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Power Inverters

Pure sine wave and modified sine power inverters compared by continuous and surge watts, input voltage, outlets, remote options and stated protections.

What to compare in power inverters

An inverter turns battery DC into household AC. Wattage labels and waveform notes tell you what it can feed and what it cannot.

  • Continuous versus surge: Continuous watts cover steady loads, and surge watts cover brief starts. The listing gives each as a separate line; read both.
  • Waveform: Pure sine wave suits sensitive electronics and many motors. Modified sine is common on simpler units, and the listing should say which it is.
  • Input voltage: Match the unit's 12V, 24V or 48V input to your battery, since a mismatch cannot work at all.
  • Idle draw: Some listings state no-load consumption. A unit that idles heavily wastes battery whenever it is switched on.
  • Outlets and protections: Count AC outlets and USB ports, and note any named protection against overload, short circuit or low battery voltage.
  • Cable and fuse needs: Thicker cables and a correctly rated fuse are usually called for. Permanent hookups belong with a licensed electrician.

Read the label on the biggest thing you plan to power and compare its watts with the inverter's continuous rating. Then check surge only for motors, compressors or pumps, which pull more when starting.

Guides to read first