My 1000 Watt Inverter Installation Explained
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- Опубликовано: 21 авг 2024
- See full blog post here - www.loveyourrv....
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This is an update video to my original 1000 watt inverter install video - • 1000W Pure Sine Wave I...
In this updated version I go into much more depth regarding how I installed the inverter, why I installed it the way I did, why I picked a 1000 watts pure sine wave model and some other possible RV inverter hookup options.
Inside the rig, I'll give you a look at how we use it with a single AC outlet when out boondocking and another optional setup to use all the RVs AC outlets.
Many people were confused by my installation portrayed in the first video and I have fielded many questions. Hopefully, this video will clear things up.
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See latest update on our 500 watt boondocking system and what we power - www.loveyourrv.com/what-do-we-power-with-500-watts-of-rv-solar/
As for a guy that has been doing electrical work all their life, I still like to watch how others set up their rings etc and I have to say that you have done an awesome job explaining and videoing your setup. Very nice!!!
Thanks! :)
No mention of a ground connection.
Thanks Ray. I just picked up this inverter on sale at Canadian Tire for $240 regular $320. I am going to plug the shore power plug in and shut off the breakers. We only dry camp and I only run my Generator to power my 80 amp Boon-docker charger/converter that is wired directly to my 4 AGM batteries. Your explanation was excellent!
You're welcome. Happy camping!
Thanks for the nice video, I just completed my installation of an inverter. I used two Iota ITS-30R automatic transfer switches and wired the inverter directly into the power panel of the trailer. The second automatic transfer switch disconnects the converter from the system when using the inverter. It works great and there is no need to worry about turning off the converter or pulling fuses etc when running the inverter.
Cool!
11:07 the sub panel is what my grandparents on my mom's side did when they had their stand by generator installed, they had certain brakers wired into both panels so if they lost power, only certain areas of the house are usable while the generator is running when the power is out. It's programmed to come on and run for a short designated time at a weekly bases.
I can echo your comment about it being reliable. I've had one for perhaps 10 years, and it is still working well, even after relocating it and finally using the remote panel. In fact the problems it gives me running a 700W Microwave is what lead me first to your test of the 600W microwave, and I ordered the same one last night. Today I did notice from another video that apparently on the Panasonic 'Inverter' (in this case it was the NN67HS, but the NN-SD372S is even smaller) series of Microwaves, when you adjust the power level, it actually does limit the power draw, rather than just cycling full power on and off like the more inexpensive microwaves do for the power setting. However I'm not sure if it would make sense to pay 3X more for a larger microwave only to consistently use less than half it's cooking power full time.
Yes, thanks for the vid! I like the idea of powering all plugs. Our RV is parked year round at an off grid campsite. The converter would be turned off permanently. With solar we have all the comforts of home except a coffee maker and microwave. A/C never needed. Picked up a 3000 watt today. Ready to make our neighbors jealous! Love it love it love it!
Nice!
you dont understand you are not powering up all your outlets, he is using his " elaborate " ex. cord.
Love the inverter set up and how you designated one outlet in the Rv. I think this is how I want to go. I just hope my inverter set up is as organized and clean as yours. Great video
Thanks!
Kitchguy
I'm looking to power two outlets for refrigerators in my rig (toy hauler), replacing rv fridge adding one in garage. Only time inverter would be used is when we're traveling from campground to campground. The existing battery should be able to do the job not looking to boondock with the set-up
Thank you! Electrical things are a little complicated to understand but I understood it very well.
Ray, that is very helpful, thank you. My wife and I take delivery on our first RV in the spring and I am trying to learn all I can.
You're welcome. Congrats on the new RV, I'm sure it will be a fun spring! Cheers Ray
Nice work. Thanks for the video. I also have a video on my channel where I hooked up my inverter only I plugged the shore power cable into and extension cord that plugs into the inverter so I have all of the outlets and 110 volt light available. My unit is older and has no A/C or Microwave but if you don't want to power those, don't turn them on.
This was a great, informative video Ray, thanks! Now I understand what we have to do to keep a CPAP running in the boonies.
Thanks!
my husband liked your direct line with an outlet and he used 3 strand house wire with the solid wire to maintain current flow, our fuse box don't have a breaker for the converter but the converter has 2 - 30 fuses which we pull out when we run a cable to the trailer wiring thank you for your idea it suits us fine for our temp truck stop stayovers.
