Solar Generator possible issue

[Markw]

Not sure whether this is normal or not...but when I have my solar generator plugged in to a power port in my van the plug gets pretty hot.

Is this normal or do I need to work on something?

For reference it's a Bluetti EB70S 716wh.

 

[Sofisintown]

Call Bluetti and describe your problem. They can probably help you better than anyone. Also post your question at Will Prowse's forum, lots of knowledgeable people there . https://diysolarforum.com

I have the bigger Bluetti AC 200 and it does not overheat the wire.

 

[Markw]

The wire isn't getting hot, it's just the plug itself.

 

[abnorm]

Do you twist the plug to secure it in the power port ? Loose connection = HEAT.........

Ports have a subtle locking mechanism...........Insert and Twist 1/4 turn..........Pull back SLIGHTLY to insure it's secure !

 

[frater secessus]

a power port in my van the plug gets pretty hot.

Are we talking about 12v power port to DC charging in? If so, I suspect the connection isn't good and causing heating.

If we mean 120vac port feeding the device's wall charger, MSW inverters can cause some power bricks to run hot.

 

[Happy Camper]

As mentioned above, I would call the manufacturer support line.

But the biggest problem with the unit is that it isn't solar, and doesn't generate anything.

 

[maki2]

Look at the specs for your van and find out how many amps your 12v accessory plug is rated for. Many times they are only rated for 10 amps and are pretty much meant for small devices such as charging a phone or powering a GPS for driving directions.

It very well could be that you need to run a new heavier gauge wire (and fuse it) from the battery to a a new 12v socket outlet that is rated for 15 amps. Add a switch for that new, additional, accessory socket that is also rated for 15 amps. Best done from a house battery instead of your starter battery unless you only plan on charging while you are actively driving. you can purchase sockets with mounting brackets from auto parts stores, RV stores, marine, truck stops and of course online.

 

[Markw]

Look at the specs for your van and find out how many amps your 12v accessory plug is rated for. Many times they are only rated for 10 amps and are pretty much meant for small devices such as charging a phone or powering a GPS for driving directions.

It very well could be that you need to run a new heavier gauge wire (and fuse it) from the battery to a a new 12v socket outlet that is rated for 15 amps. Add a switch for that new, additional, accessory socket that is also rated for 15 amps. Best done from a house battery instead of your starter battery unless you only plan on charging while you are actively driving. you can purchase sockets with mounting brackets from auto parts stores, RV stores, marine, truck stops and of course online.

I will definitely look into that. However, the reason I am using the power port is because I don't have my solar system set up yet (still collecting components...almost there though and debating waiting until I get to Arizona and get a rigid panel from San Tan).

 

[abnorm]

TWIST...................................

 

[SierraVanCampers]

We use the EB70s in our van. The cigarette plug is worth about 90-95 watts of charging. The plug might be warm but shouldn't be hot. The wire gauge for most cigarette plugs are minimal.

For ours, we use a 12V DC to 24V DC Converter. About 50.00. I ran 8 gauge wire directly off the battery to a circuit breaker and finally to a disconnect switch so I can control when and when I don't want the converter on. (Thus running the battery down)

The output of the converter is 24v which connects to a 8mm barrel plug and into the EB70S input which accepts 24v easily. It now charges at 195 watts which cuts the charge time in half. This also eliminates using the small gauge wire from the cigarette port on the van.

If you happen to go this route, get the 480 watt converter and not the 240 watt which will be running to hot providing the 195 watts continuously. That advice actually came from Bluetti support.

If you want a diagram, let me know and I can forward.

Cheers

 

[frater secessus]

I ran 8 gauge wire directly off the battery to a circuit breaker and finally to a disconnect switch so I can control when and when I don't want the converter on. (Thus running the battery down)

I think this is a valuable and underused approach for getting around the ciggy port's limitations. Folks considering it might use normal isolators (as for charging house batteries) to avoid accidentally leaving the batts connected when the vehicle is turned off.

 

[Markw]

We use the EB70s in our van. The cigarette plug is worth about 90-95 watts of charging. The plug might be warm but shouldn't be hot. The wire gauge for most cigarette plugs are minimal.

For ours, we use a 12V DC to 24V DC Converter. About 50.00. I ran 8 gauge wire directly off the battery to a circuit breaker and finally to a disconnect switch so I can control when and when I don't want the converter on. (Thus running the battery down)

The output of the converter is 24v which connects to a 8mm barrel plug and into the EB70S input which accepts 24v easily. It now charges at 195 watts which cuts the charge time in half. This also eliminates using the small gauge wire from the cigarette port on the van.

If you happen to go this route, get the 480 watt converter and not the 240 watt which will be running to hot providing the 195 watts continuously. That advice actually came from Bluetti support.

If you want a diagram, let me know and I can forward.

Cheers

A diagram would be extremely helpful. I am likely going to replace the entire power port (as I don't think they were designed for this use) and I may as well do it right while I'm at it.

 

[SierraCamper]

A diagram would be extremely helpful. I am likely going to replace the entire power port (as I don't think they were designed for this use) and I may as well do it right while I'm at it.

I will message you a diagram. By the way, I double checked and I used 6 gauge from the battery to the converter and not 8 awg like I mentioned.

 

[wntrhwk]

Anybody having any luck getting a hold of Bluetti Support? I have been trying for 2 months, no reply's from numerous emails. Phone support is useless, always says mailbox is full. Reddit and other Social media sites are seeing posts with the same theme.

 

[SierraVanCampers]

In the past, I was able to get through to someone and they were very helpful. However, that was 8 months ago.

While they should always answer the phone and reply to support emails, you could also try joining their Community Forum. There are some very knowledgeable folks (not employees) that can help as well as a knowledge base.

https://community.bluettipower.com/
If your unit is defective, they may still help with a contact.

Thank you

 

[lovingvan]

What is your charging device? May be caused by too high power.