UPS Ideas ?

BFL13 wrote:
I changed the OP jury rig UPS to being in the garage so that's it for now. I am on inverter all the time for those internet devices on a long 120v to the kitchen, and the converter is plugged into house 120v in the garage.

Thanks everyone for the good info on real UPS set-ups and what applies to RVs too. On that, feel free to use this thread for more examples of RV UPS set-ups. Interesting topic!

Sounds like a plan..

However, I will give you another idea which while not a cheap setup, it is real cool way to build your own expandable UPS..

TRIPPLITE APS1250



This is a industrial INVERTER WITH built in CHARGER AND AUTOMATIC SWITCHING (ATS). The only thing that is missing is the battery you supply!

This inverter gives you an honest 1250W, its rating is not based on VA and is built like a tank.

" Portable dual-outlet power source for power applications, such as power tools and computers, as a vehicle inverter, standalone AC power source or extended-run UPS. Ideal for RVs, fleet vehicles and emergency vehicles.

Delivers clean 120V AC power from AC or DC power source
1250W continuous output power; 2500W peak power
Auto-transfer switching option for UPS operation
Protects against blackouts, surges and EMI/RFI line noise
Rugged polycarbonate housing resists moisture and impact

1-year limited warranty"


Reliable Power for Mobile, Emergency and Remote Sites

Generates safe, stable, computer-grade 120V AC power from 12V battery bank
Ideal for powering tools, saws, motors, pumps, portable lighting, appliances and computer equipment in heavy-load conditions
Designed for easy installation in RVs, over-the-road trucks, fleet vehicles and emergency vehicles
Functions as a vehicle inverter, standalone AC power source or extended-run UPS
Features 2 front NEMA 5-15R outlets
Unlimited runtime with variety of user-supplied batteries


Meets Normal and Peak Power Demands

1250W of continuous power
1850W of reserve power up to 1 hr.
2500W of peak power up to 10 sec. to accommodate surge power demands during equipment startup and cycling
Automatic overload detector, built-in cooling fan and resettable AC circuit breaker protect unit from damage


Automatic Transfer Switching

Transfer relay switches to inverter power during blackout in 16.6 ms
3-position switch enables Auto, Charge Only or System Off mode
DIP switches configure high and low voltage auto-transfer


3-Stage 30A Battery Charger

Serves as battery charger when external 120V AC power is supplied and powering connected equipment
Protects battery from overcharging and overdischarging
Low-battery protection prevents excessive battery depletion
DIP switches configure wet/gel charging profiles


Optional Remote Control Capability

RJ45 communication port allows connection of optional remote control module, such as Tripp Lite’s APSRM4


Front-Panel LEDs

Indicate load level, battery charge level, shutdown status and system fault status


Rugged Polycarbonate Housing

Resists moisture, vibration and impact
Built-in mounting feet for installation on any rigid horizontal surface
Grounding lug connects unit to earth ground or vehicle grounding system
Built-in 6 ft. AC power cord with NEMA 5-15P plug connects to AC power source


Pricey at $550 but has endless expansion capabilities..

They do have a smaller 750W unit (APS750) priced at $300, has 20A charger built in..