Adding Inverter for dry camping
I would like to add an additional battery (have one group 27 now), possibly a solar charging system and an inverter. I hate that the 120V outlets don't work on battery power. Seems crazy you can't...
Forum Discussion
Hi,
It looks like you are getting lots of advice and I would hate to confuse you, but here goes.
I suggest that you take into consideration the entire electrical system rather than piece meal it. Batteries, shore power charger (converter), solar charger, generator, inverter(s), transfer switch, and cabling (both DC & AC)...and most importantly, what you want to accomplish and how much you are willing to spend. Then create a plan (road map) of how to get there. You don't have to do it all at once, (leaving you projects for many months) but you may reduce or eliminate having to tear out any prior work by planning this way.
Regarding the transfer switch question. I also originally thought that I wanted to automatically switch from battery to shore (or generator) power and so added one. However, in reality, I am very seldom plugged into any external source of power and when I am, I know it. So when I did my last "remodel" of the electrical system, I replaced the automatic transfer switch with a simple (but not cheap) 30 amp Double Pole Double Throw (center off) toggle switch. Simple, nothing to fail, and the center off position gives the system a brief break before switching between power sources (some devices don't like having power switched off then back on, quickly).
Have fun with your "project" and Merry Christmas,
Steve
It looks like you are getting lots of advice and I would hate to confuse you, but here goes.
I suggest that you take into consideration the entire electrical system rather than piece meal it. Batteries, shore power charger (converter), solar charger, generator, inverter(s), transfer switch, and cabling (both DC & AC)...and most importantly, what you want to accomplish and how much you are willing to spend. Then create a plan (road map) of how to get there. You don't have to do it all at once, (leaving you projects for many months) but you may reduce or eliminate having to tear out any prior work by planning this way.
Regarding the transfer switch question. I also originally thought that I wanted to automatically switch from battery to shore (or generator) power and so added one. However, in reality, I am very seldom plugged into any external source of power and when I am, I know it. So when I did my last "remodel" of the electrical system, I replaced the automatic transfer switch with a simple (but not cheap) 30 amp Double Pole Double Throw (center off) toggle switch. Simple, nothing to fail, and the center off position gives the system a brief break before switching between power sources (some devices don't like having power switched off then back on, quickly).
Have fun with your "project" and Merry Christmas,
Steve