Cool. You're welcome, glad it helped out. Cheers! Ray
Catastrophic fuse? Great video Ray, it was recommended to me by "Homie at Large". Was really hoping for more specifics on breakers, fusing,etc., and how to calculate the specs. Spent all day yesterday searching for videos with that content, to no avail. I'm putting together a "simple system", with two SOK 206aH lithium batteries, a 3000watt pure sine wave inverter, and approx 700watts of solar on the roof. Plan on using the shore power cable to the inverter.
Breaker, fuse and wire sizing is pretty specific to each installation depending on wire run lengths, etc. and how much wire loss percentage you'll want to tolerate.. So its hard for a video to tell you exactly what you may need for your specific system. If you copy wrong you could end up with an unsafe system or waste a bunch of power in wire losses. Here is a really good online calculator to determine what to use. circuitwizard.bluesea.com/
My system is constantly evolving and changing as I add more things and test products. Here are some recent videos that may help. Cheers, Ray
Catastrophic Fuse on My RV Battery Bank - www.loveyourrv.com/installed-catastrophic-fuse-rv-battery-bank/
Boondocking Power Upgrade - Added Separate 500W Solar Panel Ground Array - www.loveyourrv.com/boondocking-power-upgrade-added-separate-500w-solar-panel-ground-array/
Our RV Boondocking Power Systems - Current State of Things 2022 www.loveyourrv.com/our-rv-boondocking-power-systems-current-state-of-things-2022/
Testing & Install of 3000W Power Inverter + 30A Auto Transfer Switch - www.loveyourrv.com/testing-out-my-new-3000w-motomaster-eliminator-pure-sine-inverter/
Yes running the solar power into the grid tie supplementing the house power.
12v @ 750w the highest I seen to date is 537w.
Most time it around 370w from about 10:00am to 4:30 pm when the sun is out that is.
Sure helps out on the power bill at home.
That's awesome. :)
Thanks Ray!! You just saved me a bunch of money and time!! I know you could plug the 30Amp plug into the inverter but wasn't sure about the converter power loop and how to easily disable it. But now I do and I have tried it now and it works great!! No more having to start the genny at 6:00am to make a cup of coffee and piss off my wife and the rest of the campground!!!
Awesome! You're welcome. Happy wife happy life. :)
Thanks, I watched your first video on hooking up an inverter and all I could say was: What the h...?Much better!!!
Yes the first one was a bit confusing. :)
Great video Ray as always. I set mine up like you but fished my outlet box behind TV I wish I would of used lower panel. I have two Honda generators 1000 and 2000 and if I don't want to run whole trailer I fish an extension cord from generator thru landing gear hole and plug output inverter cord into generator, that way I can use the one outlet box in trailer. Keep up the Great videos. ED
Thanks Edwin. I went with the lower panel location because I knew Anne's computer would be on the table in the slide. Since our slide out has no AC outlets it would be the shortest path for the extension cord. I thought about adding an outlet to the slide but it looked to be a real pain in the butt. ;) Cheers Ray
Thank you I was looking all over for some one to put it in your words it has helped in more ways then I can say!
Cool, glad it helped. Cheers! Ray
Thanks for the info, Ray. You always do a great job teaching us the right way to do things.
Thanks. :) I try my best. I know if I get something wrong the vast experience in the RUclips community will set me straight. That's a wonderful thing, Some posts I learn more than I ever imagined. Wisdom of the crowd.
great video, ray! your practical, well-grounded (pun intended) advice and experience is much appreciated.
haha, thanks.
very tidy and explained well, enjoyed the video. My new inverter is for my man cave lighting etc
I am going to add an inverter to my Jeep. The Jeep lives without a top so I need to locate it about 5ft away from the battery to keep it dry. I am concerned with the load on the power cables to the inverter. I don't trust most of the other videos calculations. I see also that you have added a breaker. I definitely want to do that but I don't want to lose the max output. I will mostly run a battery charger for my makita drills and some lights.
If I get the specs for my desired rig can I message you for some information? I am really interested in adding a shunt and possibly a second battery as well as a trickle solar charger. I work with 12v battery systems on boats so I am not totally green I just want to make sure I am being fully safe.
LOVE YOUR VIDEOS! This one was simply stated and very well explained! Thank you for all that you do and offer to all of us!
Thanks! :)
It's more than just cutting off the inefficient hour loop., If you put a high load on the inverter it will put such a high load on your batteries that the batteries will in turn put a high load on your converter chargerand blow the main fuses in your converter charger as well as in our case it blew the fifty amp fuse at our battery box although the inverter was wired direct from the
Wow!
