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Why Do I Need A Power Inverter?

What is a power inverter?

Inverters change direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC). An outlet in your home, if connected to the power grid, produces alternating current which is what most common appliances and devices use for power.

Power inverters vary in size and use. Larger inverters are used to power cities and states while smaller ones provide enough power to operate small appliances and devices. No matter what size the power inverter happens to be typically the principle remains the same in how they work.

Why do I need a power inverter?

Inverters become very useful when you don¡¯t have access to an AC power source such as an outlet. For instance while you are outdoors camping, tailgating or boating you may need to power a device that isn¡¯t battery operated.

Cars, trucks and boats typically use a 12 volt battery which produces direct current so if you have an inverter you can simply hook it up to the battery and convert it to alternating current so you are able to operate small device such as radio, blender, laptop or television.

solar panels create DC power that is useful to change to AC power with an inverter and maybe store excess power in battery banks or power small devices.

For a more convenient solution you can get an inverter that plugs into your lighter socket for plug and play power. The manufacturers of these inverter types, they are generally 400 watts and below typically come with a cigarette lighter attachment for quick usage. These typically will not be able to draw more than 150-180 watts of power at a time though.

The manufacturers of larger wattage inverters, 500 watts and above rarely include a cigarette lighter adapting technology due to the higher energy requirements of the device. If they do provide this capacity it will be no different than with the small wattage inverter.