Power inverter

[AIM-owner NC]

@AIM-owner NC Yes, it's too bad the factory didn't cut that loop of romex and label each end input and output. But you can figure out which it is by using an ohm meter. I installed an Aims 2000 watt inverter with built-in automatic transfer switch and remote switch in a teardrop trailer. I didn't realize that the inverter has the pass through feature so that it doesn't have to be turned on while on shore power. I have it connected to a single 15 amp circuit breaker and use it for a 900 watt coffee percolator or small tv while boondocking. It supplies 5 outlets on that circuit which includes the one outside.

Agreed, it would have been nice to have the Romex labeled. Sounds like you have a nice setup! I already had the Renogy 2000w inverter from a previous trailer (just direct battery connection with a power strip plugged in, not trailer prepped for outlets etc.), so I hate to buy the newer one with the built-in transfer switch. But that can be the next one...

 

[AIM-owner NC]

Here are some instructions from GD on how to wire an inverter with inverter prep.

Thank you for sending!

 

[Jomani]

Thanks, I'm still trying to figure that out. Not sure I still fully understand the need for a transfer switch if I can run the inverter prep Romex loop through the inverter and just use the inverter remote to turn it on and off when I need it. The inverter has a place to hardwire it to romex, but I'm not quite sure what to do with both ends of the wire if I need to cut the wire to attach it.

What you are describing could be very dangerous. The purpose of the transfer switch is to prevent two AC power sources from powering the same circuits simultaneously. Unlike DC, AC power has to be in phase - the sine waves must be perfectly matched if you attempt to feed two separate sources into the same circuits at the same time. Since your inverter has no way to sync with shore power, that would never be the case when your inverter is on.

I believe what you are suggesting is to make sure the inverter is turned off anytime you are plugged into shore power, but what if you forget. There is also a scenario where your inverter could back-feed into the power grid and create a dangerous situation for someone trying to make electrical repairs somewhere else. Sure, your inverter has limited output, but that is still enough to create a dangerous situation.

Here is a link to a video I created a while back that shows the inverter prep circuit and ATS on my Reflection.

 

[AIM-owner NC]

What you are describing could be very dangerous. The purpose of the transfer switch is to prevent two AC power sources from powering the same circuits simultaneously. Unlike DC, AC power has to be in phase - the sine waves must be perfectly matched if you attempt to feed two separate sources into the same circuits at the same time. Since your inverter has no way to sync with shore power, that would never be the case when your inverter is on.

I believe what you are suggesting is to make sure the inverter is turned off anytime you are plugged into shore power, but what if you forget. There is also a scenario where your inverter could back-feed into the power grid and create a dangerous situation for someone trying to make electrical repairs somewhere else. Sure, your inverter has limited output, but that is still enough to create a dangerous situation.

Here is a link to a video I created a while back that shows the inverter prep circuit and ATS on my Reflection.

Thanks so much, this is the best explanation I've heard for what the transfer switch actually does. Makes total sense to me now and I will use one.