I built myself an ATS for one power oulet with a relay I had. I have it connected so when I am not on shore power, the relay is not activated an let Inverter power flow to the outlet. Shore power activates the relay and connects power from electrical panel to this outlet. This arrangement works quite well.
Anyhow, I am quite impress about your kind of life. I am the same age as you and I cannot do what you for an other 5 to 7 years. I have a good job and a 14 yo kid. I can say, it is golden handcuff. I would like to know, how you came about full time RVing as well as your budget if you are willing to share. Also, are you getting board at times.
Sounds like a nice DIY mod! Must be a decent sized relay to handle the current.We have no kids, we both had our own businesses prior to going full time so have an entrepreneurial spirit. Sold our house at market high giving us a nice nest egg to fall back on. Now we live very frugally and do various part time work to fill in missing income. Our yearly budget for day to day living is around $30,000, beyond that it is saving for retirement and replacement costs for the truck and trailer.
We started out thinking it was a one-year sabbatical trip but now it's five years later. We don't get bored. Feels like we have packed 20 years of memories in that five years, since we have seen so many places and met such a variety of people. Cheers Ray
+Love Your RV
All it takes is a 10A (fused) relay. This gives the same amount of wattage as your Inverter provides.
Your budget is about what I had in mind. I am also very frugal. The hard part will be convince my wife to sell the house in 5 years at 55.
thanks for update I'm planning on doing this as my next upgrade and do a combo like yours with dual extension plugs and the shore power plug in you recommended.
You're welcome Brian. Happy modding. :)
Nice video, it does explain alot. I was unsure how to power my panel so I could use my outlets throughout my fifthwheel, this explains it fully. Thank you !!. I'm glad I subscribed. Keep being safe and having fun.
I have the same inverter powered by 6 golf-cart batteries and wired up much like your's but in a class A Motor-Home. I only use it to power my Shaw Direct Satellite system along with a Samsung surround sound system and a 27 inch Samsung TV....I have it feeding into a box at the front with Shore power on one Side and Inverter power on the other so I just have to switch the power bar cord from one to the other (if that makes sense to you) The inverter has a remote switch which I extended with a regular phone cord (plugged right in) The inverter is in the back (of the motorhome)nearer the batteries and the remote is at the front nearer the TV
Sounds like a sweet setup. :)
Hi Ray,
Per your lay out diagram in this video, (Battery Swicth +12 Volt RV Circuits) can you show us how to connect from battery bank to 12V appliances like microwave of refrigerator, roof fan or ceiling LED light. Thanks for your help.
The roof fan and ceiling LED light are 12 volts DC and already wired to the battery so no need to do anything they will just work. The refrigerator will work normally when switched to propane mode as its control circuits are powered by 12 volts DC from the batteries.
As far as the microwave for it to work off the batteries you will need at least 2 and preferably 4 batteries since it draws a large amount of amperage and usually needs at least a 2000 watt pure sine wave inverter to run properly. Myself, I choose to not power the microwave off of my battery bank and either not use it at all or fire up my portable gas generator when I desire to use it. That way I can get by with only a 1000 watt inverter saving me some money. Cheers Ray
Hey Ray good vid.
My wife is on a oxygen concentrator so with our setup I have the 5000w
eBay one. It seems to work well. I use the second method you showed we use all the plugs and some times the A/C and microwave, toaster and coffee pot . (Dam wife needs her coffee.)
Keep the rubber on the road.
5000W wow! I bet that can draw some huge DC current. You must have a fairly large battery bank.
Thank you for sharing! Very detail, I want all my plugs to work so I will turn off the converter switch off. Thank you again for the great information!
You're welcome. Cheers Ray
Good info...very well explained, you have convinced me to install an inverter. Thanks
Very nice set up Ray, well thought out.
Thanks, works for us. :)
Overall great video with good info. As an fyi, you mention you are using the inverter to provide power to laptops etc. and it is mentioned in your comentary to be a pure sine wave inverter yet it states right on the unit it is a modified sine wave and not a pure sine wave inverter. Otherwise all good.
No, you are mistaken, it says Mobile Digital Power Inverter and is a Pure Sine Wave. See the box - www.loveyourrv.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Motomaster-inverter.jpg
I'm just trying to put a thousand watt inverter in my 05 Dodge so that I can have a mobile office and possibly run some power tools, any videos out there for that?
