Canadian Energy™: Inverter Installation : 101

[@Pack.Leader]

Thank you! I almost feel like I can do it myself, now.

[@chriswooster]

Simplest. clearest instructions to installing this kind of inverter. A+.

[@Mikestime22]

Your videos are very organized and easy to understand. It would of been great if you showed how an inverter is hard wired.

[@CanadianEnergy]

Mikestime22 great feedback. Thank you!

[@jorgeescobar5487]

Wow one of the best videos

[@travelstreckstequilas4410]

The ground cable. How do you determine the size of the wire

[@fishhead3333]

The fuse should be as close to the battery as possible. That way if the wire where to be shorted the fuse would blow instead of the wire melting and maybe starting a fire.

[@canadapainter658]

what is the proper size cable for a 1000W inverter? the video does not say anything about proper size for 2000W...

[@themanimal1925]

The most helpful KZbin video I've seen in a while.

[@CanadianEnergy]

Arthur Hood thank you so much. Appreciate you taking the time. ✌🏼

[@fernandofernandez5719]

Best vid on you tube thanks for posting

[@dgckelowna]

Fernando Fernandez thank you so much! ✌🏼🇨🇦

[@scottsparksjr8792]

Very easy to understand. My only problem is what steps take place if I have a trailer that has dual batteries a cutoff switch and a converter in the unit. How would I add the inverter properly and really simple like this? Just want an outlet which can be just a cord off the inverter itself for a fridge. I don’t have to wire it up to the whole converter setup and outlets within.

[@st.nagykhattar3753]

please correct your statement lamp is pulling 0.49 amps not 49 amps for 500 watts halogen lamp😉

[@juvenille2001]

Thank you sir I was also thinking like waaaaay not in hell is pulling 49 amp. that is half of a one family house pull. I agree only 0.49amp

[@kenncct]

500W / 11.5V = 43.4782608696 A P= IxV

[@billkeys6733]

@@kenncct The load is a 500 watt halogen lamp running on 120 volts. 500W/120v=4.1666 amps

[@branliew]

49A is correct, because remember this is *the current flowing out of the 12V battery* which is powering the AC lamp. @kenncct calculates 43.5A, and if you assume 90% conversion (inversion?) efficiency, that's 43.5/.9 = 48.3A.

[@cawag98]

Good information - finally - in a sea of poorly informed other youtubers often offering dangerous info.

[@CanadianEnergy]

cawag98 thank you so much. We really appreciate that.

[@cawag98]

@@CanadianEnergy Another question for you: Can this inverter be connected to domestic wiring via a transfer switch, meaning: is all the voltage only on the hot wire and is neutral/cold not bonded to ground? I have a Vector which would work, but it puts out voltage on hot and cold. Thx.

[@reggiesmith6423]

The fuse should be closer to the 12V battery rather than close to the inverter.

[@CanadianEnergy]

Reggie Smith yes, that’s correct, as close to the battery as possible. ✌🏼

[@modove3034]

What size cable and fuse should I use for a 3500 watt inverter to go in my big rig thx

[@dragan3290]

I have a 200amp circuit breaker on a 1700 watt inverter. Inverter has short circuit protection but I'm paranoid. Is 200 amp ok for 1700 watt inverter? Any reply appreciated

[@inber]

@@dragan3290 I understand your paranoia, car batteries can provide currents at shorts which are really spectacular, and potentially dangerous. Your protection sounds OK to me. 1700 W at 12 V means 1700/12=141,7 A. If your circuit breaker disconnects at 200 A, this means that you the threshold for the circuit breaker is approximately +40 % above the maximum 141,7 A. If you get a short circuit, the inverter's short circuit protection will hopefully kick in first, protecting the inverter. If that one would fail, the circuit breaker will kick in at 200 A. It all sounds reasonable to me. It is worth mentioning that all fuses and circuit breakers have different tolerances, so I would not expect the circuit breaker to kick in at exactly 200 A, but you are in the right ballpark in my humble opinion.

[@dragan3290]

@@inber thanks for the reply ! Highly appreciated! 🙂

[@12vLife]

is it okay to install an inverter in the engine bay? will engine heat and sun on hood affect the inverters high temp cut off? do most newer 2018/2019 inverters have an overtemp cutoff? I seem to be having this issue, but not sure. in the morning I can run anything, but after I run the engine for a while, though reading 13v, the inverter goes to fault sometimes with very little and no load.

