Back-feed AC panel with inverter?

[JoeBusto]

Finally installed a PV system on my 2008 Classic. Have wanted to do that since picking it up in late 2007.

Once that was done, an inverter seemed like a logical companion.

Since I don't have the factory wired dedicated inverter outlets (and snaking outlets is out of the question), I back-fed the inverter to the gaucho outlet where the converter/charger is plugged in.

I put the converter/charger on a short switched extension cord (so I could disconnect the charger when the inverter is engaged- don't want a circular drain).

It works like a charm.
The whole Airstream is energized with AC.

Besides the 20a limit on the outlet and wiring going back to the panel, is there anything I'm missing?

[uncle_bob]

Hi

The risk is going to shore power with the inverter still plugged in. Even if it is turned off, this is not a real good idea. The more normal approach would be to get an inverter that includes a transfer switch. Then let it do the full trailer power stuff auto magically.

Bob

[richard5933]

I think you know that back feeding a panel like this is a bad idea.

It's easy, but it's dangerous. There will be a day when both the inverter and shore power are energized, and on that day bad things will happen. By back feeding the whole system like the you also have the possibility that something like the a/c will be on (or turned on) and immediately overload the inverter. Same for any other heavy loads like an electric water heater element.

Proper way to do this is with a transfer switch so that it's not possible for both to be energized and connected at the same time.

[JoeBusto]

No doubt there are plenty of things that can go sideways when you're RVing.

If carelessness is the only danger then I should be good with this setup.

Thanks for the replies.