21DK Newb - Few questions

[xssive]

Firstly, thanks to the amazing community and information I found on this forum I was able to make the best decision/pro-con's etc. on our new trailer. Many thanks to everyone for posting and sharing as the forum info was a zillion times more accurate and useful then any other info. Our PDI is this week and we now feel we are checking and asking the right questions to prevent any surprises in the future.


As of today just a few questions....

Can I run microwave by itself if i buy a 1000W generator? We just want to zap some food in the microwave when necessary.

Any advice on the easiest way to incorporate an inverter for some minor electronics? At the very least one or all outlets if needed?

Cheers and thanks everyone!

[KMP44]

Not sure about the 1000 watt generator - it might be close on the microwave

As for the inverter - the easiest way is small unit that just attaches to the battery with alligator clips and you can run the wires through the front pass through and plug your stuff directly into it. Or you can hardwire an inverter with a couple outlets as a more permanent setup and plug in to that when on the inverter

If you to run your existing outlets, the best method (not the easiest) is to get an inverter with a built in transfer switch (or buy a seperate switch). Then seperate the outlets onto their own circut in the breaker panel. You run the 110V in to the inverter firts, then to the breaker. The inverter gets connected to the battery (batteries). When shore power is available, your outlets work normally. When shore power is disconnected, the transfer switch then kicks on the inverter to power the outlets from the battery. This requires some extra planning/calculating to size everything and some extra wiring, but it avoids any switching or changing where you plug stuff in.

Congrats on the new camper.

[xssive]

Thanks! I like the simple solution you shared.....will buy one tomorrow

[bikendan]

a 1000w generator will not run the microwave. you'll need at least a 2000w one and they don't cost much more than the 1000w.

i just simply installed a 400w inverter with two outlets and ran the wire directly to the batteries.
in our 23SS, it was easier to run it that way than past the door frame to the converter.
the inverter has a switch on it and it's right next to the shelf where we put the tv and all the hookups for it.