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N2uhj1
06-10-2018, 10:08 AM
When a solar panel is plugged into the solar plug on the outside of the Trailer
does it charge the battery? Is there a schematic diagram for the 12volt system available? Also, where is the best place to connect 12v to 120v inverter. I want connect an inverter to have 120v power available while on battery power.
Thank you,
Jim

SC Dreamer
06-11-2018, 03:33 AM
When a solar panel is plugged into the solar plug on the outside of the Trailer
does it charge the battery?

Yes, but choose a panel with a charge controller to keep from over charging your battery

Is there a schematic diagram for the 12volt system available?

I seriously doubt it

Also, where is the best place to connect 12v to 120v inverter. I want connect an inverter to have 120v power available while on battery power.

Generally inverters should be as close to the batteries as possible, but not in same compartment with standard flooded batteries.

N2uhj1
06-11-2018, 03:55 AM
Thank you for the info. I’m using a 45 watt 3 panel solar array from Harbor Freight. It has a control box with outputs for battery charging or inverter. Which would be the best to use?

I know putting the inverter close to the battery is ideal but I think I’ll try finding a 12v source at the circuit breaker box. Do you think that would work?

Jim

SC Dreamer
06-11-2018, 04:44 AM
It really depends on what you are trying to do. Usually you want a proper sized battery bank for the inverter to run what you want to be able to run when dry camping. Normally, you use solar to charge your batterries, and use your batteries to run inverter. Depending on size of inverter it may take very large cables to your batteries and recommended shorter then 4-5' run in those cables. It really depends on what you are trying to accomplish though, ymmv. Great article I found here http://www.macandchris.com/introtodrycamping.htm

N2uhj1
06-11-2018, 05:31 AM
My inverter is a small only 450 watt output and draws 45 amps, only has a 20 amp in line fuse. I have a Honda 2000 generator for microwave, toaster, etc. I only need to inverter to power the tv or charger for cell phones.
That is a good article link you sent, thanks.
Jim

N2uhj1
06-11-2018, 05:33 AM
Will probably replace the 12v battery with 2 6v ones.

Canonman
06-11-2018, 07:36 AM
We use our solar to charge the batteries. I ran a 10 gauge cable from the battery distribution to our entertainment center and installed a 750 watt inverter there. It runs the tv and supplies USB ports for charging cell phones etc. plus a digital read out for battery voltage. Your 450 inverter may not be equipped with lugs to attach the 10 ga. wiring. If not, you may want to upgrade to an inverter that does.
Also, 45w solar may be a bit small for recharging dual batteries. Most manufacturers recommend 100w. If the 45w works for your needs great but it may not keep your batteries topped off.
Finally, you can probably find an unused fuse position in the breaker panel. If not try to identify one that is lightly loaded or loaded with accessories not normally used while running the TV.

N2uhj1
06-11-2018, 10:25 AM
Thanks for your advice. I’m going to look at the breaker box as you suggested. I’m going to see how what I have works. But will use 10 garage wire in case I need to upgrade later.
Jim

arch113
06-11-2018, 12:26 PM
For charging phones its not the most efficient route to use a inverter, since you are taking 12vDC to 120vAC back down to 5vDC, for this use I would get a 12vDC USB ports, and use inverter that require 120vAC.

Canonman
06-11-2018, 12:37 PM
For charging phones its not the most efficient route to use a inverter, since you are taking 12vDC to 120vAC back down to 5vDC, for this use I would get a 12vDC USB ports, and use inverter that require 120vAC.

Fair enough, how do you access the 12v DC to attach the 5v charger?
BTW we have USB outlets in the bedroom but I've never checked to see if they run off the 12v or 110v line. Will do so today and follow up

Canonman
06-11-2018, 03:00 PM
Checked the "Charging Center" in the bedroom. Definitely wired to the 12v side. So thanks arch113 that's a good thing to know. 2 USB and one cigarette lighter ports.

bill-e
06-13-2018, 04:34 AM
Take a look at this thread, the solar connector on your camper is likely set up for a Zamp panel which means that the male pin of the connector on the camper is the (+) positive terminal which is likely reversed from the connector on your HF panel. You can verify with a voltmeter. Amazon sells a simple polarity reverser to correct this issue.

http://www.keystoneforums.com/forums/showpost.php?p=282680&postcount=5

arch113
06-13-2018, 05:48 AM
Checked the "Charging Center" in the bedroom. Definitely wired to the 12v side. So thanks arch113 that's a good thing to know. 2 USB and one cigarette lighter ports.


No problem, wish my trailer had USB and/or 12v socket anywhere. Only USB I have is on the Furrion stereo and TV which is 110v. IF I ever get to use my trailer I would like to add some USB ports that run off the 12v side throughout the trailer.

N2uhj1
06-13-2018, 07:42 AM
Thanks for the heads up. I did check the pin before I plugged in the solar panel.

Jseverence
06-21-2018, 10:28 AM
When connecting your 12 VDC to 120 Vac inverter, I would consider a switch to isolate it from the DC supply when not in use. The electronics in the inverter could draw down your battery somewhat. If the inverters has a built in power switch, this would not be a problem then.