[@CanadianEnergy]

NoSunBeach generally it is not advised to install in the engine compartment due to heat, moisture and contaminants, unless the inverter is IP66 rated or sealed with no fan. Inverters that are CSA or UL458 approved will have over temp or high temp cut off but there are many inverters on the market with no certification, check the specifications before purchasing. Hope that helps. ✌🏼🇨🇦

[@hillstef]

Positive line should be attached last when installing an inverter to a battery bank. Upon disconnecting your wires the Positive line is the first wire to disconnect. Especially in a RV, Boat, Cottage application.

[@Pack.Leader]

Can anyone else weigh in here?

[@akatsukiawsome13]

That is what caused it to arc, correct? I have heard before that things should not arc when you connect a battery to an object, provided you do things in the correct order.

[@randyanderson24]

That is incorrect. The negative cable should be disconnected first to avoid short circuit with chassis and when connecting the Negative cable should be connected last. You will almost always get a spark when connecting the inverter to the battery as it is energizing the the inverter, this can be avoided by installing a breaker inline which can be turned on once the connection is made.

[@davem5333]

NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO!!!!!. Just the opposite. Read Randy Anderson below.

[@brkbrk5205]

NEGATIVE BATTERY WIRE SHOULD BE TAKEN OF FIRST, AND NEGATIVE WIRE ALSO SHOULD BE INSTALLED LAST! U SHOULD NOT MESS AROUND WITH ELECTICAL WIRE MAN U DON'T HAVE KNOWLEDGE. PLEASE STAY SAFE

[@MrRafa108]

Thank you. Most helpful.

[@kenjohnston3971]

Thanx for the video. You mentioned that the cable you were using wasn't the right AWG. Do you have a guide for wire size vs watts vs length of run? Thanx in advance.

[@ralphjansen9205]

Should the.Ground wire not be, one.size.smaller than the load (positive.) cable.?

[@CanadianEnergy]

Ralph Jansen No they should be same Gauge and Length.

[@travisweaver1805]

How do you hook up the inverter to the A.C. side of things? I understand hooking it up to the DC side, but now I need to run my 3 A.C. outlets on my boat off the inverter. Seems like you guys only did half the installation here (the DC side), there should be a video on how to connect the inverter so you power your outlets as well. I'm also confused with how to install the inverter so it charges your batteries when you're hooked up to shore power without overchargering, do I need a separate charge controller than that of my solar panel charge controller?

[@CanadianEnergy]

Travis Weaver Connecting the the AC to the inverter is completely dependent on what type of inverter you have and the wiring configuration of your vessel ie. is there an existing AC distribution panel that powers the circuits that you can connect to. Almost all battery chargers are regulated and will control how much charge goes into the battery, most inverter/chargers will have multiple settings for charging different types of batteries such as flooded, AGM or Gell. We recommend that you refer to the inverter installation and operating manual to determine how and where to connect the AC to the inverter and how to set the charger to the appropriate battery type. Hope that helps.

[@Engineer9736]

3 AC outlets.. Just hook them up in parralel and put a power plug on the end if the cable that goes into the inverter. Everything except that power plug on the end of the cable is probably already in the boat. And inverters don’t charge batteries. You need a seperate battery charger which do their own job totally seperate from the inverter.

[@jcyork1767]

Hello! What about the ground wire ? Where does it go ? Connected back to the secondary battery? I don’t have an rv. It will be an emergency set up seperate from the house

[@allthingsaustralia4861]

Great info, Thank you!

[@westwaters1690]

Keep your + and - leads as short as possible. Longer leads more amperage

[@nosmilo]

well done brother. thanks for sharing

[@Mazel_Tov_888]

never seen anyone ground the case of inverter is it really necessary?

[@CanadianEnergy]

Ric777888 As we like to say, there is never an issue until there is an issue! I believe it will depend on the manufacturer of the inverter whether they recommend connecting a chassis ground, generally if the product is CSA or UL approved they will recommend a chassis ground. Xantrex inverters and inverter/chargers are all CSA/UL approved and as per Pg 14 of the attached install manual, recommend chassis ground www.xantrex.com/documents/Inverter-Chargers/Freedom-HW/Freedom%20HF%20Installation%20Guide%20(975-0395-01-01_Rev-F)_ENG.pdf

[@manuelsalgado8510]

I have a small solar set up with a 2000 watt inverter, is a ground cable required? Is a fuse block required? Thank you

[@iKnowApp]

Awesome video thanks 👍😅

[@KPussGT]

If you are installing in a house can you attach ground to the ground lug in a house outlet?

[@nightstringers]

What brand of fuse did you use or recommend

[@victorlopez2143]

I wasn't sure what size inverter would go with a 12 volt battery now that I see what you use, I'm confident of my choices. How would I use the inverter to send power to the other RV outlets using the inverter outlets ?

[@hustlergrind]

Thanks for a clear explanation!