Informative, practical and simple. Thanks very much!
thank you, I just saw your video after I both the same inverter. I liked all the info you gave. You answered a lot of my questions. Could you tell me if the fan on the inverter is very loud ? I see a lot of complaint about it. Thanks again. Sylvain
No, I don't find it loud even after having it almost 10 years now and running it much if that time. Of course though the models may have changed over that time.
thanks
April, 2021: Does turning the rv converter off, not interrupt dc power to the water pump ,ceiling lights, and other 12 volt devices?
No problem, since they all can run off the RV batteries as well. The converter is used when hooked to shore power to convert the 120VAC to DC to charge the batteries and can power the DC loads when no batteries are present. Cheers, Ray
can i get info on breakers you got and wire sizes you used thanks so much
I just got through reorganizing and upgrading my wiring, here is the latest video - ruclips.net/video/1f145rhB_e0/видео.html In this video, I clean up and reorganized my 12VDC power system wiring preparing for the installation of my 3 new Lion Energy Safari UT lithium batteries. I go through the 12V power system, explaining what things are, and how it all works. I let you know the wire sizes I used plus all the fuses and breakers.
Nice video and explanation Ray. Now does the 1000 watt inverter only draw down the battery according to the load used (1000 watts or less) or does it run at a constant output of 1000 watts?
It only draws what energy it needs depending on what's plugged in with a small idle current of about a 1/2 an amp when doing nothing. Cheers! Ray
Excellent presentation. really well explained. Thanks so much for the edification. very much appreciated.
You're welcome, thanks for watching, Cheers! Ray
Thank you! Good Job! Answered a lot of questions for me.
Awsome video Ray. I found it be so clear and informative. Thanks.
Thanks!
When people switch from battery power to shore power do all your electronics turn off such as clocks and computers requiring reset?
It depends on how things are wired up and what things are running off. All DC powered items continue to be powered by the RV batteries, but AC powered items may need to be reset unless a person has an auto transfer switch installed that automatically switches from inverter powered to shore powered.
If you're running more than one battery should they be the same make/model? Thanks for making this video!
Doesn't have to be the same make and model but should be the same electrical specs and age. That way they charge and discharge in a balanced manner for optimal performance. Cheers, Ray
Thanks Ray!
omg I have one sitting in my basement still in the box ...and was wondering if it was any good :))
Thanks for the review ! I am subscribing.
My nine year old son wants a tinyhome in the back yard ! lol . so we are blogging his journey too ,
and I have been gathering information .I cant even remember why I bought the inverter now 2 years ago , but I guess it will come in handy now
It's still working after 6 years living full time in our RV, was a good buy.
Thank you Ray for this very important information. I have a question regarding turning off the converter. Will turning this off will it be a problem when using my coach generator?
Could be if the generator uses the converter to charge the batteries. If off, it won't be able to. You could install an auto-transfer switch so when generator or shore power is present, the converter is on, and when inverter power is present the converter is off. Cheers, Ray
@@LoveYourRV The Tiffin has an automatic transfer switch to power the batteries from shore or generator power. Can I leave the switch on?
My guess is it transfers the incoming power before it gets to the main AC distribution power panel. So you could manually switch the converter or install a second auto transfer switch to switch between the incoming shore/generator power and the inverter and at the same time that second transfer switch turns off the converter. See theses wiring diagrams. support.gopowersolar.com/kb/article/254-transfer-switch-wiring-diagrams-30-amp/
@@LoveYourRV Thank you so much, you are really amazing 👍👍
I’ve been watching videos to learn how to install one in my RV but it seems so confusing and complicated?
Love it. Great plug.
Hey Ray need to pick your brain, have a buddy that just bought a motor home and he knows nothing about them (i know a little but still have questions) 1) when plugged in to shore power and using rv electrical what is supplying the outlet with power (battery or shore), same question for when you're running the RV's built-in generator? is there an automatic or manual switching box that controls all this, I know you don't want generator power and solar power banging into each other
+Coolbreeze My dedicated inverter outlet is always being supplied by the batteries. Doesn't matter if shore or generator is being used. Some rigs have an auto transfer switch that can automatically switch all the RV AC outlets between the inverter output, shore power or generator.
Thanks for the info! Would I need to turn off the inverter if I were to use my onboard generator to run the microwave or A/C or can it be left on?
The way mine is wired I don't need to as I have separate outlets for the inverter power. Some people will use an auto transfer switch so when the generator is powered up the the inverter feed is automatically turned off and switched over to the generator power.
