Inverter Efficiency

[CaptainBob]

Anyone know if it's best to use an inverter rated close to your needs rather than getting a higher rated one? I mean, will a 600W one waste more than a 300W one when running something drawing 150W?

I'd like one with plenty of spare capability for who knows what - but not if it's going reduce efficiency.

TY

 

[grumpy_o_g]

Will depend on the specific inverter obviously but typically they're at peak efficiency at around 80-90% of continuous load. This is assuming that is running reasonably cool - performance can drop quite a bit in a very hot engine compartment.

With most modern inverters you shouldn't see a huge drop in efficiency as long as you're using 30-40% plus though. A 3KVA inverter that is running running 10 watt phone charger or something like that may not be too clever but, if you you've got an inverter that size you've probably got rather large batteries!!

 

[James_Hortop]

Above is absolutely right. I have a 3kW inverter for running galley, aircon etc. I have a small 150w model for running phone charger etc.

 

[CaptainBob]

Thank you.