[@easytopleez33]

Can your Battery source be a regular car battery, in other words not a deep cycle? And do you have to have a battery set aside from your other batteries for the inverter itself?

[@CanadianEnergy]

Yes, you can use a regular car battery but its life will be shortened if you are continually discharging and recharging it. No, you can connect the inverter directly to the vehicle starting battery but there is a strong possibility you will discharge the battery to the point that it will not have enough power to start the vehicle. Hope that helps.

[@jacksionilopa3106]

What is the formula used for calculating the fuse? I'm quite confused when a 2000 Watts Invertor requires a 200amps fuse?

[@brkbrk5205]

I have question. Do i need that fuse, cause i have seen videos when guys are connectin wires from power inverter straight to batteries. Will that hurt or damage something on my truck ? Thank you!

[@sklise1]

you may want to charge the capacitors via a 25 watt 30 ohm resistor prior to applying power cables. wont damage the batteries

[@adanylocksmith1935]

To installed 750 W inverter in The bed of my Truck what gauge of wire I need in the size of the fuse? I figured the length of the wire should be from 10 to 12 feet

[@ne160]

Where is a decent place to find fuse blocks and fuses? I’m in the US I can’t seem to find any kind of reputable company. I hate Amazon.

[@naeemmaqbool9311]

If battery got discharged how you will charge the battery

[@CanadianEnergy]

Switch it out! :)

[@HIGHGRADECHANNEL]

@@CanadianEnergy gotta get a battery isolater and get a second battery. Dont be a dumbass and that was a half amp not 50 amp 😂😂😂

[@Qaz375]

HIGH GRADE it’s 49Amp /41.6 amp out of a 12v battery Low volts = high amps 500w~12v = 41.6 Yes 4.1A at 120v going to the 500w lamp

[@DaveGalligher]

Nice video, thanks for putting it together, can you tell me what is the 'proper' gauge wire that you are using there? I know it depends on the wattage of the inverter you are using, is it 0, 2, or 4 AWG?

[@CanadianEnergy]

Dave Galligher 1000 Watt inverter 2 gauge cable maximum 5 feet and the 2000 Watt inverter 2/0 cable maximum 5 feet. Hope that helps! ✌🏼🇨🇦

[@SkarrKingg]

I'm living out of my car for a while and winter is here so I need a heat source and power besides my car being turned on for extended periods of time. So 2 questions: 1) Do I connect the positive connection of the inverter to the positive on the battery? 2) I have a very small 10Ah Thunderbolt Magnum, 12v sealed lead acid sports battery and a centech 750continous/1500peak inverter. I never did this before and I don't want anything dangerous to happen. Are these two items compatible? Side note: Would you be able to do a video on creating a continous power source for this particular living situation? I think I'd be helpful to a lot of folks in this situation. Thanks

[@CanadianEnergy]

Sqor Geek Yes you would connect the battery positive to the positive terminal of the inverter, ideally there would be a fuse in between as well, then connect the battery negative to the inverter negative terminal. The battery and inverter are compatible because they are both 12 volt but you should should not expect much run time with a 10Ah battery, maybe only a few minutes depending on the size of the load. Hope that helps.

[@penniecapo546]

How did the inverter work out for you? I'm currently going thru similar circumstances and was wondering if you could give me any tips for doing mine.

[@paulmryglod4802]

Sqor Geek you'll a deep cycle battery bank to support the inverter powering a heater with the car engine off.

[@whatsup7202]

If you can, park near an outside ac outlet and run an extension cord. Without your engine running the current draw of a heater can kill your battery in a few hours.

[@philsansone6961]

At 6:20, you are not drawing 49 amps. You are drawing .49 amp, or a half amp.

[@HikerBiker]

I see you didn't pre-charge the capacitors in the inverter, I was under the impression that should be done to protect the inverter and batteries. ????

[@corin164]

Does this inverter work best with a deep cycle battery or with a normal automobile battery?

[@CanadianEnergy]

Co Rin The inverter doesn’t care what type of lead acid battery it’s connected to but an automotive battery will have a shortened lead life in a cycling application.

[@leelemon3373]

Great video. right to the point and short. Thank you

[@dalegribble60]

Thanks for giving people the tips on what cable to hook up first. Others learn the hard way!

[@CanadianEnergy]

Bill Dozer thank you! 🇨🇦

[@nestorasuncion1226]

What is the minimum amp rating of you car alternator to provide 200 continuous dc amps to the 2000 watts inverter.? The car battery is 635 cranking amps but does nit provide any other info And the alternator is 230 amps. What is the minimum engine rpm. Idle? 7000 rpm? Thank you sir. I just bought a 5000 continues watts pure sine 12v inverter. The manual does not provide the requiet amp rating of the 1wv dc alternator.

