Educational

Pairing Victron inverters like the MultiPlus or Quattro with third party lithium batteries is becoming increasingly popular. While these combinations can provide excellent system performance, understanding compatibility is key. In this guide, we cover essential insights, practical setup tips, and effective monitoring methods using Victron’s SmartShunt. Understanding Victron and Third Party Battery Compatibility Victron Energy maintains an official list of compatible lithium batteries. Brands such as BYD, Pylontech, Discover AES, BattleBorn, and SimpliPhi Power typically offer seamless integration. Batteries on this list communicate directly via CAN bus protocols, ensuring precise monitoring and advanced management features. However, many users choose third party...

Victron MPPT solar chargers are known for their reliability, flexibility, and advanced performance in off-grid, RV, marine, and backup power systems. But even the best equipment can sometimes run into issues. Whether your MPPT solar charger is not working, showing warning lights, or just behaving strangely, this guide will walk you through the most common problems and how to fix them. The Charger is Unresponsive If your charger appears completely inactive and the unit shows no LED lights, no Bluetooth detection, and no output, it likely means there is an issue with power input or internal protection. First, confirm that...

Choosing the right inverter is a key decision when designing any off-grid, hybrid, or backup power system. With Victron Energy’s strong reputation for durability and smart system integration, many users narrow their search to three top models: MultiPlus, MultiPlus-II, and Quattro. While all three provide high-quality inverter-charger functionality, they are built for different types of energy needs. If you're unsure which model fits your setup, this guide will walk you through their key features, differences, and ideal applications. Inverters vs. Inverter Chargers: What’s the Difference? Before diving into specific models, it helps to understand the difference between a pure inverter and...

As energy costs soar across Canada, more businesses are turning to solar to cut expenses and gain energy independence. But is commercial solar really worth the investment in 2025? The answer: more than ever. Whether you run a warehouse in Ontario, a retail space in Quebec, or a remote industrial site in Alberta, the financial and operational benefits of solar power continue to grow.  In this guide, we break down the return on investment (ROI), payback period, rebates, and savings potential for Canadian businesses in 2025. Why More Canadian Businesses Are Going Solar in 2025 Several factors are accelerating the...

As interest in solar energy grows across Canada, more people are considering systems for cabins, RVs, off-grid homes, and even commercial buildings. While installing solar panels might seem simple, there’s often confusion about which components are required and how they all fit together. One of the most common questions is: “Do I need both an inverter and a charge controller, or can one device do it all?” In this blog, we’ll walk you through the functions of each component, explore the pros and cons of combination units, explain key concepts like MPPT vs PWM, and offer guidance on how to size...