Inverter/Converter help?

smkettner wrote:
A 3000 watt 12 volt inverter needs to be wired for 300 amps. Pick an inverter and read the installation manual. With two batteries it would be best to be no more than 1000 watts. What exactly do you need to run? Get the actual input wattage rating. tv, dvd, satellite, laptop, cell phone etc will work fine on 150 watts to 300 watts.

I wired my 2000 watt inverter into just the microwave branch circuit with a transfer switch. Power goes down that one circuit only and never to the converter. I added one convenience outlet for any other item to be plugged in.

Or you can move the converter power connection to get power before your inverter but may require a subpanel or Go pOwer has a transfer switch that breaks out the power for the converter direct from cord or generator only.

If you have a compartment up near the batteries that is where the inverter goes. Then pull 120v wire back to the main panel to connect as needed.

Ya know, I'm no stranger to wanting to save a buck or two. I really do not need a 3KW inverter. I just thought it would be a good jumping off point. I'm really only look'n to operate the TV and DVD/entertainment center. I was thinking of "energizing" the whole TT so I could plug phone chargers in pretty much anywhere if I wanted. Nothing really more than that. I like the idea of placing the inverter near the batteries and running AC "the distance" vs. the other way around. Makes more sense I suppose.

So, even with a smaller inverter I'd still like to connect it the same way so that when I'm "on the inverter," the only AC outlets used will power small items. Not looking to drive a microwave or hair dryer or coffee pot or the like.