Advice on deep cycle setup?
Hello, I have a Safari van that I've converted into a camper. I replaced the starting battery with a Duracell Ultra Dual Purpose (Starting/Cycling) Battery that cost $105 (got it at batteries ...
Forum Discussion
Hi JohnnyGood,
Here are some reasons to consider the 2k inverter:
Electric items that are pushed to the edge of their capacity may die sooner. This has happened to one of the regular contributors here, who was pushing an inverter too hard.
In the specific case of inverters--there are surge ratings. At the price point you are considering the surge ratings may be measured in milliseconds.
Ratings on inverters are VA NOT watts.
Recommended sizing used to be 125% of the maximum load that may be placed on the inverter. But that was when inverters had a big heavy transformer. In these days of switched power supplies 150% may be a better number.
There is some evidence that a 2000 watt inverter powering a 1000 watt load may be more efficient (i.e. uses less DC power) than a 1000 watt inverter.
These inverters are not really repairable--as there are no parts available. Overloading may damage the inverter, so bigger is better for large loads. In other words, the larger inverter may have a much greater lifespan.
What is allowing the current system to operate is that you are using a starter battery--these are designed for high rate discharge. Granted you are pushing it too hard. It is probably not getting fully recharged and lead acid hate that.
Inverter/chargers are only useful if there is shore power. Good ones are going to cost a LOT more than the "throw away" inverters.
Here are some reasons to consider the 2k inverter:
Electric items that are pushed to the edge of their capacity may die sooner. This has happened to one of the regular contributors here, who was pushing an inverter too hard.
In the specific case of inverters--there are surge ratings. At the price point you are considering the surge ratings may be measured in milliseconds.
Ratings on inverters are VA NOT watts.
Recommended sizing used to be 125% of the maximum load that may be placed on the inverter. But that was when inverters had a big heavy transformer. In these days of switched power supplies 150% may be a better number.
There is some evidence that a 2000 watt inverter powering a 1000 watt load may be more efficient (i.e. uses less DC power) than a 1000 watt inverter.
These inverters are not really repairable--as there are no parts available. Overloading may damage the inverter, so bigger is better for large loads. In other words, the larger inverter may have a much greater lifespan.
What is allowing the current system to operate is that you are using a starter battery--these are designed for high rate discharge. Granted you are pushing it too hard. It is probably not getting fully recharged and lead acid hate that.
Inverter/chargers are only useful if there is shore power. Good ones are going to cost a LOT more than the "throw away" inverters.
JohnnyGood wrote:
Hi All,
I'm not sure why I'd want a 2000 watt inverter instead of a 1000?
Next on the list would be the battery, and potentially solar panels or a generator ... before I get the battery I want to make sure I'm set to maintain it well, and hopefully the one I have will remain OK as a starting battery.
Right now the battery I have is working to power the cooker while driving (not at idle - it does it's warning beep), although I realize I'm probably killing the battery. Hence getting the alternator asap.
Yours,
L
