Hi everybody. I'm still fix'n up our 05 tiffin Allegro 32ba. The Tiffin RV Network is still down. Some creep hit'm with spyware or something. I'd like to tap into a spare 20 amp dc circuit. The panel is under the refrig but it's next to the shower. I have to get under the floor or over the ceiling cross a hall to get to the bedroom. Tiffin suggested that I tap into a 12v light in the bedroom. My concern is that the CPAP calls for a 300 watt inverter. Isn't 300 watts AC approximately 16-17 amps DC? Are bedroom ligthts wired with wire big enough to handle the extra current? So that's my situation - - please advise. Tim fm CT
On Thu, 5 Nov 2009 19:16:55 -0500, "Tim fm CT" <r.do...@snet.net> wrote:
>Hi everybody. I'm still fix'n up our 05 tiffin Allegro 32ba. >The Tiffin RV Network is still down. Some creep hit'm with spyware or >something. >I'd like to tap into a spare 20 amp dc circuit. The panel is under the >refrig but it's next to the shower. I have to get under the floor or over >the ceiling cross a hall to get to the bedroom. >Tiffin suggested that I tap into a 12v light in the bedroom. My concern is >that the CPAP calls for a 300 watt inverter. >Isn't 300 watts AC approximately 16-17 amps DC? Are bedroom ligthts wired >with wire big enough to handle the extra current? >So that's my situation - - please advise.
300 watts / 12 volts = 25 amps. A lighting circuit would not come close.
The usual advice for inverters applies here. Put the inverter as near to the battery pack as you can and then run a lightweight extension cord (or permanent wiring) for the 120 vac to where you need it. Connect the inverter with short heavy cables to the battery. I'd use #6 or perhaps #4 cabling for the 12 volts.
"Tim fm CT" <r.do...@snet.net> wrote in message news:...
> Hi everybody. I'm still fix'n up our 05 tiffin Allegro 32ba. > The Tiffin RV Network is still down. Some creep hit'm with spyware or > something. > I'd like to tap into a spare 20 amp dc circuit. The panel is under the > refrig but it's next to the shower. I have to get under the floor or over > the ceiling cross a hall to get to the bedroom. > Tiffin suggested that I tap into a 12v light in the bedroom. My concern is > that the CPAP calls for a 300 watt inverter. > Isn't 300 watts AC approximately 16-17 amps DC? Are bedroom ligthts wired > with wire big enough to handle the extra current? > So that's my situation - - please advise. > Tim fm CT
This is my attempt to resend my reply. My first attempt went to John's no spam bs address. Hi John, I remember you helping me a while ago on a similiar situation except it was a TV set. Or maybe I saw your post about inverters. Wow, did I mis-understand. Anyway, previously I had a dc plug with a long extention. I ran that to the bedside and plugged in the inverter and the cpap. After seeing your post I got rid of the long dc extention and plugged the inverter right into the 12v outlet. I then used a long ac extention cord to the cpap. It worked fine for years. I also ran a vizio 19" tv. I never looked inside the dc outlet in the wall, but do you think the wire to the outlet was #4 or #6.? Wow. no fuses blew and no smoke. Was I lucky or what? So, now with a different MH, should I install an inveter in the battery compartment, which is under the stairs but exposed to the outside? Then run exterior house wire like 16-2 or 14-2 along the frame back from the inverter to the bedroom area and find a place to go up through the basement and into the bedroom and install a couple of house outlets? I think I remember you saying that smaller inverters running to capacity is more efficient that a large inverter not at capacity. Is that correct? If so, would two smaller inverters in the battery compartment with two 16-2 or 14- 2 be better? Tim fm CT
> "Tim fm CT" <r.do...@snet.net> wrote in message news:... >> Hi everybody. I'm still fix'n up our 05 tiffin Allegro 32ba. >> The Tiffin RV Network is still down. Some creep hit'm with spyware or >> something. >> I'd like to tap into a spare 20 amp dc circuit. The panel is under the >> refrig but it's next to the shower. I have to get under the floor or >> over the ceiling cross a hall to get to the bedroom. >> Tiffin suggested that I tap into a 12v light in the bedroom. My >> concern is that the CPAP calls for a 300 watt inverter. >> Isn't 300 watts AC approximately 16-17 amps DC? Are bedroom ligthts >> wired with wire big enough to handle the extra current? >> So that's my situation - - please advise. >> Tim fm CT
> This is my attempt to resend my reply. My first attempt went to John's > no spam bs address. > Hi John, > I remember you helping me a while ago on a similiar situation > except it was a TV set. Or maybe I saw your post about inverters. Wow, > did I > mis-understand. Anyway, previously I had a dc plug with a long extention. I > ran that to the bedside and plugged in the inverter and the cpap. After > seeing your post I got rid of the long dc extention and plugged the > inverter > right into the 12v outlet. I then used a long ac extention cord to the > cpap. > It worked fine for years. > I also ran a vizio 19" tv. > I never looked inside the dc outlet in the wall, but do you > think the wire to the outlet was #4 or #6.? Wow. > no fuses blew and no smoke. Was I lucky or what? > So, now with a different MH, should I install an inveter in the > battery compartment, which is under the stairs but exposed to the outside? > Then run exterior house wire like 16-2 or 14-2 along the frame back from > the > inverter to the bedroom area and find a place to go up through the basement > and into the bedroom and install a couple of house outlets? > I think I remember you saying that smaller inverters running to > capacity is more efficient that a large inverter not at capacity. Is that > correct? If so, would two smaller inverters in the battery compartment with > two 16-2 or 14- 2 be better? > Tim fm CT
I've run a small freezer (4.8 cu ft) from an 800 watt inverter/charger since 1995 in 3 different motor homes. The inverter is wired directly to the batteries and also plugged into a nearby wall socket. It's located right under the fold-down table behind the passenger seat. Completely silent. I have an ammeter on top so I can see from the driver's seat how much current is being drawn and how much is being charged. It's smaller than a six pack. The heavy duty extension cord is run along the inside of the frame and up to a rear closet where the freezer is. I've run the TV, freezer, Directv receiver, laptop, Hughes satellite modem and dish all at the same time. The charger section of the inverter is rated at 25 amps and restores the battery in a short time from either shore power or generator power. Of course the batteries also get charged any time the main engine is running. They cost more but mine has been in service since 1995. LZ
>> "Tim fm CT" <r.do...@snet.net> wrote in message news:... >>> Hi everybody. I'm still fix'n up our 05 tiffin Allegro 32ba. >>> The Tiffin RV Network is still down. Some creep hit'm with spyware or >>> something. >>> I'd like to tap into a spare 20 amp dc circuit. The panel is under the >>> refrig but it's next to the shower. I have to get under the floor or >>> over the ceiling cross a hall to get to the bedroom. >>> Tiffin suggested that I tap into a 12v light in the bedroom. My concern >>> is that the CPAP calls for a 300 watt inverter. >>> Isn't 300 watts AC approximately 16-17 amps DC? Are bedroom ligthts >>> wired with wire big enough to handle the extra current? >>> So that's my situation - - please advise. >>> Tim fm CT