[@CanadianEnergy]

Nestor Asuncion Unfortunately we are not able to provide that information as it will be dependent on the vehicle make model, type of alternator, pulley sizes, ambient temperature, etc, etc. Remember, in addition to the 200 amps you will require to operate the inverter the alternator must also supply the vehicle electrical loads, battery specs are not as important as it will only sustain the inverter load for about 30 seconds if the alternator is not operating.

[@signmann636]

Good info. For now using 800 watt inverter. Pretty much the same process?

[@CanadianEnergy]

Yes thats correct. The formula is watts/volts=amps so 800 watts/110 volts=7.27 amps AC (we’ll round up to 8). For every 1 amp AC it will draw about 10 amps on a 12Volt DC battery, so 8 X 10 = 80 Amp DC draw. We prefer to use fuses on the DC circuit as they will blow faster but you can use a circuit breaker, fuses or breakers should be sized to match the DC cable in the circuit and should be rated at enough amps that meets the surge capacity of the inverter.

[@signmann636]

Is the formula for size amp fuse versus watts like you used so 80 amp for 800 Watt? Also see 100 amp circuit breaker. Better than fuses?

[@garycarroll9447]

How ever you probably blow the fuse. I didn’t have the fuse block nor did i ground my inverter but something I’m looking at. I fried my resisters. four of them in side the inverter. that’s repairable with a sadder gun. it’s to much work i may buy a new one

[@deanhenthorn1890]

49 amps draw? For a 120v 500w lamp? Me thinks sum ting wong with inverter

[@flyonthewall7026]

How do you explain a "Ground" when all vehicles have rubber tyres..???

[@NearTheLimits]

What's the difference between a Pure Sine Wave and a Modified Sine Wave Inverter? One's half the price of the other for the theoretically same power output. Thanks.

[@CanadianEnergy]

Albert Zion The power supplied by the national grid in North America is 120V 60Hz AC (or alternating current). The current effectively 'switches direction' 60 times every second. There in no positive or negative like there is with batteries. The waveform is smooth and gradual conforming to what is called a 'sine wave'. Pure Sine Wave inverters such are the most efficient and highest quality inverters available. Pure Sine Wave inverters produce little distortion and are able to run even the most sensitive electronic equipment. Designed to roughly emulate a sine wave waveform, modified wave inverters are cheaper than their pure sine wave cousins. They mimic the sine wave shape in large steps. Most simple appliances like power tools, light bulbs, heater elements and electric motors will run with a modified wave inverter...although they will get hotter and use more power. As these inverters don't produce clean sine wave power, they are not recommended for use with electronic equipment like TVs, stereos and computers. Clocks and other timing devices (like digital washing machines) can run either too fast or too slow.

[@juvenille2001]

cleanse sine wave or pure is 60hz mostly use for lights, TV and other sensitive electronics appliance. modified wave are inverter that been modified from a square wave inverter 50hz mostly use for motors and other industrial things

[@JVONROCK]

I saw the tell tale spark when you connected the negative cable, showing the system is now connected an ready. Nice Job.

[@MegaTUHAU]

Can i parralell 2in1 plug

[@deathtrip1862]

Thanks that was just the info I was looking for.

[@azrydr1723]

At 3:03 mins, you said you were putting the ground cable on. I'm a total novice... You meant the negative cable, right?

[@CanadianEnergy]

Stephen Denlinger At 3:36 of the video he is referring to the chassis ground, that’s the smaller black wire coming off the inverter at a 90 degree angle, this ground connection comes off a designated terminal on the inverter to common ground on a boat or RV or the chassis of the vehicle it is being mounted on. The main positive and negative terminals off the back of the inverter go to the battery. Hope that helps.

[@dianafesulio5589]

nag a a A фи я фит я ям я я Я РФФИ ФТФФИФА ah ano z ah ha z z z z z ba ah n для жду дядя для яд Об о дБ лщщ

[@mr.timjohnston546]

you say proper szie but what is the size??

[@CanadianEnergy]

Tim Johnston the inverter DC amp draw and cable size determines the size of fuse, it is recommended to refer to the inverter install or owners manual. If you want us to ballpark it, 1000 watt inverter 100-150 amp fuse, 2000 watt inverter 200-250 amp fuse, 3000 watt inverter 300-350 amp fuse. Hope that helps! 🇨🇦✌🏼

[@hasansmith9346]

Thear are so meany questions what kind of battery is that what is the description of the wire

[@chuckeastman6446]

I have a TT with 2 Lithium batteries. Can I hookup the inverter to the batteries and hard wire the inverter back to the 1 breaker on the fuse panel I need power to? (Of course never turn on the inverter when on shore power.) The batteries and fuse panel are all in the same location.

