Choosing an Inverter

Almot wrote:

SoundGuy wrote:
For those for whom a genset isn't part of the plan then surely the simpler solution would be to just forget about using high draw devices entirely when camping without shore power ... surprising as it may seem you will survive the experience. :p

You just wait, BFL13 will label you a caveman :)

People are trying to turn their RVs into something that it's not designed for, - offgrid living. Except for very few models, RV are made for camping with full hookups - and even in this capacity they are in all respects inferior to smallest and humblest shore home.

One thing BFL is right about is that microwave draws more than it says on the label. They never tell you real ratings. 1000W micro will draw 1500W and 700W model will draw 1000W.

Yes, one can survive and live well without a microwave and other high-current devices, and yes, installation is simpler without a big inverter.

We sold our TC of 6 years last fall and bought a TT. We averaged 80-100 days a year camping in that TC. Of those close to 500 nights camping, there were possible 10 hookups and genny time was almost nil. 330W solar, 4 AGM batteries, 2000W inverter and an all electric 12V fridge(NovaKool) was our basic electric setup. We travelled around a bit so there was some imput from the trucks alternator.

Contrary to what is the opinion of the authors in the quotes, it is relatively easy to run a micro, toaster, hairdryer with of course, some limitations plus all of the other lower draw appliances, charge the batteries and still have power left over to run the fridge. We did it for 6 years. Just read our blog. It's not smoke and mirrors. It's not like back home. But it is all very doable.

We carried our generator around for all of those years and I would have used it if it was required. Just did not need it. Hey Almot, we've already been around the block with this one. Still waiting for you to come camping with us and see whats possible in the real world.

Dave