I am considering installing a PSW Projecta IP1000 into my caravan so the beloved can use her (low wattage) travelling hairdryer and other assorted devices (camera chargers etc). I am a bit confused how and where I am going to install it as I believe that the battery leads should be as short as possible. This will then entail it being installed under the bed BUT it needs a good air supply to keep it cool so that position may not be so good. Can I have some ideas where other people have installed their inverters to give the best performance and convenience?
If and I say IF it is only to be used for short bursts and occasionally then under the bed would be ok..
I have a Hiace Commuter here at the moment that has exactly the same inverter in the box under the seat/bed and it stays cool enough for the short time it is used..
As for it running a hair drier with a 1000w inverter that could be a different matter and before you buy it I would test it as this type of appliance draws a fair bit of current..
I installed ours at the front of the bed under the bit that lifts up. lucky for me the batteries are just behind. The key is short runs (no more than 300mm) of thick cable, or even better 2 thick cables each terminal. Good airflow is a must for these beasts, they can get hot.
Be aware that a 1500W hair dryer will be dragging about 150 amps or so from the battery, this will flatten them very quickly, and create heat in the inverter.
I use my inverter as little as possible, only on very cold nights to run the 150W electric blanket, I have a small 500W inverter in the car for the cameras or USB on the new one.
Safe travels
-- Edited by Phil C on Friday 5th of September 2014 10:11:44 AM
Thanks for your input guys. the hairdryer is a low wattage one so would easily work without flattening the batteries too much (and i shall be monitoring the time too). it looks like I will have to install the inverter inside the battery compartment (vented to outside) to avoid long leads and closed space. I can run a power board to the inside and the remote panel will act as the on/off switch. I notice that on the photo you have installed a DC isolator Phil, is that important?
Yeah I think it is important Marken, firstly it protects the batteries from overload as they are circuit breakers, and is a place for isolation to protect the inverter during down time. I see you mention an on/off switch may be enough to do the trick. As long as the DC side is fully disconnected.
They are 4 gang 80 amp AC circuit breakers that do in fact work on DC during an overcurrent allbeit slower than if on AC.
Maybe Im a little too safety conscience.
Be careful if you install inside a box, make sure there is plenty of fresh air to vent the beast.
Safe travels
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P B Crockart EX RAAF Electrician,
Aircraft Avionics tech. Senior high school teacher.
IT is VERY important to have some way of isolating the Inverter/batteries..
- IT is also important to have a FUSE between the battery and the inverter..
Juergen
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