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Wiring 30 amp plug to EG4

rj2001

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Apr 3, 2024
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Iowa
I am wanting to build a mobile solar setup that I can use in my shed with solar panels and I can also take the system with me in my RV when I go camping. I was thinking of a system similar to the one Will Prowse builds on a handcart here. I think I understand how to wire everything in my shed. However, I am a little confused how to wire it to be used in my RV. I want to make it as simple as possible, and am thinking the easiest way would be to add a 30 amp female cable like this one to an EG4. Would I be able to wire this directly into the output of the EG4 or would I need to build a breaker box to accomplish this. This would allow me to plug by 30 amp RV shore power cable into the setup. I am not wanting to recharge the batteries in my RV with solar panels, but it would give me a bigger battery bank for weekend trips.

I am obviously new to all of this. All advice is appreciated.

Thanks
 
Personally I'd recommend something more permanent.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B085HFBLDN as a suggestion for type. You don't have to go with this brand.

edit: Read it a little closer, you can direct wire from your shore input if you have one to a breaker and then to the EG4
 
If you use the EG4 3k I think the necessity of a 30 amp AC breaker is questionable. That's above the inverter's output rating so would it even be able to trip it? Not sure.

If you do, you will generally find better quality and cheaper hardware by shopping for AC wiring equipment in person at home depot, than on Amazon. That breaker is not appropriate at all. You would use like a Homeline 2 space or 8 space panel with a Homeline breaker. A 30 amp fused disconnect like for an A/C is another option.
 
I would need to add a breaker box from the EG4 then? I couldn't just run a 30 amp cable from the EG4 to plug in my camper?

Thanks again
 
You can forego the breaker if you're brave. Can also use a fuse. I prefer to have protection on all circuits with the potential to ignite
 
I couldn't just run a 30 amp cable from the EG4 to plug in my camper?
You could and I probably would. I just can't assure you that it's completely safe to do so.

If you decide to add a breaker I would use a panel like this with a 20 or 25 amp breaker.

 
Did will cover cord grips in his video? Dont forget to add them in your build. They come in different sizes for different knockout holes. I don't know what size the knockouts are on the 3k.

 
Did will cover cord grips in his video? Dont forget to add them in your build. They come in different sizes for different knockout holes. I don't know what size the knockouts are on the 3k.

You'll want to make sure this fits the cord size, if adding to the "hand truck build". This one is for a minimum .41", and wouldn't tighten down on the power strip cord used in Will's build.
 
You'll want to make sure this fits the cord size, if adding to the "hand truck build". This one is for a minimum .41", and wouldn't tighten down on the power strip cord used in Will's build.
True. I have not judged sizing. I did loosely guess that this one would fit OP's RV cord though.
 
. I am not wanting to recharge the batteries in my RV with solar panels, but it would give me a bigger battery bank for weekend trips.
Recommend a good power audit and consider having a way to charge

I can easily go through battery power a couple hundred pound battery bank, 13kWh, in a four day camping trip, or could last me weeks.

All depends on that days requirements, especially the propane blower motor. Family doesn’t like camping with inside temps of 41.
 
Recommend a good power audit and consider having a way to charge

I can easily go through battery power a couple hundred pound battery bank, 13kWh, in a four day camping trip, or could last me weeks.

All depends on that days requirements, especially the propane blower motor. Family doesn’t like camping with inside temps of 41.
Sounds good. We currently have a 100 amp lithium battery that is working, but it would be nice to not worry as much about draining the batteries all the way. We also want to add Starlink
 
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