Omg Ray thank you so much for explaining that so simply! I don't know why I couldn't figure out how to make all the outlets live. Duh of course I can just plug the RV 30 amp plug into the inverter itself! I also have. Even struggling over buying a 1k or 2k watt inverter. We mostly just want to keep our laptops and small fridge powered up so 2000 watts seemed like overkill. Anyway thank you soooo much for this very informative video!
You're welcome. Cheers! Ray
Thank you!!
I liked your video , I like the power for the hole rig idea , So I got a 30 Amp 3 way switch ( looks like a wall switch but 30A ) so I can manually switch from 30A shore power plug or to my inverter power , without them ever being on at the same time , But like you said , I will need to tune off the Frig and converter breakers first , But I see you put in the 80A breaker in for the 1000 watts and not the surge power size for it , Why Not the surge power rating ?
I went with an 80 amp breaker back then as the maximum wattage thing I was using with the inverter was an 800w Shop-Vac and I had an 80 amp breaker handy. So in my case, it was the fused for a little over the maximum current I was going to be drawing not the inverters max surge. Used it for 8 years like that and never blew the breaker. For max surge, you'll need around 165-175 amp fuse and advice a 2/0 gauge wire. Cheers, Ray
Very helpful. Thank you sir...many of your videos have been helpful.
Hi, thank you for the vid. Its 2017 now just wondering if this inverter is still your favorite choice? Is it still running? Thanks
Yup, 6 years now, still going strong. We use it pretty well all the time. Cheers Ray
Nice! I just ordered VertaMax 1500 Watt. Pure sine. Will try. Thanks
Nice video, I too don't know why I didn't think to just plug in to inverter for constant power to plugs , duh, thanks
yea if you want extension cords all over the place.
Awesome video, love it. Helped me tremendously thanks again!
Cool, you're welcome!
I have noticed an anoither 80amp breaker to the right of your inverter along with a device with a fan? blue wires. What is that?
Great video by the way :)
Thanks, that breaker is a 40 amp between my solar charge controller and batteries. THe device with the blue wires is a smart battery charger for use when I charge using my portable generator. It does a superior job compared to the OEM on board charger.
I've recently put out a post and video detailing the current incarnation of my boondocking systems. It pretty up to date. - www.loveyourrv.com/diy-rv-boondocking-power-system/ There is also a schematic I made showing how I've wired everything. Cheers Ray
Thank You :)
I'm lost here, I opened up my inverter but I have no idea what to do next, all these videos explain after everything is hooked up, I have a remote manual and temp plate, I have no idea what to do with that, and my grounding wires
Mount the inverter as close to the batteries as you can without being in the same enclosure. Use heavy gauge cables preferable under 3 feet long from the battery bank to the inverter. If its a 1000W inverter with a 2000W surge like this one use 2/0 gauge and a 175 amp fuse for those cables. For the small ground lug on the inverter use a 8 gauges wire and attach somewhere on the frame. For the AC output either plug stuff straight in to the existing outlets on the inverter or use a transfer switch or subpanel to wire the output into your RV AC distribution. If all this makes no sense then hire someone to do the job. Cheers, Ray
I never khew that Canadian Tire made a pure sine Wave inverter non of the Calgary Alberta Canada one's did and Drumheller still doesn't what ones do maybe I can find it at their online this would be cheaper than buying it online elsewhere because the shipping cost is at least double the unit cost of anything coming up from the state's I'm hoping to find one that's 2000 watts pure sine Wave I currently have three 1750 Watt modified sine wave inverter and their hard on everything
Yeah, I've seen pure sine in the CT stores on Vancouver Island. Mine is over 10 years old now. Recently tore it apart to inspect and everything still looked great, here is the video ruclips.net/video/jNaF9I3soko/видео.html
thanks again Ray... going to do this for our trip to Oregon coast..in 3 days
good info
Hi, Great video. Question: If you plug the shore line into the inverter and shut off the converter, aren't you losing your 12 volt system i.e. lights etc.? Question two: my RV doesn't have a dedicated converter breaker, and I don't have a schematic. How do I shut it down, by hand tracing the wires? I would like to be able to plug my shore line into my inverter AND keep my 12 volt system working, but not be recharging the batteries that the inverter is drawing from...Thanks again for the fine video...!
- No, the lights etc will run off the battery like they already do when off shore power.
- You could find the AC line into the converter and add an on/off switch for it.
My home electric bill cost $50 per month will 1000w inverter be plenty for me to use per month?
Thank you so very much for this video it explain so much! Question. How do you power your fridge? Or are you just using the propane feature when boondocking???
You're welcome. Yes, we use our fridge in propane mode, the little flame doesn't use very much.
