What Pure Sine Wave Inverter for 5th Wheel with Transfer Switch for Generator/Shore Power

Question

Question:

I have a 2020 Grand Design Reflection 5th wheel with an onboard generator. It also has 2/ea AGM 6 volt batteries. I want to install an inverter in the system. the trailer already has a switch that goes between the Generator and the land hookup. Do I have to purchase an inverter that has a built in switch or an inverter with no switch that connects to the existing switch? My goal is to be able to use my microwave, TV, and coffee pot using the inverter. We sometimes stay in dry camps that have a no noise requirement until 9:00am. We are early risers so not being able to use the generator is a problem. We would like inverter to supply AC power automatically when the generator is not running and were not connected to a shoreline. My generator is not on demand. I have to manually start it. If I’m plugged in to a shoreline then the switch takes power from there. If I start the generator the switch takes power from the generator. My battery bank is currently 2/ea AGM 6Volt batteries wired in serious. I may have to increase to 4 batteries but I’m hopeful you can let me know.

asked by: Jody A

0

Expert Reply:

From what you have described as your goal, my suggestion is one of two primary options, and I will note here that with either option I suggest you have a battery bank of at least 400 AH when fully charged. This first option is not an automatic transfer switch option but I want to provide this to you for your additional knowledge because it is rather straight forward for installation and a little less cost as well.

Option 1:
The most straight forward installation to provide you an output of ~120 VAC is to use the Go Power Industrial Pure Sine Wave Inverter, # 34278157. This is a 3,000 Watt - 12V pure sine wave inverter without a charger or transfer switch that has a rated running power of 3,000 watts with a start-up/surge rating of 6,000. With this you will connect to your battery bank and run new parallel circuits installing a out let where you want AC power supplied from the battery bank when not on shore power or generator option. A parallel circuit as in a second/additional outlet(s) on your counter next to the current. Plug your coffee pot or other kitchen appliances into whichever outlet is needed at the time. Yes this requires one to unplug and plug in again items but it also keeps the battery bank isolated, minimizing risk of draining the battery bank. You will also want the Remote for Go Power Industrial Pure Sine Wave Inverter, # 34279999. This remote lets you monitor and control your inverter and has LED indicators for voltage, output power, inverter status, and power saving mode. Please note the attached image for a visual explanation of the wiring.

Option 2:
This option will be the more automated set-up. Using the Go Power Industrial Pure Sine Wave Inverter Charger, # 34275013. This has an internal switch and will allow you wire it into your 5th wheel, see the attached image of a wiring schematic from the installation guide, to power all AC outlets from your battery bank. This will however require you to be very conscience of what is plugged in and drawing energy. Since you will be operating all outlets and circuits with this set-up that means that technically you could turn on your air conditioner. However, this immediately overload your battery bank and it would fail to start, but would attempt to. So you will need to be conscience of your power load and what you try to operate.

Please note the attached product review videos, wiring schematics and I have attached the installation instructions for each item as well. Please let us know of any follow questions you have.