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...
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I took a simple approach on installing my 200W MSW inverter.
The inverter lays in my basement next to my battery. I ran a 12 AWG extension cord from the inverter to the power panel 120VAC side. I cut off the female side of the extension cord and wired it directly to the 120V main. I plugged an unwired cable end receptacle into the male plug so not to have an exposed hot prong dangling in the basement when not in use. It was a simple, inexpensive install.
To activate the inverter I turn the converter breaker OFF, plug the cable into the inverter and connect the inverter to the battery via alligator clips. Now all outlets are energized by the inverter.
It's not automatic but it's simple and functional. Works for us. I never run the MW, AC, coffee pot etc. on it. It's for the satellite, TV, an AC fan and gizmo chargers.
The inverter lays in my basement next to my battery. I ran a 12 AWG extension cord from the inverter to the power panel 120VAC side. I cut off the female side of the extension cord and wired it directly to the 120V main. I plugged an unwired cable end receptacle into the male plug so not to have an exposed hot prong dangling in the basement when not in use. It was a simple, inexpensive install.
To activate the inverter I turn the converter breaker OFF, plug the cable into the inverter and connect the inverter to the battery via alligator clips. Now all outlets are energized by the inverter.
It's not automatic but it's simple and functional. Works for us. I never run the MW, AC, coffee pot etc. on it. It's for the satellite, TV, an AC fan and gizmo chargers.
