Why can't I run multiple appliances on my Inverter?
This information is applicable to the following RS3 Pure Sine Wave Inverters:
- 1200W 12V RS3 Pure Sine Wave Inverter (R-12-1200RS3)
- 2000W 12V RS3 Pure Sine Wave Inverter (R-12-2000RS3)
- 3000W 12V RS3 Pure Sine Wave Inverter (R-12-3000RS3)
- 1200W 24V RS3 Pure Sine Wave Inverter (R-24-1200RS3)
- 2000W 24V RS3 Pure Sine Wave Inverter (R-24-2000RS3)
- 3000W 24V RS3 Pure Sine Wave Inverter (R-24-3000RS3)
WHY DOES MY INVERTER RCBO TRIP WHEN RUNNING TWO OR MORE DEVICES?
The RCBO trips when the total load of the devices running exceeds its rated capacity. This capacity can be reached by running multiple devices simultaneously.
For example, if you are using multiple appliances that together draw more than 10A @ 240V (2400W) for the 1200W & 2000W models or more than 16A @ 240V (3600W) for a 3000W inverter, the RCBO will trip to prevent overloading.
Modern residential households have multiple circuits each with its own protection (RCD) to allow you to operate more devices at the same time throughout the home. Although, the same instance can occur when multiple appliances are operated from the same circuit where exceeding the circuit's capacity will cause the breaker to trip.
To avoid this, ensure the total power usage stays within the inverter's limits. In a caravan, all the power points are usually connected to a single circuit. This single RCBO will trip or overload if the combined power usage of all devices plugged into it exceeds the RCBO rating.
WHAT IS AN RCBO?
An RCBO or Residual Current Circuit Breaker with Overload Protection is a safety device that protects electrical circuits from two things:
- Overload: When too much power is drawn, the RCBO trips to prevent damage.
- Electrical Faults: If there is a fault, such as a person accidentally touching a live wire, the RCBO cuts off the power to prevent electric shock.
It combines the functions of a circuit breaker and a safety switch, providing overall protection for your electrical system.
WHAT IS THE RCBO RATING FOR REDARC'S RS3 MODEL INVERTERS?
The RCBO for RS3 model inverters are rated as follows:
- For 1200W models: 10A @ 240V
- For 2000W models: 10A @ 240V
- For 3000W models: 16A @ 240V
WHERE DO I FIND THIS INFORMATION?
This information can be found in the speicifications pages of the RS3 Inverter User Manual. For a copy of the RS3 user manual, please see – RS3 User Manual
WHAT HAPPENS IF I EXCEED THE RCBO RATING?
If you exceed the RCBO limit, the RCBO will trip to protect the system from overload.
HOW WOULD THIS HAPPEN IN A CARAVAN?
An example of a caravan application which could result in the RCBO tripping is when running additional appliances while the air conditioner is running. Common occurrences are air conditioner and kettle or air conditioner and induction cooker.