[@CanadianEnergy]

Chuck Eastman We prefer to keep our advice limited to DC wiring, so you can certainly connect your 2 Lithium batteries to the inverter, assuming they are the same DC voltage and there is an appropriately sized fuse in between. My opinion of the AC connection is, it is not the ideal way to connect an inverter to a fuse panel but it’s your TT.

[@chuckeastman6446]

Canadian Energy thank you for your advise!

[@CanadianEnergy]

Chuck Eastman Our pleasure! 🇨🇦

[@e.ssential755]

I've watched a bunch of videos for inverters. This was the best one.

[@penniecapo546]

I have a 10,000 w inverter. Due to a situation I will need to run this continuously for up to 10 hrs. at a time, but not on full load.Would 2 batteries be sufficient. Would it be better to use car or marine batteries

[@CanadianEnergy]

Pennie Capo You will want to use Deep Cycle batteries to power your inverter. The size and quantity of batteries will depend entirely on how much power your inverter is outputting, this can be determined by adding the power in watts that each AC appliance uses then multiplying by the number of hours each device will operate. Hope that helps!

[@Engineer9736]

Use AGM batteries or lithium. Thinking about car batteries for inverters is so wrong, they are not made for that purpose and die very quickly when in use like that.

[@eandmstern]

Fuse should be sized to the wire first! This is to prevent wire from getting too hot and causing a fire, then worry about protecting the electronics.

[@armourofgod6310]

I think his fuse is a little to much for that size wire

[@MouseBiceps]

@@armourofgod6310 if its 2000W usually you divide it with the battery V so 2000W/12V = 166,66A. You multiply it with 1.5 and you get 1.5 x 166.66A = 250A This would actually mean that the good fuse for a 35mm2 cable with a 2000W system behind it would actually need something from 250A to 275A

[@TieuXuanTu75]

can use 12v car battery inverter 2000w back up Renault Twizy 220v ???? it work????

[@CanadianEnergy]

AnNam Viet Nam sorry. Not sure what you’re asking? 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@south-vietnam.0009]

Dear Sir. This inverter how many watt? And the battery connect to where to keep charge the power in?

[@klaushold2180]

Except the demonstration with a hammer to crimp, I would agree. On the other hand a normal crimp press is nothing different. Good explanation though.

[@OntarioMiner]

How far should your batteries be from your inverter to avoid battery off gases from igniting? While also taking into consideration the length of cable to avoid voltage drop to the inverter. Example: 12V 3000w inverter with 2/0 awg cable feeds to 12v battery bank. Would 3ft be safe?

[@CanadianEnergy]

Eric Scherzinger because every application is different and depends on the configuration and ventilation it is difficult today what is a safe distance, the other option is to install sealed batteries that do not vent. The recommended cable size for a 3000 watt inverter is 4/0 with a minimum size of 2/0 so you should be ok if running 3 feet but we always recommend you refer to the inverter manual for the proper sizing. Hope that helps.

[@OntarioMiner]

The inverter is a cheap Canadian Tire 3000 watt modified sine wave inverter. The manual is way below par in specs on wire gauge. Cheers

[@engrpriest9533]

Hello.. please which product of battery is the best?

[@CanadianEnergy]

Priest Elisha we recommend one of our CanadaProof Batteries which can be found on our site at CDNRG.com.

[@TonyAnschutz]

In an install like this, is a battery disconnect switch needed?

[@CanadianEnergy]

ScubaTony Anschutz It’s not needed because we are working with low voltage but doesn’t hurt if you want to install one. Hope that helps.

[@aguilas1999]

You forgot the ground cable

[@CanadianEnergy]

Rudy Men Not sure what you mean, there is a negative cable to battery and chassis ground off the inverter that would connect somewhere to the vehicle chassis or common ground.

[@ghostmen8526]

Where do you connect the ground

[@CanadianEnergy]

THE GAMING HEAD are you referring to the chassis ground or the battery ground? Most CSA or UL approved inverters or inverter/chargers will provide adequate installation instructions with the equipment. Without knowing the exact type of inverter, location of installation and type of vehicle or chassis it is almost impossible to provide an accurate answer. 👍🏼🇨🇦

[@alovetro1]

How would you ground it if you were using it at home ?

[@CanadianEnergy]

Inverters are designed for mobile applications carry a different CSA or UL approval than those for home or cottage use and are not neutral to ground bonded so we do not endorse the use of mobile inverters in a home applications. Hope that helps!

