Length of inverter cable

[bensolomon]

Hello, everyone! I am installing a Xantrex 3000 pro Mariner inverter and the manual specified no longer than a 5 foot run from inverter to batteries. I am using 2/0 cable, but I need 6 feet for the ideal location. I only intend to run a water boiler and I single induction hob intermittent. Will this extra foot (2 feet round trip) be a fire risk or create too much voltage drop?

Thank you,
Ben

[S/V Illusion]

Originally Posted by bensolomon

Hello, everyone! I am installing a Xantrex 3000 pro Mariner inverter and the manual specified no longer than a 5 foot run from inverter to batteries. I am using 2/0 cable, but I need 6 feet for the ideal location. I only intend to run a water boiler and I single induction hob intermittent. Will this extra foot (2 feet round trip) be a fire risk or create too much voltage drop?

Thank you,
Ben

Lots of voltage drop calculators on the internet. From the one I just used, the extra 2feet equates to a 0.014v drop. Current doesn’t change disproportionately.

[smac999]

6’ is fine but you want 4/0 cable for a 3000w.

[bensolomon]

Originally Posted by smac999

6’ is fine but you want 4/0 cable for a 3000w.

I don't think 4/0 will fit in the receptacle, though.

[smac999]

I just checked manual and it says 4/0 for 3000w model. 350a fuse. 3/0 for chassis ground.

[bensolomon]

Originally Posted by smac999

I just checked manual and it says 4/0 for 3000w model. 350a fuse. 3/0 for chassis ground.

Thank you!! I will upgrade to the correct cable. That said will the extra foot be detrimental?

[donradcliffe]

Originally Posted by bensolomon

Thank you!! I will upgrade to the correct cable. That said will the extra foot be detrimental?

As long as you don't try to run the hob and the water boiler at the same time, everything will be fine.

[smac999]

Originally Posted by bensolomon

Thank you!! I will upgrade to the correct cable. That said will the extra foot be detrimental?

I would not be worried about 6' . if you tried to go to 10' you'd probably need to go to double 2/0. which you will defiantly not fit that that inverter.

the longer length is not a safty issue at all, it'll just shut down sooner from low voltage if the batteries are low and you have big loads

[captstu]

I used 2 strands (each) of 2.0 wire and was able to run and start an air conditioner easily. What size is your battery bank, it took a 1600 Ah bank to support the 3kW load I had.

[Monepit]

I’m a retired electrician and I’ve installed 45 inverters. I can tell you for sure you will be fine. I’ve always used 2/0 for anything less than 5 foot and 4/0 up to 10. Although I usually go with a 2000 watt not a 3000. But I have done 3 3000 because the customer wanted it. 4/0 will definitely fit your inverter.

[bensolomon]

Thank you everyone! The only reason I am installing the inverter is to boil water for coffee at anchor, and cook a meal on a single induction hob, NOT at the same time. I have cng, and I only want to use that as backup or on passage.

Not running anything else, AC. I have a 210 ah battery bank with a 330 watt rigid panel and victron 100/30 MPPT controller.

My dc loads are also minimal with only a Frigoboat Capri 50, and some Caframo fans and led lights.

Solar keeps me charged by 2 pm. It's amazing! My main issue is drilling a hole in the interior to run the cable, so an extra foot makes this more feasible.

Thanks again!!!