Shopping for the best RV inverter has become an intricate process over these last few years. This challenge seems to come from there being a large number of options out there. Nobody seems to know what unit can be the stable power source everyone wants to buy.
But this article will make sure to highlight what separates a bad model from a good one. As a result, I’ll help curb this issue from occurring during your search. How do I intend to achieve this and be a useful guide for anyone reading this article?
I’ll accomplish this task by walking you through all the ins and outs about RV inverters. This will include covering topics like benefits, types, determining factors, and much more. You’ll soon become an expert on this topic, and picking a top tier model will seem like a breeze.
So without further delay, let’s move into this process and find the perfect inverter for your situation today. It might even be one of the 16 options I review in the next section!
| Best Overall | Budget Friendly | Most Durable | |
| Preview | AIMS 5000 Watt
|
POTEK 2000W-MSW
|
Ampeak 2000W
|
| Total Outlets | 2 GFCI Dual Outlet | 3 AC outlets | 3 AC outlets |
| Continuous Output | 5000W | 2000W | 2000W |
| Surge Output | 10000W | 4000W | 4000W |
| Warranty | 12 months | 18 months | 18 months |
| Details | Details | Details |
16 Most Trusted RV Inverter Reviews
1. AIMS Power 5000 Watt 12 Volt DC Power Inverter
Our first option comes from a respected brand, AIMS Power, which has become a force within this market. This company’s popularity stems from its ability to craft some of the best RV inverters available today.
As you might expect, this model is no different and continues to be a favorite among rig owners for many reasons. One of them is the unit’s ability to supply a maximum of 5000 watts of continuous power and having a surge peak power of 10000W.
These two aspects make it one of the most highly rated on today’s market. As a result, it shouldn’t have any issues powering your rig’s appliances and devices. It becomes one of the most effective and efficient inverters out there.
I was also impressed by this product’s safety protection features to prevent issues like overheating. You can use this device without ever having to worry about a dangerous situation occurring. It offers peace of mind that subpar models can’t match.
You have to love the product’s compact design, as well. This model only weighs 17 pounds, which gives it a smaller footprint and makes it ideal for tight spaces inside your rig. It also makes the install process much less taxing than it would be with a bulkier model.
The product having an AC direct connect terminal block didn’t hurt matters, either. It’s another feature capable of making the install process a breeze. Honestly, I didn’t even have issues getting this task done, which is a miracle.
2. POTEK 2000W Power Inverter
The POTEK 2000W Power Inverter will make many RV owners happy with its productive performance and user-friendly features. For instance, I love how this model comes with three AC outlets and one charging port.
It allows me to charge multiple devices whenever necessary. So I could charge my phone with the USB outlet and power my fridge or microwave using the AC outlet. As a result, I’ve never run into a situation where I can’t get my essentials fully charged and running.
Buyers can also feel safe when using this inverter. POTEK constructed this device with multiple protections against over-voltage, overload, short circuits, overheating, and more. It’s more than equipped to deal with whatever issue presents itself.
Furthermore, this inverter has a built-in fan to offer even more protection. It’s a crucial aspect because this fan will activate when the device starts to reach dangerous temperatures. It allows the entire design to be much safer for everyone involved.
I was pleased that this model is a compact size inverter for RV usage. I don’t have much room onboard my rig, so I need to account for space when buying new equipment. But this one is compact and lightweight to ensure fitting into small areas isn’t an issue.
Moreover, its more minor construction helps make it more portable than most other options. This quality allows it to be ideal for various purposes and applications. After all, users can take it to remote job sites, camping, or even use it at home.
3. Ampeak 2000W RV Power Inverter
It’s hard to imagine any RV owner being disappointed by the Ampeak 2000W RV Power Inverter. This model has received nothing but rave reviews for its performance and overall adaptability to customer needs.
An excellent example would be its small digital display. This aspect might not seem like a massive deal, but it offers convenient access to vital information. For example, users can monitor the inverter’s status, various protections, input, and output.
The product’s ability to offer 4000 watts of surge capacity was another highlight trait. It’ll ensure the device can handle an unexpected influx of electricity without becoming unstable or dangerous. It becomes another way this option helps protect user safety.
Meanwhile, this device comes with a sizable number of ports with 3 AC outlets and one USB charging port. So it’ll allow me to charge various devices ranging from my phone to kitchen appliances. Honestly, it’s been a godsend to have on trips ever since I purchased it.
Using the device couldn’t be easier, either. I simply connect it to my battery and plug the devices into their correct outlets on this inverter. It then provides those devices with power whenever or wherever it’s needed.
