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Thread: 240v Inverters

  1. #1
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    Default 240v Inverters

    So, after the storm last weekend we have been told to expect no power for at least 4 weeks and to make our own arrangements. I have a generator going which is fine but I really don’t want to run it for 10 hours a day just to power the wifi modem and charge the teenagers phones and computers. I have an inverter on the big boat which runs off 24 volt battery bank but it’s buggered and really needs replacing. Is there a particular type or brand or power level I should look at? I think the one onboard now is 3000w, but I’m presuming there’s been advances in technology since it was installed, any one know about these things? Thanks.

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  3. #2
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    Quote Originally Posted by riverbuilder View Post
    So, after the storm last weekend we have been told to expect no power for at least 4 weeks and to make our own arrangements. I have a generator going which is fine but I really don’t want to run it for 10 hours a day just to power the wifi modem and charge the teenagers phones and computers. I have an inverter on the big boat which runs off 24 volt battery bank but it’s buggered and really needs replacing. Is there a particular type or brand or power level I should look at? I think the one onboard now is 3000w, but I’m presuming there’s been advances in technology since it was installed, any one know about these things? Thanks.
    How far back are we looking at?
    If it's less than a decade there've been no major advances as far as I know. Internal components may have become a bit more efficient but it's nothing dramatic and swamped by ever more exaggerated power output claims. Just like DC flow rates and HiFi power outputs take some of the claimed power ratings with a grain of salt. A few years back I was given a so called 2400W inverter but it struggles above about 1500W.

    A high powered inverter is not needed to power things like WiFi and phones. For computers it depends on what they are as most laptops are low power and only large gaming desktops need serious power. When we go camping we find a so called 750W inverter is enough to run a WiFI dongle, and charge two mobile phones, 2 iPads and a laptop.

    How many and what type are the computers?

  4. #3
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    When the power issue is fixed I plan on installing it in the boat where it will run the microwave and outlets.

  5. #4
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    Large inverters often draw 2amps with no load so inefficient for small loads. For charging phone, iPads etc it is better to get 12/24v to USB outlets such as these (or one of the many other brands):
    Easy-Install 2x2.1A Dual USB Charging Ports | Jaycar Electronics

    Make sure your new inverter is pure sine wave. The brand name inverters tend to be extremely expensive. Suggest checking the caravan/camping forums for recommendation on the cheap eBay brands (but expect some heated discussion).

    hope you get power back soon.

  6. #5
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    Try here REDARC Electronics: Automotive Electronics, Accessories & Equipment | REDARC Electronics I am sure they will have what you want, made in South Australia top of the range stuff not budget, but you can not buy better

  7. #6
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    Quote Originally Posted by riverbuilder View Post
    So, after the storm last weekend we have been told to expect no power for at least 4 weeks and to make our own arrangements. I have a generator going which is fine but I really don’t want to run it [the generator] for 10 hours a day just to power the wifi modem and charge the teenagers phones and computers.
    so how are you powering your fridge ?
    wi-fi and the teenagers' phones and laptops could always be "silent" for 10 hours per day
    regards from Alberta, Canada

    ian

  8. #7
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    Fridge and freezers are empty, running off an icebox.Had to throw $500 worth of tuna bait in the river too, at least the fish and crabs got a feed

  9. #8
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    Have look around on some of the grey nomad caravan sites. There are a few eBay brands that work fine and good value for money.
    I would also look at getting 12v chargers for phones and computers and anything else that they are available for. Inverters are pretty hungry on your batteries compared to running straight 12v

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