Need some electrical advice and power inverters

[cs641]

I am remodeling a 1976 Landau MH and I have some questions on which way to go with the electricals.


I have 2 rooftop AC's normally powered by shore power and generator. Since I'm redoing everything I'd like to upgrade to 50AMP shore power so both AC's can run w/o the generator. I will obviously need a new electrical panel, what's recommended? Current panel does work but is showing evidence of neglectful hack-job repairs.


I'd like to install a power inverter so I can run my fridge(110 only), TV one or two outlets and microwave while the main engine is running. How big of an inverter should I need? How much of an alternator upgrade?


My biggest question would be what type of switch would be needed to keep the power from the power inverter from powering the 110-12V converter while the main engine is running? A bit redundant.


Thanks!

[khantroll]

Hi cs641,


With regards to upgrading the electrical distribution center, the sticky in the electrical sub forum (found at http://www.classicwinnebagos.com/forum/index.php/topic,5326.0.html ) is as good as it gets.


As for inverter sizing, the question is do you want to be able to do all of that at once? If you want your fridge compressor running, as well as your microwave and a TV, you're going to need some serious power.


Microwave: 700 to 1200 watts (depends on model).
Fridge: 1200 watts (that's based on my dorm fridge, yours maybe slightly better).
TV: 220 watts (assuming 32 inch LCD)


That's running wattage, not surge. The surge on the fridge compressor can double, and microwaves vary wildly.  Based solely on the above, it looks like you'd need at least a 2500w (5000w surge) inverter. You may  consider going  higher. Here is a very good conversation on this:


http://www.classicwinnebagos.com/forum/index.php/topic,10073.0.html


As well as other topics by Exodus




With regards to an alternator upgrade:


Here are some links, which I recommend reading:


http://www.classicwinnebagos.com/forum/index.php/topic,3448.msg8360.html#msg8360


http://www.classicwinnebagos.com/forum/index.php/topic,1213.msg1242.html#msg1242


However, the shortest version is that you're looking at around a 150amp or more alternator, preferably with an external regulator.


Finally, for the switch question, I'll let someone else chime in. If it were me, I'd let it feed the converter and install a traditional transfer switch.


I hope the above helps!

[Oz]

Excellent, khantroll!  Great use of the forum search to provide additional information to your replies!