The inverter thing is spot on — I've been there too. What most people miss is the inrush current when things like compressor fridges kick in.
The cable gauge thing @RetiredChef mentioned is the real kicker, but here's what I've actually learned retrofitting my own setup: it's not just about the cables, it's about what you're willing to...
Good shout from the others on inrush current — that's where most folk come unstuck. Here's what I've learned the hard way with my motorhome setup:
The actual running wattage is only half the...
You've nailed the technical bit, @FenlandSolar. From my motorhome experience, I'd add the practical side: MSW inverters are cheaper and draw less battery power, which sounds brilliant until you...
Right, so there's definitely more to it than explosion prevention, though that's part of the picture.
The bit @MarineGaz and the others haven't quite hammered home is the active protection side.
Absolutely spot on, @BayTim. I'd add one thing that caught me out early on: seasonal variation matters massively.
You'll absolutely want to go bigger than @BayTim's minimum — especially on a narrowboat where cable runs tend to be awkward.
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2 years ago
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The GX becomes properly useful once you dial in the network side — don't sleep on that bit. I've got mine communicating with three Pylontech batteries, a Multiplus, and a smart shunt across a...
@LisaStewart71 - @BodgeItAndScarper's got the basics right, but here's where it actually matters for a caravan setup.
LiFePO4 batteries genuinely thrive between 20-80% SOC.
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2 years ago
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Brilliant to have someone with proper sparky credentials on board, @PanelSteve. Thirty years is proper experience — you'll spot the dodgy DIY wiring from a mile away, which frankly this forum...
Spot on, @MarshLover. Everyone bangs on about the "primitiveness" angle, but the real shift is psychological.
Been through this exact dilemma on my narrowboat setup, Tracy. Flat mounting wins on narrowboats, hands down—here's why:
Wind loading is your enemy.
