What Is a Power Inverter?

Power inverters are electronic devices that convert a car battery’s 12V DC (direct current) power source into a 110V or 220V AC (alternating current) power source. The conversion lets you use the DC power source like a wall outlet, allowing you to use different devices like laptops, chargers, game systems, catalytic heaters, power tools, and more.

How Do Power Inverters Work?

How power inverters convert DC to AC typically follows three steps:

• Step 1: The inverter draws power from the car’s battery. The amount drawn depends on the power consumption of the connected devices. Higher power devices draw more current, which drains the battery faster.
• Step 2: Afterward, the inverter uses pulse width modulation (PMW) switching power supply technology to convert the DC power to AC power.
• Step 3: The inverter produces the AC power needed to use different devices.

Types of Power Inverters

There are two types of power inverters: pure sine wave inverters and modified sine wave inverters. It’s best to learn more about sine waves to understand how they differ.

A sine wave is a signal or waveform that moves back and forth between positive and negative voltages. AC is usually a sine wave, meaning the voltage and current change direction in a smooth cycle. Essentially, sine waves are the purest waveform in electronics.

Pure Sine Wave Inverters

Pure sine wave inverters produce a sine wave similar to a wall outlet. You can use the DC power source for various devices like laptops. Pure sine wave inverters also operate more efficiently and produce less heat than modified sine wave inverters.

They’re also reliable, ensuring sensitive electronics run smoothly without unexpected shutdowns or malfunctions.

Modified Sine Wave Inverters

On the other hand, modified sine wave inverters produce a modified sine wave with a more stepped, square-like pattern. Due to this, modified inverters are less expensive and simpler in design than pure sine wave inverters.

This also means they’re less efficient and may cause devices to run hotter. Modified inverters may also cause interference or reduced performance of different devices since they aren’t getting nearly the same amount of power as pure sine wave inverters.

How to Choose the Right Power Inverter

To pick the proper power inverter for your car, you should consider the inverter type, input voltage, and power needs.

Choose the Power Inverter Type

As mentioned, there are two types of power inverters. It’s crucial to choose one that fits your needs. If you plan to use the inverter to power your laptop, pure sine wave inverters are for you.

On the other hand, if you’re looking to save money or use the inverter for low-power devices, then a modified inverter is for you.

Consider Input Voltage

Check your vehicle’s voltage, as most cars operate on a 12V DC system, while some bigger vehicles and trucks use 24V DC. Finding an inverter that matches your car’s voltage limits compatibility issues.

Determine Power Needs

List all the devices you plan to power and determine their total wattage requirements. Afterward, pick an inverter with a continuous power rating of at least 20% higher than the total wattage.

Look At The Features

Some inverters also have features that add an extra layer of protection. For example, overload protection ensures the inverter protects both the inverter and the car’s electrical system.

Similarly, some inverters have short circuit protection in case of a short circuit and over-temperature shutdown that automatically turns the inverter off if it overheats.

Number and Outlet Types

You should also determine how many outlets you need and whether you live in a region/use devices that require 120V AC or 220V AC. You should also consider the availability and USB port types for charging smartphones, tablets, etc.

Battery Management

Lastly, ensure your car’s battery can handle the additional load of the inverter. Luckily, some inverters have a low battery shutoff feature that turns the inverter off when the car battery gets too low to prevent battery depletion.

How to Use a Power Inverter

To connect and install a power inverter, follow the steps below:

• Step 1: Find a suitable power source to connect the inverter to. The cigarette light socket is often good enough, but you can connect the inverter to the battery.
• Step 2: Use high-quality cables that can handle the power capacity. Use thick, short cables to minimize voltage drop.
• Step 3: Ground the inverter if it’s connected to the battery to prevent electrical issues. To do so, look for an unpainted metal surface (bolt or screw) on the chassis and use a wire of the same gauge as the inverter’s power cables.
• Step 4: Attach a ring terminal to one end of the ground wire before securing the ring terminal under the bolt or screw on the chassis. Ensure the connection is tight and the metal surface is clean.

Here are some other installation and usage tips to keep in mind:

• Start the vehicle before using the inverter to avoid draining the battery. A running engine provides a continuous power source and prevents excessive discharge.
• Check the power requirements of the devices you plan to use to ensure they’re compatible with the inverter. Using devices that exceed the inverter’s power rating could lead to malfunction/damage.
• Use low-power devices and gradually power up when using the inverter the first time to prevent sudden power surges that could overload the inverter.
• Turn off the inverter to conserve energy and prevent unnecessary strain on the battery.
• Avoid placing the inverter in enclosed spaces to avoid overheating and reduced efficiency.
• If you can, look for an inverter with a built-in voltage monitor to keep track of your car’s battery voltage. Low voltage may indicate excessive strain on the battery.