If these features weren’t enough, this model comes at an affordable price and offers an 18-month warranty. Both of these aspects only increase the value of its favorable traits. It ends up being a much better option than any used RV inverter or most overpriced ones.
4. GoWISE Power PS1004 PURE SINE 3000W Power Inverter
This next model is a challenger for the best 3000-watt pure sine wave inverter available. It gains this status through features like its five protection systems. These systems include under voltage, overload, over voltage, thermal, and low voltage protection alarm.
Each of these features will ensure you won’t find yourself in any problematic situations when using this device. You also have to love this product’s 3000w continuous power and 6000w surge power ratings.
These two aspects will make sure this product is a stable power source during power failure emergencies. This unit should offer maximum efficiency with the bulk of your devices on board the rig, such as computers, light fixtures, tools, and much more.
I was also impressed by this device’s compact and portable design. This design makes it capable of being used in many situations without issues, such as on worksites, RVs, boats, cars, and similar conditions.
Many buyers were thrilled with this purchase having everything needed for a proper install. These items include black and red cables, a remote switch, a detailed instruction manual, USB port 5V, and three AC sockets. Due to this, installing the inverter was a piece of cake and didn’t take much time at all.
This unit’s price tag isn’t too shabby, either. It’s actually among the lowest costly options on our list. Bargain buyers should jump at the chance to buy this model based on its cost and great features. I was quite shocked when I learned this product was available for this price.
5. GIANDEL 3000 Watt DC12 Volt Power Inverter
GIANDEL’s 3000 Watt DC12 Volt Power Inverter is one of the most convenient travel trailer inverters available today. It earns this status due to features like it coming with a remote control, LED display, and a 15-foot long cable.
All of these features will make turning the device on/off a relatively easy task. Plus, it helps that the LED display ensures you can keep track of the unit’s input and output power levels. You aren’t going to find another model with such an easy using process.
I was also pleased with this product’s two temperature-controlled silent cooling fans. These additions will ensure the operating noise level is kept to a minimum. This issue tends to be a huge problem in inferior products.
As someone who’s noise sensitive, these features are crucial to ensure my happiness with an inverter. I found this product’s 3000w continuous power and 6000w surge power ratings to more than meet my needs, as well. In fact, it should have no issues powering the devices onboard my rig.
This reliable power source is an ideal fit for usage in trucks, boats, RVs, or during a power outage. In each of these situations, this camper inverter was shown to be more than capable and offered top tier results without any problems.
You have to be impressed by this product’s price tag, too, which falls way below what a person should normally expect an inverter to cost. It’s a real bargain buy and worth exploring for anyone who’s looking for the best deal possible.
6. Xantrex 815-3012 Freedom SW Series 3000 Watt Inverter/Charger
If you’re looking for a durable and long-lasting model, Xantrex 815-3012 Freedom SW Series 3000 Watt Inverter/Charger is a suitable choice. This model features a heavy-duty design with a strong plate capable of ensuring effective long-term results.
You also have to love this product coming with a battery charger, which can deliver 150 amp single output. In fact, this model is capable of charging batteries drained at extremely low voltages. It’s easily among the top-rated RV power inverter chargers out there.
I was a fan of this product’s remote on/off switch, as well. This aspect makes using the product a much easier endeavor, which is always a nice plus. The product’s built-in transfer switch will help in this regard, too, with its automatic transfer process.
This product’s customizable settings are another appealing trait. These settings offer a bit more control over the entire process for the user. It’s always nice when an aspect or feature makes it easier to make certain decisions based on your likings.
It’s also worth mentioning that this Xantrex pure sine wave inverter’s reviews were filled with people praising its install process. It seems many people felt setting up this model was a lot easier than other options out there. I would have to concur based on my experiences.
However, these great features do come with two large flaws. The first one is this product’s price tag, which happens to be head and shoulders above most others on our list. It’ll end up costing you a small fortune to get this model for your next RV trip.
The product’s bulky design was an annoying aspect, too, as it made the install process a two-person job rather than one. It was easy to set up, but the weight of this product made maneuvering it around more challenging than expected.
7. AIMS Power PICOGLF20W12V120VR 2000 Watt 12V Pure Sine Inverter
Buyers looking for the 2000-watt power inverter should seriously consider this model from AIMS Power. It comes with many features that will make any rig owner who’s lucky enough to buy it a happy camper.
