I don’t understand why there is no mention of using a transformer on the output of an AC200/300/500 to generate 240V power (if/as needed) from the 120V output of a single unit. Obviously, the total power needed has to be supplied by the AC unit. Obviously, there is a small efficiency penalty. But the cost of a transformer is significantly less than the cost of an additional AC unit.
The rating of the transformer only needs to be sufficient for the 240V loads and the loads on the other side of the split-phase from the side fed by the AC unit. I have not exhaustively searched for the lowest cost solution in an off-the-shelf product, but here is an example of a power transformer in an enclosure that could be wired to do this. It is a 2kVA unit that costs ~$400. https://cdn.automationdirect.com/static/specs/hpsxfortress480240.pdf
I have found a different foreign-made product that has a suitable transformer inside, but required some re-wiring for this purpose. That product (rated at 5kVA) cost around $100 and only consumed 7W when powered but not loaded. My solution is probably only for a DIY user. (I’m definitely in that category)
The European AC300 has 230V AC output with a single unit. It may be within tolerance for your 240v desire. But if you grid charge it it will expect 230V, 50Hz.
My AC300 has an option to select 50Hz or 60Hz AC output.
I however cannot suggest for or against using an European version in a 110V country. So you will have to do more research before considering this as there may be danger or problems.
With a European solution, you also have to consider the neutral and grounding scheme. The foreign-made unit I mentioned had the 240V output grounded on one side and full voltage on the other. This is definitely NOT conformant with our neutral-in-the-middle scheme.
Here’s another link to a 2kVA transformer, this one for $277.
T253012S
I am not a rep for this or any other supplier. I do not get any benefit from passing this information along.
@sgsebe im in the same boat, i wish i could run my 240V well water pump with a affordable Bluetti but its way to expensive to get the 240V Bluetti kit. I am not a electrician either so a DIY option is not possible for me.
I would love to know how this works if you try it out. I am an avid DIYer but just learning about solar and DC. I probably wouldn’t be modifying a transformer unless someone was telling me exactly what to do. An affordable off the shelf option would be amazing!
I have tried this out. I ran my 240V 8A water pump for a minute or so, with my transformer putting 240V power into my home from an AC300 system with the utility power disconnected.
The safest solution would be to put a 240V cord and plug on your well pump circuit so you could unplug it from the utility power and plug it into your transformer box.
I did find an OTS transformer in a case that would have to be wired up correctly, but would not have to be modified from a different intended use. It was listed at $277.
I will help you with this if you want. Need to know more about your DIY capabilities, and your specific needs.
Are you aware of a mechanism for contacting each other offline, so we don’t have to publicly disclose information?
@sgsebe Cory Potrafka on Facebook, think I am the only one but my picture is me playing keyboards under some purple stage lights. Or first initial and last name at the google mail. My DIY capabilities are pretty high, I will tackle anything and everything, only limited by my tools (and time and space, LOL). I don’t have fabricating/welding tools or heavy machinery, just your basic handyman/backyard mechanic/sometimes I’ll build something type tools. I don’t know everything, far from it, but I learn everything I need before starting a project. I have worked with high voltage batteries having rebuilt my Prius hybrid battery several times. I did have an online friend guiding me through that the first time. Limited, but not non-existent, solar experience.
Sorry I’m blathering on. I wouldn’t want to waste your time so let’s first assess if this is even a possibility in my case. My only interest in having 240 is for my well pump. I don’t know exactly how much current it draws, but I do know that it’s installed with a 2 pole 30 amp breaker. I’m not sure a single AC300 would power it. If I recall in one of Will Prowse’s videos about the AC300 one of his very few complaints with it was that he doesn’t think, based on the math, that the 30 amp outlet can provide constant 30 amps and thought it should be labeled 25 amp. Bottom line is, if this unit won’t run my well pump then I wouldn’t want you to spend any time writing up detailed instructions and such. If you think the AC300 will (or could possibly) run it, then please do contact me through either method mentioned above, and I will be eternally grateful, thanks so much!
Tried to find you on Facebook. Are you into pottery and a trailer conversion? I left a message there.
I’m wondering if these replies on the Bluetti forum are private. They talk about a way to do private messaging in the guidelines, but they don’t describe how to do it.
The first thing you need to do to determine if the AC300 will power your well pump is to determine the power draw of the pump. Buy yourself a clamp-on Ammeter. I saw some as low as $20 on Amazon. Saw one for $45 at Menards. The other thing you could do is see if any documentation you have talks about the Horsepower of your pump. The conversion is 746Watts = 1 Hp. I can’t imagine you have a 4 Hp well pump, so I think there’s a very good chance the AC300 has enough power for you.
