connecting 110V system to inverter

[Cruiser]

We recently got components for a small solar power system. The trailer is currently wired at 110V, and we have low power needs. We will run a 12V pump and fan directly off the battery, but everything else (lights, basically) will stay 110V.

The inverter has two 15A outlets. The solar guy suggested that we simply plug the shore power cord into one of them to power the 110V lighting circuits when we're boondocking.

Makes sense to me, but when I was looking at all this in the trailer, I realized that the wiring for the two 15A lighting circuits ends at the front of the trailer near the planned location of the inverter. The shore power inlet and breaker box are in the back.

My question: When not hooked up to shore power, can I plug the ends of the lighting circuit into the inverter instead of using the shore power cord? Will this effect the function of the circuit breakers with the power inlet bass ackwards? Is this idea safe or insane?

Doug

[Dr. Harold Becker]

connecting 110V system to inverter

This should work, but I believe you'll have to disconnect the converter from the system (converts 110V to 12V to charge the battery).

[thenewkid64]

One other thing I would reccomend is to cap or terminate the shore power cord while you have the circuits plugged into the inverter.
This could save you or a family member from a shocking experience . I say this because if you power up the system form the inverter, current will also flow down the shore power wire. Someone grabs it or it hits the skin and all kinds of bad things can happen.
This would also force you to be sure the shore power cord is not plugged in prior to using the inverter, possibly saving the inverter from damage.

My advice is worth 10X what you paid for it

[Cruiser]

I guess we'll try it then, and we'll follow your suggestions.
Thanks,
Doug

[drboyd]

You really don't want to energize the 120v system without having the shore power plugged in, because the end of the plug will be hot. Plugging the shore power into the inverter is the best idea.