Power inverter connected feeding 230V sockets

modelman wrote:Even 'good' inverters are inefficient, I think using one will give the batteries a bit of a hammering, the 'lectrickery' experts on here will soon tell you.

modelman wrote:110ah lithium, lead-acid or gel is still 110ah & they will still get a hammering, & sure, of course it will work.
I use lithiums on several of my motorbikes, they're great ,but got to be careful charging them, can't use a 'normal' charger.

Roopert wrote:

gobsmacked wrote:
The one we have right now is directly managed by the Sargent PX300 three-stage charger. And if I understand the schematics there is an available connection for a second one

Perhaps there are several versions of the PX300, but as far as I'm aware, the "original" version of the PX300 is not specified as being compatible with LiFePO4 batteries.

Roopert wrote:As I understand the situation, a standard lead/acid profile will function, but it may not be able to charge a LiFEPO4 battery fully, and it may under some circumstances reduce the working life of the battery. If I were spending that much on a battery, I'd want to use a charger that is specifically designed for that technology, but of course, that's up to you!

There are a number of ways of connecting up an inverter to existing sockets, depending on what functions you need and how much you are prepared to pay. At the simplest level it's possible to simply arrange a changeover relay, so that (for example) the loss of 240V causes the inverter to be switched into circuit for the mains socket(s), and causes it to drop out when mains is available again. Or you can buy inverter/chargers which integrate inverter, charger and power control into one unit (or several interconnected units). The Victron MultiPlus range has products that will do this - no doubt there are plenty of others.

The solution that you choose will also be guided by your own level of experience at 240V installations, and whether you intend to have the work done by an electrician. The simplest of approaches (a changeover relay) is something that is probably not recommended as a DIY project - simply because a small mistake could have serious consequences. However, an electrician may be unwilling to home-brew a solution, and may only be willing to install products that are designed and approved for the purpose.

As an additional factor, I have no idea what regulatory constraints apply to electrical installations in Denmark and Sweden which might affect what you are allowed to do (or have done) within a motorhome.

bolero boy wrote:having a large inverter as a 'built in' extra is a very popular option on larger, upmarket vans.....so this is something that is done regularly.
their large water tanks, multiple battery systems and inverters give owners much time away from ehu yet retain the ability to use most mains electrical devices....within reason!
even with a large lithium battery and a good inverter, using hairdriers or microwaves will pull the battery down, so replenishment  is vital, which will lead you fitting to a good solar bank.... 
some popular uses for the system you are consifpdering might include hairdriers, as above, and the charging of electric bike batteries...
where possible, remember is easier to use gas or 12v for devices that support this.
good luck, some good fun ahead when you become fully free of sites.

gobsmacked wrote:We are considering installing a pure sinus inverter in our Warwick XL.

I was wondering if there is any "safe" way to connect it to the 230v sockets, of course when not connected to the mains.
Ideally would like to avoid pulling cables from the inverter to run the 230v appliances and just use the existing sockets.
Anybody has done such installation?

Thanks

FreelanderUK wrote:Ian I have 250w solar panel and 210ah battery bank ,I am adding another solar panel of 175w to increase my battery charging so thought an inverter wired in would enabl a quick blast with the microwave and boil a kettle

IanH wrote:Well Chris you're not far away from a nuclear power station with that lot! I do know of your needs however.
Far from boiling the odd kettle, you could do mobile on site welding!
Hope all well with you both

FreelanderUK wrote:

gobsmacked wrote:We are considering installing a pure sinus inverter in our Warwick XL.

I was wondering if there is any "safe" way to connect it to the 230v sockets, of course when not connected to the mains.
Ideally would like to avoid pulling cables from the inverter to run the 230v appliances and just use the existing sockets.
Anybody has done such installation?

Thanks

Did you ever manage to get this sorted and an inverter fitted , looking at doing this myself now