Inverter Instalation

I want to install a small, 800w inverter in the fifth wheel to power a TV. Should I mount it in the compartment below the TV and run wires from the batteries to the inverter Or should I put it next to the batteries and run a 110 connection form the inverter to a seperate outlet below the TV? The run is about 15 ft. Any help on wire size would help also.

Generally, you need to put the inverter as close to the batteries as possible. The DC side requires larger cables than the AC side. At 800W, it may not be as big of a deal, but it matters on the larger ones. I had to use 2/0 welding cable (flexible) for my 1750W inverter and it is only 4 feet from the battery bank. When I run the microwave, it draws about 160 amps from the batteries. For 800W, you're probably looking at 4 or 2 gauge wire. For the AC side, you can use 14-2 Romex to your outlet.

Correct. Put it close to the batteries; it is much easier to run the AC. I simply used a 12-3 extension cord. Plugged the end into the inverter and hardwired the other end into an outlet box next to my TV. I can plug whatever I need into it.

Ribbs, whatever cable size your inverter calls for, go one size bigger. You won't be sorry.

TC

bsmall2800 wrote:Ribbs65, make sure you take pleanty of pictures during the installation this is something I might be doing in the future.

You can see photos of mine. Link in my signature. Look in the "Wildcat Electrical" folder.