Can I add an inverter to a coach.....

[RBAJJK]

Hey All,

1996 Gulfstream Scenic Cruiser
Spartan Alpine Chassis

I would like to add an inverter, but want to know what is involved. I just recently changed the auto transfer switch, and started thinking what it would take to actually add the inverter/charger.

I have a young family and my son would really like to be able to watch tv while travelling. I purchased a small inverter (cigarette lighter type), but it is not strong enough to power the tv, etc. I think I want more capacity anyway.

So what's it take to add this, or is it better to not mess with it? Also, if possible, what would you estimate for costs? I already know it will take a new auto transfer switch.

Thanks as always.

Brian

[RBAJJK]

Hey All,

1996 Gulfstream Scenic Cruiser
Spartan Alpine Chassis

I would like to add an inverter, but want to know what is involved. I just recently changed the auto transfer switch, and started thinking what it would take to actually add the inverter/charger.

I have a young family and my son would really like to be able to watch tv while travelling. I purchased a small inverter (cigarette lighter type), but it is not strong enough to power the tv, etc. I think I want more capacity anyway.

So what's it take to add this, or is it better to not mess with it? Also, if possible, what would you estimate for costs? I already know it will take a new auto transfer switch.

Thanks as always.

Brian

[davetheengineer]

Hi Brian,
I really like the Xantrex products. I have a Xantrex Freedom 458 2000 watt inverter/charger. I like this type of device because it takes care of giving you 110 volts AC and can run the microwave (for a short time) and the TV, computer, etc from the batteries when you are not on shore power or when the generator is not running. The way the inverter/charger is wired into your motorhome you can use some or all your existing 110 volt AC outlets. However, this type should be installed by someone who is technically inclined and who has read the manual several times.
Price for the Freedom 458 2000 watt about $900 to $1000 and materials (wire, 300 amps fusing, etc.) about $250. If you need to have it installed, maybe another $250.

If your converter takes care of charging your batteries, then maybe you only need an inverter. This can get messy because you now have power cords running all over the place. Here's another catch: does your converter supply the necessary 12 volt DC current to properly charge the batteries. Some of the older or cheaper converters only put out 6 amps for battery charging. It's old thinking. Newer converters will put out 40 amps and more for charging the batteries. A 750 watt inverter, which is more than enough for most small appliances (no microwave) will cost $100 more or less. Don't try to buy the cheapest; they wind up being more trouble. The cheapest might last for years; might not.

Sincerely,
Dave

[RV Wizard]

Brian you have several choices. 1 - you could run the generator for you 120 VAC needs while traveling. 2 - you could use a 12 volt TV/DVD or 3 - install about a 600 watt inverter. Inverter really vary in price as to their quality. Do you know the difference in a modified sine wave and pure sine wave inverters and why it is important to use the correct one in certain circumstances? If not here are some links that will help if this is the direction you want to go.
http://www.rvtechlibrary.com
http://www.smps.us/power-inverter.html
http://www.autoanything.com/dr...ies/69A1547A0A0.aspx
http://www.nextag.com/car-dc-to-ac-inverter
Once you decide on what you want/need then we should be able to help with finding you the best price and how to install it.

[Gary RVRoamer]

If you just want to run a tv now and then, it's pretty easy. Get a suitable size, wire it to your batteries and run an extension cord form the inverter to whatever you want to power. Want to be a bit more sophisticated and power the microwave, maybe a few outlets fr a coffee maker or toaster? Then is gets more complex in a hurry. And you also need to figure out if you have enough battery power to actually run the converter for a reasonable amount of time. 1 amp of 120vac draws 10+ amps of 12vdc from your batteries, so the battery runs down fast.

[dieselclacker]

Brian, I made one circuit of the motorhome a dedicated circuit just for the entertainment center. I installed a 400 watt Xantex interter for this purpose, and it is all the power necessary for TV, Directv box, and DVD. I also included in the circuit a toggle switch arrangement so I can select AC shore power or Generator power when desired. Everything works great, have had the circuit about 5 years now, no problems. One thing, I recently upgraded to a 32 inch flatscreen TV, and found out it does not like the modified sine wave power from my inverter, (TV generates too much heat after an hour and a half or so.), so I am searching for a nice pure sine wave inverter to replace it with. Anyone have any suggestions on a particular brand, I would like about a 350 to 400 watt unit.


Dieselclacker