Inverter hookup

[Gerald55]

A couple of questions about installing an inverter. I'm looking to put one in my 2008 Pleasureway Excel, which didn't originally come with one wired into the 120V system (it did have a small 400W standalone one for the TV only).

Can I simply wire the output of the inverter right into an existing 120V outlet in the RV, e.g., using a male-to-male cord like this:

http://www.amazon.com/Dual-Male-12-Gauge-Connection-Extension/dp/B0035Z13FI/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top?ie=UTF8

In that case, what happens when I connect to shore power and the inverter is on? Will it just play nice by default, or does it need some kind of internal transfer switch capability to not blow up?

I do an unused transfer switch in my rig since it's wired for a generator but doesn't have one, so maybe I can just use that input?

Any recommendations on brands? I'm looking for 1500W or so, and don't want the dirt cheap variety, but maybe the next level up. I especially want one whose fans are variable, i.e., they only go on if needed to cool the inverter and would generally stay off or run at a low speed if I'm pulling 100W rather than 1500W (which will be very common, e.g., just a laptop).

Some of the "good" inverters I've seen seem to run the fans at nearly full blast regardless of draw.

[naturist]

RJsfishin wrote:
From the questions you ask, I don't think you should do this job yourself.

+1

Under no circumstances should you EVER wire the output of an inverter to existing 120 volt outlets that are still hooked to the shore power system. If you plug into shore power or for that matter to a generator, and still have the inverter hooked to that system, you should expect the inverter to explode in flames.

[SteveAE]

Hi,

If you don't need to power everything, you could just plug only those devices you want to power directly into the inverter (or a extension cord that is plugged into the inverter).

If you want to have all outlets operated by the inverter, then you can plug your shore power cord (via adapter) directly into the inverter. Remember though, while everything will have power, you probably won't be able to run everything. Also, you will need to disable your charger (aka, converter).

Mount the inverter as close to the batteries as possible and use short / fat wires to connect it (don't forget to also fuse it).
Lots of inverters to choose from. Here is one source Don Rowe.

[enblethen]

Do not use something like this.
OPs dead man cord
OP thinks he can simply plug one end of cord into an inverter then plug other end into an existing 120 volt receptacle in the rig.
An inverter should be wired directly to the batteries and should have 120 volt receptacles connected to it.
If you think you can just run a cord like linked, you should be aware of deadly hazard in doing so. Back-feeding system of any type is not a good idea.

[RJsfishin]

From the questions you ask, I don't think you should do this job yourself.

[MEXICOWANDERER]

The chances of you making up a suicide connection and not getting zapped on your butt before a year is up is almost nil.

if nothing else use a twist lock 8 gauge 30 amp pigtail from the load (coach) and provide it with two sockets, one on the inverter, the other from shore power. The "automatic way" uses a high power double pole double throw relay. But things get complicated if your hotel burden exceeds 30 amperes.

[2oldman]

Gerald55 wrote:
Can I simply wire the output of the generator right into an existing 120V outlet in the RV, e.g., using a male-to-male cord like this:

http://www.amazon.com/Dual-Male-12-Gauge-Connection-Extension/dp/B0035Z13FI/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top?ie=UTF8

Since you're asking about an inverter I assume by saying 'generator' you meant inverter.

NO! Don't use a suicide cord. Plug your RV's shore cord into the inverter. That way, you cannot have both shore and inverter on at the same time, which is usually a disaster.

Get a pure sine unit. Brands like Samlex, Xantrex, Magnum and GoPower are good. Stay away from cheapies and most anything you find in an auto parts store.