Hi , I am hoping someone can advise me. I want to run a 500w inverter in my landy to power a laptop and fridge. I have bought an fitted a self switching split charge kit, however as soon as i want to operate the fridge or laptop via the inverter it shuts down. I want the fridge to run whilst travelling . Do i need to fit a surge protector or something to prevent this or is there something else that is needed.
If someone has done this and can explain how to do it ie with drawings that would be great.
Hope someone can help.
Thanks

Have you got the split charge kit feeding a battery or are you trying to connect it straight to the inverter? Remember, 500W at 240V is only about 2amps. At 12V its about 40amps and that is probably overloading whatever split charge system you are using. If you don't have a separate battery for the inverter, it won't work. Also, how much does a fridge draw? Particularly on start up ( the laptop won't be a problem). It could well be more than 500W so the inverter may not be up to it either.
If you are still drawing your full 40amps, is the alternator up to that as well as the normal vehicle loads?

the split charge system is connected between the 2 batteries. The inverter is then taken of the 2nd battery. The fridge (Engel fridge/freezer) pulls 2.5A on 12v start up is 33w. I believe the standard landy alternator is more than capable enough to charge the two batteries.

why are you trying to run the laptop and fridge through a 500w invertor? It takes a lot of power to convert for the invertor, just for those items to only draw a small amount. Run the Engel fridge direct off the 2nd battery and buy a laptop charger/power unit (switching adaptor) which runs off 12v. Pushing it all through a 500w invertor is not the most effective way of doing things.

what split charge system are you using?

G

i agree with the dowg, dont bother with inverter, you should get a lead to hardwire you fridge in with a thermal fuse = no worries and just get a plug for the cigarette lighter for your lap top and job done!