Glossary

Inverter

Unit W · Also Inverter, Inverter-charger

What is Inverter?

Device that generates 230 volts AC from the battery's DC voltage. Inverter-chargers combine it with a charger and automatic changeover.

What matters about Inverter in practice?

On board it generates a voltage that is just as dangerous as shore power and therefore belongs in the same system: its own protection, integration into the source changeover, protective earth concept according to the manufacturer. The last point decides whether the residual current protection works at all in stand-alone operation.

On the DC side it is one of the largest loads: 2000 watts mean around 190 amps at 12 volts. Supply cable, fusing and the size of the battery bank must match, and its no-load consumption belongs in the daily energy balance.

Pure sine or modified sine wave?

Pure sine wave inverters supply a voltage like the mains socket and suit all loads. Modified sine wave units are cheaper but can disturb power supplies, motors and chargers or make them hum. On boats and in motorhomes pure sine wave is the rule.

How large must the inverter be?

  • Continuous power depends on the loads that run at the same time.
  • Peak power must cover the starting currents of compressors and motors.
  • On the DC side, roughly power ÷ voltage plus losses applies: 2,000 W draw about 190 A at 12 V, half that at 24 V.

What belongs to the installation?

A short supply cable with a large cross-section, a fuse close to the battery and a protective earth concept according to the manufacturer, so that the residual current device works in stand-alone mode. More on the page charger and inverter.

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