Inverter for Whynter mini freezer
What inverter would you recommend to run a Whynter 2.1 cu ft mini freezer while towing? Model # CUF-210ssa https://www.amazon.com/Whynter-CUF-210SS-Energy-Upright-Freezer/dp/B00G23MKL6 Input ...
Forum Discussion
Naio wrote:sidney wrote:
Thanks for all the replies. I did not consider how high the start up surge could be.
For now I'm going to stick with running the freezer on shore power.
Cheers
When my mini freezer is stuffed full, it keeps things frozen for 3.5 days with no power, if highs are in the upper 60s / low 70s. At higher temps it's more like 3 days.
It's very important that it be full, though. Not-full, it might be less than 12 hours. Fill yours with frozen water bottles if needed.
My freezer uses 65 watts when running. My 1500 watt inverter will SOMETIMES handle the startup surge, but not reliably.
Not ALL inverters are created "equally" and have long enough surge current capacity to reliably start an induction motor under a load.
If the inverter does not include the amount of time it can handle the surge rating in the specifications you most likely WILL have a hit or miss type situation.
Most cheap inverters fit this category..
Better inverters WILL include the length of time that it can sustain in the surge current area..
Example is the PV1250 that I have..
Here is the specs..
"Model: PV1250FC
Voltage compatibility: 12 VDC
Frequency compatibility: 60 Hz
Output voltage: 120 VAC
Output capacity (continuous): 1250 watts
Output capacity (OverPower): 1875 watts/1 hour
Output capacity (DoubleBoost): 2500 watts/10 seconds
Overload protection: Output circuit breaker
Cooling method: Fan
Input connection: 2 x DC input terminals (user supplies cables)
Outlet quantity/type: 2 x 5-15R
Switches/LEDs/alarms: 3-positon On/Off/Remote switch
6 x diagnostic LEDs
Dimensions (HWD): 7.0 x 8.75 x 9.0 in.
Weight: 23.2 lbs.
Material of construction: Black polycarbonate"
Notice the area I bolded!
The PV1250 CAN handle 1875W for ONE HR!!!
And can handle 2500W (double the continuous rating) for TEN SECONDS!
Cheap inverter manufacturers over state their surge capacity and the time it can handle the surge at the level they stated will be on the order of MICROSECONDS which is not enough to get an induction motor started!
Yes, The PV1250 IS expensive (currently about $250) compared to a $79 1500W import but it WILL run rings around any cheap import inverter..
