Inverters

Power Inverters: Converting 12vdc to 120vac

Our homes run on 120vac(Volts Alternating Current), and our vehicles operate on 12vdc(Volts Direct Current). But sometimes we want to run electrical devices from our vehicles instead of our homes.

I prefer to get dc-dc adapters(for computer/phone/tablet/toothbrush chargers) or switch to appliances that use 12vdc directly. This avoids the inefficiency, cost, and heat that an inverter adds to the mix. Though almost everything is available in a 12vdc model or with an OEM or aftermarket dc-dc adapter, sometimes it makes sense to have an inverter(think hair dryer, microwave, induction cooktop).

Microwaves are rated in output power, so an 850watt microwave is probably pulling about 1000watts from the outlet.

Usually you can get away with a modified sine wave inverter, which are cheaper. However, some 120vac appliances require a pure sine wave inverter. Using a pure sine wave inverter also also improves efficiency. http://amzn.to/2pSo9gK https://www.google.com/search?q=2500+watt+pure+sine+wave+inverter

Read more about power inverters here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power_inverter