Why You Need a Victron Autoformer in a Dual Inverter RV System

Welcome to another edition of Todd’s Two-Minute Tech Tip Tuesday, brought to you by Big Beard Battery! If you’ve ever considered running a dual inverter setup in your RV—or already have one—you’ve probably run into the frustrating issue of power imbalance. That’s where the Victron Autoformer (Auto Transformer) comes in.

Let’s break down how it works and why it’s a game changer for any serious off-grid or high-demand RV electrical system.

⚡ The Problem with Dual Inverters

Let’s say you have a 50-amp RV and want to run two inverters to power everything comfortably—air conditioners, microwaves, etc. Each inverter controls a separate “leg” of your system. But what happens when both heavy loads (like your AC and microwave) end up on the same leg?

One inverter is working overtime, while the other just chills out, underutilized. That imbalance causes strain, inefficiency, and in the long run, potential wear on your inverter.

🔄 The Autoformer Solution

The Victron Autoformer solves this exact problem.

By routing both inverter outputs through the Autoformer, the system can evenly balance the power draw across both inverters—even if all your usage is technically on one leg.

✅ Got 3,200 watts on one leg? No problem.The Autoformer pulls 1,600 watts from each inverter, keeping your system balanced, efficient, and protected.

🔧 How It Works in Real Life

Here’s a practical scenario:

• You’re using an air conditioner (~1,800 watts) and a microwave (~1,500 watts).

• Both are on leg one. Without an Autoformer, inverter one is maxed out.

• With an Autoformer, both inverters contribute equally—and your equipment stays protected and your power stays smooth.

This is especially valuable in boondocking or off-grid setups where every watt counts.

💡 Why It Matters

Without a proper load-balancing solution like the Autoformer, you risk:

• Overloading one inverter

• Underutilizing your system’s full capacity

• Shortening the life of your inverters

Installing a Victron Autoformer allows your system to work smarter, not harder—maximizing your power usage and giving you more freedom on the road.

Final Thoughts

If you're planning to run a dual inverter setup in your RV—especially on a 50-amp system—the Victron Autoformer should be on your must-have list.

At Big Beard Battery, we specialize in designing and installing advanced solar and power systems that keep your rig running at its best. Have questions or need help with your RV power setup? We’re here to help!

Ready to upgrade your RV power system?Visit BigBeardBattery.com or shoot us a message—we’ll help you get the right gear for your needs.