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prstlk's avatar
prstlk
Explorer
Dec 18, 2017

Inverter install manual, info source

We have been full time for 4 yrs. and have recently moved to 5th wheel from a holiday rambler mh. We miss the inverter and the 120v power on demand. The 5ver has nice professionally installed onan propane 5500.

Would like to have a similar system ie inverter, battery bank and switching control. Even with the miracle of the net I have not yet found comprehensive guide for installation of a similar system. (must be lax in my searching skills).

Does anyone have any suggestions of books that might be available?

Pretty comfy with 120v as I have wired 2 houses plus many other projects in both 12v and 120v.

As always thank to this great group of people!
JW

9 Replies

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  • time2roll's avatar
    time2roll
    Nomad
    Dec 19, 2017
    I have a stand alone GoPower sine wave 2000 watt inverter. It does seem better built than the Xantrex Prosine 1800. First indication is that GoPower runs cooler.

    I like separate components for reduced issues if something fails.

    Really need 4+ batteries to drive 2000 watts. Get the transfer switch you need and use the existing converter for charging. If you expect a fast charge on generator, upgrade the converter as needed.

    Many people prefer the all-in-one inverter/chargers too. Although there was a post related to the GoPower combo inverter/charger that did not go well.
  • prstlk's avatar
    prstlk
    Explorer
    Dec 19, 2017
    To answer a few questions posted.
    We would prefer a whole house inverter system.
    The inverter is a 2000 watt
    Thanks again to all
  • GordonThree's avatar
    GordonThree
    Explorer
    Dec 18, 2017
    Locate inverter close as possible to batteries. Long high amperage DC cables are just awful in so many ways.

    Everything on the 110 AC side is much more flexible.
  • theoldwizard1's avatar
    theoldwizard1
    Explorer II
    Dec 18, 2017
    You need to start with the right "system" and the project is easy !

    Samlex sells an inverter/charger/transfer switch that, in addition to shore power, handles input from a 120VAC generator and solar charge controller. With some additional wiring, it can even start your generator if the batteries are low.

    Get rid of your old converter-charger. All you need is a DC distribution panel.

    This is by far the simplest solution. A very detailed owner's manual/installation guide is available online.

    Samlex was been making inverters for over 25 years, so they are not new. I do believe they are somewhat new to the RV industry.
  • Chad_Heiser's avatar
    Chad_Heiser
    Explorer
    Dec 18, 2017
    I have done a number of inverter installs (both point of use and whole house). I have helped people (remotely) do installs as well through other forums. I also give presentations on the subject. I’d be happy to help any way I can. Feel free to PM me and I can point you in the right direction.

    Generally, do you want to go with a whole house set up that works with no intervention from you? Do you want to just power a couple of outlets independant of your primary electrical system? Do you want something in between?
  • time2roll's avatar
    time2roll
    Nomad
    Dec 18, 2017
    How many watts? What do you expect to run?
    The inverter you choose will have an install manual.
  • MrWizard's avatar
    MrWizard
    Moderator
    Dec 18, 2017
    you want whole house, or just a few outlets

    can the inverter be place close to or in the same bay with the existing transfer switch

    you need the inverter output going into the main line to do whole house

    are the batteries nearby

    or are you going to need 3/0 cable from 15ft away to reach the inverter

    options vary from installing new dedicated fed from inverter outlets

    to inserting switch in mains input

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