An inverter converts 12V or 24V DC from your battery into 230V AC so you can run mains appliances away from the grid. Three things decide which one you need: the waveform it produces, its continuous and surge ratings, and how much current your battery can actually supply.
Waveform. Pure sine reproduces mains power and runs anything. Modified sine is a cheaper stepped approximation that causes problems with motors, transformers and sensitive electronics. We stock pure sine only.
Ratings. Continuous is what it supplies indefinitely; surge is what it supplies for a few seconds while something starts. Motors and compressors surge three to seven times their running figure, so the surge rating usually decides your choice, not the continuous one.
Current. Power out means current in. A 1,000W load pulls roughly 85–95A from a 12V battery. That’s why cable size and battery capacity matter as much as the inverter itself.
12V or 24V?. Most vehicles are 12V and most buyers should stay there. But at the same output a 24V inverter draws about half the current, which means smaller cable, less voltage drop and less heat. If you’re designing a system from scratch around heavy loads, 24V is worth considering before you commit.
Watch the idle draw. Inverters draw current whenever they’re switched on, even with nothing plugged in. Leaving one on overnight will flatten a battery on its own. Fit a switch, or use a model with a remote and standby mode.
Efficiency is not 100%. Expect 85–92% under load. Budget for that when you’re working out runtime, or you’ll be disappointed by how quickly the battery drops.
What’s the difference between pure sine and modified sine?
Pure sine reproduces the smooth waveform of mains electricity. Modified sine produces a stepped approximation. Simple resistive loads run on either; motors, transformers, medical devices and sensitive electronics need pure sine.
How much battery does an inverter use?
Roughly the load in watts divided by the system voltage, plus 10–15% for losses. A 600W load on 12V draws around 55–60A.
Why does my inverter shut down under load?
Usually insufficient surge capacity, or voltage drop in undersized DC cable. Check the cable gauge and run length before assuming the inverter is faulty.
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This 1100W Pure Sine Wave Inverter is loaded with features found on larger models and is suitable for powering lightweight household appliances. Featuring greater starting power than modified sine wave inverters allowing it to start more favourite appliances. Features AS/NZS approved 240V sockets. Inverter designed to Australian standard AS4764 LED display provides information on battery…
Pro-Wave pure sine wave inverters are designed, engineered and tested to provide performance in the toughest conditions. The Pro-Wave range utilises pure sine wave inverter technology, which more closely replicates the 240V mains power found at home. Featuring dual AC outlets, the PW1600 has class leading features and performance, making it the perfect unit for…
Pro-Wave Pure Sine Wave inverters are designed, engineered and tested to provide performance in the toughest conditions. The Pro-Wave range utilises pure sine wave technology, which more closely replicates the 240V mains power found at home. Available in 12V or 24V models, the PW2100 features 4200W startup to power very demanding 240V appliances on the…
Pro-Wave Pure Sine Wave inverters are designed, engineered and tested to provide performance in the toughest conditions. The Pro-Wave range utilises pure sine wave technology, which more closely replicates the 240V mains power found at home. The ideal companion for taking creature comforts on the road. Delivers reliable power completely noise free, allowing sensitive devices…
This 600W Pure Sine Wave Inverter is loaded with features found on larger models and is suitable for powering lightweight household appliances. Featuring greater starting power than modified sine wave inverters allowing it to start more of your favourite appliances.
Pro-Wave Pure Sine Wave inverters are designed, engineered, and rigorously tested to deliver reliable performance in the harshest environments. The Pro-Wave series employs pure sine wave technology to mimic the 240V mains power you use at home. Offered in both 12V and 24V models, the PW2100 is equipped with a robust 4200W startup capacity, enabling…