Inverter replacement

[BobKatMsu]

2010 Dutch Star 4386
Looking at replacing my inverter. What's everyone else using? I'm assuming I want to go with a pure sign inverter. I have all the normal electronics plus replaced Norcold refrigerator with residential electric.

[tomato]

I think most are using Magnum Energy. Our factory MagnaSine has done well for us in the Ventana. I installed a WFCO inverter in our 5th wheel and was very happy with it. However, that is an inverter only (no charger), and they only go to 2,000 watts.

[theoldwizard]

Upgrade to an inverter/charger/automatic transfer switch. Remove old inverter AND old converter. Wire the DC fuse/distribution panel directly to you battery and via a fuse. AC wires that went into the converter now go to inverter/charger.

Samlex is one company that supplies this type of equipment.

[nvs4602]

Depends on how much work you want to do. If you just want a direct replacement or bigger one. If you go bigger you'll need to change the wire gauge.

You should go pure sine wave. As for brand Depends on how much you want to spend.

Magnum
Victron
Aimes
Are the more expensive and supposed to be more reliable.

Renogy
Giandel
More middle of the road prices but still good quality.

Then you have all the others which are hit and miss.

[shootist]

Xantrex and magnum are the two most commonly installed at the factory. Haven't heard great things about magnums service lately. Xantrex's maybe aren't breaking because I haven't heard anything about them. Just look at the weight of the inverter. 65 lbs or there about is what a transformer type weighs. Light is going to mean it's solid state and they don't hold up as well. The two I mentioned have dual 120 in and out. So the passthrough is much more robust. That's on the 3000 watt inverters. Not sure on the smaller ones. The xantrex will also supplement if you are on 30 and need to fire up two acs. The magnum might also. I run a separate small inverter for my frig. Rarely ever use the invert side of the big one.

[theoldwizard]

Originally Posted by shootist

Just look at the weight of the inverter. 65 lbs or there about is what a transformer type weighs. Light is going to mean it's solid state and they don't hold up as well.

"Solid state" is not the correct term. The lightweight ones are "high frequency" (HF) and the heavy weights are "low frequency". I do have to agree that the LF seem to be more durable.

Totally different design approach to get to the same goal. On paper, it should not matter, but ...