Power Inverter Formula:
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The DC AC Power Inverter Calculator helps determine the power output of an inverter based on battery capacity, voltage, efficiency, and desired runtime. It's essential for sizing inverters and battery banks for solar systems, RVs, and backup power applications.
The calculator uses the power inverter formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates how much power (in watts) your inverter can provide based on your battery's capacity and how long you need it to run.
Details: Proper power calculation ensures your inverter and battery bank are correctly sized for your needs, preventing system failures or insufficient power supply.
Tips: Enter battery capacity in Ah, voltage in volts, efficiency as a decimal (0.85 for 85%), and desired runtime in hours. All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What's a typical inverter efficiency?
A: Most quality inverters have 85-95% efficiency. Lower-cost models might be 75-85% efficient.
Q2: How do I convert watt-hours to amp-hours?
A: Divide watt-hours by battery voltage (Ah = Wh / V).
Q3: Why is my actual runtime shorter than calculated?
A: Battery capacity decreases with higher discharge rates (Peukert effect) and age. Temperature also affects performance.
Q4: Should I oversize my inverter?
A: Yes, add 20-25% to your calculated power needs to handle startup surges and future expansion.
Q5: What's the difference between continuous and surge power?
A: Continuous power is what the inverter can deliver constantly, while surge power is the temporary peak (usually 2-3x continuous) for motor startups.