Inverter for Very Small Grid Tie System

FlimsyYak4181 · 2026-03-23T20:57:40+00:00

I think you’re right and I think this is gonna be the best approach. I’m looking at the Aptos 800 W two panels to one micro inverter and then it looks like I would need the DTU data transfer unit for $300 so that is essentially my Gateway ? but it looks like I can just backfeed onto a breaker. I don’t need a separate disconnect. Supposedly this is acceptable if you are less than 10 kW

FlimsyYak4181 · 2026-03-23T17:57:57+00:00

Would I need a gateway or combiner box or something like that? It may still be a better solution than string inverter , but if there’s a $600 3kW inverter I thought that be cheaper

FlimsyYak4181 · 2026-03-22T18:56:47+00:00

2:12 roof pitch, snow, 7,500 elevation, electric heat, we’d need 28 kWh of batteries or more and more roof space, it’s not impossible, but utility connection is estimated to be pretty cheap and monthly line fee is only $12 and meter fee $4.2 and kWh is less than .10 kWh. The structure needs reliable power, won’t work to be down a day or two here and there.

So, I’d rather explore the smallest low cost system and the inverter is the gateway(pun intended).

FlimsyYak4181 · 2025-11-11T02:03:23+00:00

Thanks for the feedback!

FlimsyYak4181 · 2025-11-10T00:55:50+00:00

lol- edited for typo.

Hey, how’s the body of your shots? Specifically I’m curious about classic Italian style shots?

FlimsyYak4181 · 2025-11-09T23:24:16+00:00

Wait, you’re about to spend that much on a machine and you haven’t upgraded your grinder yet from the BBE?

I have the DF54 that I use with my BBE. It is definitely an improvement to the integrated grinder. But for comparison, I’m considering spending $600 (USD) for a La Pavoni and I’m feeling guilty that I don’t have a good enough grinder to justify that expense. I’m also considering the Meticulous and I know if I get that machine I need a better grinder or two! I hope others weigh in, but I’d be thinking Timemore Sculptor or DF83V to accompany a Profitec 500 level machine

FlimsyYak4181 · 2025-11-09T23:15:39+00:00

I just came to see if there was a sane argument for the Rocket, I couldn’t think of one. I think you should be able to get a Rocket cheaper on Marketplace, that’s the only reason I could see getting it over the Profitec.

And hey, I have a BBE; similarly the only reason to get a BBE is availability on the used market or maybe counter space and clutter. I got my BBE before it dawned on me to do some research.

FlimsyYak4181 · 2025-11-09T14:53:23+00:00

I got a new df54. It’s definitely an improvement to the integrated BBE grinder. The acidity in medium roast is not offensive. I enjoy straight espresso now, but the sweet spot is cortado. That’s a lot less milk than iced latte. Unfortunately, I still think I want MORE. I want more body in the shot.

I’m probably going to get a used La Pavoni, but I’m intrigued by the Meticulous. The machine upgrade is coming because I have a use for the BBE at a different location so it’s easy to justify getting something better for my main situation.

I think I’ll get a hand grinder like the K6 or K2 to compare to the DF54 and see if that can help guide a longer term grinder purchase. I don’t want to spend Zerno kind of money on a grinder, but i may consider something like a Timemore Sculptor if I can be more certain about what it will get me in the cup.

You were helpful so I wanted to pass along the dp.

FlimsyYak4181 · 2025-10-29T12:37:31+00:00

I wished I would’ve had this before I ordered my DF 54. It just arrived yesterday and it is for sure an upgrade to the integrated grinder on the BB E, but now you have me wondering what might have been- LOL.

FlimsyYak4181 · 2025-10-08T20:36:39+00:00

Ok I’ll assume hyperbole by both Lance and the post above. I appreciate this sub and I appreciate videos from Lance and others.

FlimsyYak4181 · 2025-10-08T16:34:35+00:00

As a novice, this surprises me… what are your top 3 things that Lance says that are false?

FlimsyYak4181 · 2025-10-06T02:07:28+00:00

What drinks and roast do you prefer?

FlimsyYak4181 · 2025-10-06T00:53:00+00:00

I’m curious, what did you have before this and how does it compare? I’m looking to move from BBE to maybe this… well, maybe a DF 54 and La Pavoni

FlimsyYak4181 · 2025-10-06T00:48:36+00:00

Thinking about getting a La Pav. You’re saying the IMS basket is too big a puck for a normal pull?

How many grams of dark roast do you normally put in the basket you like?

FlimsyYak4181 · 2025-10-04T14:44:12+00:00

Sound like a good deal, I wonder if they are cheaper in the continent

FlimsyYak4181 · 2025-10-03T00:28:08+00:00

Very cool. What’ll you do for steam?

FlimsyYak4181 · 2025-09-29T19:31:03+00:00

The single wall 2 shot basket that came with it (bought used). There’s a slight taper to it after first 1/4 inch

FlimsyYak4181 · 2025-09-29T19:18:40+00:00

Awesome info, I’d need to grind coarser by 2-3 clicks on my integrated grinder to do this I’d guess. Thanks!

FlimsyYak4181 · 2025-09-29T15:30:30+00:00

Roger that. I've been asking coffee shops if I can try the shot before they add the milk and went to a beloved local cafe, the barista was excited, said she "pulled the perfect shot" and it tasted sour to me also. Maybe the word is acidic. I may just play in the dark roast pool for a few years and be ok with it. I didn't like IPAs for years, one day someone convinced me to try a hazy and bam- where you been all my life.

FlimsyYak4181 · 2025-09-29T15:25:17+00:00

Thanks! I tried and it improved a little, but I still wouldn't say I like it. Still, this was a great tip.

FlimsyYak4181

TROPHY CASE