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RV Inverters -
Simply put - The part that changes 12 volt battery power to 120 volt AC power for your plug-in items
Why do I need an inverter?
Inverters convert DC battery power to standard AC power. They allow you to run regular 120 VAC appliances, including TVs, computers, microwaves and power tools. With an inverter your AC loads are run off your batteries and they can be used any time of day or night - without a generator - and definitely during a utility power failure.
Selecting the right inverter...
When selecting an inverter, choose a size that can power the appliances you plan to use. Typical sizes installed in RV and home systems are 1000 to 2500 watts. Larger inverters from 4 kW to 11 kW are used in large power systems, such as lodges, and industrial applications.
Inverters are rated according to the continuous power that they can produce; however, they are also designed to deliver large amounts of current for short periods of time -- a feature called surge capacity.
Sine wave vs. modified square wave output...
Inverters are electronic devices that convert battery power into a form that mimics conventional grid power. Most models produce a modified square wave. This waveform allows home owners to run 98% of the typical loads in a house such as fluorescent lights, TVs, stereos, vacuums and power tools. The few limitations include some types of electronic controls like dimmer switches, sensitive electronics like laser printers and photocopiers, and some small rechargeable devices. Occasionally some of these products will not work, or even fail, with modified square wave power. Some appliances like microwaves may be noisier, and stereo equipment and TVs may have a slight hum or buzz with this type of inverter power.
Premium inverters produce a pure sine wave to imitate grid power. This eliminates background noise so that all appliances, including electronics, work without problems. They are particularly suited for sensitive electronics found in some computers and higher quality sound equipment.
Inverters For Homes...
Most cottage power systems are now wired for 120 VAC, and an inverter is installed to feed these circuits. An inverter not only lets you use standard appliances and tools but conventional wiring as well. With steady improvements in inverter technology, even the smallest cabin can now have 120 VAC power.
In larger remote residences, particularly those using auxiliary generators, inverters can reduce the costs of power generation by up to 90%. Most inverters include a stand-by battery charger, so that when the generator is on, the batteries are automatically recharged. Once the generator is turned off, the inverter system powers the same AC circuits. Not only do you have quiet power available 24 hours a day, but in most cases the fuel savings alone can pay for the complete cost of the inverter system in less than a year!
Inverters for Boats and RVs...
Why not enjoy the tranquillity of that sunset without the noise and fumes of a generator? With an inverter on board, you no longer have to run the generator just to make the morning coffee or watch a late night video. Your inverter will supply the power, silently and effortlessly. Save that generator for use during periods of heavy power consumption and let your inverter do the rest.
NOTE: Our on-line ordering system does not automatically calculate freight charges. With each order we contact all of our shipping companies ( UPS, FedEx, USPS, etc. ) to find you the best deal on freight. We will contact you via e-mail before shipping any order with a freight quote on your order.
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