Love Your RV that makes sense about the fridge. We have a cougar TT (28RLS) and the power cord is permanently stored in the back of the unit and the batteries in front. Going to put invertor in front storage and run a heavy gauge cable to the back of the rig. Then depending on campsite I can plug into the invertor or the service pole. I have no issues Turing off the breakers as suggested. Will use a renogy 200w suitcase during the day. Honda 2000 when required. Need to size up invertor yet. Tv, computer, cell phones , Blu-ray player and dish satellite. Thanks again!!! EDIT: I wanted to add we will have two grp 27 AGM batteries when we start full timing later this year.
Hi. Question for you. The shunt that you show in the video, does the corresponding meter that is monitoring the shunt only provide data on the output of your inverter, or does the meter provide data on your entire RV DC consumption? I ask because i wired my inverter directly off the battery and put a shunt in-line on the negative side of the cable from the battery to inverter. The meter works and I'm getting data, but after thinking about it for a while, I think all i'm getting is meter data from the inverter consumption and not the rest of the RV. Not sure if that makes sense or not, but kind of stuck on whether this is true. Any feedback would be appreciated.
My shunt is wired right to the negative side of my battery bank with all the loads on the other side so measures all current in and out the bank. - www.loveyourrv.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Boondocking-System-Diagram-768x638.jpg
thanks for a well explained video...
Hey thanks for the video! Just bought the same inverter for my truck bed camper and been wracking my brain for a clean way to ground the inverter. Noticed you're not grounding yours though. Makes me wonder, Is grounding necessary? You seem to be doing fine without it?
If you mean the small grounding tab on the side that asks for an 8 gauge wire, my manual didn't even mention it. But from what I gather from reading similar inverter manuals it's an extra safety ground in case something were to go wrong inside the unit that made the inverters metal case hot with 110AC. A person could touch the faulty inverters hot case and the RV metal chassis and get a shock. But the grounded case wire would prevent that from having shorted out the circuit causing a fuse to blow.
*BUT* the way I have my unit wired the output is on an outlet completely separate from the RVs electrical and floating it wouldn't do anything anyway so I didn't hook a wire to it. So I guess it depends how a person hooks up the inverter and what they are using it for. Hope that makes sense. Cheers, Ray
@@LoveYourRV Your mounting screws should be providing a ground to your chassis. If they don't, you need the separate ground wire, no matter where your power is going.
@@chrisw1462 Can you explain why?
My breaker box does not have a separate converter switch. So I have disconnect the battery's from the trailer when I'm using the inverter. So that it doesn't loop charge.
Too bad, maybe you can install an on/off switch for the converter.
Very informative thank you.
ray. you helped me before about my water heater... many thanks again...
i have a small 16' trailer with one 27 deep cell battery (90 amps?) anyways, i was wondering about installing an inverter...i have a 23" all in one compuer with additional speakers and that is probabl;y all i may want to use if it rains (i'm from b.c. as well) i may want to watch a dvd on it ... my run would be less than 3' from battery to inverter....what i'm wondering if this is a good idea ??? not enough battery power without drainging it or should i just use my generator (i boondock most of the time with no one around) and save the exercise of buying a generator....
i hope this makes sense...bill
I guess it depends on how many other loads are happening in the trailer at the same time. If it is 90 amp hours that is pretty small capacity as you can only use 40-50% of the total AH before it is run down, so say 40 AH. If the computer draws 100 watts like Anne's does that's close to 10 amps of DC so the max computer run time is 4 hours, but there are sure to be other loads in the trailer plus the overhead from the inverter itself, so the battery may be drained in 3 hours or less.
I would say it would be feasible if you had at least twice the battery capacity.
thanks for the input...i can't easily add another battery...i will forego adding an inverter as it really is just for maybe watching a video...i'll read a book instead !!!
Maybe a smaller screen to watch movies on like a little laptop or tablet might be the answer then a small inverter could be used to charge it up without draining the battery very much. It's nice to have an inverter for charging things. We used to watch a lot of movies and TV shows on our iPad when we only had two batteries. It could last 8 hours or so on a charge.
good idea ray...i do have a laptop i use usually when out in the boonies...and i have a can tire 300 amp booster and powersupply in my truck connected to another deep cycle battery...gotta go the easiest and most thrifty being a 'poor' pensioner...thanks again for your ideas and input
Hi again Ray, Another question if you can: same video I now see a positive + power bar with a cover. Did you make or buy? I "think" I may need one for similar install. From the factory I have 4 positive wires already running to the battery positive and I still have to add the #2 AWG inverter wire and the smaller solar controller wire.
