700.3(F) for Inverters?

[ASG]

Inspectors seem to be loving my inverters lately.

Inspector is saying 700.3(F) means I should, for my 1KW inverter, have a way to transfer power to a temporary inverter or generator in case the new inverter needs the batteries replaced. So, at least for this project, I'll be adding in a little transfer relay/switch to satisfy the inspector.

Anybody else run into this interpretation?

 

[steve66]

Hmmm. The code section was obviously intended to apply to a backup system that is powered by a large generator. But could also apply to a larger inverter.

But it should not apply to a small inverter that just powers a couple of lights. There is probably normal lighting still on in the area, and a flashlight could probably suffice for a backup emergency light long enough to replace an inverter or batteries. (larger inverters probalby have a internal bypass too).

So how does one know exactly where to draw the line??

 

[brantmacga]

Is this a legally required standby system as defined in Article 700?

Emergency Systems. This definition shall apply within this article
and throughout the Code.

Those systems legally required and classed as emergency by
municipal, state, federal, or other codes, or by any governmental
agency having jurisdiction. These systems are intended to
automatically supply illumination, power, or both, to designated
areas and equipment in the event of failure of the normal
supply or in the event of accident to elements of a system intended
to supply, distribute, and conu·ol power and illumination
essential for safety to human life.

Informational Note: Emergency systems are generally installed
in places of assembly where artificial illumination is required for
safe exiting and for panic control in buildings subject to occupancy
by large numbers of persons, such as hotels, theaters,
sports arenas, health care facilities, and similar institutions.


Emergency systems may also provide power for such functions as
ventilation where essential to maintain life, fire detection and
alarm systems, elevators, fire pumps, public safety communications
systems, industrial processes where current intenuption
would produce serious life safety or health hazards, and similar
functions.

I think an easier installation, if they really make you do this, would be to route your lighting load through a SPDT switch, with one side of the switch going to the inverter, and the other going to a 5-20 power inlet.