Once started, the tool or appliance requires less power to continue to operate ('continuous load') What is meant by the terms 'continuous-2000 watts' and 'peak surge-4000 watts' is that some appliances or tools, such as ones with a motor, require an initial surge of power to start up ('starting load' or 'peak load'). Longer Answer: Determine Continuous Load and Starting (Peak) Load: You need to determine how much power your tool or appliance (or combination of them that you would use at the same time) requires to start up (starting load), and also the continued running requirements (continuous load). in this example, you might decide you'd like to run a fan while you compute, or let the kids watch TV. We recommend you buy a larger model than you think you'll need (at least 10% to 20% more than your largest load).Įxample: You want to power a computer with a 17' monitor, some lights, and a radio.įor this application, you would minimally need a 500 W inverter, and should give some thought to a larger one, as there will likely be a time when you wish you'd bought a bigger model. Short Answer: The size you choose depends on the watts (or amps) of what you want to run (find the power consumption by referring to the specification plate on the appliance or tool). Inverters Page for specifications on each of our models. We carry many different sizes, and several brands of power inverters.

Using an Inverter for Emergency Home Backup PowerĪ very simple way to use an inverter for emergency power (such as during a power outage), is to use a car battery (with the vehicle running), and an extension cord running into the house, where you can then plug in electrical appliances.Ĭlick here to read an in-depth Article on Emergency Home Backup Power Or you can use a battery charger plugged into an AC outlet to recharge the battery. The battery can be recharged by running the automobile motor, or a gas generator, solar panels, or wind. The battery will need to be recharged as the power is drawn out of it by the inverter. The inverter draws its power from a 12 Volt battery (preferably deep-cycle), or several batteries wired in parallel. You just connect the inverter to a battery, and plug your AC devices into the inverter. electric lights, kitchen appliances, microwaves, power tools, TVs, radios, computers, to name just a few. What does a power inverter do, and what can I use one for?Ī power inverter changes DC power from a battery into conventional AC power that you can use to operate all kinds of devices. More Info, Questions & Answers about Inverters

If you don't find your answer here, Read our Power Inverter Blog.

Safety Precautions and Installation Tips (Please Read).

Using a Laser Printer with a Power Inverter.

Using a Photographic Strobe with a Power Inverter.

Using a Microwave Oven with a Power Inverter.

How do I connect two or more batteries together?.

How long can I run the power inverter on my battery?.

What type of battery should I use (automotive or deep cycle)?.

What is an overcurrent protection device? Why do I need one?.

How do I hook up the Inverter? What size cable should I use, and is it included?.Do I need a Modified Sine Wave Inverter, or a Pure Sine Wave Inverter?.

Watts Used by Common Appliances and Tools (Usage Chart).What size inverter should I buy? (and Formula to convert Amps to Watts).Using an inverter for basic emergency home backup power.What does a power inverter do, and what can I use one for?.

Power Inverter FAQ Frequently Asked Questions about Power Inverters

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