Question What does the inverter actually power, and when?

[TJ&LadyDi]

Well I'm not Dr. Chuggs but here's my explanation based on my understanding of typical inverter operation. When an inverter is in "standby" or pass through mode it is passing the input AC voltage through to the inverter AC output. The wiring and components (transfer relay etc.) within the inverter cannot handle an unlimited amount of current so there is at least one circuit breaker in line to protect the inverter. Most if not all will have a circuit breaker on the AC input, some may also have circuit breakers on the AC output. In addition to the circuit breaker protection some inverters have built in overload protection that will shut down the inverter in the event of an overload condition. The inverter can then be restarted once the overload condition is addressed.

Thanks for that explanation. I suspect that we had an "overload" and tripped the inverter breaker, thus disabling all operation, including pass through. Too many fashion-conscious ladies aboard. "Did I say that?"

TJ

 

[J&JD]

Thanks for that explanation. I suspect that we had an "overload" and tripped the inverter breaker, thus disabling all operation, including pass through. Too many fashion-conscious ladies aboard. "Did I say that?"

TJ

Well I'm not Dr. Chuggs but here's my explanation based on my understanding of typical inverter operation. When an inverter is in "standby" or pass through mode it is passing the input AC voltage through to the inverter AC output. The wiring and components (transfer relay etc.) within the inverter cannot handle an unlimited amount of current so there is at least one circuit breaker in line to protect the inverter. Most if not all will have a circuit breaker on the AC input, some may also have circuit breakers on the AC output. In addition to the circuit breaker protection some inverters have built in overload protection that will shut down the inverter in the event of an overload condition. The inverter can then be restarted once the overload condition is addressed.

Well I'm not Dr. Chuggs but here's my explanation based on my understanding of typical inverter operation. When an inverter is in "standby" or pass through mode it is passing the input AC voltage through to the inverter AC output. The wiring and components (transfer relay etc.) within the inverter cannot handle an unlimited amount of current so there is at least one circuit breaker in line to protect the inverter. Most if not all will have a circuit breaker on the AC input, some may also have circuit breakers on the AC output. In addition to the circuit breaker protection some inverters have built in overload protection that will shut down the inverter in the event of an overload condition. The inverter can then be restarted once the overload condition is addressed.

So you’re saying it was TJ’s curling iron that was to blame?

 

[TJ&LadyDi]

So you’re saying it was TJ’s curling iron that was to blame?

TJ would be happy to find something on his ol' noggin to curl! Now, TJ's daughter and granddaughter are a different story. Rest assured, we will be having a family conference on RV etiquette in the near future.

TJ

 

[Joe Dutchstar]

Luckily Newmar does a decent job of labeling electrical circuits. Newmar does NOT maintain a wiring diagram for your coach. I have tried and tried to get a diagram to no avail.
However, when at Newmar Service center, ask one of their electrical techs, they can tell you immediately where a factory install wire or circuit is located.
This year at Newmar Service Center I discussed a short in the basement lights (caused by Solar installer it turns out) that we had been chasing for 8 months ( two techs at various times during the year were unable to find the fault,).
The Newmar tech looked at the RV, hooked up fault finder, and knew right where to look. Found and fixed the issues within 45 minutes. That included removing and reinstalling the fireplace.

 

[RandyB]

Clip from Magnum MS Series manual:

 

[TJ&LadyDi]

Good info for those with a Magnum inverter, @RandyB. In our case, however, we have a Xantrex SW3012 3000W unit.

TJ

 

[RandyB]

oops. I didn't pick up on that minor little detail.
Attached is a manual for what I think is your unit. Very similar details of operation, but one significant difference...the input AC amperage for the breaker is CONFIGURABLE. In the settings it can be programmed to match the line circuit breaker that feeds the AC to the inverter. However, it trips at 80% of that value, if I read it properly on page 22. In both units, the circuit breaker is there to protect the inverter. Happy reading.

 

[TJ&LadyDi]

oops. I didn't pick up on that minor little detail.
Attached is a manual for what I think is your unit. Very similar details of operation, but one significant difference...the input AC amperage for the breaker is CONFIGURABLE. In the settings it can be programmed to match the line circuit breaker that feeds the AC to the inverter. However, it trips at 80% of that value, if I read it properly on page 22. In both units, the circuit breaker is there to protect the inverter. Happy reading.

Thanks, @RandyB; that is the correct manual and will be very useful. It has been saved to my manuals file on the iCloud. Thanks very much. I know what I'll be reading today.

TJ

 

[RandyB]

Another reminder about volts DC to volts AC, in regard to what the inverter is doing. Also remember that the fuse feeding the inverter from the battery bank is likely 350 amps.

31.703 amps @ 120 VAC= 350 amps @ 12VDC

3804.36 watts @ 120VAC = 350 amps @ 12VDC
That's not all that much wattage. Be mindful of what is running off the inverter at the same time.

 

[GlampDaddy]

Yours appear randomly wired sadly, you have "AC Rear" on the right of your line too which should be on shore power only.

I'm betting there's nothing random with Joe's panel. He could probably run his entire coach on batteries - and mine, too.

 

[BigFunBus]

I'm betting there's nothing random with Joe's panel. He could probably run his entire coach on batteries - and mine, too.

Well Buddy - there are a big bunch of batteries, inverters and wires down there; would probably work! I've been known to overbuild a little (like 400amp service to the new RV pad). Hope to see you soon!

 

[Chuggs]

Sorry...missed the fun.

i would really need to look at the schematic of the Inverter to see what the Inverter case mounted breaker is protecting.

We’ve been getting stuff packed for a quick trip to GA.

 

[Gregb]

Hi TJ...
I'm kinda a visual guy so here's a pic from my 2015 Ventana.
At first glance the breaker panel all looks the same - but - with a closer look the left portion are the breakers for shore power/generator only (I added the "L1" & "L2" labels so I could keep the legs balanced as I moved circuits back/forth around the panel). The right side is powered by the inverter when no shore or generator is available. Also on my panel, the breaker numbers on the inverter side are highlighted in black (see the purple arrow).

I've learned that when you connect shore power or start your generator the inverter stops inverting (it stops turning 12 volts into 120 volts) and goes into "Standby Mode". When the inverter is in Standby Mode the 120 volt shore/gen power passes through the inverter to the inverter side of the breaker panel. I'm not sure how the inverter does this. The manual describes it in a couple of pages with color drawings with cool looking symbols; personally I believe it is magic.

Sooooo... on my panel, the things hooked to the breakers on the right side of the panel will run off the inverter. I moved some circuits from the shore/gen side to the inverter side when solar and big batteries were added but if you take a look at your breaker panel it should give you some indication of what the inverter will power.

Hope this helps.
joe

View attachment 2590

I have a 2017 Ventana LE. My panel has the inverter section with no breakers in it. My receptacles are not listed on breakers in normal panel. Does anyone know where I can find them.