A great example would be its powerful battery charger, which is capable of charging at 70 amps. This aspect offers the unit a great deal of versatility as it can charge open lead acid, Gel USA, AGM 1, AGM 2, Sealed Lead Acid, and Gel EURO batteries.
The product’s optional remote on/off switch with LCD display was another crucial feature. It’ll monitor AC output voltage, AC input voltage, battery voltage, load percentage, and frequency. In other words, it’ll help keep the rig owner aware of what’s going with the unit.
You shouldn’t sleep on this model’s optional automatic generator start, either. This feature ensures the product can be customized to start running a generator the moment the battery gets too low. It’s another aspect capable of showing this product’s convenience.
As with earlier products, this model comes with an automatic transfer switch that’ll transfer you to back up power during a power outage. It provides this benefit without the rig owner needing to flip any switch. It’s a great feature for a lazy person like me.
The product’s install and using methods were two other intriguing traits. In fact, other buyers were quick to praise these tasks in this AIMS inverter charger’s reviews. I was impressed by the detailed directions and great tech support.
8. Magnum Energy MS2012 2000W 12V RV Inverter/Charger
Another 2000 watt RV inverter worth checking out is Magnum Energy’s MS2012 2000w RV 12 volt inverter/charger. This pure sine wave unit will have no issues powering stereos, plasma screens, tools, and other useful equipment onboard your RV.
This product also has a power factor corrected charger that will use less energy from generators than a standard charger. In fact, you can expect it to use 25 to 30 percent less, which is a sizable difference.
I was also pleased that this model comes in both 12 volt and 24 volt designs to ensure it can meet the needs of more buyers. It’s always nice when you have a choice regarding these types of aspects rather than being pigeon-holed into a certain feature.
This model has gained a rep for having a very accessible design, as well. It’s a benefit that comes from its large AC access cover, 360-degree connections, and terminal screw block. All these design aspects will make your life as a rig owner much easier.
You should find this RV inverter’s installation rather simple, too, with its versatile mounting feature. Users can choose to mount it on a shelf, upside down, or on bulkhead without any issues. This process was so simple I didn’t even break a sweat.
The product’s overall design was certainly another winning aspect. It comes with a lightweight aluminum base and cover, which offer corrosion resistance and noise reduction. Due to this, you can expect a quiet operation for years to come.
9. Krieger 2000 Watts Modified Sine Wave Power Inverter
If you’re looking for a small and simple model, Krieger’s 2000 Watts Modified Sine Wave Power Inverter could be a perfect fit. It has all the features you’ve come accustom to in larger models but has a more compact design.
One of these features is its 2000W continuous power and 4000W peak power ratings. These aspects should let it handle all your onboard appliances and devices without issue. It’s also why it’s a perfect item to have around when a power outage occurs.
The many protection systems are another appealing aspect. This model contains protections against short circuits, high temperatures, under voltage, overload, and over voltage. As a result, you can use this model without worrying about any safety hazards occurring.
You’ll also be able to see all of this info on the model’s useful and readable LCD display. This feature wasn’t even hard for me to see, which is notable because my eyesight isn’t the best. It’s also worth noting that this display will show input voltage, battery level, and output wattage.
Many buyers were impressed by this product’s ultra silent fan, as well. This aspect will keep the noise level down and ensure users don’t get any headaches from this device. I can confirm its silent operation as I never endured any problems in this area.
It’s worth stating that this product is a modified sine wave option, which means the efficiency will be lower than a pure sine wave unit. In this case, I don’t think it’s much of an issue because the price tag is much, much lower than other models out there.
10. WZRELB Off Grid Pure Sine Wave 3000W Power Inverter
Buyers looking to get an inverter capable of working in multiple vehicles should take a gander at this model. It has shown a unique ability to work in boats, cars, trucks, RVs, and worksites with effective results.
You also love to learn that this model can be easily moved between vehicles thanks to its quick connections. This aspect should lessen the hassle a person might feel with a larger, bulkier model when moving from vehicle to vehicle.
I was pleased with this product’s power ratings, as well. You can expect this product to generate 3000W continuous power and 6000w at its max surge. These aspects should have no problems powering the lamps, fans, laptops, and TVs onboard your rig.
The product’s compact and portable design lends itself very useful for camping purposes. This design will ensure installing it inside a small area won’t be much of an issue. Due to this, it’s obvious the model was made to be an inverter for a rig owner.
I found the product’s seven protection systems rather intriguing, too. This number is a bit more than available on any of these prior models. You can expect this product to handle any RV inverter problems with the following systems: high voltage, low voltage, overload, surge power, short circuit, over current, and reverse connection.
