To invert or step-down?

[roaringgirl]

I have a 3kW 220V inverter and a large lithium battery bank. For reasons, I need an emergency backup electric hotplate. I am in Panama where appliances run on 110V. The hotplate I buy is likely to be 1200W AC 110V. Which is a better solution (and why?):

1) a second inverter of around 1500W for 110V
2) a step down transformer to convert my 220V to 110V

Thanks!

 

[PaulRainbow]

A transformer requires minimal installation, other than that, not much to choose between the two.

 

[Alex_Blackwood]

A transformer requires minimal installation, other than that, not much to choose between the two.

+1 Also transformer has less to go wrong and maybe a tad more efficient. Be careful of the rating some 1.5kva transformers are intermittent rating. you may have to go up to 3Kva. They are also heavy.

 

[roaringgirl]

+1 Also transformer has less to go wrong and maybe a tad more efficient. Be careful of the rating some 1.5kva transformers are intermittent rating. you may have to go up to 3Kva. They are also heavy.

I went with a 2kW inverter and an 1800W induction hob. The inverter definitely works, and the hob switches on and makes the right noises, but the water stays cold. (Yes, I tried several ferrous pans marked for induction use). I suspect the fancy induction electronics don't like a modified sine wave. Back to the shop I go!

 

[Boater Sam]

I went with a 2kW inverter and an 1800W induction hob. The inverter definitely works, and the hob switches on and makes the right noises, but the water stays cold. (Yes, I tried several ferrous pans marked for induction use). I suspect the fancy induction electronics don't like a modified sine wave. Back to the shop I go!

Correct, modified sign wave is no good for electronic appliances. An old radiant or solid plate hob will be OK though. Can you connect two 110v hot plates in series? You would have to run them both together.

 

[savageseadog]

A Transformer will take a large surge current when first energised. Protective circuits in the inverter may shut it down.

 

[roaringgirl]

Correct, modified sign wave is no good for electronic appliances. An old radiant or solid plate hob will be OK though. Can you connect two 110v hot plates in series? You would have to run them both together.

I've bought an oldskool 700W resistive hotplate which will run on the 750W 110V inverter I already have. It'll take a while to cook on, but then it is an emergency backup only.

 

[William_H]

I would suggest OP hold out for a 220v hotplate by mail order orsimilar. Transformer would be very heavy and expensive. Another inverter perhaps the other alternative.
ol'will

 

[roaringgirl]

I would suggest OP hold out for a 220v hotplate by mail order orsimilar. Transformer would be very heavy and expensive. Another inverter perhaps the other alternative.
ol'will

Not an option. Currently in Panama city, departing for Galapagos on Friday.