[@Engineer9736]

You can try to find out what the neutral output of your inverter is and hook that up to a grounding rod. But most important is using a GFCI i think. Take care that all the ground connectors of your wall outlets and light fixtures actually do what they are supposed to do: kill the power if a certain amount of mA enters it. And use a smooth sine wave inverter, i almost killed a kill-a-watt meter because it didnt like a square wave. More home appliances might not like square waves.

[@susan7627]

Can you give a video on how to properly set up batteries....💥💥💥QUESTION 💥💥💥 should I buy 3 6 volt Goff cart batteries or use 4 harbor freight...I have a 500 watt controller and a 2000 Jupiter inverter? thanks GREAT VIDEO👏👏👏🐬

[@Bacardibombillo]

How do you determine the fuse? Got a 5000w inverter, 840Amp batt 12v

[@CanadianEnergy]

Jerry Cruz t must be able to handle the max draw of the inverter, this would be 500+ amps for a 5000 watt inverter (refer to inverter manual), the cable should also be sized to handle this load.

[@Engineer9736]

5000 watts divided by 12 volts equals 416 amps. And the inverter has a lot of losses and things might fluctuate a bit. So yes, 500 amps should be ok.

[@Engineer9736]

www.solar-wind.co.uk/cable-sizing-DC-cables.html 12v, 500 amps, 5% loss, 2 meters cable length, 185mm2 wire required. Thats 23.5mm diameter!

[@victoremmanuelli1628]

I have a 2000W continuous power output inverter, with 4000W surge capacity. Is the 200a fuse the right one or should I get something bigger?

[@CanadianEnergy]

Víctor Emmanuelli yes a fuse of 200-250 amp would be correct, the purpose of the fuse is to protect the circuit so as long as it will sustain the continuous DC load. Hope that helps!

[@victoremmanuelli1628]

Canadian Energy thanks for your help!

[@Swizzenator]

Hi Jay Thanks for this video. Question. So a 2k inverter provides less than 20 amps at 110 volts. A 200 amp fuse will never blow. I know there is something I don't understand so Im hoping you can fill in the missing pieces in the old noggin here? Cause I have a 3k inverter and Im trying to find out the correct size fuse. And can I use a breaker instead of a fuse? Thank you.

[@CanadianEnergy]

The 200 Amp fuse we are referring to is on the DC cable side, the rough conversion is, for every 1 Amp AC the inverter is putting out, it will draw 10 Amps DC @ 12 volts from the battery bank. 20 amps AC X 10 = 200 Amp DC draw on 12 volt battery bank. You can use a breaker but in this case it would have to be rated at 200 Amps (DC) or 300 Amps (DC) for your 3000 watt inverter. Hope that helps!

[@Swizzenator]

OK OK cool. So a fuse cause a 300 amp breaker would be huge and expensive prolly? And yes on the DC side. Now I got. Awesome sir. Thank you!!

[@tonyhewett3729]

Loose the wing nuts and use anti rotation washers, remember your boat or RV moves about, it flexes and vibrates, if those connections come loose your going to be in a world of hurt.

[@CanadianEnergy]

Thanks for that, Tony!

[@chatteyj]

What about lock nuts would they be a good idea? I recently had a cable from my battery to my 2000w inverter melt (the insulation melted off) and I am trying to figure out why. It was a short bit of cable (perhaps 12 inches) from the battery positive to a 150amp breaker just before the inverter. Any idea what could have caused this?

[@michaelstark9939]

@@chatteyj the breaker may have been too small, idk tho 🤷

[@turbo3089]

I am going completely off grid does an inverter or a converter power off the battery

[@CanadianEnergy]

booty pirates inverters are powered off 12, 24 or 48 volt battery packs while converters are powered by 120 Volts AC. Hope that helps.

[@turbo3089]

thanks

[@carolynsparks3164]

good information..

[@CanadianEnergy]

Carolyn Sparks thank you!

[@mahera7375]

Thanks for this job ... I have a question about some inverters comes with built-in fuse ? like cobra 2500 watt

[@CanadianEnergy]

Maher A It’s best to refer to the inverter manual when dealing with internal components.

[@montaguemonro565]

I could be wrong, but the fuse in the line is a mega fuse right? its to protect the cable, and not relevant to any internal fuses?

[@oneeyedphotographer]

What is a GFCI? You can't short the battery unless both terminals are connected. You don't connect the cables unless the other ends are safe.

