AIMS 4K SPLIT PHASE LF 240V INVERTER INFO, Oct 2, 2021

A few SHOUT OUTS, then discussion on connecting a generator through the AIMS inverter vs. transfer switch for wind and solar power input.
a link to AIMS 4000 SP 12V:
amzn.to/3OLYS0o

[@sourcecreator2222]

Slow start to the video, but helpful once we got into it. Thanks. Love that you showed the manual.

[@GBear]

You're welcome. Welcome aboard.

[@SoutheastOhioSolarHaven]

I installed 10/3 Power cable with Plug on my Aims Inverters and just plug into Generator/ or Grid power if needed. But Mine are only 120 Volt output models. I have noticed that some directions and diagrams for wiring them seem off. But glad to see you have a AIMS inverter now. I have thrown alot at mine and it have never faulted. Owned mine for about 3 years now. I love them.

[@GBear]

Yeah, mine being 240v split phase is different. I'll have to get on the horn with AIMS.

[@ArizonaHighDesertHomestead]

Thanks so much G Bear..very much appreciated.. great video.. keep em coming

[@GBear]

You're welcome.

[@saltyshellback]

Interesting! I'm planning on getting a small inverter to just run a drop light or maybe a sawsall. Thanks for the shout out 😄

[@GBear]

For small items like that a modified sine wave inverter from Harbor freight will suffice. I have a 3k from them in my van that I have used for 9 years to power drills, planers, skilsaws, and even tablesaws and jack hammers, as well as an air compressor. I wouldn't trust it for electronics though, because it isn't pure sine.

[@andymoren2232]

Great video. I hope we get a wet winter and put some water in our lakes.

[@GBear]

That would be a good thing.

[@esspeajay]

As a licensed Electrical Contractor. I just want to point out, more than one conductor under one terminal is a violation of NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code) unless specifically labeled otherwise.

[@GBear]

Thank you.

[@pulesjet]

LF INVERTERS are the way to go for sure. They do present one issue. They run hot.. You need to insure they have the best cooling possible Adding a booster fan to the air intake helps . Gotta keep the air flowing any mean you have. Cool air. I've never worked with the split phase type.

[@GBear]

Yeah, I have multiple CPU fans running to keep things cool.

[@pulesjet]

@@GBear Use the turbine type. They create more pressure and concentrate the air better.

[@GBear]

Yep, have one featured in tonite's video, just posted. And a shout out to you too.

[@heatseekerbus]

Everybody likes shout-outs 👍

[@GBear]

I can see why.

[@josemanuel2244]

2 years have past, how this inveryer have been so far? considering one for my home.

[@GBear]

Welcome aboard! The AIMS 4000W PURE SINE, SPLIT PHASE, LOW FREQUENCY INVERTER IS GREAT!

[@deserthorizons]

Hey sonny,, Thanks for the shout out.. It IS appreciated.. How much for the proper Aims inverter as compared to getting a proper transfer switch.? It is never a bad thing to have an extra inverter ya' know..

[@GBear]

You're welcome. Transfer switch =$300+ AIMS=$1700+ Homemade TS=$35

[@davidpotter9462]

I may be wrong but I thought they said on split phase it only uses the neutral for a ground on one side...the other must be grounded to the case I think...it is a bit confusing, especially when you add the two green wires...I think it has something to do with preventing a " Ghost phase "from having them both on the same ground...I have one of those remote start switches with about a twenty foot cord on it lol...supposed to be for a long RV I think ...I just don't know where it is right now.

[@GBear]

Somewhat. It says that if you connect to a house panel that already has a neutral to ground connection, all you need it to ground the AIMS case to earth ground and disable the neutral ground at the inverter.

[@thomasmoore4576]

Amazon has the transfer switches in stock if you're looking to go the easy way you can also get them off of eBay

[@GBear]

I saw those, but too expensive! I can fabricate one from a subpanel and 2 breakers for 1/10th the price. I may even be able to find a refurbished one for a decent price.

[@mikemulder6687]

Awesome video G bear, wondered if you’d do a part 2 with the answers Aims gave you…they weren’t a ton of help for me -going through nearly the same issue myself with the same inverter 4kw 12v-240split wondering how to hook up AC input/outputs…I just have a main panel really don’t wanna add a sub if I don’t have to, but don’t wanna take a chance with back feed Have great day

[@GBear]

It sounds like you are attempting a grid tie setup. I only do off grid solar. I think it requires a shunt to prevent backflow, and normally different equipment is used for on grid solar. Sorry, I can't be of assistance for a grid system.

[@mikemulder6687]

On grid no solar yet but will be added later for backup, grid is less and less dependable…just looking to use grid or generator to maintain batteries for now…. I’d disconnect main while using inverter (or generator) until grid returned… Curious what all aims had to say…no worries, good day

[@GBear]

I called AIMS to get the proper switch settings, and to question the green ground wires on the AC side of the inverter. They walked me through the switches for lead acid batteries, etc, and told me for my application those green wires remain disconnected, and the inverter case should be grounded to earth. Other than that, the owners manual provided all the other info needed. I hope that helps I can tell you that you will need a very big battery bank to be of any help for powering a house without solar panels.

