Factory inverter

[rp709]

The newer factory inverter installation uses a dedicated circuit for inverter power. The outlets have a blue label identifying them. Has anyone connected that circuit to shore power using a transfer switch?

[AnnArborBob]

Why would you do this? All the inverter outlets in the factory package are next to shore powered outlets. So what would you gain?

[idroba]

Originally Posted by AnnArborBob

Why would you do this? All the inverter outlets in the factory package are next to shore powered outlets. So what would you gain?

More outlets, and not having to move plugs from line power to inverter power when you are not hooked up.

To the OP's original question, it could be done with a transfer switch, as you note. It is too bad that the transfer switch already built into the WFCO inverter is not activated and cannot be accessed without opening the unit up (removing rivets etc) and voiding the warrantee. I know, I looked on my 2014 FC 20'. It apparently was an option that Airstream opted out of when specifying the inverter. Even the power cord is in place to use it, but it is not hooked up internally.

[rp709]

I guess 95k for a FC 30 doesn't leave enough room for profit and a transfer switch, not to mention a 3 way converter. The Airstream way requires you to unplug and re-plug the TV and DVD when using the inverter and doing the same when moving to hookups. I installed a WFCO transfer switch when I added an inverter to my Safari. My plan is to put a transfer switch linking shore power to the inverter circuit, and no unplugging of the TV's. Also coming will be a smart converter (and quiet water pump).

[Wayne&Sam]

Why not just leave the televisions plugged into inverter outlets and run inverter even when on shore power? It's sort of the long way around but I don't think it would hurt anything or use excessive power.


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[lewster]

Why not just buy a QUALITY inverter like the Magnum MMS1012 that already has in internal transfer switch, just like all if the other Magnum products ? It also gas a 4-stage automatic charging system........one of the best available.


Lew Farber
RVIA/RVDA Nationally Certified Master Tech
Master Tech Energy Systems, Inc.
AM Solar Certified Installation Center
Lifeline Batteries**Magnum Inverters
541-490-6357

[rp709]

Leaving the inverter on would be too simple and not nearly as fun as installing a transfer switch! However, I haven't listened to the factory 1,000 watt unit, but my 400 watt Xantrex inverter could be heard humming when things were really quiet. I have low tolerance for humming noises as well as noisy fans. It reflects casual engineering in my opinion. We'll see how it works next month.

[lewster]

Originally Posted by rp709

Leaving the inverter on would be too simple and not nearly as fun as installing a transfer switch! However, I haven't listened to the factory 1,000 watt unit, but my 400 watt Xantrex inverter could be heard humming when things were really quiet. I have low tolerance for humming noises as well as noisy fans. It reflects casual engineering in my opinion. We'll see how it works next month.

'Casual engineering'? It reflects CHINESE engineering!

Magnums are engineered and built in the USA.

[Rick stream]

If you have the factory inverter it has built in transfer switch it was one of the first things I hooked up it took only 1 hour skill level easy my inverter had a line cord already installed

[idroba]

Originally Posted by Rick stream

If you have the factory inverter it has built in transfer switch it was one of the first things I hooked up it took only 1 hour skill level easy my inverter had a line cord already installed

Unfortunately, the factory inverter even with power cord on mine does not have the internal transfer switch hooked up, even though it looks like it is all set up for that feature. A careful reading of the WFCO manual shows that the switch is an "option" and at least on mine, does not operate. I sure wish it did. I tried.