solar powered system for block heater

[jedjoe]

I'm wondering if anyone out there has built a solar power supply for a tractor's block heater. I'm planning on storing my tractor in a storage building that has no ac power. All I would need for power in the building is something that could run a 120 volt 150 watt block heater for winter use. So I am thinking solar panels with battery system and inverter. The battery capacity would need to be sufficient to run that 150 watt block heater for a 24 hour period at most and more likely only need to run it for 12-15 hours. Any ideas welcome. Thanks

 

[4570Man]

Most block heaters are more like 1500 watts not 150 and 1500 watts is a lot to do with solar especially when it’s dark.

 

[RjCorazza]

Block heaters on my last 2 tractors were 400 watts, but that still is a big ask for a solar system unless it's a large one.
I run my block heater on a timer for 3-4 hours prior to expected use.

 

[LittleBill21]

whats the budget, you need to know the watts of the heater, how long your going to run it and the recovery time needed.

 

[Rustyiron]

Block heaters on my last 2 tractors were 400 watts, but that still is a big ask for a solar system unless it's a large one.
I run my block heater on a timer for 3-4 hours prior to expected use.

That's what I find also. 2-3 hours ahead of use on a simple plug in timer (rated for the heater wattage) is all that's necessary for an easy start.
Then it's warming time for the transmission.

 

[thebmrust]

Look at the cost of batteries to store the power overnight.

 

[nyone]

Look at the cost of batteries to store the power overnight.

He will then think it's time to fix his glow plugs.

 

[oldnslo]

He will then think it's time to fix his glow plugs.

Glow plugs may not be enough to start his tractor if in a really cold climate. I know at -10 F my Branson struggles to turn over with out block heater plugged in for awhile.

 

[dodge man]

I think it’s doable but you’d need someway to turn it on remotely or actually go turn it on yourself a couple hours ahead of time. It could be a car battery setup and a modest sized panel. If you need it every day you might not get by that cheap.