>> This is my attempt to resend my reply. My first attempt went to John's no >> spam bs address. >> Hi John, >> I remember you helping me a while ago on a similiar situation >> except it was a TV set. Or maybe I saw your post about inverters. Wow, >> did I >> mis-understand. Anyway, previously I had a dc plug with a long extention. >> I >> ran that to the bedside and plugged in the inverter and the cpap. After >> seeing your post I got rid of the long dc extention and plugged the >> inverter >> right into the 12v outlet. I then used a long ac extention cord to the >> cpap. >> It worked fine for years. >> I also ran a vizio 19" tv. >> I never looked inside the dc outlet in the wall, but do you >> think the wire to the outlet was #4 or #6.? Wow. >> no fuses blew and no smoke. Was I lucky or what? >> So, now with a different MH, should I install an inveter in >> the >> battery compartment, which is under the stairs but exposed to the >> outside? >> Then run exterior house wire like 16-2 or 14-2 along the frame back from >> the >> inverter to the bedroom area and find a place to go up through the >> basement >> and into the bedroom and install a couple of house outlets? >> I think I remember you saying that smaller inverters running >> to >> capacity is more efficient that a large inverter not at capacity. Is that >> correct? If so, would two smaller inverters in the battery compartment >> with >> two 16-2 or 14- 2 be better? >> Tim fm CT
> I've run a small freezer (4.8 cu ft) from an 800 watt inverter/charger > since 1995 in 3 different motor homes. The inverter is wired directly to > the batteries > and also plugged into a nearby wall socket. It's located right under the > fold-down table behind the passenger seat. Completely silent. I have an > ammeter on top so I can see from the driver's seat how much current is > being drawn and how much is being charged. It's smaller than a six pack. > The heavy duty extension cord is run along the inside of the frame and up > to a rear closet where the freezer is. I've run the TV, freezer, Directv > receiver, laptop, Hughes satellite modem and dish all at the same time. > The charger section of the inverter is rated at 25 amps and restores the > battery in a short time from either shore power or generator power. Of > course the batteries also get charged any time the main engine is running. > They cost more but mine has been in service since 1995. > LZ
Hi LZ, Thanks for your reply. Seems like I've got too much going on at the same time. I had a MH with three big 12v battreries. ( a little over 300 ah, I think) The MH also had dc outlet in the bedroom to run a small dc tv with a crt. I plugged an inverter (300w peak) into that outlet to run my cpap machine and a vizio tv 19". (got rid of the small dc tv) All went well for years. Now I have a MH with two 6v T-105 trojan batteries (225 AH) and no room for anymore in the compartment. There are no Dc outlets anywhere except up front on the dash. The Tiffin has a 19" panasonic color tube type tv in the bedroom that only runs on ac. Specs say it requires 1.9amps. I also have a cpap machine with a humidifier (planning on canning the hudmifier part - - too much current) and in the winter, we'll need the furnace. Just got a progressive dynamics 60 amp 9200 converter with charge wizard. Figured I'd just do what I did before except I had to add the dc outlet to the bedroom. Tiffin said to tap into a 12v light in the vanity, or the motor on the bed. I think he meant the sideout motor wire. I'm not comfortable with that. I sent another e-mail to Tiffin questioning the size of the 12v light wires. And Neon John really didn't agree with that either.. Eventually, (after our trip the the UCONN Notre Dame game next week) I plan to add batteries. BTW dcan one 12 v battery be put in parallel with 6v batteries, if all are brand new? or do i need two more 6v batteries? We park without plugging in a lot. You mentioned your 800 w inverter/25amp charger. Do you have another charger/converter in your MH?. LZ how many bateries or AH do you have available? Also, don't inverters use power even when they are not "inverting"? As scrambled as I sound, I think you and John have got me on the right track. I just may have to "juryrig" something to get me through the Notre Dame trip. G'nite Tim fm CT BTW when you said "they cost more". Were you referring to a inverter/charger as opposed to just an inverter?
>>> "Tim fm CT" <r.do...@snet.net> wrote in message news:... >>>> Hi everybody. I'm still fix'n up our 05 tiffin Allegro 32ba. >>>> The Tiffin RV Network is still down. Some creep hit'm with spyware >>>> or something. >>>> I'd like to tap into a spare 20 amp dc circuit. The panel is under >>>> the refrig but it's next to the shower. I have to get under the >>>> floor or over the ceiling cross a hall to get to the bedroom. >>>> Tiffin suggested that I tap into a 12v light in the bedroom. My >>>> concern is that the CPAP calls for a 300 watt inverter. >>>> Isn't 300 watts AC approximately 16-17 amps DC? Are bedroom ligthts >>>> wired with wire big enough to handle the extra current? >>>> So that's my situation - - please advise. >>>> Tim fm CT
>>> This is my attempt to resend my reply. My first attempt went to >>> John's no spam bs address. >>> Hi John, >>> I remember you helping me a while ago on a similiar >>> situation >>> except it was a TV set. Or maybe I saw your post about inverters. >>> Wow, did I >>> mis-understand. Anyway, previously I had a dc plug with a long >>> extention. I >>> ran that to the bedside and plugged in the inverter and the cpap. After >>> seeing your post I got rid of the long dc extention and plugged the >>> inverter >>> right into the 12v outlet. I then used a long ac extention cord to >>> the cpap. >>> It worked fine for years. >>> I also ran a vizio 19" tv. >>> I never looked inside the dc outlet in the wall, but do you >>> think the wire to the outlet was #4 or #6.? Wow. >>> no fuses blew and no smoke. Was I lucky or what? >>> So, now with a different MH, should I install an inveter >>> in the >>> battery compartment, which is under the stairs but exposed to the >>> outside? >>> Then run exterior house wire like 16-2 or 14-2 along the frame back >>> from the >>> inverter to the bedroom area and find a place to go up through the >>> basement >>> and into the bedroom and install a couple of house outlets? >>> I think I remember you saying that smaller inverters >>> running to >>> capacity is more efficient that a large inverter not at capacity. Is >>> that >>> correct? If so, would two smaller inverters in the battery >>> compartment with >>> two 16-2 or 14- 2 be better? >>> Tim fm CT
>> I've run a small freezer (4.8 cu ft) from an 800 watt inverter/charger >> since 1995 in 3 different motor homes. The inverter is wired directly >> to the batteries >> and also plugged into a nearby wall socket. It's located right under >> the fold-down table behind the passenger seat. Completely silent. I >> have an ammeter on top so I can see from the driver's seat how much >> current is being drawn and how much is being charged. It's smaller >> than a six pack. The heavy duty extension cord is run along the inside >> of the frame and up to a rear closet where the freezer is. I've run >> the TV, freezer, Directv receiver, laptop, Hughes satellite modem and >> dish all at the same time. The charger section of the inverter is >> rated at 25 amps and restores the battery in a short time from either >> shore power or generator power. Of course the batteries also get >> charged any time the main engine is running. They cost more but mine >> has been in service since 1995. >> LZ
> Hi LZ, > Thanks for your reply. Seems like I've got too much going on > at the same time. > I had a MH with three big 12v battreries. ( a little over 300 ah, I > think) The MH also had dc outlet in the bedroom to run a small dc tv > with a crt. > I plugged an inverter (300w peak) into that outlet to run my cpap > machine and a vizio tv 19". (got rid of the small dc tv) All went well > for years. > Now I have a MH with two 6v T-105 trojan batteries (225 AH) and no room > for anymore in the compartment. There are no Dc outlets anywhere except > up front on the dash. > The Tiffin has a 19" panasonic color tube type tv in the > bedroom that only runs on ac. Specs say it requires 1.9amps.
