inverter suggestions needed

 

I'm re-wiring my house and want to wire in some backup power. I was
thinking about doing this:

Install new main panel, run all non-essential circuits into it.
Install backup panel, run all essential circuits into it.
Install an inverter that feeds the backup panel.
Install a battery bank as the power source for the inverter (backup
circuits).
Connect a circuit from the main panel to the inverter to act as a
charger for the battery bank.
Connect a generator to the inverter to act as a second charging source
for the battery bank.

Constant 120V loads
--------------------------------------------------
fish pumps
cable modem
wireless network router
cable signal booster
non-peripheralled computer server (250W power supply)

Periodic 120V loads
--------------------------------------------------
apartment sized refrigerator
chest freezer
furnace blower (gas heat)
sump pump
water softener
handful of CF lights
handful of LED lights
17" LCD TV
cable box
dvd player

Periodic 240V loads
--------------------------------------------------
well pump


The only usage that I actually see this backup system getting is
periodic testing and an occasional power outtage during winter ice
storms (one to two weeks per year). Do you have any suggestions on
equipment (inverter, batteries, generator, etc.)? Any advice you can
offer would be much appreciated.

thx,
-tm

 

You might try looking at some of the wiring diagrams in the user guide for
the SW series inverters. They show various options to wire up the inverter
to the panel, generator, batteries etc.

http://www.xantrex.com/web/id/45/p/docs/pt/18/product.asp

 

I'm reading the manuals now, thanks for the link. =)

 



What ever you decide on keep an eye on selling the home.  What seems simple
to you may be a deal breaker for someone else. Above all keep it simple

 



I wouldn't use an inverter for all that stuff, I'd use a generator instead.
But then again, I don't have unlimited funds.