[@lewisblair1260]

I have a 3000w inverter. It also has 2x positive wire attachments and 2x negative attachments . So double.what you have in video. Would I put 300amp fuse on each positive wire or 150amp on each. Thanks

[@charleslane2735]

if I have a 4000 dc amp 4000dc watt battery on a 10000 dc watt power invert?,by the it's a jupiter power inverter from harbor freight tools

[@CanadianEnergy]

charles Lane27 we don’t understand. That doesn’t make a lot of sense?

[@charleslane2735]

if the power inverter has a built in input fuse can I add another fuse to increase the current input capacity of the power inverter?

[@CanadianEnergy]

charles Lane27 Typically inverters do not have built in DC input fuses, but yours may be different. An inverter is only designed to output what it is rated at, in your case probably 5000 watts continuous, 10,000 watts peak for 5 ms, the input amperage is required directly related to the output of the inverter, at 5000 watts AC output the inverter will draw approximately 500 Amps DC at 12 volts, adding another fuse will not make a difference as the inverter is not designed for any higher input amperage.

[@whatsup7202]

@@charleslane2735 No. That would do nothing except make your inverter NOT blow it's fuse when it should.

[@hukchone4521]

II'm using 1500 w inverter,. Must I put 150 a fuse ? or I'm about to put 80A fuse. Is it OK ?

[@bairdpickett8387]

No sir I just purchased yesterday afternoon, I am thinking even if I increased the wire size it may/may not work wish I could mount it under hood opposite side from battery would be concerned possibly about heat if all I can get out of 1/0 I may just reinstall my dewalt 1000 watt and go with it

[@garyickes9970]

I have 2 batteries connected in parallel do I connect the inverter to one of the batteries or positive to one and neg. to the other?

[@CanadianEnergy]

Gary Ickes connect the positive cable to one battery and the negative to the other battery. Hope that helps.

[@garyickes9970]

thanks

[@timothy790110]

So how do you know what size cable to use?

[@CanadianEnergy]

timothy790110 read your instruction booklet. Every inverter and inverter/ is different.

[@TheALan556]

Excellent guide, so glad you spoke of Earth connection lots of vids I seen don’t mention at all …..

[@pauldawson3838]

Does it say thank you when you turn it on

[@MrTarkus007]

do i absolutly need copper wire cause i bought wire already but it's not copper so i am not sure that will do

[@CanadianEnergy]

nick diaz Copper is one of the best conductors and readily available so it is industry standard. If you choose to use a different material for your cables you will want to check the manufacturer specs to ensure it has the proper voltage and amperage carrying capability for your application, as well as its compatibility with terminal connectors. Hope that helps.

[@MrTarkus007]

thank you for such a fast response i was wanting to ask you where did you get that little box that you attached the cable to before attaching it to the battery & is that necessary to do it that way what is the purpose ??

[@CanadianEnergy]

There are several manufacturers of DC fuses, this particular one is manufactured by Eaton and can be purchased through Canadian Energy as well as other companies who supply inverters and DC components. It is highly recommended that there be a fuse in between the battery and inverter to protect the circuit, with no fuse in the circuit there is a great possibility of a cable overheating and causing a fire should there be a short circuit in the system. Hope that helps.

[@alex123quiazon7]

Can I connect it directly to car battery ?

[@wesleylyon5207]

sorry if someone has already asked this but i didn' see it. can you tell me what type of crimper that is?

[@dariomilardovic8409]

Make sure that then make sure this after that make sure that is everything connected then make sure that is cable secure.Make sure that you research this video .please make sure.

[@happyfamilydiary5792]

I would like to have one.. Plz can anyone help me

[@nypigskin]

If you’re going to do instructional videos, give the correct information. The fuse or breaker should be no more then 12 inches away from the battery.

[@CanadianEnergy]

N.Y. Pigskin thanks Pigskin, you are correct about fuse location but Jay did not say how far to mount it from battery terminal so in fact he didn’t give the incorrect information. So there.

[@nypigskin]

Canadian Energy you can see that he installed the fuse a foot away from the inverter. So there douchbag.

[@CanadianEnergy]

N.Y. Pigskin it’s a demo. Not real life. You know, you seem like a really nice fellow. Not angry or rude at all.

[@joepah51]

How do you protect the battery from over discharge? Is the inverter low voltage shutoff high enough to protect the battery from permanent damage? Thank you!

[@CanadianEnergy]

Typically you size the battery pack to the requirements of your inverter draw and the recharge sources available. Most inverters will shut down at 1.75 VPC or 10.5 volts on a 12 volt battery, depending on the rate of discharge this could mean 100% depth of discharge which is not good for a lead acid battery. Higher end inverters have adjustable cut off voltage settings which can lower the depth of discharge, but you would have to consult your inverter manual to see if your unit has this functionality. Hope that helps!

