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What is a Power Inverter? | ||
| A Power Inverter is an electronic device that converts 12 volts direct current (DC) into household 120 volts alternating current (AC), for operation of power tools, appliances, TV's, radio's, and other devices that plug into standard household outlets. | |||
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What size power inverter do I need? | ||
| Sizing an inverter is nothing but simple math. A TV may require 150 watts and the VCR you want to add with it may require only 100 watts. Just simply add the wattage requirement for all the appliances that will run at the same time. The answer is 250 watts for both the TV and VCR to run. However, it is recommended to always go slightly bigger (25%). This will ensure that the inverter will power all appliances safely. For more information, visit our Inverter Sizing page. | |||
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How long can I run a power inverter? | ||
| The length of time you can operate an inverter depends on the amp-hour
capacity of your battery. Use our calculator to your right to determine the time, in hours, your battery will last. |
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How do install or hook up my power inverter? | ||
| Small Power Inverters usually include a DC
adapter which can plug right into a car's cigarette lighter, or other 12V
DC outlets. Inverters that are 300W or larger usually connect directly to
a battery
via batter cables, or thick 0-4# wire.
Always, follow the manufacturer guidelines.
Inverters must be installed in a dry place. Never install inside an automobiles engine bay, or outside where rain or moisture can reach the unit. More information on installation and wiring will be specified in the owner's manual. |
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Can I use my computer with a power inverter? | ||
| Yes, both sine-wave and modified sine-wave inverter output will operate a computer. However, some monitors and laser printers can only be powered by true sine wave output. | |||
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What is a sine wave? | ||
It is the ideal waveform for the transfer of AC power. There are two
types of waveforms available. A "modified sine wave", and the "true sine wave".
Modified Sine Wave - The modified sine wave is not really a sine wave at all. It is
more less a "stepped wave". It
achieves voltage regulation by varying in width according to the battery voltage
and the load. Thus, the wave is not as smooth as a sine wave. The quality of modified sine
wave inverters should not be underestimated. They are
highly capable, and (by narrowing the waveform) they save energy when running
only small loads, as happens during most of the day in a typical home. Modified sine inverters have been successful in
many thousands of remote home, RV and marine systems since 1986. True Sine Wave - Also known as Pure Sine Wave, is the most reliable waveform and provides power almost identical to a standard wall outlet. The power produced fully assures that your "sensitive loads" will be correctly powered, with no interference. Some appliances are likely to require Pure Sine Wave including digital clocks, battery chargers, light dimmers, variable speed motors, and audio/visual equipment. For these reasons, true sine wave inverters can be more a more expensive choice. |
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What is Continuous and Peak (surge) Power? | ||
| Continuous Power is the power/wattage the power inverter can consistently maintain. Peak or Surge power is the highest output, in watts, that the inverter will "surge" to under startup conditions. However, appliances with motors require a "starting load" which is an initial surge of power to get the unit started. Once started the unit then may only require half of that power to run, called the "continuous load". | |||
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