As most of you readers know, the inverter/charger is a critical element of a boat’s electrical system. Without it there is no AC power, which can range from being a minor inconvenience to a trip ruiner (props to my friend Justin B). Sandavore has an AC/DC capable refrigerator, a microwave, and a chest freezer. The latter item, particularly on longer trips, is essential. So I’m not sure if it’s my bad luck or timing or just quality, but this is my second Xantrex inverter to have failed in two boats. Both of them failed in a subtle fashion: the inverting capability would simply cease, requiring me to shut the inverter off manually, then restart. As the intervals between start and restart begin to shorten…well, the inverter was trying to tell me something.
I am certain that Xantrex makes a fine product- the one installed aboard Sandavore was a 2005 model, 2kW/24V. It was also installed without a status panel, which makes troubleshooting a challenge. After discussion with Mark the mechanic, he suggested replacing with a MagnaSine 2kW digitally controlled pure sine inverter with a remote inverter/charger panel. MagnaSine has a fantastic reputation for quality and readily available service- right down the road in Everett, WA. I agreed with Mark that I would install the remote panel and run the associated wire, while he would handle the less-glamorous and scarier task of removing and replacing the inverters, which easily weigh 40 pounds and carry 2 gauge wires! Serious electrical work: I’ll do it, under pressure…but I prefer to leave it to the professional.
Thanks again to Mark of Mark’s Marine!