Manual transfer switch questions.

[440rt]

Hi, I had a question about how to hook up a manual transfer switch. I would like to switch between grid / generator power and power from an inverter. What I am trying to do is shown on the crud drawing. I'm sure the manual switching of the plugs to the breaker box is not up to code but I'm just curious if what is shown in the photo will work.
Right now to switch, I unplug the rv main power wire from the grid and put it into the inverter, but I have to go outside, unplug the rv from the grid, open up the outside storage Cabinet where the inverter is and plug it in, and I would have to leave the cabinet door open to accommodate the large wire, which is not good if it is raining. I'm trying to make it easier to switch the different power inputs and stay inside, so I thought maybe if I can do what is in the photo that would be great. The plugs to the breaker box will be 30 amp twist plugs.
If some one knowledgeable can look over my diagram and let me know if it would work or perhaps make it better let me know. Thanks, -Bryan

PS My main concern is about the ground's for the breaker box and battery bank being grounded to the rv frame and the ground going to the grid and if they all work together.

solar.jpg

[Naptown]

Is this in an RV with a 120V "shore power" input from the grid?

[Bala]

i am not familiar with the twist plugs you mention but your drawing shows live male plugs!!

Should you not have a male on the RV and then females on the lead ends?

[440rt]

yes this is a RV travel trailer. It has a 30 amp plug to plug into shore or generator power. Thanks, -Bryan

[Naptown]

Another way to do this is look into a marine inverter/charger
here is one that will do about everything you want and do it automatically

http://www.xantrex.com/power-products/inverter-chargers/prosine-2.aspx

A bit more expensive than a simple switch but automatic, will allow you to charge and monitor your batteries etc

[440rt]

Thanks Bala you're right, I will need to switch around the male and female ends.

[Naptown]

It could be done with a 3 way switch also. Switch the "hot side" do not interrupt the neutrals or grounds.
In a 30A rating these can be had for about $20-$40

[440rt]

Hi Naptown, That inverter is really nice but I already spent alot for this one http://www.xantrex.com/power-product...s/prosine.aspx

The reason I'm doing this is because when my battery bank is full from the solar panels I want to turn on the inverter and turn off the grid and use the free 120 volt power while the sun is up. Then at night I switch back to grid power for all the big 120 volt stuff and use the battery bank for all my 12 volt stuff ( lights, fridge, freezer,) are always on 12 volt power. I only have 8- 6volt battery's (no more room for more in the rv) so that is not enough to run all my 120 volt stuff while the sun is not out.

I think most auto transfer switch's will only transfer to the battery power if the grid power goes out. So I'm not sure if that would work in my situation. Thanks, -Bryan

[Naptown]

Then just do the three way switch as I suggested.

[440rt]

Good idea, a 3 way switch would work great, thanks.