to a comprehensive solar-powered homestead. Topics discussed include: • The realities and challenges of transitioning to full off-grid living • Creative solutions for AC coupling and repurposing existing wiring • Insights from Rudy’s experience as an NABCEP certified installer • Pros and cons of DIY solar kits and common pitfalls seen in the field • Managing battery capacity and system upgrades for winter and low-sunlight conditions • Using home assistant and standalone command centers to monitor solar systems independent of internet connectivity • Balancing off-grid renewable energy with practical needs like biodiesel and water wells Whether you’re considering off-grid living, working on a DIY solar project, or interested in professional installation insights, Rudy’s long-term experience and candid advice offer valuable perspective. Join Eric, Adam and Rudy for a conversation about solar self-sufficiency, technical troubleshooting, and the realities of powering a modern homestead off the grid. Solar Roll Call: - Host production: Adam: 48 kWh (MI) | Rodney: 175 kWh (NC) - Audience stats: 26 submissions | Avg 48.1 kWh | Median 40.3 kWh | @DMIINC2013 led with 132 kWh (GA) - Top audience producers: @DMIINC2013 (132 kWh, GA) | @beefitter (101 kWh) | @kenh7521 (98 kWh, TX) Resources mentioned include Signature Solar, East Texas Homestead, and Unplugged Solar; see the episode links for details.
S2 · E21
May 22 · 1 hr 3 min
Why Solar Systems Alone Fail During Extended Outages and How to Prepare
Many solar users assume their system alone will keep the lights on during a blackout. But as this episode reveals, real outages often coincide with weather conditions that limit solar power—like clouds, storms, ice, or snow. Hosts Rodney and Eric explore the typical duration of extended outages and why relying on solar alone often falls short. They discuss practical strategies for preparing to survive several days without grid power, highlighting the key role of a properly sized generator and adequate fuel storage. The conversation covers: • Typical outage lengths during severe weather events • Why solar production usually decreases when it’s needed most • The pitfalls of running generators 24/7 and best practices to extend runtime • How to size a generator for efficient battery charging and essential loads • Planning fuel storage for at least a week of use • Real-world tips for managing power consumption during emergencies By focusing on designing systems engineered to function through the worst conditions, this episode offers realistic advice to help listeners maintain comfort and safety in prolonged outages. Whether you’re new to backup power or looking to optimize your setup, Rodney and Eric share hard-earned insights to sharpen your preparedness planning. Solar Roll Call: - Host production: Rodney: 196 kWh (NC) | Eric: 2.5 kWh (TX) - Audience stats: 25 submissions | Avg 45.6 kWh | Median 33 kWh | @AWESOMEGODDIVER led with 179 kWh (FL) - Top audience producers: @AWESOMEGODDIVER (179 kWh, FL) | @randya9143 (135 kWh) | @DMIINC2013 (79 kWh, GA)

Showing 1–20 of 26 episodes