How Big of a Power Inverter Do I Need for My RV?

What is a power inverter used for?

Power Inverter for 12V/24V DC to 110V/220V AC. Inverters are widely used in buses, truck kits, ambulances. Now more and more people travel by RV. 

If it is a long-term business trip, the inverter is a good partner. Inverters are converters that convert DC power (12V, 24V, 48V) from batteries into AC power (110V, 220V) for home appliances.

What appliances need an inverter?

Generally speaking, the electrical appliances on the RV include microwave ovens, induction cookers, car washers, toilet electric water heaters, power inverter air conditioners (home inverter air conditioners are very common in RVs), and electric lift beds. 

In addition to vehicle use, inverters are also convenient for camping Use, such as charging computers, coffee machines, etc.

How do I choose an inverter for my RV?

1. Check the electrical appliance type
For resistive loads such as light bulbs, use a modified wave inverter. If it is an inductive load, such as a microwave oven or an induction cooker, it is more stable to use a sine wave inverter. The initial power of the inductive load is 5-7 times higher than the actual power, and the modified wave inverter cannot bear it.

2. Calculate the total power

How do I know what size inverter I need?

Calculate the total wattage of appliances that need to be used at the same time. The power of the inverter needs to be more stable than the total power of the appliance. 

For example, if the total power of electrical appliances used at the same time is 2700W, you need to choose a 3000W inverter.

3. Estimate size by maximum wattage

How do I calculate what size inverter I need?

You can estimate the required inverter size by increasing the maximum wattage by 20%. 

For example, if 2,000 watts are required to run both the computer and the air conditioner, then 2,000 + 400 (or 20% of 2,000) = 2,400 watts.

4. Select on demand

Choose inverters with more functions according to your needs. RV owners can choose inverters with display functions, such as PX series inverters, which can not only view the operating parameters, but also modify the parameters on the display. 

RV owners who need a remote control inverter can choose an inverter with a remote control. All Caspar inverters have this function, the default cable length is 5 meters, the inverter can be used outside the car, and the owner can operate it inside the car.

What are the tips for using power inverters?

1. Use the inverter strictly according to the user manual.

2. When not in use, it is best to cut off the input power.

3. Do not place the inverter in direct sunlight or near the air outlet of the heater. The operating temperature of the inverter should not exceed 40°C. Avoid damaging the internal components of the inverter.

4. The positive and negative terminals must be connected to the correct DC voltage connected to the inverter. And the wire diameter of the connecting wire must be thick enough, and the length of the connecting wire should be minimized.