Looking for advice: converter/inverter brands, models etc.?

[SuaveGato]

Hello,
Due to some good advice from this forum THANK YOU, I am looking into replacing my existing "converter" (InteliPower 9100 #PD9140A). From what I understand, the converter converts AC shore power to 12 VDC and assumedly the generator AC power too? (seems odd/wasteful though to have the Generator make DC, invert it to AC, the convert it back to DC? But I digress...) I also understand that the converter charges the onboard batteries ( (2) 12 volt deep cycle marine/RV) but not very well and can easily boil them off?

So, assuming the above, it has been recommended to me to replace my converter with a newer more modern one that will not only convert my AC to DC but also has vastly superior battery charging system. (with de-sulfating mode) And I "think" they also make an all in one Converter/Inverter/battery charger? Is that true and if so, what would be some recommended makes and models for my camper? I don't need a big inverter, maybe 500 watts? I have a generator for when I need "big power" but I need to plug in a CPAP machine all night that runs on AC and maybe some other misc. things like TV, DVR & DISH receiver, laptop etc.

Thanks for any help and info.

[09FLSTC]

Desertboy wrote:

Reddog1 wrote:
SuaveGato, you have been given some good advice, and a link to a reputable dealer (www.bestconverter.com). You have been to their site, and have an idea as to what they have I really suggest you call and speak to them for their input. They are more current on what is available, than any of us and quite frankly more experience.

Wayne

I second that. I just got off the phone with Randy, and it took him about 2 minutes to figure out exactly what I needed. I felt very confident when I got off the phone with him. I also looked for the product he told me I needed on Amazon. Randy was cheaper than Amazon by $35 and I know I can call him if I run in to problems and he will answer his phone (That's always nice) From now on I will not look anywhere else. He won me over. Highly Recommend Him.

Your point is worth more than $35 saved. I highly doubt Jeff Bezos (Amazon) is going to answer the phone and help you, especially on the weekends and holidays like Randy will. I have to share that when I had a question once and couldn't reach them for a few hours I got concerned. Family funerals somehow trump our power needs. I was embarrassed. Great company.

[BFL13]

SuaveGato wrote:
I do have one more question regarding adding an inverter. I could just hook it up and anytime I wanted to use the AC power, just plug those devices directly into the inverter but could I / Should I:

Get a 3 way power transfer switch? I.E. shore power, generator power and now Inverted power. I know I wouldn't run the AC or Microwave when on the inverter, and can run the fridge on LP, so why wouldn't I want the convenience of having all of my 110V receptacles "hot" when on the inverter so my TV, dish receiver etc. can conveniently stay plugged right in the the wall outlets?

Thanks

1. Clamp the inverter to the battery bank.
2. Unplug your 9100 converter or snap off its circuit breaker if it is not sharing that CB with the receptacles.
3. Fridge and water heater on gas (not "auto" so it won't go to AC but stays on gas)
4. Plug your shore power cord into the inverter
5. Enjoy

[jrnymn7]

Seriously consider a PURE sine wave inverter... more expensive, but much better for sensitive electronics.

[SuaveGato]

I do have one more question regarding adding an inverter. I could just hook it up and anytime I wanted to use the AC power, just plug those devices directly into the inverter but could I / Should I:

Get a 3 way power transfer switch? I.E. shore power, generator power and now Inverted power. I know I wouldn't run the AC or Microwave when on the inverter, and can run the fridge on LP, so why wouldn't I want the convenience of having all of my 110V receptacles "hot" when on the inverter so my TV, dish receiver etc. can conveniently stay plugged right in the the wall outlets?

Thanks

[SuaveGato]

Reddog1 wrote:
SuaveGato, you have been given some good advice, and a link to a reputable dealer (www.bestconverter.com). You have been to their site, and have an idea as to what they have I really suggest you call and speak to them for their input. They are more current on what is available, than any of us and quite frankly more experience.

Wayne

Thanks Wayne,
I will def contact them for tech inquires etc. I just wanted to know what some customers experiences were like with their Charge Wizard. Hard to get a straight answer from the person who makes the product, LoL. Sounds like the members here have had good luck with the wizard, that's awesome cuz that will be a VERY economical solution for me! Just add the $25 charge wizard and then a stand alone inverter, DONE!
THANKS everyone.

[Desertboy]

Reddog1 wrote:
SuaveGato, you have been given some good advice, and a link to a reputable dealer (www.bestconverter.com). You have been to their site, and have an idea as to what they have I really suggest you call and speak to them for their input. They are more current on what is available, than any of us and quite frankly more experience.

