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ventrman's avatar
ventrman
Explorer
Aug 30, 2016

Grid Tie Inverter

I am thinking about using a Grid Tie Inverter in my 5th Wheel. Can I use a Battery for input Power, or would I need Solar?

17 Replies

  • If it's an inverter used in a battery-backed system, sure you can use it. Most of them have a decent charger built in, too. You just won't be able to use the grid tie feature, so unless you already have the inverter, you'd be spending extra money for a feature you can't use.
  • What is the input power voltage?
    Is it 12v or 48v
    But I don't think you can use it
    Grid tie inverters require line input ac power to be present before they will turn on
    Normally connected to high voltage solar and only create ac power when utilty is present
    They turn off aka disconnect when utilty power goes out
    Safety to prevent the inverter from energizing the lines and killing a lineman working on the outage
  • I can't think of any reason to have a grid tie inverter in an RV that is moved around. If it is permanently installed somewhere in a park or something and you can net meter the electric service then it might make sense.
    You can't use a battery as a replacement for the input. It would likely damage the inverter since solar panels have a very limited current potential and batteries have a very large one.
    You can't legally feed power into the grid without the proper paperwork being filed with the power company which normally includes a permit and inspection from the municipality. Even if you did, most meters are designed to still run forward even with reverse power flow. You would likely be billed for any power you sent to the power grid.
  • That type of inverter seems to be overkill for your 5 Th wheel. It appears to be meant to tie into and synchronize with the power grid. Do you want to use it because you have one available?
  • Generally only solar. Read the installation instructions.
    Grid-tie only works when plugged in and you may need a utility permit to do that.

    What issue are you trying to resolve?
  • Inverter? Should be wired to batteries. Solar panels would not supply enough amps to run much of anything.