[A/S] Univolt and Solar Power

[Roger Hightower <n7kt@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

We've got a great thread here, and a lot of folks who know quite a bit
about the electrical system.

Here's another question:

As I understand the system, the Univolt converter's only purpose is to
convert 120VAC to 12VDC when connected to shore power (or a genset) for
the 12V part of the system.  With a solar setup and inverter/transfer
switch, the Univolt runs all the time.

Am I way off base in thinking that I can just remove it, and install a
separate solar system for the 12VDC circuits?  

The Univolt seems to draw quite a bit of current, and since there is no
charge controller, it just keeps chugging along as long as there is AC
available.  When I've got the inverter switched in, it never stops
because of the draw from the Univolt.

Seems like I can just chuck it (the Uni), put another panel and
controller on the roof, and wire that up to the original battery to
provide a regulated charge to that battery.  Then I'd have separate,
dedicated 120VAC and 12VDC systems that would be more efficient.

Jim, Don, Tom et al?  Your thoughts?

Roger
-- 
Roger Hightower
1975 31' Sovereign....WBCCI 4165....VAC
mailto:n7kt@worldnet.att.net