Xantrex Technology 806-1055-02 806-1840 manual DC Disconnects and Over-Current Devices, Batteries

Basic Installation Procedures

IMPORTANT: Using the correct cable size is critical to achieving the rated performance of the Freedom HF unit. When starting a heavy load the Freedom HF can draw current surges from the battery of up to 400A. If the DC wiring is too small the voltage drop from this surge will result in a voltage at the Freedom HF terminals that is too low for the Freedom HF to operate correctly. The Freedom HF may appear to operate correctly with smaller cables until a heavy load such as a microwave or refrigerator attempts to start - then the unit may work correctly sometimes and not work correctly other times.

DC Disconnects and Over-Current Devices

The DC circuit from the battery to the Freedom HF must be equipped with a disconnect and over-current device. This usually consists of a circuit breaker, a “fused-disconnect,” or a separate fuse and DC disconnect. Do not confuse AC circuit breakers with DC circuit breakers. They are not interchangeable. The rating of the fuse or breaker must be matched to the size of cables used in accordance with the applicable installation codes. The breaker or disconnect and fuse should be located as close as possible to the battery, in the positive cable. Applicable codes may limit how far the protection can be from the battery.

Batteries

The Freedom HF uses 12-volt battery banks. Every Freedom HF system requires a deep-cycle battery or group of batteries that provide the DC current that the Freedom HF converts to AC.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)

A GFCI is a device that de-energizes a circuit when a current to ground exceeds a specified value that is less than that required to blow the circuit breaker. GFCIs are intended to protect people from electric shocks and are usually required in wet or damp locations.

Installations in marine and recreational vehicles require GFCI protection of branch circuits connected to the AC output of the Freedom HF.

The modified sine wave output of the Freedom HF is not equivalent to the waveform provided by electric utilities, and compliance with UL and CSA standards requires that Xantrex test and recommend specific GFCIs that will work correctly with the Freedom HF. Here are the recommendations:

Make	Model
Hubbell	GFR5252
Leviton	6598
	8598

10 Freedom HF Installation Guide