For Small Inverters:
- Automobile and Marine Batteries: Most small inverters (under 500 watts) can run effectively using a standard automotive or marine battery. These batteries typically provide ample power for 30 to 60 minutes, even with the engine off. The actual runtime depends on the battery’s age, condition, and the power demand of the equipment connected to the inverter.
Pro Tip: If you’re running the inverter with the engine off, it’s advisable to start the engine every hour and let it run for about 10 minutes to recharge the battery. This helps prevent the battery from draining too much.
For Inverters 500 Watts and Larger:
- Deep Cycle Batteries (Marine or RV): For larger inverters, it’s best to use deep cycle batteries, such as marine or RV batteries. These batteries are designed for sustained power over long periods and can endure several hundred complete charge/discharge cycles, making them ideal for heavy-duty use.
Warning: Using regular automotive starting batteries with large inverters will cause them to wear out quickly, often after only a dozen charge/discharge cycles. If you don’t have a deep cycle battery, keeping the vehicle’s engine running while using the inverter is recommended to avoid draining the battery.
Operating Tips for Deep Cycle Batteries:
- Recharging: When using a deep cycle battery to power an inverter, it’s important to start the engine every 30 to 60 minutes and let it run for 10 minutes to recharge the battery. This practice helps maintain the battery’s charge and extends its life.
- High Continuous Loads: If your inverter will be powering appliances with high continuous loads for extended periods, using the same battery that starts your vehicle is not advisable. Draining the vehicle’s battery too much can leave it with insufficient power to start the engine.
Best Practice: Consider using a dedicated deep-cycle battery for the inverter installed close to it. To protect both batteries, installing a battery isolator between the starting and deep cycle batteries is a good idea. This setup ensures that your vehicle’s starting battery remains charged and ready to start the engine when needed.
