Power Inverters for Cars: Which Type Do You Need and What Can It Power?
If you’re an avid adventurer who often travels by car, you’ve come to the right place. Power inverters for cars are excellent additions to any road trip expedition and are a surefire way to elevate your travel experience. They can help keep your battery charged while static or mobile, so you can continue your journey as you see fit.
There are tons of inverters on the market, so it can be challenging to narrow down your options. To help make your decision easy, we have curated a simple guide touching on the main things you need to consider before choosing the inverter suited to your needs.
What Does a Power Inverter for a Car Do?
For starters, let’s explore the basics of what these helpful gadgets can do for you. Inverters are incredibly helpful devices for on-the-go expeditions as they can convert your car’s 12-volt DC power from the battery into 120-volt AC power. This conversion allows you to harness the power from your vehicle to use on other external devices that would typically need to be plugged into a normal outlet.
These inverters come in various styles, each capable of powering different types of devices. Low-wattage inverters can power phones, tablets, and other small devices, while a high-voltage inverter can power mini-fridges, microwaves, and even larger power tools.
Campers and RV enthusiasts can benefit from adding the EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger to their list of must-haves. This inverter is great for charging your battery as you drive, and will quickly elevate your overall experience while off the grid.
How Does a Power Inverter Work?
Your car emits DC, or direct current power. While this power source is great for cars, most electronic devices, big and small, are powered by AC, or alternate current.
An inverter converts DC power to AC power, allowing you to use the energy from your car to power external devices that would not have otherwise worked without being plugged into the inverter.
Types of Power Inverters for Cars
Modified Sine Wave Inverters
These inverters are slightly simpler in their makeup and are best used for less-complex devices like phone chargers, fans, and small light fixtures. The output of these devices is not as smooth as that of pure sine wave inverters, as described below. While these work great for simpler devices, they can cause overheating or buzzing if used on larger, more complex devices.
Pure Sine Wave Inverters
These inverters are a bit more advanced and are best used for more sensitive electronics like laptops, TVs, and medical devices. While they’re typically a bit bulkier than the modified versions mentioned above, they are more advanced in their output and produce a smooth, clean wave like the electricity from your wall at home.
How To Choose a Power Inverter for Your Car
Prior to any purchase, it’s important to do some research and planning. Here are the most important things you should consider before buying an inverter.
EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Portable Power Station
Determine What You Need to Power and Choose the Correct Inverter Size
Different needs require different-sized inverters. If you only plan to use one to charge your phone or computer, you will have better luck investing in a lower-voltage system. If, on the other hand, you are planning on using it for higher-output devices, you will need to invest in a 1,000W+ inverter to ensure it is capable of meeting your needs.
Research Safety Features
Now that you know what size inverter you need, you should also take the time to research safety features included in your chosen system. Misusing an inverter can cause permanent damage to your car’s battery, so look for automatic shut-off features and overload protection to ensure your vehicle's longevity.
If you’re interested in an inverter but don’t wish to connect one to your car battery, the EcoFlow DELTA 3 Plus offers the best of both worlds. This portable power station is an efficient AC converter, perfect for on-the-go adventures.
Install Your Inverter
Once you’ve chosen the right inverter and confirmed that it meets your safety requirements, it is time to install it in your car and start traveling.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Will a 12V Car Battery Last With an Inverter?
The length of time a 12V car battery will last depends on a few essential factors. The power draw of the device you are running is the most influential factor. However, it is safe to assume a typical 12V car battery would supply approximately 300–400 watt-hours of usable energy.
Do Power Inverters Drain Your Car Battery?
Yes, inverters do drain car batteries. This is because they are designed to draw power directly from the battery. Extended periods of use and increased power draw will cause the battery to drain faster, so be aware of the high wattage of connected devices.
Can a Power Inverter Damage My Car?
A power inverter can damage your car if the battery drains too low or too quickly. While this is a common concern when using inverters, a simple solution is to ensure you do not leave the inverter plugged in while the car engine is turned off.
Final Thoughts
It doesn’t take long to see how helpful having an inverter out on the open road can be. Inverters can help keep your car battery charged on the go, so you can keep moving wherever you are.
The guide above is a great starting point in helping you find the perfect device suited to your needs. Still looking for the right match? EcoFlow’s DELTA Pro 3 is a great option that’s sure to check all of your boxes.