Comments for Solar Power DIY Blog

Comment on 24 Volt DC Washing Machine by administrator

administrator — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 02:32:30 +0000

Thank you David.

I’m sure it is possible to get a hold of the circuit diagrams. I have comtemplated the thought of “replacing” the insides with a microcontroller based setup like with PIC or AVR. I’ve been too busy though to follow through with further research of any kind. When I studied the inside of my LG font loader, I noticed what looks like a speed sensor on the end of the motor shaft. I believe that many modern washing machines motors are in fact dc but much higher voltages like 180 volts or so for some machines sold in Australia.

Hmmm. Food for thought. Thanks again David.

Comment on 24 Volt DC Washing Machine by David Simms

David Simms — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 16:25:48 +0000

Several years ago, I converted a standard kenmore top-load washer to run on 32 VDC for use on a wind power system. Actually, it was pretty easy.
I used a tiny square-wave inverter to run the controls. Then, instead of a motor, I inserted a relay where the motor would have been. The motor was removed and a DC motor substituted and it’s operation was controlled by the aforementioned relay. End of story. It worked.
I encountered some difficulties. First, the DC motor had to be configured for front mount. It has to have the same power and rpm range. I used a 24vdc motor that had all of the requirements except VOLTAGE. I figured that I could adjust the pulley sizes to compensate which was true, within limits. So, I ended up with a fast-running top-load washer. It would just about spin the clothes dry.
Right now, I’m contemplating a conversion on a front-load computer-controlled washer. I need a circuit diagram or a consult with an appliance repairman. I imagine this problem to be quite solvable.
Since the new breed of front loads use electronically-commutated motors, they MUST convert AC to DC in the power supply. These new motors are, essentially, DC motors. The DC is then electronically conditioned by the controller to yield variable frequency 3 phase power to the motor. We don’t need to bother with this part…the important thing is the power supply. So, locate the DC output of the power supply (the computer also runs on DC, probably 5 volts) and substitute a DC-DC converter or converters. We might have to have more than one converter, say one for 5 volts and the other for 12 volts or 24 volts. Then, the washer should run normally.
There’s a small snag though…the pump that removes waste water is an AC pump-this, I know because I replaced same on an Asko washer. So, this problem has to be dealt with. If your drain is at floor level, a DC solenoid could be used to control the gravity flow of water out of the washer. Otherwise, some kind of RV DC water pump could be substituted and connected to the relay that controls the AC pump.
So, this is my theory…if you try it, let me know.
With off-grid systems, it’s very useful to get as much as possible working on DC. To handle the day-in-day-out requirements of supplying AC, a very good, sine-wave inverter would be necessary. Too many inverters are garbage and, depending on them could end up being a disappointing experience.

Comment on PM Alternator Building by Phoebe Clarke

Phoebe Clarke — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:21:52 +0000

Wind power is a good source of electricity but it also takes up lots of space just like solar power plants.-*’

Comment on PM Alternator Building by Erin Turner

Erin Turner — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 01:32:18 +0000

Solar Energy is one of the best sources of clean and green electricity. I think that we should build more efficient solar thermal power plants and solar cells. frequently. .

Comment on 24 Volt DC Washing Machine by Harold Brewsters

Harold Brewsters — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 05:09:48 +0000

Solar Power is one of the best ways to get clean energy. Today the efficiency of solar power is a bit low but with advances in technology, solar cells will become more and more efficient in harnessing the energy of the sun.

Comment on PM Alternator Building by Instructions to build solar panels for homes?

Instructions to build solar panels for homes? — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 02:45:04 +0000

Instructions to build solar panels for homes?…

Austin Public Utility started its Solar Choice Program in Minnesota to help state people installing photovoltaic solar arrays since 1st October 2005. In order to get the incentive payment from Austin Public Utility, the solar arrays must be connected t…

Comment on 5 Necessary Steps You Should Take When Building A Home Made Electrical Power by Electrical Rewiring

Electrical Rewiring — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 10:08:11 +0000

Unfortunately I came to this page, but I feel very interesting and got very useful information.

Comment on 24 Volt DC Washing Machine by Kevin Thompson

Kevin Thompson — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 05:17:03 +0000

I found this device, it look like they are selling on behalf of someone else. It is exactly what I am looking for so if you have found one it would be good to hear.
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SPECIFICATIONS: DIMENSIONS: 24″ Wide x 25.5″ Deep x 42.25″ High
SHIPPING WEIGHT: 167 Pounds
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STANDARD COLOR: White
24 Volt Model Available
X
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$ 840.00 Plus Shipping

AST-#020W
12 Volt Clothes Washer

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* Basket Capacity of 2.5 Cu. Ft. * Heavy Duty Construction * Self Cleaning Lint Filter
* Porcelain Basket * 5 Automatic Cycles * 3 Wash / Rinse Temperature Combinations * 2 Water Levels

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For more Information, Please E-Mail: CMACM Technologies
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Comment on Solar Power DIY Backup Options, Home Wind Power DIY Part 5: VAWTs by home made wind generators

home made wind generators — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 07:23:22 +0000

Incredible article. Will visit again,

Comment on Solar Power DIY Backup Options, Home Wind Power DIY Part 5: VAWTs by wind power generators

wind power generators — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 08:53:08 +0000

Nice discussion about solar power.