That's about the same as my freezer.
I also have
> a cpap machine with a humidifier (planning on canning the hudmifier part > - - too much current) > and in the winter, we'll need the furnace. > Just got a progressive dynamics 60 amp 9200 converter with > charge wizard. Figured I'd just do what I did before except I had to add > the dc outlet to the bedroom. > Tiffin said to tap into a 12v light in the vanity, or the motor > on the bed. I think he meant the sideout motor wire.
Do you have a rear heater under the bed? If so you could tap in there.
> I'm not comfortable with that. I sent another e-mail to Tiffin > questioning the size of the 12v light wires. And Neon John really didn't > agree with that either.. > Eventually, (after our trip the the UCONN Notre Dame game next > week) I plan to add batteries. BTW dcan one 12 v battery be put in > parallel with 6v batteries, if all are brand new? or do i need two more > 6v batteries? We park without plugging in a lot.
2 more 6 volt batteries would work better but I see no reason why a 12V wouldn't work.
> You mentioned your 800 w inverter/25amp charger. Do you have > another charger/converter in your MH?.
The one that came in the MH. The inverter charger input is adjustable. It can be adjusted so the standard house converter never need come on unless you are using faster than you are charging. Doing this when it is in storage will cook your batteries though. I unplug the inverter when I store the MH for the winter. The inverter also has an on/off switch with a small red led that tells you it's on.
> LZ how many bateries or AH do you have available?
Only 2 now that we almost never go boondocking. I did have 5 when I had solar panels. 3 were on a rack behind the grill.
Also, don't
> inverters use power even when they are not "inverting"? > As scrambled as I sound, I think you and John have got me on > the right track. I just may have to "juryrig" something to get me > through the Notre Dame trip. > G'nite > Tim fm CT > BTW when you said "they cost more". Were you referring to a > inverter/charger as opposed to just an inverter?
Plain inverters are cheaper. I think I paid $525 back in '95 for my Trace 810 but it has a lot of built-in protections. I keep a cheapo 300 watt in the van in case I want to run something on AC, charge the phone or laptop. LZ
>"Tim fm CT" <r.do...@snet.net> wrote in message news:... >> Hi everybody. I'm still fix'n up our 05 tiffin Allegro 32ba. >> The Tiffin RV Network is still down. Some creep hit'm with spyware or >> something. >> I'd like to tap into a spare 20 amp dc circuit. The panel is under the >> refrig but it's next to the shower. I have to get under the floor or over >> the ceiling cross a hall to get to the bedroom. >> Tiffin suggested that I tap into a 12v light in the bedroom. My concern is >> that the CPAP calls for a 300 watt inverter. >> Isn't 300 watts AC approximately 16-17 amps DC? Are bedroom ligthts wired >> with wire big enough to handle the extra current? >> So that's my situation - - please advise. >> Tim fm CT
>This is my attempt to resend my reply. My first attempt went to John's no >spam bs address. >Hi John, > I remember you helping me a while ago on a similiar situation >except it was a TV set. Or maybe I saw your post about inverters. Wow, did I >mis-understand. Anyway, previously I had a dc plug with a long extention. I >ran that to the bedside and plugged in the inverter and the cpap. After >seeing your post I got rid of the long dc extention and plugged the inverter >right into the 12v outlet. I then used a long ac extention cord to the cpap. >It worked fine for years. >I also ran a vizio 19" tv. > I never looked inside the dc outlet in the wall, but do you >think the wire to the outlet was #4 or #6.? Wow. >no fuses blew and no smoke. Was I lucky or what? > So, now with a different MH, should I install an inveter in the >battery compartment, which is under the stairs but exposed to the outside? >Then run exterior house wire like 16-2 or 14-2 along the frame back from the >inverter to the bedroom area and find a place to go up through the basement >and into the bedroom and install a couple of house outlets? > I think I remember you saying that smaller inverters running to >capacity is more efficient that a large inverter not at capacity. Is that >correct? If so, would two smaller inverters in the battery compartment with >two 16-2 or 14- 2 be better? > Tim fm CT
1. Is the inverter in a weatherproof housing? If not I would find a handy compartment.
2. John is conservative in his wire sizing. That is not bad but it does leave some wiggle room for short runs. If you are having a problem with big wire you can also run multiple smaller wires.
>>>> "Tim fm CT" <r.do...@snet.net> wrote in message news:... >>>>> Hi everybody. I'm still fix'n up our 05 tiffin Allegro 32ba. >>>>> The Tiffin RV Network is still down. Some creep hit'm with spyware or >>>>> something. >>>>> I'd like to tap into a spare 20 amp dc circuit. The panel is under the >>>>> refrig but it's next to the shower. I have to get under the floor or >>>>> over the ceiling cross a hall to get to the bedroom. >>>>> Tiffin suggested that I tap into a 12v light in the bedroom. My >>>>> concern is that the CPAP calls for a 300 watt inverter. >>>>> Isn't 300 watts AC approximately 16-17 amps DC? Are bedroom ligthts >>>>> wired with wire big enough to handle the extra current? >>>>> So that's my situation - - please advise. >>>>> Tim fm CT
>>>> This is my attempt to resend my reply. My first attempt went to John's >>>> no spam bs address. >>>> Hi John, >>>> I remember you helping me a while ago on a similiar >>>> situation >>>> except it was a TV set. Or maybe I saw your post about inverters. Wow, >>>> did I >>>> mis-understand. Anyway, previously I had a dc plug with a long >>>> extention. I >>>> ran that to the bedside and plugged in the inverter and the cpap. After >>>> seeing your post I got rid of the long dc extention and plugged the >>>> inverter >>>> right into the 12v outlet. I then used a long ac extention cord to the >>>> cpap. >>>> It worked fine for years. >>>> I also ran a vizio 19" tv. >>>> I never looked inside the dc outlet in the wall, but do you >>>> think the wire to the outlet was #4 or #6.? Wow. >>>> no fuses blew and no smoke. Was I lucky or what? >>>> So, now with a different MH, should I install an inveter in >>>> the >>>> battery compartment, which is under the stairs but exposed to the >>>> outside? >>>> Then run exterior house wire like 16-2 or 14-2 along the frame back >>>> from the >>>> inverter to the bedroom area and find a place to go up through the >>>> basement >>>> and into the bedroom and install a couple of house outlets? >>>> I think I remember you saying that smaller inverters >>>> running to >>>> capacity is more efficient that a large inverter not at capacity. Is >>>> that >>>> correct? If so, would two smaller inverters in the battery compartment >>>> with >>>> two 16-2 or 14- 2 be better? >>>> Tim fm CT
>>> I've run a small freezer (4.8 cu ft) from an 800 watt inverter/charger >>> since 1995 in 3 different motor homes. The inverter is wired directly >>> to the batteries >>> and also plugged into a nearby wall socket. It's located right under >>> the fold-down table behind the passenger seat. Completely silent. I >>> have an ammeter on top so I can see from the driver's seat how much >>> current is being drawn and how much is being charged. It's smaller than >>> a six pack. The heavy duty extension cord is run along the inside of the >>> frame and up to a rear closet where the freezer is. I've run the TV, >>> freezer, Directv receiver, laptop, Hughes satellite modem and dish all >>> at the same time. The charger section of the inverter is rated at 25 >>> amps and restores the battery in a short time from either shore power or >>> generator power. Of course the batteries also get charged any time the >>> main engine is running. They cost more but mine has been in service >>> since 1995. >>> LZ
>> Hi LZ, >> Thanks for your reply. Seems like I've got too much going on at >> the same time. >> I had a MH with three big 12v battreries. ( a little over 300 ah, I >> think) The MH also had dc outlet in the bedroom to run a small dc tv with >> a crt. >> I plugged an inverter (300w peak) into that outlet to run my cpap >> machine and a vizio tv 19". (got rid of the small dc tv) All went well >> for years. >> Now I have a MH with two 6v T-105 trojan batteries (225 AH) and no room >> for anymore in the compartment. There are no Dc outlets anywhere except >> up front on the dash. >> The Tiffin has a 19" panasonic color tube type tv in the bedroom >> that only runs on ac. Specs say it requires 1.9amps.
