My install and review of the AIMS Prius 2kW Pure Sine Wave Inverter for Backup Power Generator

Good point. I worked all of this out some time ago when I first installed the AIMS inverter and the HV connection cables and quick disconnects. I tested the connections by running a refrigerator and cycling the compressor motor.

I have an outdoor panel where I can open the circuit breaker that feeds the inside panel. I can connect the inverter to the wires on the downstream side of the breaker that feeds the inside panel.

Of course, as you say, even with prior planning it is still difficult to do in the dark and in bad weather.

 

Another possible solution is a window - but again, another good reason to try everything out ahead of time because you'll need some foam weather stripping, or some old socks, and some wood. Close the window on the cord, filling the gap at the bottom *AND* in the middle with the foam, etc. to keep out rain/snow/wind. Then cut a 2x4 just long enough to fit between the top of the casing and the top of the window, and secure it with some duct tape. That will keep someone from opening the window. Heck, you could use the duct tape instead of the foam/socks, too.

In my case I run the battery tap into my garage via a standard extension cord and close the garage door on it (the Prius stays outside).

 

You may want to spend the $50 for a standard 30 amp twist-lock generator socket. Then you don't need to deal with bare wires in the rain.
Reliance Controls 30 Amp Power Inlet Box-PB30 at The Home Depot

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Another excellent point.

I have a pigtail made up with a plug on one end. I chose not to install this permanently because of the infrequent planned use. When I need it hopefully I will have enough advance notice to install the pigtail end to the panel before the bad weather arrives.

 

Twist lock with a pigtail is a great way while at planning things of this nature

 

Plus you'll be able to fire up the Prius for the shorter outages you otherwise wouldn't want to deal with.

 

I have been searching for an AIMS 240v Inverter. I called AIMS and the sales lady said I would need to order 50....
Any other solutions to get power from the traction battery?

 

Look on eBay.

 

Using a Prius as a generator - northernarizona-windandsun

 

I'm thinking of taking the plunge and ordering one of these plug out kits for my 2010 prius.

Plug-Out Island kit Prius Aims 2kw 120v-60hz psw is currently on sale $499 and the other kits are discounted as well.
3K Kit is $1199
5K Kit is $2299

Plug-Out Kits

Should I splurge on the 3K or 5K kit if I dont plan to run my entire house. In the even of power failure, but I want to be power a 1500w Heater and/or sump pumps.

Also I plan to update at some point to the 2016 prius or 2016 prius plug in.

Are there any better solutions out there? TIA!

 

your best bet will be the 5KW appliance if the budget can stretch to it.
With it you will be able to run heating circulators and the oil burner plus a refrigerator.
I do not think that the $500.00 unit will run a microwave oven or a AC motor.

 

hmm. i thought the sine wave inverters could manage a simple 1/2 hp sump pump.. 5k at 2299 + looking for an installer might be a bit steep. Would consider the 3k unit but I have no need for 220v service.

 

I installed a 1kw inverter, and it runs a small microwave just fine, and a rice cooker (not at the same time). But not the furnace blower, the start-up takes too much surge power.

 

But your two examples are completely different type of loads.

 

I can run nearly all of the 120 volt loads in my house at the same time with my 3000 watt Honda genset (microwave with load management). The key is implementing conservation first - LED lights, LED TVs, modern fridge, slow-start furnace blower, etc.

 

Does anybody know where to buy the 180vdc-240vdc inverter 3000W. I tried my best but only found the 12v input.

 

Plug-Out Island kit Prius 3kva 240/120-60hz psw: Home

 

That thing is huge :/