Guide to AC wiring when installing a Pure Sine Wave Inverter

In situations where you would like to add permanently fixed low-voltage alternating current a.c. mains wiring (often referred to as “240V mains”), it is required to install it with an approved Residual current Circuit Breaker with Overcurrent protection (RCBO).

If you wish to include the option to switch between either “shore power” or the inverter, then you are required to include a mains changeover switch.

Australian Standard AS/NZS3001:2008* (or later edition) provides a great reference to a variety of installations. The following diagram shows only one example of a common installation and highlights some aspects to be considered. Consult the Australian Standard for the many other options of installations available.

The RCBO must be installed after the changeover switch. The changeover switch must be 3-pole and wired such that a Mains Earth-Neutral (MEN) connection is included in-circuit when switched to the INVERTER position, and not in-circuit when switched to SHORE POWER (the house or caravan park service pole should provide an MEN link and RCBO). All plugs and sockets should be compliant with the appropriate Australian Standard (e.g. AS/NZS 3112:2017). Wiring should be of suitable current amperage rating for the circuit.

WARNING: All Alternating Current (a.c.) mains wiring must be installed by a licenced electrician in accordance with Australian wiring rules. Applicable standards may include AS/NZS 3001. This guide is intended to help you consider some of the aspects required when installing an inverter with fixed a.c. wiring. It is not a substitute for following the Australian Wiring rules, and if conflict or uncertainty arises, the Australian Wiring rules take precedence. REDARC accepts no liability for incorrectly installed wiring – in all cases the licenced electrician is the ultimate responsible person.