> That's about the same as my freezer.
> I also have >> a cpap machine with a humidifier (planning on canning the hudmifier >> part - - too much current) >> and in the winter, we'll need the furnace. >> Just got a progressive dynamics 60 amp 9200 converter with >> charge wizard. Figured I'd just do what I did before except I had to add >> the dc outlet to the bedroom. >> Tiffin said to tap into a 12v light in the vanity, or the motor >> on the bed. I think he meant the sideout motor wire.
> Do you have a rear heater under the bed? If so you could tap in there.
>> I'm not comfortable with that. I sent another e-mail to Tiffin >> questioning the size of the 12v light wires. And Neon John really didn't >> agree with that either.. >> Eventually, (after our trip the the UCONN Notre Dame game next >> week) I plan to add batteries. BTW dcan one 12 v battery be put in >> parallel with 6v batteries, if all are brand new? or do i need two more >> 6v batteries? We park without plugging in a lot.
> 2 more 6 volt batteries would work better but I see no reason why a 12V > wouldn't work.
>> You mentioned your 800 w inverter/25amp charger. Do you have >> another charger/converter in your MH?.
> The one that came in the MH. The inverter charger input is adjustable. It > can be adjusted so the standard house converter never need come on unless > you > are using faster than you are charging. Doing this when it is in storage > will cook your batteries though. I unplug the inverter when I store the > MH for the winter. The inverter also has an on/off switch with a small > red led that tells you it's on.
>> LZ how many bateries or AH do you have available?
> Only 2 now that we almost never go boondocking. I did have 5 when I had > solar panels. 3 were on a rack behind the grill.
> Also, don't >> inverters use power even when they are not "inverting"? >> As scrambled as I sound, I think you and John have got me on the >> right track. I just may have to "juryrig" something to get me through >> the Notre Dame trip. >> G'nite >> Tim fm CT >> BTW when you said "they cost more". Were you referring to a >> inverter/charger as opposed to just an inverter?
> Plain inverters are cheaper. I think I paid $525 back in '95 for my Trace > 810 but it has a lot of built-in protections. > I keep a cheapo 300 watt in the van in case I want to run something on AC, > charge the phone or laptop. > LZ
Thanks again, LZ. This is great information. I'll look under the bed. There is heat in the bedroom, but i think it's just a furnice register. Of course, not being familiar with the Tiffin makes routing wires and finding placxes to go through the floor much more difficult. Thanks again, Tim fm CT Just wish they had put at least one source of dc back in the coach. Can't even use our portable fantastic fans.
> On Thu, 5 Nov 2009 22:42:06 -0500, "Tim fm CT" <r.do...@snet.net> > wrote:
>>"Tim fm CT" <r.do...@snet.net> wrote in message news:... >>> Hi everybody. I'm still fix'n up our 05 tiffin Allegro 32ba. >>> The Tiffin RV Network is still down. Some creep hit'm with spyware or >>> something. >>> I'd like to tap into a spare 20 amp dc circuit. The panel is under the >>> refrig but it's next to the shower. I have to get under the floor or >>> over >>> the ceiling cross a hall to get to the bedroom. >>> Tiffin suggested that I tap into a 12v light in the bedroom. My concern >>> is >>> that the CPAP calls for a 300 watt inverter. >>> Isn't 300 watts AC approximately 16-17 amps DC? Are bedroom ligthts >>> wired >>> with wire big enough to handle the extra current? >>> So that's my situation - - please advise. >>> Tim fm CT
>>This is my attempt to resend my reply. My first attempt went to John's no >>spam bs address. >>Hi John, >> I remember you helping me a while ago on a similiar situation >>except it was a TV set. Or maybe I saw your post about inverters. Wow, did >>I >>mis-understand. Anyway, previously I had a dc plug with a long extention. >>I >>ran that to the bedside and plugged in the inverter and the cpap. After >>seeing your post I got rid of the long dc extention and plugged the >>inverter >>right into the 12v outlet. I then used a long ac extention cord to the >>cpap. >>It worked fine for years. >>I also ran a vizio 19" tv. >> I never looked inside the dc outlet in the wall, but do you >>think the wire to the outlet was #4 or #6.? Wow. >>no fuses blew and no smoke. Was I lucky or what? >> So, now with a different MH, should I install an inveter in >> the >>battery compartment, which is under the stairs but exposed to the outside? >>Then run exterior house wire like 16-2 or 14-2 along the frame back from >>the >>inverter to the bedroom area and find a place to go up through the >>basement >>and into the bedroom and install a couple of house outlets? >> I think I remember you saying that smaller inverters running >> to >>capacity is more efficient that a large inverter not at capacity. Is that >>correct? If so, would two smaller inverters in the battery compartment >>with >>two 16-2 or 14- 2 be better? >> Tim fm CT
> 1. Is the inverter in a weatherproof housing? If not I would find a > handy compartment.
> 2. John is conservative in his wire sizing. That is not bad but it > does leave some wiggle room for short runs. If you are having a > problem with big wire you can also run multiple smaller wires.