[@joepah51]

agreed but the inverter in your video, and most other retail inverters have no such adjustability on LVC.. There is a separate component that will perform that function, but I wonder how practical it is since there could be considerable voltage droop under load. I think you're right though.. Size the battery bank so the DOD is less than 25% or 50% every day... For those of us who just want a standby emergency power source, need some other method.

[@CanadianEnergy]

There are Low Voltage Disconnect devices available but most will not handle the high amperage draw of an inverter, this would mean you need to connect the LVD through a relay which becomes a complicated wiring job and more costly. With a good quality, properly sized deep cycle battery, you should get several hundred cycles out of the battery even if you are reaching the low voltage shutdown point of the inverter. Hope that helps.

[@noahriding5780]

Could you have more safety benefit in having the inverter connected at the charge controller instead of right on the battery? (Because of the safety power disconnect feature of charge controllers) And how would you do that?

[@south-vietnam.0009]

I have a RV for living right now, i would like to hook up one like this so i can use for laptop or tivi. But I don’t really know i can do it? Because confuse me about the battery connect to keep the power on all time? In my RV already have 2 battery already. But I don’t really know why I cannot use the power? If I don’t turn a generator on?

[@jamesnobles4050]

i enjoyed your install,,thank you,,

[@CanadianEnergy]

James Nobles You’re welcome! Glad that we were able to help and provide helpful content to you.

[@Arbotm]

how big of a fuse for 3000. or is there a chart to compare?

[@CanadianEnergy]

Arbo TM most CSA or UL listed inverters will have a recommendation in the install manual. Generally a 300 Amp fuse is required for a 3000 watt (continuous) inverter.

[@alexandermonge8527]

I give you the formula west Virginia Volts × amps =watts 3000watts ÷120volts =25 amps so unit a 25 or 30 amps fuse

[@alexandermonge8527]

So you need 30 amps fuse to protect your load

[@worksmartpaul]

one should always crimp for a physical connection,and solder for an electrical connection.

[@JoseGarcia-px9xj]

so you said proper size cable and proper size fuse, but how you make the calculation

[@CanadianEnergy]

Jose Garcia Your inverter manual should say what size cable and fuse is required, it is important that the cable be sized to handle the maximum amp draw of the inverter and can vary in size depending how long the cables are. There are many websites that will calculate cable size based on all these variables.

[@Engineer9736]

Cable size: www.solar-wind.co.uk/cable-sizing-DC-cables.html .. Google is your friend 🙂

[@marybarton2530]

I've seen different installations of the fuse between the inverter and the battery with some saying the fuse should be within a foot or so of the battery. In my car (a prius) I want to use anderson connectors between the battery and inverter with a short length of wire on the battery side and longer wires on the inverter side so I can just unplug the inverter and use it elsewhere or just have it out of the car when it's not in use. Is it ok to put the fuse on the inverter side of the connector? Good video by the way.

[@CanadianEnergy]

mary barton the purpose of the fuse is to protect the cable and power source from short circuits so the fuse should be as close to the battery as possible. There are some styles of fuses that can mount on the stud post of a battery but your configuration may not allow that, always a good idea to have a fuse in the system but not always possible. Hope that helps.

[@marybarton2530]

Yes it does and thank you very much. I'll be putting it on the battery side :)

[@CreachterZ]

Great videos. Thanks so much!

[@CanadianEnergy]

Creatchture Thank you for the feedback. We’re glad you enjoy the videos!

[@AdventureWithDanan]

Hey there +Canadian Energy: I intend to put a 1000-2000 watt inverter in my truck, the best place for me to install it is below the drivers seat or behind the rear seats. I'd like to have remote plugs (remote from the inverter that is) 2 plugs in the center console and 2 plugs in the bed of the truck. How does one go about running the cables to have outlets in multiple locations and not just on the unit itself?

[@CanadianEnergy]

Danan Coleman you will need to purchase an inverter that is hardwire capable, the Xantrex HF and HFS models have this capability in both the 1000 & 2000 models. Hope that helps!

[@AdventureWithDanan]

Canadian Energy thanks so much!

[@paulmryglod4802]

Danan Coleman I used stranded 12/2 with a plug on the inverter side. hooking stranded up to an outlet might not be the best idea but I've had zero problems.

[@CanadianEnergy]

paul mryglod The inverter must have the provision for hardwiring AC receptacles, Xantrex has several models available that are hard wire capable so if you are looking for a modified sine inverter the X power or the Pro Series are good options or if you are looking for a Pure Sine the Freedom Xi is hard wire capable.

[@AdventureWithDanan]

paul mryglod I ended up getting a Sunforce 1000 pure sinewave inverter installed professionally.