Hook up free, but which system? Forums

Annsman

Hi there, we are going to go full timing soon and would like to be "hook up free", well for as long as possible anyway! We have 2 X110 amp leisure batteries, but I have been told of 4 ways I can connect my inverter. It will be mainly used for, but not at the same time! a microwave, air con and a hairdryer.

1. Straight from the vehicle battery, but the engine needs to be running and of course the 12 volt system can't be working.

2. From the leisure battery then with an muli plug extension lead to a locker, then the equipment can be plugged in as required.

3. From the leisure battery, as above, but connected to the hook up system and then I just use the vehicle plugs as normal. But I need a cut out for when I do hook up to avoid "cooking" the inverter!

4. As above but the inverter would be connected straight into the vehicle system. Again a cut out would be needed.

I would also need something to charge up the leisure batteries, I have thought of the following.

1. solar panel, I have been advised a 130 watt one would be needed.

2. A generator, but I don't want the noise problems if I can help it.

3. A "fuel cell". I have only heard the basics about these but the main stumbling block seems to be the cost and Methanol supplies when abroad.

Has anyone got or can advise on the perfect system please!

silverlocks · Central Rally Co-ordinator

Cannot say if this is the right way but heres how we do it.
Two 110 ah batteries, one in normal habitation battery locker, connected by clip on connectors, which gets charged when the engines running, ie on each days journey.
Other one behind passenger seat and 350W inverter connected to it by short leads and croc clips, Very little voltage drop from the 12 volt cable if you keep it thick and short.
3 metre 13amp extension lead with 4 sockets from inverter.

Just swap the two batteries each morning just before you pull off, its a 2 minute job when youre used to it.

Microwave, tv and satellite box, laptop, phone charger but NOT all at same time.

This way the engine battery is preserved just for starting.

If you MH does not allow the alternator to charge both the engine battery and the habitation battery at the same time,
just look here