Thanks for your reply. I just wish the fused blank dc circuits were easier to use. they just sit there waiting to be tapped into. But I can't figure out a route from the panel to where I want to go. Not to mention the inverter suggestion. yiipes
>>>> "Tim fm CT" <r.do...@snet.net> wrote in message news:... >>>>> Hi everybody. I'm still fix'n up our 05 tiffin Allegro 32ba. >>>>> The Tiffin RV Network is still down. Some creep hit'm with spyware or >>>>> something. >>>>> I'd like to tap into a spare 20 amp dc circuit. The panel is under the >>>>> refrig but it's next to the shower. I have to get under the floor or >>>>> over the ceiling cross a hall to get to the bedroom. >>>>> Tiffin suggested that I tap into a 12v light in the bedroom. My >>>>> concern is that the CPAP calls for a 300 watt inverter. >>>>> Isn't 300 watts AC approximately 16-17 amps DC? Are bedroom ligthts >>>>> wired with wire big enough to handle the extra current? >>>>> So that's my situation - - please advise. >>>>> Tim fm CT
>>>> This is my attempt to resend my reply. My first attempt went to John's >>>> no spam bs address. >>>> Hi John, >>>> I remember you helping me a while ago on a similiar >>>> situation >>>> except it was a TV set. Or maybe I saw your post about inverters. Wow, >>>> did I >>>> mis-understand. Anyway, previously I had a dc plug with a long >>>> extention. I >>>> ran that to the bedside and plugged in the inverter and the cpap. After >>>> seeing your post I got rid of the long dc extention and plugged the >>>> inverter >>>> right into the 12v outlet. I then used a long ac extention cord to the >>>> cpap. >>>> It worked fine for years. >>>> I also ran a vizio 19" tv. >>>> I never looked inside the dc outlet in the wall, but do you >>>> think the wire to the outlet was #4 or #6.? Wow. >>>> no fuses blew and no smoke. Was I lucky or what? >>>> So, now with a different MH, should I install an inveter in >>>> the >>>> battery compartment, which is under the stairs but exposed to the >>>> outside? >>>> Then run exterior house wire like 16-2 or 14-2 along the frame back >>>> from the >>>> inverter to the bedroom area and find a place to go up through the >>>> basement >>>> and into the bedroom and install a couple of house outlets? >>>> I think I remember you saying that smaller inverters >>>> running to >>>> capacity is more efficient that a large inverter not at capacity. Is >>>> that >>>> correct? If so, would two smaller inverters in the battery compartment >>>> with >>>> two 16-2 or 14- 2 be better? >>>> Tim fm CT
>>> I've run a small freezer (4.8 cu ft) from an 800 watt inverter/charger >>> since 1995 in 3 different motor homes. The inverter is wired directly >>> to the batteries >>> and also plugged into a nearby wall socket. It's located right under >>> the fold-down table behind the passenger seat. Completely silent. I >>> have an ammeter on top so I can see from the driver's seat how much >>> current is being drawn and how much is being charged. It's smaller than >>> a six pack. The heavy duty extension cord is run along the inside of the >>> frame and up to a rear closet where the freezer is. I've run the TV, >>> freezer, Directv receiver, laptop, Hughes satellite modem and dish all >>> at the same time. The charger section of the inverter is rated at 25 >>> amps and restores the battery in a short time from either shore power or >>> generator power. Of course the batteries also get charged any time the >>> main engine is running. They cost more but mine has been in service >>> since 1995. >>> LZ
>> Hi LZ, >> Thanks for your reply. Seems like I've got too much going on at >> the same time. >> I had a MH with three big 12v battreries. ( a little over 300 ah, I >> think) The MH also had dc outlet in the bedroom to run a small dc tv with >> a crt. >> I plugged an inverter (300w peak) into that outlet to run my cpap >> machine and a vizio tv 19". (got rid of the small dc tv) All went well >> for years. >> Now I have a MH with two 6v T-105 trojan batteries (225 AH) and no room >> for anymore in the compartment. There are no Dc outlets anywhere except >> up front on the dash. >> The Tiffin has a 19" panasonic color tube type tv in the bedroom >> that only runs on ac. Specs say it requires 1.9amps.
> That's about the same as my freezer.
> I also have >> a cpap machine with a humidifier (planning on canning the hudmifier >> part - - too much current) >> and in the winter, we'll need the furnace. >> Just got a progressive dynamics 60 amp 9200 converter with >> charge wizard. Figured I'd just do what I did before except I had to add >> the dc outlet to the bedroom. >> Tiffin said to tap into a 12v light in the vanity, or the motor >> on the bed. I think he meant the sideout motor wire.
> Do you have a rear heater under the bed? If so you could tap in there.
>> I'm not comfortable with that. I sent another e-mail to Tiffin >> questioning the size of the 12v light wires. And Neon John really didn't >> agree with that either.. >> Eventually, (after our trip the the UCONN Notre Dame game next >> week) I plan to add batteries. BTW dcan one 12 v battery be put in >> parallel with 6v batteries, if all are brand new? or do i need two more >> 6v batteries? We park without plugging in a lot.
> 2 more 6 volt batteries would work better but I see no reason why a 12V > wouldn't work.
>> You mentioned your 800 w inverter/25amp charger. Do you have >> another charger/converter in your MH?.
> The one that came in the MH. The inverter charger input is adjustable. It > can be adjusted so the standard house converter never need come on unless > you > are using faster than you are charging. Doing this when it is in storage > will cook your batteries though. I unplug the inverter when I store the > MH for the winter. The inverter also has an on/off switch with a small > red led that tells you it's on.
>> LZ how many bateries or AH do you have available?
> Only 2 now that we almost never go boondocking. I did have 5 when I had > solar panels. 3 were on a rack behind the grill.
> Also, don't >> inverters use power even when they are not "inverting"? >> As scrambled as I sound, I think you and John have got me on the >> right track. I just may have to "juryrig" something to get me through >> the Notre Dame trip. >> G'nite >> Tim fm CT >> BTW when you said "they cost more". Were you referring to a >> inverter/charger as opposed to just an inverter?
> Plain inverters are cheaper. I think I paid $525 back in '95 for my Trace > 810 but it has a lot of built-in protections. > I keep a cheapo 300 watt in the van in case I want to run something on AC, > charge the phone or laptop. > LZ
LZ, I just looked under the bed and there are two (red and black) #10 wires going into the slideout motor. I certainly won't be using the slide out and TV/CPAP at the same time. Maybe I can tap in a duplex dc outlet across the two #10 wires. Then for now, I'll use my 300 watt inverter. What do you think about that? I didn't find a tag on the motor. How much current does the motor draw? Tim fm CT
On Thu, 5 Nov 2009 22:42:06 -0500, "Tim fm CT" <r.do...@snet.net> wrote:
> I remember you helping me a while ago on a similiar situation >except it was a TV set. Or maybe I saw your post about inverters. Wow, did I >mis-understand. Anyway, previously I had a dc plug with a long extention. I >ran that to the bedside and plugged in the inverter and the cpap. After >seeing your post I got rid of the long dc extention and plugged the inverter >right into the 12v outlet. I then used a long ac extention cord to the cpap. >It worked fine for years. >I also ran a vizio 19" tv. > I never looked inside the dc outlet in the wall, but do you >think the wire to the outlet was #4 or #6.? Wow.
No, the wires are probably 14 gauge. The difference is that your LOADS didn't come close to fully loading your inverter. The TV probably drew less than 100 watts. No idea on the CPAP but probably less than that.
