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Electrical question

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Created by Lazzz Yesterday, 8 Feb 2026
Lazzz
NSW, 905 posts
Yesterday , 8 Feb 2026 3:49PM
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Just about to install a new Victron Inverter & wondering where I should connect the Chassis to ground connection on my steel boat??

Quixotic
ACT, 214 posts
Yesterday , 8 Feb 2026 4:21PM
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I assume you've got the installation instructions and the manual?

The manual for a Victron MultiPlus-II 230V (www.victronenergy.com/media/pg/MultiPlus-II_230V/en/safety-instructions.html#UUID-49c10f22-7174-f7f9-932c-8fd46d8eff2e) says as below (bold type is from the manual), but you should refer to the documents for your model.

1. IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS - Save these instructions!
In general
Please read the documentation supplied with this product first, so that you are familiar with the safety signs and directions before
using the product.

This product is designed and tested according to international standards. The equipment should be used only for the designated
application.

! Warning - These servicing instructions are for use by qualified personnel only. To reduce the risk of
electric shock, do not perform any servicing other than that specified in the operating instructions
unless you are qualified to do so

!The product is used in combination with a permanent energy source (battery). A dangerous electrical voltage
can occur at the input and/or output terminals, even if the equipment is switched off. Always turn off the AC
power and disconnect the battery before performing maintenance.

The product contains no internal user-serviceable parts. Do not remove the front panel, and do not put the product into operation
unless all panels are fitted. All maintenance should be performed by qualified personnel. Internal fuses are not user-replaceable.
A unit with suspected blown fuses should be taken to an authorized service centre for evaluation.

Never use the product at sites where gas or dust explosions could occur. Refer to the specifications provided by the manufacturer
of the battery to ensure that the battery is suitable for use with this product. The battery manufacturer's safety instructions should
always be observed.

This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or
lack of experience and knowledge unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning the use of the appliance by
a person responsible for their safety. Children should be supervised to ensure they do not play with the appliance.

Installation
Read the installation instructions before commencing installation activities. Follow the local national wiring standards, regulations,
and installation instructions for electrical work. The installation shall be in accordance with the Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1.
The wiring methods shall be in accordance with the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70.

This product is a safety class I device (supplied with a ground terminal for safety purposes).Its AC input and/or output
terminals must be provided with uninterruptible grounding for safety purposes. An additional grounding point is located
on the product's exterior. The ground conductor should be at least 4mm(2).If it can be assumed that the grounding protection
is damaged, the product should be taken out of operation and prevented from accidentally being put into operation again; contact
qualified maintenance personnel.

Ensure that the connection cables are provided with fuses and circuit breakers. Never replace a protective device with a
component of a different type. Refer to the manual for the correct part.

Do not invert neutral and phase when connecting the AC.

Check before switching the device on whether the available voltage source conforms to the configuration settings of the product
as described in the manual.

Ensure that the equipment is used under the correct operating conditions. Never operate it in a wet or dusty environment. Ensure
that there is always sufficient free space around the product for ventilation and that those ventilation openings are not blocked.
Install the product in a heatproof environment. Ensure that there are no chemicals, plastic parts, curtains or other textiles, etc. in
the immediate vicinity of the equipment.

This inverter is provided with an internal isolation transformer providing reinforced insulation

woko
NSW, 1763 posts
5 hours ago , 8 Feb 2026 8:42PM
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Select to expand quote
Lazzz said..
Just about to install a new Victron Inverter & wondering where I should connect the Chassis to ground connection on my steel boat??


I could be wrong, but I think chassis grounding is a land thing, detailed for hard wired installations. I put a dedicated fuse on the battery 400a just to cover my butt.

Quixotic
ACT, 214 posts
4 hours ago , 8 Feb 2026 9:53PM
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Select to expand quote
woko said..


Lazzz said..
Just about to install a new Victron Inverter & wondering where I should connect the Chassis to ground connection on my steel boat??




I could be wrong, but I think chassis grounding is a land thing, detailed for hard wired installations. I put a dedicated fuse on the battery 400a just to cover my butt.



Again, I don't know what model you have and what you're connecting it to, but the manual for the Victron MultiPlus-II 230V, (see link in previous post) says (Section 4) [bolding added]:

! Warning GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS - This marine unit should be connected to a grounded, metal, permanent wiring system; or an equipment-grounding conductor should be run with circuit conductors and connected to equipment-grounding terminal or lead on unit. Connections to unit should comply with all local codes and ordinances

...suggests to me grounding isn't only a land thing.

Manual also has a table of DC battery fuse ratings and battery cable sizes depending on run length, by model and battery Ah.



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