Tips for using Rivian as power bank for storm

[KBabione]

2200 W isn't much of a step up from the 1500 W the vehicle already provides. Hardly seems worth it unless you have a very specific need.

Actually, I do...I have a Blackstone 22" Electric Griddle that, when cranked, draws 1600W. My Bluetti AC-180 allows up to 1800W but, like every other solar generator out there, if it's plugged into an AC source, it passes all demand directly through to the AC input. To use it I have to unplug the Bluetti from the Rivian and then I can use the Blackstone to do burgers or whatever I want for about 45 minutes until my Bluetti is drained. Yes - I can keep an eye on the AC output draw and plug the Bluetti back in after the Blackstone is completely warmed up and is only drawing 800-1200W to stay hot, but it's a pain. I often have 10-15 kids from the Penn State Blue Band waiting for burgers and just don't have time to keep an eye on the Bluetti app. 2200W would allow me to keep the Bluetti plugged in AND continue to run the TV, Starlink, and the portable fridges without worrying about the 1500W limitation of the Rivian.

I was pleased to see that the delivered R2 inverter allows 1900W, but I still would REALLY like an option that would give me two 20A outlets.

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[GA_Rivian]

The only thing in a home that I can think of that will run on 240V with no neutral is a well pump. Well pump motors only have L1, L2 and ground, no neutral.

Yeah, that's what I was thinking. I suppose you could do it but you would have to be careful to either wire a separate transfer switch for the pump, or make sure you turned everything else in the panel off and then switch on the pump. Some shop tools might, but the same would apply.

would folks like another video of a gen1 R1T and SigEnergy?

I would like an update, particularly from someone located where it can be really cold in a setup where everything isn't inside or in a garage. SigEnergy's solution(s) are pretty slick, but like everyone I've looked at most components except micro-inverters are low-temperature limited, bottoming out at around -22F or even less for some things. e.g. generator input port (-22F), battery (-4F), main energy controler (-22), outside Wi-fi components. It would be nice if there were auxilliary heaters one could switch on when appropriate / necessary.

 

[Time2Roll]

I would like an update, particularly from someone located where it can be really cold in a setup where everything isn't inside or in a garage. SigEnergy's solution(s) are pretty slick, but like everyone I've looked at most components except micro-inverters are low-temperature limited, bottoming out at around -22F or even less for some things. e.g. generator input port (-22F), battery (-4F), main energy controler (-22), outside Wi-fi components. It would be nice if there were auxilliary heaters one could switch on when appropriate / necessary.

Tesla Powerwall is rated to -3F and that is with built in heater.
May need to build a shed with heat/insulation if going lower.

Most of these use LFP that really needs the cells to be kept at 40+F

 

[Thedude]

Actually, I do...I have a Blackstone 22" Electric Griddle that, when cranked, draws 1600W. My Bluetti AC-180 allows up to 1800W but, like every other solar generator out there, if it's plugged into an AC source, it passes all demand directly through to the AC input. To use it I have to unplug the Bluetti from the Rivian and then I can use the Blackstone to do burgers or whatever I want for about 45 minutes until my Bluetti is drained. Yes - I can keep an eye on the AC output draw and plug the Bluetti back in after the Blackstone is completely warmed up and is only drawing 800-1200W to stay hot, but it's a pain. I often have 10-15 kids from the Penn State Blue Band waiting for burgers and just don't have time to keep an eye on the Bluetti app. 2200W would allow me to keep the Bluetti plugged in AND continue to run the TV, Starlink, and the portable fridges without worrying about the 1500W limitation of the Rivian.

I was pleased to see that the delivered R2 inverter allows 1900W, but I still would REALLY like an option that would give me two 20A outlets.

There’s something to be said for just simple reliable fossil fuel powered devices.

 

[KBabione]

There’s something to be said for just simple reliable fossil fuel powered devices.

I know - And I have them, but I got tired of lugging propane (grill and stove) and ice (coolers) when I have this large electrical supply. I've made it work with the 1500W limitation but am looking forward when my limit is higher.

 

[forestwalker]

Bite the bullet and be comfortable.

THIS.

I dont think I will ever get rid of my Cummina Onan 4500i generator, even with a gigantic Rivian-branded battery in the driveway

 

[Count Orlok]

the lack of 240v is a huge miss for Rivian.

it's part of the reason The Count continues to own his F-150h as it's basically a mobile generator.

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