Wayne

I second that. I just got off the phone with Randy, and it took him about 2 minutes to figure out exactly what I needed. I felt very confident when I got off the phone with him. I also looked for the product he told me I needed on Amazon. Randy was cheaper than Amazon by $35 and I know I can call him if I run in to problems and he will answer his phone (That's always nice) From now on I will not look anywhere else. He won me over. Highly Recommend Him.

[pianotuna]

Hi,

I also prefer discrete units. However, for the size of inverter I wanted and certain other features I'm now using a Magnum hybrid unit. I still use the PD converter, too. It is good to have back up.

If the battery bank is badly sulphated it may be necessary to hit it with up to 16 volts. That will require some extra care and a power supply.

[time2roll]

I prefer separate components as in separate charging, separate inverter, separate transfer switch.

How many watts is this inverter? You generally need at least one battery for every 500 watts.

I have and recommend GoPower sine wave inverters.

[Reddog1]

SuaveGato, you have been given some good advice, and a link to a reputable dealer (www.bestconverter.com). You have been to their site, and have an idea as to what they have I really suggest you call and speak to them for their input. They are more current on what is available, than any of us and quite frankly more experience.

Wayne

[GordonThree]

SuaveGato wrote:
Hello,
Due to some good advice from this forum THANK YOU, I am looking into replacing my existing "converter" (InteliPower 9100 #PD9140A). From what I understand, the converter converts AC shore power to 12 VDC and assumedly the generator AC power too? (seems odd/wasteful though to have the Generator make DC, invert it to AC, the convert it back to DC? But I digress...) I also understand that the converter charges the onboard batteries ( (2) 12 volt deep cycle marine/RV) but not very well and can easily boil them off?

So, assuming the above, it has been recommended to me to replace my converter with a newer more modern one that will not only convert my AC to DC but also has vastly superior battery charging system. (with de-sulfating mode) And I "think" they also make an all in one Converter/Inverter/battery charger? Is that true and if so, what would be some recommended makes and models for my camper? I don't need a big inverter, maybe 500 watts? I have a generator for when I need "big power" but I need to plug in a CPAP machine all night that runs on AC and maybe some other misc. things like TV, DVR & DISH receiver, laptop etc.

Thanks for any help and info.

Just my 2 cents, my trailer's converter has been unhooked for two years, and my Inverter/Charger from Magnum has been doing fine. The "charger" portion of the inverter replaces the role the converter played, and it provides a lot more DC power too. I think my WFCO was 30 amp DC output, where as the Magnum is 125 amp DC output.

I set the Magnum up in "UPS mode" so if shore power goes out, or it's time to go home and I unplug, it switches to battery so fast none of my AC devices notice, even the microwave or air-con (2800 watt inverter with 4000 watt surge)

It wasn't cheap, and I like to make things complicated, so I rewired pretty much the entire AC panel in my trailer installing it, but it's working great.

I'm not sure how much room you have for batteries - that's the Achilles heal of any inverter system. I have four group 31 200 amp-hour AGM batteries, and I run everything I want to for two or three days (fridge on propane)... tv, laptop(s), waffle maker, hot water kettle, microwave, fans, bedside lights (are ac in my coach), etc.

[SuaveGato]

BFL13, smkettner & pianotoma - THANKS for the replies. I had seen that charge wizard deal for the InteliPrower while hunting around their website and wasn't sure if maybe it wasn't just "snake oil"...? Sounds like you all have had good luck with it? Guess I should have checked some online reviews? I'll look into it, thanks.

One thing that made me consider replacing the InteliPower though was that I wanted to add an Inverter anyway (and of course better battery charging) and it had been recommended to me in that case to get a combo unit that serves as a converter AND inveter. But... IF this charging wizard really does work well, will de-sulfate, and the InteliPower is a good converter, then looks like I could just add a stand alone Inverter (and I also need a solar controller as well) Anyone know if they make a combo Inverter / Solar control Module?

Thanks,

[pianotuna]

Hi,

X3 on adding the wizard. It is a snap to upgrade.

[time2roll]

BFL13 wrote:
You just need the Charge Wizard for the 9100, not a new converter.

+1
9140 is EXCELLENT with the added wizard.

www.bestconverter.com $25

[BFL13]

You just need the Charge Wizard for the 9100, not a new converter.

[AnEv942]

SuaveGato wrote:
Hello,
..From what I understand, the converter converts AC shore power to 12 VDC and assumedly the generator AC power too? (seems odd/wasteful though to have the Generator make DC, invert it to AC, the convert it back to DC? But I digress...) I also understand that the converter charges the onboard batteries ( (2) 12 volt deep cycle marine/RV) but not very well and can easily boil them off?

....

First assumption is correct, but the generator is only another source of AC power for the converter (doesnt make 12v DC).