Morning Brains trust.
As we plan for our big trip I am still in 2 minds about purchasing a generator. An alternative I am considering is installing a second battery and an inverter. Not sure on the size however I am thinking something that will run any of the 3 below (1 at a time):
- Be able to run the coffee machine and milk frother simutaneously
- Be able to boil a kettle
- Be able to run a 2 slice toaster
Other than the Air conditioner I think most of our "240v" needs could be met with this. Not sure if it's worth buying an hauling a generator around the country.
So, if we buy an inverter can it be wired to auto-sense if 240v is available. If it is, run from mains. If it is not, all 240v plugs in the van run from the inverter. I'd like to run the inverter across the shunt for the Drifter panel so it knows whats coming out of the battery(ies).
On Battery(ies) - it's a short burst of power required, not a continuous load. Would 1 x 120aH cover it or would we need 2?
Anyone have recommended brands? Happy to pay the right $$$ for the right equipment first time.
Also sizing - I am thinking 3000W (as most house circuits are 2400W). I'll have a look at the draw of each of the 3 lines above (only expecting to run 1 line at a time) and see what is largest.
As we plan for our big trip I am still in 2 minds about purchasing a generator. An alternative I am considering is installing a second battery and an inverter. Not sure on the size however I am thinking something that will run any of the 3 below (1 at a time):
- Be able to run the coffee machine and milk frother simutaneously
- Be able to boil a kettle
- Be able to run a 2 slice toaster
Other than the Air conditioner I think most of our "240v" needs could be met with this. Not sure if it's worth buying an hauling a generator around the country.
So, if we buy an inverter can it be wired to auto-sense if 240v is available. If it is, run from mains. If it is not, all 240v plugs in the van run from the inverter. I'd like to run the inverter across the shunt for the Drifter panel so it knows whats coming out of the battery(ies).
On Battery(ies) - it's a short burst of power required, not a continuous load. Would 1 x 120aH cover it or would we need 2?
Anyone have recommended brands? Happy to pay the right $$$ for the right equipment first time.
Also sizing - I am thinking 3000W (as most house circuits are 2400W). I'll have a look at the draw of each of the 3 lines above (only expecting to run 1 line at a time) and see what is largest.