This time around I gave you advice based on the size inverter that you said that you wanted to use. If you can give me the actual wattage draw of the CPAP machine (got a Kill-A-Watt?) then I can revisit that advice. Problem is, if you select the 12 volt wiring for just 100 (or whatever) watts and then you someday decide that you want to run something that's within the inverter's capability but more than 100 watts, it won't work. Too much voltage drop.
>no fuses blew and no smoke. Was I lucky or what? > So, now with a different MH, should I install an inveter in the >battery compartment, which is under the stairs but exposed to the outside? >Then run exterior house wire like 16-2 or 14-2 along the frame back from the >inverter to the bedroom area and find a place to go up through the basement >and into the bedroom and install a couple of house outlets?
I'd install my inverter in the cabinet nearest the battery box and run the cables accordingly. Then run the 120 VAC back to the bedroom. FWIW, 750 watts is a sweet spot on the price vs performance curve right now. Wallyworld sells a nice Vector/Black&Decker 750 watt unit for around $50. I have one and am very pleased with it.
While it's still true that a small inverter fully loaded is more efficient than a large one partially loaded, the differences have gotten so small as to be negligible.
I've eliminated all the small inverters except the one that runs my fridge and now run everything from one 1500 watt inverter. Much simpler and the efficiency difference is so small that it is hard to detect. If there actually is any.
I kept the fridge on a separate inverter because I don't want to chance an overload or malfunction in the big inverter from taking out my fridge. The fridge has its own 400 watt inverter. The fridge only draws from 50 to 80 watts, depending on the outside ambient, but it takes an inverter that large to reliably handle the starting inrush.
> I think I remember you saying that smaller inverters running to >capacity is more efficient that a large inverter not at capacity. Is that >correct? If so, would two smaller inverters in the battery compartment with >two 16-2 or 14- 2 be better? > Tim fm CT
>>>>> "Tim fm CT" <r.do...@snet.net> wrote in message news:... >>>>>> Hi everybody. I'm still fix'n up our 05 tiffin Allegro 32ba. >>>>>> The Tiffin RV Network is still down. Some creep hit'm with spyware >>>>>> or something. >>>>>> I'd like to tap into a spare 20 amp dc circuit. The panel is under >>>>>> the refrig but it's next to the shower. I have to get under the >>>>>> floor or over the ceiling cross a hall to get to the bedroom. >>>>>> Tiffin suggested that I tap into a 12v light in the bedroom. My >>>>>> concern is that the CPAP calls for a 300 watt inverter. >>>>>> Isn't 300 watts AC approximately 16-17 amps DC? Are bedroom >>>>>> ligthts wired with wire big enough to handle the extra current? >>>>>> So that's my situation - - please advise. >>>>>> Tim fm CT
>>>>> This is my attempt to resend my reply. My first attempt went to >>>>> John's no spam bs address. >>>>> Hi John, >>>>> I remember you helping me a while ago on a similiar >>>>> situation >>>>> except it was a TV set. Or maybe I saw your post about inverters. >>>>> Wow, did I >>>>> mis-understand. Anyway, previously I had a dc plug with a long >>>>> extention. I >>>>> ran that to the bedside and plugged in the inverter and the cpap. >>>>> After >>>>> seeing your post I got rid of the long dc extention and plugged the >>>>> inverter >>>>> right into the 12v outlet. I then used a long ac extention cord to >>>>> the cpap. >>>>> It worked fine for years. >>>>> I also ran a vizio 19" tv. >>>>> I never looked inside the dc outlet in the wall, but do >>>>> you >>>>> think the wire to the outlet was #4 or #6.? Wow. >>>>> no fuses blew and no smoke. Was I lucky or what? >>>>> So, now with a different MH, should I install an >>>>> inveter in the >>>>> battery compartment, which is under the stairs but exposed to the >>>>> outside? >>>>> Then run exterior house wire like 16-2 or 14-2 along the frame back >>>>> from the >>>>> inverter to the bedroom area and find a place to go up through the >>>>> basement >>>>> and into the bedroom and install a couple of house outlets? >>>>> I think I remember you saying that smaller inverters >>>>> running to >>>>> capacity is more efficient that a large inverter not at capacity. >>>>> Is that >>>>> correct? If so, would two smaller inverters in the battery >>>>> compartment with >>>>> two 16-2 or 14- 2 be better? >>>>> Tim fm CT
>>>> I've run a small freezer (4.8 cu ft) from an 800 watt >>>> inverter/charger since 1995 in 3 different motor homes. The >>>> inverter is wired directly to the batteries >>>> and also plugged into a nearby wall socket. It's located right >>>> under the fold-down table behind the passenger seat. Completely >>>> silent. I have an ammeter on top so I can see from the driver's >>>> seat how much current is being drawn and how much is being charged. >>>> It's smaller than a six pack. The heavy duty extension cord is run >>>> along the inside of the frame and up to a rear closet where the >>>> freezer is. I've run the TV, freezer, Directv receiver, laptop, >>>> Hughes satellite modem and dish all at the same time. The charger >>>> section of the inverter is rated at 25 amps and restores the battery >>>> in a short time from either shore power or generator power. Of >>>> course the batteries also get charged any time the main engine is >>>> running. They cost more but mine has been in service since 1995. >>>> LZ
>>> Hi LZ, >>> Thanks for your reply. Seems like I've got too much going >>> on at the same time. >>> I had a MH with three big 12v battreries. ( a little over 300 ah, I >>> think) The MH also had dc outlet in the bedroom to run a small dc tv >>> with a crt. >>> I plugged an inverter (300w peak) into that outlet to run my cpap >>> machine and a vizio tv 19". (got rid of the small dc tv) All went >>> well for years. >>> Now I have a MH with two 6v T-105 trojan batteries (225 AH) and no >>> room for anymore in the compartment. There are no Dc outlets anywhere >>> except up front on the dash. >>> The Tiffin has a 19" panasonic color tube type tv in the >>> bedroom that only runs on ac. Specs say it requires 1.9amps.
>> That's about the same as my freezer.
>> I also have >>> a cpap machine with a humidifier (planning on canning the hudmifier >>> part - - too much current) >>> and in the winter, we'll need the furnace. >>> Just got a progressive dynamics 60 amp 9200 converter with >>> charge wizard. Figured I'd just do what I did before except I had to >>> add the dc outlet to the bedroom. >>> Tiffin said to tap into a 12v light in the vanity, or the >>> motor on the bed. I think he meant the sideout motor wire.
>> Do you have a rear heater under the bed? If so you could tap in there.
>>> I'm not comfortable with that. I sent another e-mail to Tiffin >>> questioning the size of the 12v light wires. And Neon John really >>> didn't agree with that either.. >>> Eventually, (after our trip the the UCONN Notre Dame game >>> next week) I plan to add batteries. BTW dcan one 12 v battery be put >>> in parallel with 6v batteries, if all are brand new? or do i need two >>> more 6v batteries? We park without plugging in a lot.
>> 2 more 6 volt batteries would work better but I see no reason why a >> 12V wouldn't work.
>>> You mentioned your 800 w inverter/25amp charger. Do you >>> have another charger/converter in your MH?.