Thoughts?
Thank you.
Its a catastrophic fuse, good timing on the question my latest blog post and video explains it pretty thoroughly. - www.loveyourrv.com/installed-catastrophic-fuse-rv-battery-bank/ Cheers Ray
Enjoyed your video, very helpful ! One question, does your inverter have an automatic shut down when the batteries get below a certain charge. I'm asking because I noticed some inverters don't shut off until the charge drops to 10 volts or less, and that's to low. How is yours set up to prevent this.
Thanks...……..Rick
The low shutdown voltage is 10.5V and the high voltage shutdown is 15.5V. My Trimetric battery monitor also has a programmable low voltage alarm it will flash and set off an audible alert at whatever voltage I chose.
Is 10.5 volts too low ? What do you have yours set at ? I was also wondering who makes your battery box, and where you bought it.
Thanks...…….Rick
I have my Trimetric low battery alarm set at 11.5V. I don't have much of a problem though as I oversized my battery bank for our needs so I don't find I'm running my batteries down to a level that low voltage is any concern.
They are made by Century Plastics in Richmond BC - www.centuryplastics.ca/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=8&Itemid=7 I picked it up at a local marine supplies store on Victoria BC. In the US I see they are available online at - allbatterysalesandservice.com/catalog/product/view/id/16104/s/century-plastics-heavy-duty-battery-box-holds-4-6-volt-golf-cart-batteries-gcq-g/category/5/
Thank You !
nice setup, correct me if I am wrong: on the1000w inverter, is there 2 legs at 500w each? 500W on each inverter plugs
( 2 X500w=1000W)
No, it can output 1000 watts it a single item. I've ran my 800-watt shop vacuum off it many times.
2x standard North American AC outlets provide a total combined continuous running capacity of 1000W and 2000W surge capacity
Very well done. Thanks.
How many solar watts required to be inverted to produce 1000 watt AC ??
Taking into account losses in wiring, batteries and the electronics of the solar controller and inverter I would guess between 1200 and 1500. But it's not really about the panels, they charge the batteries whenever the sun is on them. It's the batteries that power the inverter and its best to have at least two to power 1000 watts.
How do you charge the batteries off grid?
At first I used a portable gas generator then later I installed some solar panels and solar charge controller, and recently I installed a DC-DC charger for charging off my truck alternator. So I now have 3 ways. Here is a video I did testing them all - ruclips.net/video/Nt3CG5qeF5o/видео.html
Here is a newbie question: If you have a 12 volt ac to dc converter hooked up to a voltage regulator then to this would it work to deliver power through out the house? I mean the the solar panels charge the batteries & if you eliminate the batteries with this then you can eliminate that high cost and the only cost would be what the 1 Ac to dc converter takes from the grid or overall outlet. Any explanation would be appreciated. Net cost $5 per month feeding a 2000W system that never needs to wait for a charge. Costing $5 per month.
The batteries are there to store all the power harvested during the day for use at night or in a next cloudy day, without batteries as an energy storehouse you would be dead in the water once the sun went down.
Thanks
Hi great video, would I be correct in using a 50 amp circuit breaker for my 600 watt inverter? thanks
Thanks. :) Should work OK as long as your Inverter doesn't have an extra surge mode. Some will handle a bit extra wattage for a short time. I'd also want to go a bit higher to handle a low battery situation, sometimes the battery voltage can sag a bit to say 11.8V under load and the amperage will go up. 60-65 amps fuse or breaker would be good if you're inverter has no surge capability. But, also make sure you're wire can also handle the amperage. There are many online gauge calculators. ie. www.wirebarn.com/Wire-Calculator-_ep_41.html Cheers, Ray
Nope because if you are using the max wattage your inverter can use then click it pops the CB. Sizing the CB is for O.L. hitting 600w on your inverted isn't O.L. it, most should have protection up to a certain point but for added protection you find out your inverters protector and size it to that/just under, kinda hard though because they come in certain size because in the electrical field we would be sizing that breaker 1.25X/80% rule, 12A receptacle fits on a 15A breaker at your house correct?
You should hook your alternator up to your battery bank so everytime you start your motor it will charge your bank up.
We have a truck and trailer so it is hooked up to charge through the tow cable. I also have solar panels and a portable gas generator to do the job as well.
clear as mud.
Very nice! Thank you!
Hello Ray, I was trying to source the armoured plated cable you used for your outlets, but nothing matching your setup could be located online.....could you possibly read off the exact identification on the cable...thanks!
