Adding a power source to your boat or RV can sometimes be a complicated process. Due to how these vehicles are built, they frequently do not supply common household energy to your equipment, meaning if you do not have a spare generator handy, standard appliances may not be able to be powered. While some boats and RVs can come with an included inverter, most only provide converters, which charges batteries and powers lights, pumps and 12-volt equipment. A converter allows you to utilize your boat or RVs generated power to power your equipment.
What is a Power Inverter?
Inverters convert the 12V or 24V DC energy that boats and RVs produce into household 115V AC electricity to operate standard business and household appliances, televisions and tools when land power is not accessible, or when running a generator is not an option. A power inverter can be an essential part of your supplies for your vehicles, especially if you’re looking for more long-term power solutions and off-grid ideas.
What Size Inverter Should I Use for my Boat or RV?
Inverters range from small 100W models, good for small devices, to 4,000W models that can run electric refrigeration systems. The size you select is governed by the maximum power needed at one time. A computer (200W), TV (200W), and microwave (800W) all running at the same time will need an inverter that produces more than 1200W of constant power.
It’s important to know that inverters provide both a continuous and peak power rating. The difference between these two comes down to the length of the necessary output. Continuous power rating refers to the continuous necessary wattage the inverter needs to supply – in our previous example, we saw that it was necessary to use an inverter that produces more than 1200W. However, many appliances have startup requirements that may exceed their continuous power needs. This results in what is called the peak power rating. Generally speaking, the safest choice is to purchase an inverter that is double your continuous power rating to make up for any excessive levels of power needed to start a device or appliance.
If you have any questions, please contact us here and a sales associate will get back to you as soon as possible.
Leave A Comment