[C320-list] Installing an inverter

[Robert Seastream]

We think a generator is the most efficient solution.  We're about to  
bite on the Honda EU2000i, but are considering the Honda EU200i  
'companion' instead.  Both generators have two outlets, but the  
'companion' (so called because it can be paralleled with the original  
for double the output) has a twistlock outlet as its second outlet.   
Other than that, and lacking the 12 VDC charging outlet present on the  
original, the two appear identical, although the 'companion' is $100  
more.  I just need to ensure that the twistlock is live when the so  
equipped generator is run as a standalone.  I'll run a short pigtail  
from the generator to the shore power connector.  I plan to install  
fittings on the portside swim platform to pass a web strap through and  
around the generator to secure it.  It'll be stored in the starboard  
side locker when not in use.

The units are $995 and $1095 locally.  I've heard of an internet store  
(Wise sales?) that has them cheaper, with free shipping.

Bob Seastream
Intuition # 906


On Mar 4, 2009, at 11:29 AM, <catalina at thehares.com> wrote:

> Hi Dean,
>
> 1) I'm not sure about the startup load on the microwave, but it  
> might need
> to be over 2kw peak.
>
> 2) The modified sine wave can be done but is not a great idea for the
> Microwave, especially if you're only running from batteries. Here's  
> why:
> While a microwave will function from a modified sinewave inverter, the
> performance of the microwave will be very slow and gets even worse  
> as the
> battery supply voltage drops. (e.g. to boil one cup of water on a  
> modified
> sinewave inverter might take around 2.5 minutes while drawing around
> 100+amps DC, compared to around 30 seconds with a pure sine wave  
> inverter
> also consuming 100+amps DC).  As your batteries voltage drops, the  
> inverter
> will attempt to take more and more current to keep the output RMS  
> voltage
> around 110+ AC.
>
> You might be better off getting one of those tiny nearly silent Honda
> portable generators like the EU2000i, putting it on the swim  
> platform when
> you need AC.  It's less expensive than a sine wave inverter and will  
> solve
> virtually all your AC needs under way.  You'll save money as well,  
> but at
> the cost of a slight bit of inconvenience to plug in and start the
> generator.  Before ruling that option out, you might want to visit a  
> dealer
> and hear just how quiet they are.
>
> 3) Yes. The closer to the batteries the better, however, you can run  
> heavy
> expensive cables (like what feeds the starter) and mount the inverter
> elsewhere.  The voltage drop at 100+ amps is significant.
>
> -Jeff
> #809
>
>
> On Wed, 04 Mar 2009 08:03:30 -0600, Dean Vermeire <dean at vermeire.us>  
> wrote:
>> Hi All,
>>
>> I'm thinking about installing an AC inverter to be able to run the
>> microwave, etc. when not in the marina.  I know a number of you have
>> done this.  I've done a little homework, but there is a reason I  
>> did not
>> major in electrical engineering.  So, I have a few questions:
>>
>> 1.  How many watts?  I figure I should have at least 1200 continuous.
>> 2.  Are the ones with a modified sine wave good enough?  I wouldn't
>> think the microwave would care too much.
>> 3.  Where should it be installed?  I've read that you should  
>> install it
>> close to the batteries, but those are on the starboard side and the
>> microwave is on the port side.
>> 4.  Any particular brands to avoid?
>>
>> Thanks in advance,
>> Dean Vermeire
>> Moonstruck II (#847)
>