Shore power ... Inverter .... switching over.

[Refueler]

So does anyone have a switch to go from shore power supplying sockets to inverter supplying ?

I'm considering wiring in my low power Inverter so that when boat is off mooring and no shore power - that inverter can be switched into mains circuit. Return to mains supply when moored .. switch back to full mains.

Has anyone done this on their small sail-boat ?

 

[rogerthebodger]

Second panel from the bottom

switch is in my case 3 position + off 2 pole or 3 pole if earth is switched ( due to differances in earth connection).

I have also included RCD for each input (shore, inverter & generator). The 2 neons are to test phase and earth connected correctly.

 

[JerryHawkins]

These look suitable, from Index Marine: http://www.marineelectrics.co.uk/pages/changeover.htm

I'm currently looking for an inverter, possibly in the 600-100w rating. This one has an automatic changeover from shore (or generator) to inverter: http://www.controlsuk.co.uk/shop/category_6/High-Frequency.html?shop_param=cid%3D6%26

 

[RestlessL]

I use a relay operated changeover switch (from Waeco). Switches the mains outlets to the invertor when there is no shore-power

 

[pmyatt]

Am just about to install one. Suggest you do a search on "240 Volt AC / 50 Hz Source Selector".

 

[Refueler]

The size Inverter I'm thinking of connecting is only ~150W ... as I 'banish' any high powered stuff to shore only power ! It's more to sort crew mobile phone charger etc.

 

[ccscott49]

I have a mastervolt system, which switches, generator, shore or inverter, but I guess its a bit big and expensive for what you require, a 150w inverter to sockets?? bit OTT isnt it, just use it stand alone, with its own socket. My inverter is a 3000w one, pure sine wave, wired into the mains circuit, so runs everything I've got. Will even start and run the watermaker, but does my batteries no good atall, but I intend later to fit a 140amp 24v, alternator to my stb engine!. Until then WM, runs off the genny.

 

[nedmin]

You need a 2pole centre off change over switch. Get one at 20amp rating as they are more mechanically strong.Radio spares have them or at least used to. I,ve got this on my boat but only for dedicated sockets, low energy table lamps and phone charger sockets.I run 11watt low energy bulbs and get better light than the normal 12volt tungsten halogen.

 

[Refueler]

Yes - thats how I use it now - but I hate the cable trailing.

Another idea was to have just one socket mounted with it connected and not have mains to it. That way it serves the purpose without too much fuss.

I'm also looking to fit a few 12V sockets around so instead of all concentrated in one place - people can access 12v where they bunk.

 

[DannyB]

I run a 600 watt inverter (Maplin) which feeds two completely seperate 13 Amp sockets labelled accordingly. When on shore power I use the normal ones, but when disconnected, it's simply a case of plugging into the inverter supply. Much safer than changeover arrangements IMHO.

 

[Refueler]

[ QUOTE ]
I run a 600 watt inverter (Maplin) which feeds two completely seperate 13 Amp sockets labelled accordingly. When on shore power I use the normal ones, but when disconnected, it's simply a case of plugging into the inverter supply. Much safer than changeover arrangements IMHO.

[/ QUOTE ]

That's it then ... jobs decided .... Ta !! To foil anyone running my battery down as well - I'll even put a switch into the connection !!

 

[Anonymous]

[ QUOTE ]

That's it then ... jobs decided .... Ta !! To foil anyone running my battery down as well - I'll even put a switch into the connection !!

[/ QUOTE ]Re the dc side. It is very important to get a clean, heavy-duty connection to your battery or you will have nothing but trouble. It is vital that that is fused or protected. Because my invertor (600W) is protected internally I have installed a standard fuse (60A, I think) in the feed to mine. You could use a breaker instead -- I think that might be a better choice if you can get a high current breaker as the marine quality fuseholders and fuses of that size are as expensive as a breaker anyway. Wire it in VERY heavy cable with special attention to the terminals. Probably best to use 'alternator cable' -- I forget how many mm2 but the chandler will have wire tables.