Sorry no markings. It's basically this type of cable - www.homedepot.com/p/AFC-Cable-Systems-25-ft-14-3-BX-AC-90-Armored-Electrical-Cable-1402N22-AFC/205070955 but with weatherproof vinyl covering. I got it a local electrical supply place.
A dedicated circuit... Very clever, thank you.
Very nice information, tanks alot sir
I'm installing the same inverter on my boat. Do you have a list and diagram for the wiring with gauges amps ect?
That will vary depending on a persons installation. If you want to use it's full 2000 watt surge capability you'll need at least a 165 amp fuse. Wire gauge depends on install location. if within a few feet of the battery bank then 2/0 gauge should do the trick. Cheers, Ray
So from what I've heard if you go from 30 to 15 you only get an available Amperage of 15. So hooking the RV up straight to the inverter would you only have 15 amp service? I'm not sure if it works the same way?
Amps are limited by the power source in this case the size of the inverter. A 1000 watt inverter maxes out at about 8.3 amps no matter what cord is used. As far as a cord goes it's best to use one large enough to handle the amperage.
looking good
how did you decide on the size of the inverter in terms of watts
I looked at the things I wanted to be able to run, most were only a few hundred watts, but I did have an 800-watt mini shop vacuum and a few power tools I wanted to be able to run so decided on 1000 watts. If I wanted to run a microwave, hair dryer or toaster or coffee pot, etc I would have had to go with a 2000 watt model but they were quite a bit more expensive. I decided if I needed to run those high wattage items I'd just fire the generator. It ended up being a good choice for our off-grid needs. Cheers, Ray
thank you for the INFO
I just read somewhere that this unit (which I purchased today) runs 500W to each outlet, and that you can't run 1000W from a single outlet. Have you tested that?
I'm not sure about the new ones but my 5-year-old one can run higher than 500 watts from each outlet but of course not at the same time. I imagine the outlets are just one outlet wired in parallel. I've tested it with a hair dryer set to 800 watts.
So if somebody pulls that back feed cord out of the red plug and licks the prongs while the inverter is on they’re getting a new hairdo?
I'm not sure what you mean by back feed cord?
Hey Ray! Another great video thanks. You mentioned about the inverter being close to the battery. I have a TT with the battery mounted on the tongue and the only option placement for the inverter is in the passthrough storage compartment. I would need cables approximately 8' long. Is this doable or am I asking for trouble? I was thinking maybe a 1/0 copper cable. Inverter would be 2000 watt.
I find its helpful to look at some inverter manuals and see what they recommend. Here is one from Samlex that is fairly detailed - www.samlexamerica.com/documents/manuals/11001-PST-1500-2000-12-24_0220_Hrez.pdf On page 44 for a 2000W they are recommending 2/0 for 6 feet and 4/0 for 10 feet A lot depends if you plan on pulling the max capacity of the inverter or not. Cheers! Ray
@@LoveYourRV WOW Ray, you always have a quick reply and I appreciate it. Thanks for the link. I forgot to ask one other thing. On a 2000 watt inverter would you use a 150 amp breaker or go up to the 200 amp? We don't plan on maxing out the inverter at all. We just want the ability to use the microwave, and some higher powered stuff occasionally. OOPS. Sorry. I found my answer.
I think I would go for 200 amps with a 2000 watt inverter to avoid blowing the breaker. You just want to make sure the wiring can handle it. For the inverter fusing you're really just trying to make sure the breaker/fuse blows before the feed cables would overheat and damage things or start a fire.
@@LoveYourRV Awesome thanks! You are the best.
But if I am doing this on my boat and the batteries are hooked to my alternator when I wire the inverter to it will it kill inverter?
It shouldn't, the alternator is just a DC charging source like a charge converter or solar charger. The batteries will regulate the voltage. Plus, most inverters can handle DC input voltages up to 15.5 volts and have auto high voltage shutdown circuits for protection.
Thank you, help me a lot 👍
Thank you for this presentation and all the info! I want to convert my SUV into a camper and I plan to use 2 x 12 volts batteries of 800 amp with 79 amp/hour and a power inverter of 1500 watts. I will be using a coffe percolator of 750 w and a toaster of 700 w. I was told that I have to make sure I have the right inverter cause some produice "Pure Sine Waves" and others "Modified Waves" and this may affect the apparatus I will be using such as the percolator or the toaster... what do you say? Thanks.
If you can afford it the pure sine is best.
Thanks!