Do You Need a Power Inverter?
An inverter is a device that allows you to collect power from an outside source, which comes in as direct current (DC), and convert it to alternating current (AC), which is what most homes run on. With an inverter, you can collect energy from the sun, wind or source and store it on a portable device that’s ready to go when you are.
How Does It Work?
In most cases, the inverter delivers 120 or 240 volts. In terms of wattage, the typical inverter will generate from 500 to 3000 watts, depending on its capacity.
To use the inverter, you simply plug your devices into the inverter and then connect the inverter to a heavy-duty battery. The inverter does not produce any power itself. As the power goes from the battery to your devices, you’ll need to refill the battery with more power.
When Do You Need an Inverter?
Backup energy source. An inverter allows you to generate power in emergency situations. For example, you can use an inverter hooked up to your car’s battery to run some of the electricity in your house if you have a power failure. How much wattage you get will depend on the voltage of your car’s battery and the size of the inverter.
Going off-grid. If you’re planning to use wind or solar power in your home or business, you’ll need a power inverter to harness these alternative energy sources. Large-size inverters should be hardwired to the battery rather than simply attached to a cable.
On the road. An inverter is a must if you’re traveling by camper or RV and need a reliable way to convert solar power to a usable form.
How Much Power Do You Need?
Think about the items you’d be lost without, and figure out how much power you’ll need to run them on a daily or weekly basis. To get the exact wattage of a particular item, consult the manual or warranty.
Some electricians recommend adding up the wattage needed for all your appliances and then doubling it. Doing so means you’ll always be secure about the amount of power you have. It also allows you to add more appliances or devices later.
Electronics. Laptops, tablets, and notebooks will all run on 100 watts or fewer. A desktop with a monitor will require about 400. Plasma TVs and VCRs will use about 250 watts while an LED TV will only use 50.
Tools. Power tools, as the name implies, require a lot of power. Grinders, drills, and saws use from 300 to 700 watts, depending on their size, while saws of all kinds require 1200 watts or more.
Kitchen appliances. Even small kitchen appliances can pack a high-wattage punch. While coffee makers and blenders only use around 300 to 600 watts, items like toasters, toaster ovens, and electric skillets can eat up over 1000 watts each.
Large appliances. Washing machines, refrigerators and freezers all require watts of 700 or more, depending on their size or features. One of the highest-wattage items in your house is a hair dryer, which requires from 1200 to 1800 watts.
Safety Precautions
Make sure your inverter has an overcurrent protection device. Similar to a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) on a traditional outlet, this device will “trip” and cut the current off if it gets too high.
Protect the inverter box. Never use the inverter if your hands are wet, and never place it in a wet area or one that’s not protected from rain. Never use it where there’s a chance that flammable liquids or other hazardous waste could spill on
Ventilation is important. Because inverters can emit high amounts of heat, it’s important to use them only in well-ventilated spaces. Never crowd the inverter into a tight space.
Get the SESCOS Advantage
If you’re in the market for an inverter, let SESCOS knowledgeable experts help you select the right one for your needs. We provide installation and service and will show you how to use your device safely and correctly. Get ready for safe, convenient power-to-go with a new inverter.