[@davidpotter9462]

I had to call them about mine ; the tech at Aims told me the two little green wires? To connect them...on mine it changes the voltage coming in when #1 dip switch is changed, but I did not have enough batteries .When I only had 10 it kept triggering the charge cycle all the time, so I set it on zero instead of one...I can probably use the other setting now that I will have enough batteries...my 2000 watt one won't be able to suck them all down...that's my theory anyways...from what I understand of the manual, when the green wires are connected, it uses the case of the inverter ground lug as the ground...mine has a copper ground rod outside with a #4 stranded cable running to it. It is always wet there from the drip of the roof...Oh , also the price of the one I have has went up like $200 since I bought mine...I got in just ahead of the rush I guess...there's something on that split phase about they only do something on one side but since mine isn't like that I've forgotten what it is...

[@bianchispurs]

Can you charge you batteries through aims split phase inverter with a 110 generator Honda 220 ?

[@GBear]

I use a Predator gen with 240v input on mine. I don't think 120v is allowed for input on a 240v inverter.

[@bianchispurs]

@@GBear Thank you

[@GBear]

@bianchispurs you're welcome.

[@thomaswallace3987]

What part of Texas are u in

[@GBear]

Welcome aboard. I'm in California.

[@JonOffgrid]

😎🤠

[@GBear]

Welcome aboard!

[@brushbum7508]

Good Evening. TAKE CARE..

[@GBear]

Thanks Brushbum! Good to see you back on a regular basis! I missed ya!

[@brushbum7508]

@@GBear Good to be back, we had computer probs for 3 weeks & my mother got SCAMMED for $ 700. So then she was dealing with Microsoft, then she had to have a man come out & go thru the computers. FUN FUN. TAKE CARE..

[@GBear]

Wish I was closer, I would have done that for a couple beers and something to eat.

[@brushbum7508]

@@GBear I wish you were closer ! I sure would have Obliged. It was a DAMN nightmare. I've been working on my Arizona Camper Trailer Rig . I HOPE to get South this winter. TAKE CARE..

[@GBear]

If you do and can stop by, give me notice.

[@davidpotter9462]

That's right it does have that relay...mine does anyways...but mine is single phase...so I just start the generator when the light comes on...well it used to come on...I'm going for those last two batteries today...that gives me 16...I can leave the " generator for shore power" cord hooked up and just start the generator...that's why I chose single phase...lol

[@GBear]

Yeah, I'll see what AIMS tech has to say.

[@manuelg9367]

How long did this inverter last you ? Still working reliable?

[@GBear]

I've had the AIMS inverter online for a few years, and it is outstanding. yes it is still working. I'm running 2 window AC's all day on it in 110-115° temps.

[@GBear]

welcome aboard!

[@manuelg9367]

​@@GBear Awesome! thanks for the reply 👍

[@GBear]

@@manuelg9367 you're welcome. A friend from Nevada bought one at my recommendation, and he loves his too.

[@thomaswallace3987]

Did you ever figure out the 220v on the inverter

[@GBear]

Yes. The thumbnail picture shows the 2 hot 120v leads, (red&black). Red goes to one side of the electrical panel, black to the other side.

[@GBear]

Welcome aboard!

[@jimh4167]

I'm not finding the opposed breakers. transfer switch I've used in the past For customers... But it should be easy to put a bar between the two breakers If I remember right the last one I installed. Had a sliding plate

[@GBear]

I can modify a can and breakers to work as needed. I have the tools and skills needed, all I have to do is get the equipment. Home Depot was out of them, and so was Lowes. I have a place in OC that refurbished breakers, panels, switches, etc. When I get time I'll make the 3-4 hr round trip.

[@ShortCrypticTales]

so Bear I am currently trying to run an wind-solar system for my workshop The biggest equipment I am running are a plasma cutter, a stick welder, and an air compressor, my question is what is the difference between the 24 volt and a 12 volt inverter and would it be better for me to run a 240 and for lights and such bring it down to 120

[@GBear]

A 24v system would be more efficient for your needs. I would suggest a larger AIMS inverter, depending in your 240v needs. For me, I can 'get by' with the 4k inverter, but would prefer to have the 6k AIMS or larger. Bigger IS better. Also, remember that after the sun sets and the wind dies, the battery bank needs to handle the load, so plan on either a very large battery bank, or only running those items when the sun is high in the sky.

[@ShortCrypticTales]

@@GBear thank you for your input and suggestions it is much appreciated

[@ShortCrypticTales]

@@GBear so if I got a breaker box to install you would recommend 240 breakers on main coming in?

[@GBear]

Yes, if you have a 240v split phase inverter, by all means utilize it at 240v. The panel will then provide either 2 banks of 120v breakers or provide for a 240v breaker for tool operation or a subpanel.

[@GBear]

You're welcome.

