Information about switch to protect inverter
halfwright
Registered Users Posts: 15 ✭
I guess I have been lucky for 3 years. I have been remembering to turn off my inverter in my fifth wheel before using shore power or generator. It was easy because i was staying on one source or the other for long periods. Now, we are going to be set up in a spot with generator power and I will be changing to battery power at night so we won't have to listen to a generator. I will be doing this daily and don't want to forget. Is there am automatic switch I can put in front of the inverter to protect it from other power sources? The inverter is wired to both legs of the breaker box using 2 extention cords both plugged into the inverter.
You guys here were a great help when I built my system and it has been doing great for three years.
You guys here were a great help when I built my system and it has been doing great for three years.
Comments
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Re: Information about switch to protect inverter
What you want is called an AC transfer switch. They can be automatic (pricey) or manual (less expensive). Examples: http://www.solar-electric.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=transfer+switch&cat=0
Be sure to get one that fits the Voltage and current required.
More expensive inverters have them built in. -
Re: Information about switch to protect inverter
A simple double pole double throw "knife" switch with suitable amp rating is all you need.. Mechanical yes. but lifespan and reliability forever .+ or - 3 days.. Automatic manufactured ones are also usually ok if good quality -
Re: Information about switch to protect inverterA simple double pole double throw "knife" switch with suitable amp rating is all you need.. Mechanical yes. but lifespan and reliability forever .+ or - 3 days.. Automatic manufactured ones are also usually ok if good quality
Cheers. -
Re: Information about switch to protect inverter
One more consideration: grounding. The shore power has its neutral bonded to ground.
Where is the neutral bonded to ground in the RV? If it's in the RV electrical panel you may need a special transfer switch that breaks the RV bond between neutral and ground when you use shore power.
--vtMaps4 X 235watt Samsung, Midnite ePanel, Outback VFX3524 FM60 & mate, 4 Interstate L16, trimetric, Honda eu2000i -
Re: Information about switch to protect inverterOne more consideration: grounding. The shore power has its neutral bonded to ground.
Where is the neutral bonded to ground in the RV? If it's in the RV electrical panel you may need a special transfer switch that breaks the RV bond between neutral and ground when you use shore power.
--vtMaps
Or remove that bon and put one on the inverter's output before the transfer switch, provided said switch operates on the neutral line as well as the hot(s).
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