Overview
The video provides an in-depth tour of the JerryRigEverything filming setup, focusing on how the production space is fully powered by battery backup systems, with details on installation, functionality, and limitations.
Studio Layout and Filming Process
- Videos are filmed in a separate building at the back of the property, not inside the main house.
- The filming area includes a main kitchen, video studio, storage, and editing rooms, all powered by battery units.
- The kitchen is used for shipping merchandise and occasional cooking demonstrations powered by batteries.
- The video studio is equipped with soundproofing, specialized lighting, and a camera rig for teardowns and durability tests.
- Editing is done on a high-performance custom-built PC, with a backup machine kept for redundancy.
- Video editing involves collaboration with a remote editor who sends the draft for final polishing before publishing.
Battery Backup and Power System
- The building is powered by two EcoFlow Delta Pro battery units wired together, replacing grid or solar power when needed.
- A transfer switch allows manual switching from grid power to full battery operation on selected circuits.
- Not all circuits are backed up; only essential ones are chosen to preserve battery life and avoid overloading.
- The power system can handle up to 7,200 watts, with 7.2 kWh of capacity (expandable up to 21 kWh with additional units).
- The system is modular, portable, and requires no app or internet for basic operation.
Installation and Technical Details
- The transfer switch is installed in the kitchen due to the original breaker panel location.
- The setup prevents battery power from feeding back to the grid for safety during outages.
- Baking and other appliance loads are monitored to stay within battery capacity, with about 10 hours of total runtime at full load.
- Expansion is possible via additional battery modules, and power rationing can extend runtime for days.
Limitations and Challenges
- Transfer switch wires were unlabeled, making installation more difficult.
- Battery units must be manually balanced to ensure even power usage, as they do not automatically balance loads.
- The grid-tied solar system cannot directly recharge the batteries during an outage unless manually rewired for off-grid use.
- Reconfiguring the solar panels for off-grid use is possible but not easily reversible.
Product Considerations and Recommendations
- The EcoFlow Delta Pro system is praised for being app-optional, plug-and-play, and having a 5-year warranty.
- Battery backup systems may qualify for tax credits, but users should consult tax professionals.
- Portable solar panels can supplement battery charging if the main solar system is unavailable.
Decisions
- Prioritized backup circuits for essential equipment over high-draw appliances.
- Opted for a manual transfer switch setup and modular battery system.
Action Items
- TBD – Owner: Consider adding more battery modules for extended off-grid capacity.
- TBD – Owner: Explore installation of a dedicated off-grid solar array for direct battery charging.