>> The one that came in the MH. The inverter charger input is >> adjustable. It can be adjusted so the standard house converter never >> need come on unless you >> are using faster than you are charging. Doing this when it is in >> storage will cook your batteries though. I unplug the inverter when I >> store the MH for the winter. The inverter also has an on/off switch >> with a small red led that tells you it's on.
>>> LZ how many bateries or AH do you have available?
>> Only 2 now that we almost never go boondocking. I did have 5 when I >> had solar panels. 3 were on a rack behind the grill.
>> Also, don't >>> inverters use power even when they are not "inverting"? >>> As scrambled as I sound, I think you and John have got me on >>> the right track. I just may have to "juryrig" something to get me >>> through the Notre Dame trip. >>> G'nite >>> Tim fm CT >>> BTW when you said "they cost more". Were you referring to a >>> inverter/charger as opposed to just an inverter?
>> Plain inverters are cheaper. I think I paid $525 back in '95 for my >> Trace 810 but it has a lot of built-in protections. >> I keep a cheapo 300 watt in the van in case I want to run something on >> AC, charge the phone or laptop. >> LZ
> LZ, > I just looked under the bed and there are two (red and black) #10 > wires going into the slideout motor. > I certainly won't be using the slide out and TV/CPAP at the same time. > Maybe I can tap in a duplex dc outlet across the two #10 wires. Then for > now, I'll use my 300 watt inverter. What do you think about that? > I didn't find a tag on the motor. How much current does the motor draw? > Tim fm CT
I believe #10 wire will be adequate for a 300 watt inverter. I don't think the cigarette lighter is wired with anything heavier. LZ
> On Thu, 5 Nov 2009 22:42:06 -0500, "Tim fm CT" <r.do...@snet.net> > wrote:
>> I remember you helping me a while ago on a similiar situation >>except it was a TV set. Or maybe I saw your post about inverters. Wow, did >>I >>mis-understand. Anyway, previously I had a dc plug with a long extention. >>I >>ran that to the bedside and plugged in the inverter and the cpap. After >>seeing your post I got rid of the long dc extention and plugged the >>inverter >>right into the 12v outlet. I then used a long ac extention cord to the >>cpap. >>It worked fine for years. >>I also ran a vizio 19" tv. >> I never looked inside the dc outlet in the wall, but do you >>think the wire to the outlet was #4 or #6.? Wow.
> No, the wires are probably 14 gauge. The difference is that your > LOADS didn't come close to fully loading your inverter. The TV > probably drew less than 100 watts. No idea on the CPAP but probably > less than that.
> This time around I gave you advice based on the size inverter that you > said that you wanted to use. If you can give me the actual wattage > draw of the CPAP machine (got a Kill-A-Watt?) then I can revisit that > advice. Problem is, if you select the 12 volt wiring for just 100 (or > whatever) watts and then you someday decide that you want to run > something that's within the inverter's capability but more than 100 > watts, it won't work. Too much voltage drop.
>>no fuses blew and no smoke. Was I lucky or what? >> So, now with a different MH, should I install an inveter in >> the >>battery compartment, which is under the stairs but exposed to the outside? >>Then run exterior house wire like 16-2 or 14-2 along the frame back from >>the >>inverter to the bedroom area and find a place to go up through the >>basement >>and into the bedroom and install a couple of house outlets?
> I'd install my inverter in the cabinet nearest the battery box and run > the cables accordingly. Then run the 120 VAC back to the bedroom. > FWIW, 750 watts is a sweet spot on the price vs performance curve > right now. Wallyworld sells a nice Vector/Black&Decker 750 watt unit > for around $50. I have one and am very pleased with it.
> While it's still true that a small inverter fully loaded is more > efficient than a large one partially loaded, the differences have > gotten so small as to be negligible.
> I've eliminated all the small inverters except the one that runs my > fridge and now run everything from one 1500 watt inverter. Much > simpler and the efficiency difference is so small that it is hard to > detect. If there actually is any.
> I kept the fridge on a separate inverter because I don't want to > chance an overload or malfunction in the big inverter from taking out > my fridge. The fridge has its own 400 watt inverter. The fridge only > draws from 50 to 80 watts, depending on the outside ambient, but it > takes an inverter that large to reliably handle the starting inrush.
>> I think I remember you saying that smaller inverters running >> to >>capacity is more efficient that a large inverter not at capacity. Is that >>correct? If so, would two smaller inverters in the battery compartment >>with >>two 16-2 or 14- 2 be better? >> Tim fm CT
Cripe, this is the second time that I replied to your post just like I do the others and yours is rejected. what the heck.???? So, I'lljust say thanks for your help, John. I'll look for that inverter you mentioned. I don't want to do my whole reply over. Tim fm Ct
On Fri, 6 Nov 2009 10:02:15 -0500, "Tim fm CT" <r.do...@snet.net> wrote:
> I just looked under the bed and there are two (red and black) #10 >wires going into the slideout motor. >I certainly won't be using the slide out and TV/CPAP at the same time. Maybe >I can tap in a duplex dc outlet across the two #10 wires. Then for now, I'll >use my 300 watt inverter. What do you think about that? >I didn't find a tag on the motor. How much current does the motor draw? > Tim fm CT
The problem is the voltage to that point is not energised until you hit the switch for the slide. And when you do, it activates the slide.
You willl need to wire up to the panel supplying that voltage and add your own switch in the back.
--
From earners to yearners. Obamanomics! From makers to takers. Obamanomics!
> On Fri, 6 Nov 2009 10:02:15 -0500, "Tim fm CT" <r.do...@snet.net> > wrote:
>> I just looked under the bed and there are two (red and black) #10 >>wires going into the slideout motor. >>I certainly won't be using the slide out and TV/CPAP at the same time. >>Maybe >>I can tap in a duplex dc outlet across the two #10 wires. Then for now, >>I'll >>use my 300 watt inverter. What do you think about that? >>I didn't find a tag on the motor. How much current does the motor draw? >> Tim fm CT
> The problem is the voltage to that point is not energised until you > hit the switch for the slide. And when you do, it activates the > slide.
> You willl need to wire up to the panel supplying that voltage and add > your own switch in the back.
Wow! Thanks for that additional information, Chuck. That would've been a disaster...The switch is on the wall in the bedroom. Does it have the full current capabilities or does it power a relay? Now that I am leaning towards the inverter near the battery and run smaller AC wire to bedroom, just may use the existing dc at lights to run small fans etc. BTW: this is for LZ too. What is the advantage of having an inverter with a built in charger? Won't the coach converter charge the batteries? or if on the road, won't the engine alternator charge the batteries? Tim fm CT
>>> I just looked under the bed and there are two (red and black) #10 >>> wires going into the slideout motor. >>> I certainly won't be using the slide out and TV/CPAP at the same >>> time. Maybe >>> I can tap in a duplex dc outlet across the two #10 wires. Then for >>> now, I'll >>> use my 300 watt inverter. What do you think about that? >>> I didn't find a tag on the motor. How much current does the motor draw? >>> Tim fm CT
>> The problem is the voltage to that point is not energised until you >> hit the switch for the slide. And when you do, it activates the >> slide.
