DC to AC Power Inverters

For those who want to power up their RV with a DC to AC power inverter, RV Solar Connection, llc has a wide selection of both modified and true or pure sine wave inverters available to our clients.

Since there are so many inverter choices we don't stock any inverters other than the Xantrex XPower 1000. Inverters are ordered as needed.

DC to AC power inverters convert your RV's direct current DC 12 volt battery power to alternating current AC 110/120 volt to power... giving you the freedom to run appliances such as a toaster, coffee makers, microwaves and more.

Small portable "Plug In" type inverters of 400 watt or less are inexpensive and easy to use, but are very limited in what they can power up. Their power demands on a 12 volt deep cycle battery is minimal, but when used for long periods of time can eventually drain your RV's deep cycle battery.

Hefty 1000 watt and larger inverters used to power larger appliances and tools create a huge demand on the RV's deep cycle batteries. These large inverters will quickly discharge an RV's 12 volt power supply to critical levels. Without an efficient way to recharge the batteries you'll soon be "Out of Juice". This is where a photovoltaic solar battery charging system installed by RV Solar Connection really comes into play.

A solar system sized to meet your electrical needs will gently and quietly top off your 12 volt deep cycle batteries daily, giving you the ability to live a "Generator Free Lifestyle" all while doing a small part to help the environment.

Modified Sine Wave Inverters

Modified Sine Wave Inverters are probably the most commonly used type of power inverter on the market. They are also the least expensive type of inverter. I have a 3000 watt modified sine wave inverter in my 5th wheel and haven't discovered any problems running 110/120 volt ac appliances such as my microwave, laptop or power tools.

Advantages of Modified Sine Wave Inverters

• Lower initial purchase cost
• Will power most appliances within the inverters wattage rating

Disadvantages of Modified Sine Wave Inverters

• Should not be used to recharge portable power tool battery packs, cordless razors or tooth brushes
• Output wave form may not be compatible with sensitive electronics like photocopiers or laser printers... powers my laptop just fine!
• Not recommended for use with medical equipment
• Microwaves make more noise than normal
• May cause "snow lines" on televisions - we haven't seen this happen yet

True Sine Wave Inverters

Advantages of True Sine Wave Inverters

• Output wave form is similar to that of a shore power
• Inductive loads such as a microwave will run quieter and smoother
• Reduces electrical noise such as "snow" on television screens
• Will power sensitive electronics such as home theater systems, computers, printers, fluorescent lights, sensitive medical equipment

Disadvantages of True Sine Wave Inverters

• High cost of purchase... they are really expensive!

Connecting an inverter to an RV's electrical system is tricky. Input and output cables have to be matched to the system and the systems load. Battery cables leading to the inverter need to be as short as possible and matched to the inverter. The correct size Class T or ANL fuse has to be installed as close to the power source as possible. Transfer switches may need to be installed to isolate shore power from inverter power. A remote switch is handy for turning the inverter on and off.