Is DIY Off-Grid Advisor free to use?

Yes. The Scout plan is completely free — no credit card required. You can create builds, run the load calculator, use all the standalone tools, and join the community at no cost.

What off-grid systems does it support?

DIY Off-Grid Advisor supports vans, caravans, RVs, 4WDs, boats, cabins, sheds, and remote properties. It handles 12V, 24V, and 48V systems.

How does the Component Wizard work?

You enter your loads (appliances and usage hours), your location (for real sun hours), and your system type. The wizard then recommends the right battery bank, solar panels, MPPT controller, inverter, and DC-DC charger — all sized for your exact setup. It also generates a wiring diagram and PDF report.

Do I need electrical experience to use it?

No. The platform includes a full beginner-friendly knowledge base — Electrical 101, How-To guides, Troubleshooting, and a Glossary — so you can learn as you build. The tools are designed to guide you step by step.

DIY Off-Grid Advisor

Pillar 03 — Build It

Build Guide

From shopping list to switched on. Step-by-step installation with wiring diagrams, safety checks, and progress tracking. Stuck? Ask Watt — he knows your exact components.

Build Progress0%

0 of 17 steps complete

Build Journal (0 entries)View My Rig

Gather tools and materials

Wire strippers, crimpers, multimeter, heat shrink, cable ties, fuses, terminal blocks.

Wire strippersCrimping toolMultimeterHeat gunCable ties

Safety

• Check all tools are in good condition

• Ensure multimeter batteries are fresh

What tools do I need for my specific build?

Review your wiring diagram

Check the auto-generated diagram from your plan. Verify cable sizes, fuse ratings, and component placement.

Wiring diagram printoutCable sizing chart

Safety

• Double-check cable sizes against your loads

• Verify fuse ratings are correct

Can you walk me through my wiring diagram?

Plan cable runs

Map out where each cable will run. Keep DC and AC separate. Plan for future access.

Measuring tapeCable routing plan

Safety

• Keep cables away from heat sources

• Plan for strain relief at all entry points

How should I route my cables in a van?

Your Wiring Diagram

Auto-generated from your Component Wizard plan

Component Wizard

Build your system plan and get a wiring diagram

Cable & Fuse Checker

Verify cable sizes and fuse ratings for your runs

Solar Wiring Config

Series vs parallel panel wiring

Complete your plan in the Component Wizard → your wiring diagram will appear here automatically

Pre-Energisation Safety Check

Never skip these — verify before you power up

All fuses installed and correctly rated

All terminals tight and covered

No exposed conductors anywhere

Battery polarity verified with multimeter

Solar panels covered or disconnected

Inverter turned OFF before battery connection

Fire extinguisher accessible

Someone else knows you're working

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Ask Watt anything

Watt knows your build. Ask about wiring, sizing, troubleshooting — from any page. Press Cmd /

Ask Watt anything

Press Cmd+/ or click here to ask Watt about your build, wiring, sizing, or troubleshooting.