>> You willl need to wire up to the panel supplying that voltage and add >> your own switch in the back.
> Wow! Thanks for that additional information, Chuck. That would've been > a disaster...The switch is on the wall in the bedroom. Does it have the > full current capabilities or does it power a relay? > Now that I am leaning towards the inverter near the battery and run > smaller AC wire to bedroom, just may use the existing dc at lights to > run small fans etc. > BTW: this is for LZ too. What is the advantage of having an inverter > with a built in charger? Won't the coach converter charge the batteries? > or if on the road, won't the engine alternator charge the batteries? > Tim fm CT
The main advantage is a more rapid charge. It's been a long time since I looked at the specs on my converter but for an example a converter rated at 45 amps may only charge at a maximum of 8 amps. My Trace 810 supposedly can charge at 25 amps. Actually it does charge at a high rate when the batteries are low but soon adjusts to a slower rate and does a good job of monitoring the charge. You don't have to run the generator very long to have a 90% charge.
Money well spent as far as I'm concerned; I've had it 14 years in 3 motor homes and it still works like new.
On your search for 12V power to run the inverter, any reason you can't run a line from the hot side of the slide switch to the inverter? Finding a ground is usually not a problem. You can put an in-line switch to the inverter and turn it off if you need full power to operate the slide. LZ
>>>> I just looked under the bed and there are two (red and black) #10 >>>> wires going into the slideout motor. >>>> I certainly won't be using the slide out and TV/CPAP at the same time. >>>> Maybe >>>> I can tap in a duplex dc outlet across the two #10 wires. Then for now, >>>> I'll >>>> use my 300 watt inverter. What do you think about that? >>>> I didn't find a tag on the motor. How much current does the motor draw? >>>> Tim fm CT
>>> The problem is the voltage to that point is not energised until you >>> hit the switch for the slide. And when you do, it activates the >>> slide.
>>> You willl need to wire up to the panel supplying that voltage and add >>> your own switch in the back.
>> Wow! Thanks for that additional information, Chuck. That would've been >> a disaster...The switch is on the wall in the bedroom. Does it have the >> full current capabilities or does it power a relay? >> Now that I am leaning towards the inverter near the battery and run >> smaller AC wire to bedroom, just may use the existing dc at lights to >> run small fans etc. >> BTW: this is for LZ too. What is the advantage of having an inverter >> with a built in charger? Won't the coach converter charge the batteries? >> or if on the road, won't the engine alternator charge the batteries? >> Tim fm CT
> The main advantage is a more rapid charge. It's been a long time since I > looked at the specs on my converter but for an example a converter rated > at 45 amps may only charge at a maximum of 8 amps. My Trace 810 > supposedly can charge at 25 amps. Actually it does charge at a high rate > when > the batteries are low but soon adjusts to a slower rate and does a good > job of monitoring the charge. You don't have to run the generator very > long to have > a 90% charge.
> Money well spent as far as I'm concerned; I've had it 14 years in 3 motor > homes and it still works like new.
> On your search for 12V power to run the inverter, any reason you can't run > a line from the hot side of the slide switch to the inverter? Finding a > ground is usually not a problem. You can put an in-line switch to the > inverter and turn it off if you need full power to operate the slide. > LZ
I changed to a Progressive Dynamics Intellipower 9200, 60amp, converter/charger. The specs don't give charging amps as such, just automatic charging voltages. IE; 4 stages Boost 14.4v, normal 13.6v, storage 13.2v and equalize where it gives it a boost for 15 minutes every 21 hrs. Then it showed a graph of a 125ah battery discharged to 10.5 volts. Boost mode brought it up to 90% in 8hrs. Is that a long time?
About the switch, if the wire is smaller than #10 does that mean it is not handling the full load? IE: maybe controling a relay switch. I'll call and ask about the actual charging amps. Tim fm Ct
Thanks LZ, John and Chuck. I'm on my way to setting everything up. Thanks for your much needed help. Tim fm CT "Tim fm CT" <r.do...@snet.net> wrote in message news:006d2590$0$1590$c3e8da3@news.astraweb.com...
>>> I remember you helping me a while ago on a similiar situation >>>except it was a TV set. Or maybe I saw your post about inverters. Wow, did >>>I >>>mis-understand. Anyway, previously I had a dc plug with a long extention. >>>I >>>ran that to the bedside and plugged in the inverter and the cpap. After >>>seeing your post I got rid of the long dc extention and plugged the >>>inverter >>>right into the 12v outlet. I then used a long ac extention cord to the >>>cpap. >>>It worked fine for years. >>>I also ran a vizio 19" tv. >>> I never looked inside the dc outlet in the wall, but do you >>>think the wire to the outlet was #4 or #6.? Wow.
>> No, the wires are probably 14 gauge. The difference is that your >> LOADS didn't come close to fully loading your inverter. The TV >> probably drew less than 100 watts. No idea on the CPAP but probably >> less than that.
>> This time around I gave you advice based on the size inverter that you >> said that you wanted to use. If you can give me the actual wattage >> draw of the CPAP machine (got a Kill-A-Watt?) then I can revisit that >> advice. Problem is, if you select the 12 volt wiring for just 100 (or >> whatever) watts and then you someday decide that you want to run >> something that's within the inverter's capability but more than 100 >> watts, it won't work. Too much voltage drop.
>>>no fuses blew and no smoke. Was I lucky or what? >>> So, now with a different MH, should I install an inveter in >>> the >>>battery compartment, which is under the stairs but exposed to the outside? >>>Then run exterior house wire like 16-2 or 14-2 along the frame back from >>>the >>>inverter to the bedroom area and find a place to go up through the >>>basement >>>and into the bedroom and install a couple of house outlets?
>> I'd install my inverter in the cabinet nearest the battery box and run >> the cables accordingly. Then run the 120 VAC back to the bedroom. >> FWIW, 750 watts is a sweet spot on the price vs performance curve >> right now. Wallyworld sells a nice Vector/Black&Decker 750 watt unit >> for around $50. I have one and am very pleased with it.
>> While it's still true that a small inverter fully loaded is more >> efficient than a large one partially loaded, the differences have >> gotten so small as to be negligible.
>> I've eliminated all the small inverters except the one that runs my >> fridge and now run everything from one 1500 watt inverter. Much >> simpler and the efficiency difference is so small that it is hard to >> detect. If there actually is any.
>> I kept the fridge on a separate inverter because I don't want to >> chance an overload or malfunction in the big inverter from taking out >> my fridge. The fridge has its own 400 watt inverter. The fridge only >> draws from 50 to 80 watts, depending on the outside ambient, but it >> takes an inverter that large to reliably handle the starting inrush.
>>> I think I remember you saying that smaller inverters running >>> to >>>capacity is more efficient that a large inverter not at capacity. Is that >>>correct? If so, would two smaller inverters in the battery compartment >>>with >>>two 16-2 or 14- 2 be better? >>> Tim fm CT
> Cripe, this is the second time that I replied to your post just like I do > the others and yours is rejected. > what the heck.???? > So, I'lljust say thanks for your help, John. I'll look for that inverter you > mentioned. I don't want to do my whole reply over. > Tim fm Ct
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