Product evaluation

Hairfarm

I've decided to do a 24 volt system instead of 12 volt. I had originally planned to go 12 volt because have a 12 volt appliance (swamp cooler) that needs to be powered with a 12 volt source. But I think I found a way to make 12 volts for the swamp cooler. Rather than add a completely separate 12 volt system (panel, cc, battery, inverter etc) next to a 24 volt system, I can use this to run my swamp cooler:
http://www.amazon.com/Pyramid-PS14KX-Amp-Power-Supply/dp/B0002JTD20/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=1RO50FNM3L52P&coliid=I12N8TC5DMX2T

My swamp cooler uses roughly 8-9 amps. I could plug the AC-DC converter it into an AC outlet and run the wire to my swamp cooler. I know it's not the most efficient way to make DC, but it will allow me to go to a 24 volt system which is a good thing right? Also, the unit has an on/off switch so I can simply shut it off when I'm not using swamp cooler, otherwise is draws 270 watts, unfortunately.

I just can't think of any other way to go with a 24volt system and use my 12 volt appliance.

Maybe I should just stay with my 12 volt system instead? Suggestions?

Cariboocoot

Re: Product evaluation

If your swamp cooler uses <10 Amps, have you considered one of these: http://www.solar-electric.com/12to24or24to.html

Hairfarm

Re: Product evaluation

Ooops,

Please disregard that first post. I just found this unit to use instead. It should do what I need more efficiently.
http://www.amazon.com/Pyle-PSWNV480-Power-Converter-Technology/dp/B003P165NM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1360549431&sr=8-1&keywords=24v%2F12v+dc+stepdown+converter

Seems fairly cheap. Can anyone recommend a better step down converter for the same price range? This will now allow me to run a 24 volt system and run 12 volt cooler, right?

Thanks,

Hairfarm

Hairfarm

Re: Product evaluation

Hi Cariboocoot,

I didn't see your post until right after I posted mine. No, I didn't see that on NAWS website before. The one I found is $30. Any reason I should buy the more expensive one? I know you get what you pay for. Thoughts?

thanks,

Hairfarm

Cariboocoot

Re: Product evaluation

I was only suggesting a DC-to-DC converter as the most direct way of getting 12 from 24. I can't speak to the quality of either unit.

I'd like to know what "PMW technology" is though.

Hairfarm

Re: Product evaluation

Where in line would this transformer be installed? Would I just run wire from the battery bank's positive and negative to the unit? It seems to me that it would have to be installed onto the battery bank, or from the two buss bars.

http://www.pyleaudio.com/sku/PSWNV480/24V-DC-to-12V-DC-Power-Step-Down-480-Watt--Converter-W-PMW-Technology

Hairfarm

Re: Product evaluation

I think I may go with one of these units. They have better reviews:
http://www.samlexamerica.com/products/Category.aspx?cid=M4

I'm not sure what the difference is with isolated and non-isolated transformers, though. I'll call the manufacturer tomorrow and find out.

Cariboocoot

Re: Product evaluation

The best way of using a converter is to place it so that the longest run is at the highest Voltage. Power should be connected at the same point as any other loads, so if you have bus bars that would be where. And don't forget the fuse/breaker; should be one on each side of the converter.

Samlex makes pretty good quality equipment.

Hairfarm

Re: Product evaluation

Cariboocoot wrote: »

The best way of using a converter is to place it so that the longest run is at the highest Voltage.

Wouldn't the highest voltage be closest to the power source (batteries)? Or are you saying don't install it so far away from the power source that the voltage drops?

Cariboocoot

Re: Product evaluation

Hairfarm wrote: »

Wouldn't the highest voltage be closest to the power source (batteries)? Or are you saying don't install it so far away from the power source that the voltage drops?

Converters may work up or down. In either case the longest run of wire should be on the highest Voltage side to minimize power loss over the wiring. In the case of down converting this puts the converter close to the load rather than the battery.