Adding a 12v and 120v outlet

[mturnerua]

I have an older pontoon boat that doesn't have a DC 12v outlet. I'm wanting to add one to the console but I thought it might be handy to add a 120AC outlet by using a converter while I'm at it. Does anyone know of a panel/outlet that would have at least one of each that I could mount flush into the console? Also any small (under 1,000w) inverters that anyone recommends?
Thanks

 

[ken51k]

Re: Adding a 12v and 120v outlet

You should be able to get a 12 volt DC outlet at any marine supply store. However I don't think you'll be able to use an inverter on an older pontoon boat. You need to have a really good size battery and an outboard motor doesn't put out enough of a charge to recharge batteries used with an inverter.

 

[MH Hawker]

Re: Adding a 12v and 120v outlet

Watch the amp limits on the 12 v sockets, most are very low.

 

[KD4UPL]

Re: Adding a 12v and 120v outlet

The Morningstar 300w sinewave inverter is an excellent product. It's rugged with solid wiring terminals. It will run small electronics just fine. I wouldn't try loading down your boats 12v system with a larger inverter. As was mentioned, you probably have minimal recharging capability.
Now, if you want to make a canopy over the boat our of solar panels that's a whole new ballgame!

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Adding a 12v and 120v outlet

whatever the current draw is for a 120 volt ac device, the INPUT power from the battery powering the inverter is 10 times greater. Said another way, if the device draws 5 amps at 120 volts AC, 12 volt input to the inverter will be 50 amps.

 

[mturnerua]

Re: Adding a 12v and 120v outlet

Thanks for the info guys. I think I'm just going to run the 12v for now. Would it be fine to just run 18ga wire directly off the battery to the outlet with a 10 amp inline fuse at the battery?

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Adding a 12v and 120v outlet

Thanks for the info guys. I think I'm just going to run the 12v for now. Would it be fine to just run 18ga wire directly off the battery to the outlet with a 10 amp inline fuse at the battery?

16 gauge is a better choice. 18 gauge is simply too light and will not stand up to the rigors of marine duty -- much less 10 amps of current.