[@Tiersmoke92555]

Wow, those terminals are going to be taxed wired in that way. Attaching to a terminal block or board would be safer. I'll up load a video of my system for review.

[@GBear]

Welcome aboard. Thanks, I'll check it out.

[@denisewilson8367]

Take care GBear. I have hope AIM'S can give you some answers. But by the scmatics you won't be able to use this inverter, correct? I know what you said you wanted to do. I hope it's possible.

[@GBear]

The only reason I would prefer to feed generator power through the inverter is because it also converts to a battery charger with smart controls for float and bulk, and even battery repair, all while still providing power to the cabin. But, even if I have to run directly to the panel with a transfer switch, my gen is big enough to run a separate battery charger for the battery bank. Also, I have enough amorphous panel power so that if I disconnect the battery bank from feeding the cabin while running on gen, the bank will fully recharge in one day.

[@denisewilson8367]

@@GBear yes it will. I was sending good wishes that things worked out the way.you preferred them too.

[@GBear]

I gathered that, sorry. I should have started my reply with a thanks.

[@MrKoladge]

How much kilowatts will You save connecting this inverter to the grid?? Does it use less grid power than the inverter puts out???

[@GBear]

I'm not sure I understand your question. This is a 4kw pure sine inverter used to convert incoming solar power to a battery bank to AC power for home use. It will convert DC power from a battery bank of 12/24/48 volts dc to 120/240 volts ac, so it really won't save kilowatts, it supplements them from the size of your solar array, and your battery bank. I hope that explains your, question. If not, ask more.

[@MrKoladge]

@@GBear Ok let me ask this. If I’m powering a wall ac unit from the grid and I power the same wall ac unit with the inverter does it save kilowatt hours from the grid electricity as it’s converting lower input to higher output on the inverter??

[@GBear]

@@MrKoladge No. This inverter does not save grid electricity. It converts solar power through batteries to usable electricity. I will not work without solar panels and a battery bank.

[@denisewilson8367]

There is no grid power involved here. Only solar, or a/c current from the generator.

[@GBear]

Exactly, but I may have caused the confusion showing the page with the grid connection.

[@pulesjet]

Is that stone bruise still at ya ?

[@GBear]

Almost gone, but rears it's ugly head if I spend too much time on my feet. Also have the latest fall injuries to deal with, but almost back to normal.

[@solarandwindinsouthtexasda1473]

Ok let me know

[@GBear]

Will do. Thanks for sending me in that direction. I appreciate the learning.

[@TheWickerShireProject]

I use the 48v 6,000watt model. I have Ground🟢 ( STRICTLY GROUND! Copper wire to a Grounding Rod! ) ( IN or Incoming ) L1 ⚫🔴 ➡(120v 3,000watts ) L2 ⚫🔴➡ ( 120v 3,000watts ) for a total of 6,000watts. On My Out I have L1 ⚫🔴🔄Hot / L2 ⚫🔴🔄 Hot and N ⚪🔀 ( Neutral ). Now this neutral ⚪ is used to split phase 🔀 some how. It will read 120v out of phase 🔀. This why you DO NOT WIRE the ground 🟢 to the Neutral ⚪like EVER or you will SHORT the Inverter⚡ That ground 🟢symbol is STRICTLY for a grounding🟢 Rod. If in an RV You connect those two yellow strip green wires together 🔒 For off grid application DO NOT connect those two wires. Leave them apart🔓 🚫 Then must Install and use a Grounding 🟢rod. Hope that makes sense.

[@GBear]

Yes, and it sounds like you have all the wiring correct. I have my 4000w split phase wired exactly like you described.

[@GBear]

Welcome aboard!

[@TheWickerShireProject]

@@GBear I had to watch 100's of Aims video's to get all that clarification. That Neutral is So Special in doing phase application. The manual has the hardest of times explaining it. These inverters ( most ) have soft start technology and the ability to split phase to help start motors from what I read. I was going to include a special soft start circuit but AC, Fridge, drills and Air compressors work just fine.

[@GBear]

They sure do! I just called AIMS and a tech walked me through special settings and connections. They were very helpful.

[@closertothetruth9209]

lf inverters have much more surge capability and far less electronics to go wrong, my lf inverters are so robust they do not need cooling fans even in 50 deg c at full load.

[@GBear]

Yeah, my AIMS faulted once or twice when the temp outside reached 116°F.

[@closertothetruth9209]

@@GBear how did your previous inverter handle the heat, mine are genuine aussie built so theyve got to perform here or it wouldnt be good for business, they cost a fortune i had to buy both of mine near new barely used and unused.

[@GBear]

@@closertothetruth9209 the old PowerJack was never bothered by the heat. But I discovered it wasn't clean sine wave either.

[@closertothetruth9209]

@@GBear yeh seen videos of their faltering sinewaves under load , its what destroyed 3 refrigerator compressors of my freinds, once he upgraded inverters no more issues since 2013

[@GBear]

Same here, remember my fridge going out?