Forum Discussion

Explorer

Aug 07, 2013

Inverter Mounting Near Battery Box?

While I wait for the Magnum Hybrid inverters to come out, I've been looking at installation options in my Voltage.

I'm aware of the fact that inverters and open batteries in the same compartment are a no-no due to the battery gases creating a potential fire hazard.

I currently have 4 6v GC2 batteries in the front compartment in a vented battery box. If I make sure to fully seal the box, would mounting the inverter within this compartment be acceptable? I'm attempting to keep the wiring run as short as possible, plus I have quite a bit of free space in the front generator/battery compartment.

Thoughts?

53 Replies

harold1946
Explorer
Aug 07, 2013
You do not want the inverter in a sealed compartment. It must have ventilation or it will overheat.
MNtundraRet
Navigator
Aug 07, 2013
The battery-box needs venting of gases to the outside of living space if using vented batteries.

The inverter also needs airspace for cooling purposes. Normally to avoid possible sparks from invertor, the invertor should be placed in an adjacent compartment. That means having the correct gauge based on length of cable needed, and to have the cable go through the wall (floor) to the battery-box. Any hole created for cables should have grommets to protect the cable insulation from wearing away and causing a short. The inverter can be anywhere inside the living space, fastened to a wall, inside or out of a storage compartment.

Small portable ones can just be sitting on the floor for use. Larger ones can be grounded to frame of RV.
SpencerRB
Explorer
Aug 07, 2013
Sorry, wrong forum. Can a moderator move this to the Tech Issues section?