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Old 02-05-2017, 08:57 PM   #1
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Inverter Placement.

Simple question; I am hooking up my inverter for my small chest freezer. I can either have my inverter next to my Batteries, OR close to the freezer. I will either need to run cable to the inverter, or longer wire to the freezer( About 8 feet either way). Is there much advantage of one over the other? I have enough wire and cable to do either, and work-wise, its the same amount.

thanks kids

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Old 02-05-2017, 09:10 PM   #2
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It's best to have the inverter as close to the batteries as possible.
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Old 02-05-2017, 09:18 PM   #3
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The reason to keep the 12v lines short is because 12v DC does not travel far very well, at least not in comparrison to 120v ac. Alternating current transformed society because of the way it can travel a long distance with very little power loss, and since the output of the inverter is alternating current (ac 120v) it can travel a long distance without needing a heavy wire and without loosing power.

Good question
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Old 02-05-2017, 10:26 PM   #4
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Also, don't put the inverter in the same enclosure as the batteries. They'll vent sulfuric acid fumes and corrode the inverter.
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Old 02-06-2017, 10:27 AM   #5
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Thanks gents!!! I really appreciate the WHY's as well... Close to the power source it is then!
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Old 02-06-2017, 11:06 PM   #6
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Since we're on the subject what about placing the inverter inside the cabin?, do they give off any fumes or odor? Noise? My thought about placement is in the wall next to the breaker box which would be in the cockpit area behind the passenger seat. I'm planning on a wall with door to separate drivers area from cabin.
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Old 02-06-2017, 11:23 PM   #7
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The inverter should be connected to the battery with the largest gauge/ shortest wires possible( probably 6 gauge if 3 feet or less), a very small resistance makes a big difference in the voltage drop when going to the inverter, a 14 gauge extension cord would be adequate for the freezer though a 12 gauge would be better. I have been using this very set up in my van for the last year and a small rv battery lasts a couple of days. Putting the inverter in the main cabin is no problem, it needs good ventilation for the heat but there are no fumes.
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