Any inverter falls into that category. Yes, it sucks power big time and to make it worse most have a display that shows you just how many amps its' using.
So I think it's a comfort level thing. I don't like seeing big amps going out of the batteries but I've had inverters for 30 years and I know it's only a short term situation. A few minutes of inverter use shouldn't be a problem if the batteries are in good shape. And the trade off, a nice bowl of hot soup on a cold day and no pot to wash.
Any inverter falls into that category. Yes, it sucks power big time and to make it worse most have a display that shows you just how many amps its' using.
So I think it's a comfort level thing. I don't like seeing big amps going out of the batteries but I've had inverters for 30 years and I know it's only a short term situation. A few minutes of inverter use shouldn't be a problem if the batteries are in good shape. And the trade off, a nice bowl of hot soup on a cold day and no pot to wash.
Ron
Not to suggest adding another "toy" to your Escape, but installing a battery monitor such as the Bogart Industries Trimetric 2030 will let you keep track of exactly how many amp hours go into & out of your batteries. Far more accurate than the built in trailer monitor or even the GoPower panel if you have solar. It lets you know if it is a good time to use the inverter, or hold off until you recharge the batteries...
I installed a 1500 w invertor and switched my power to the microwave to full time invertor. Problem was the battery jumper beteen the 2 6 volts was too thin. Needed 4 gauge or larger. And my needs are for warm latte milk for Mrs. Nothing much more...
Nice to have options.
__________________
Port Moody, BC
2012. Escape 19
2012 Xterra 4x4
Dog as Navigator
Thanks folks, think I'll go with the Prowatt SW 2000 (why do they call an 1800W unit a 2000?). Want to get the 120v plugs in the loft on inverter as well as the MW, got lucky in the fifth wheel and they are both on the same circuit. If I put in a big enough inverter I can redirect the output of the breaker panel to a small auto xfer switch and have both the MW and the loft 120v on the inverter.
I have the 2030 battery monitor so keeping an eye on the power use is no big deal. Really great toy for those who like to over analyse things.
Already figured I had to bump up the existing battery cables, Xantrex manual says0awg, think that'll be the hardest part.
Hadn't thought of it, but does the chassis ground cable need to be brought up to 0awg too? I haven't traced it yet but have the feeling it's buried in the under carriage insulation.
Hadn't thought of it, but does the chassis ground cable need to be brought up to 0awg too? I haven't traced it yet but have the feeling it's buried in the under carriage insulation.
Marketing.
Not if you direct wire both wires (+ and -) between the inverter and the battery.
and to make it worse most have a display that shows you just how many amps its' using.
Linear Mode