This amount of protection certainly helps me sleep at night by increasing the safety onboard my rig. I should also mention this model comes in eight variations to ensure a buyer can find an option capable of fitting their unique needs.
11. Xantrex 806-1220 PROWatt 2000 Inverter
Xantrex’ s806-1220 PROWatt 2000 Inverter is a great option for anyone looking to get a bargain buy. This model comes with many features that anyone would associate with a top-tier option but at almost half the price.
A great example would be its heavy-duty terminals, which makes sure the battery connection happens without any hiccups. It’s an aspect that shows how Xantrex continues to have their client’s best interests in mind when making their products.
This mindset is shown further in the product’s built-in digital display. You can use this display to keep up to date with the entire process through info like DC volts and output power. It makes the entire using process much easier.
I was also blown away by this option’s versatility. People have used this 2000W inverter in many situations from in an RV to a commercial truck. Its compact design makes it easy to move between these vehicles for buyers looking to use their new inverter in more than one vehicle.
As with prior options, this device comes with safety precautions capable of keeping everything running safely. You can rely on this model’s low voltage shutdown feature, over voltage protection, and low voltage alarm to keep everything running smoothly.
You can also get an automatic ignition lockout feature added to the device, as well. This aspect is quite useful as it’ll shut down the inverter’s output whenever the ignition is not running. It’s a simple feature that could lessen a person’s energy usage by a large margin.
12. Renogy 2000W 12V Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter
People who are adding an inverter to a travel trailer should consider getting this one from Renogy. It’s known for providing cleaner, quieter, and reliable power to fans, tools, lights, and other devices on a rig.
You also love to know that this model can offer this reliable power without any interference to ensure clear TV and radio signals. It’s a well-crafted and useful inverter to have onboard any RV.
I was impressed by this product’s high-speed ventilation fans, as well. These aspects will ensure the product never gets too hot and keeps things at a low temperature. You don’t have to worry about it making a lot of noise, either, as they’re whisper quiet.
The product features distinct LED indicators for its many protection systems, which is another appealing trait. These indicators will be for over voltage protection, over temperature protection, short circuit indication, and overload protection.
As a result, it won’t be tricky to keep track of everything going on with your new inverter. The install process being simple doesn’t hurt this product’s case, either. It’s a one-person job that doesn’t take much time or effort.
Once installed, you can sit back and enjoy this product’s ability to become a great power source for your rig’s tools. It even has a USB port designed specifically for charging tablets, smartphones, and similar devices.
This product’s low price tag is another appealing aspect as it’s easily among the least costly on our entire list. It’s a shocking aspect because this model could compete for the title of the top-tier power inverter for RVs with any other model.
13. Kinverch 2000W Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter
Kinverch’s 2000W Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter is one of the most durable and sturdy options available. It can lay claim to this title with its aluminum alloy housing, which provides superb protection against any possible issues.
You also have a long list of protection systems that are provided by its eight internal fuses and two cooling fans. A device fitted with these design aspects won’t have to worry about short circuits, overloads, overcharging, and any other issues.
I found the product’s three AC outlets and single USB port to impressive features, as well. These additions ensure a rig owner shouldn’t have problems powering appliances like their fridge, icebox, microwave, oven, and much more.
Buyers can use the Kinververch remote control with this model, too, which will make controlling the product’s on/off switch much easier. I’d suggest getting this add-on because it does make the using process much more manageable.
As I mentioned earlier, this model comes with two cooling fans that are nothing to overlook. These intelligent devices will only start running when the operating temperature reaches over 104F. It’s an aspect capable of keeping the noise to an absolute minimum.
You have a choice regarding wattage with this model, as well. It can come in the 2000W or 1000W to ensure a buyer can choose what one fits their needs better. It’s a nice touch by a top-tier brand that seems to care about their clients’ wants.
14. Go Power! GP-SW3000-12 3000-Watt Pure Sine Wave Inverter
Another 3,000-watt pure sine wave option capable of meeting a rig owner’s needs is this Go Power model. In fact, this option should have more than enough wattage to power any device a person might hook up to it.
You can attribute this ability to its 3,000-watt continuous and 6,000-watt surge power ratings. These ratings make it a suitable choice for various vehicles other than RVs, such as cars, trucks, and even boats. Honestly, it’s a very versatile and useful product.
The product’s easy install process was a favorite source of praise in this 3000-watt pure sine wave inverter’s reviews. It gained this praise because the device comes with all necessary mounting hardware and tools needed for the task.
As someone who did this process himself, I can confirm these findings. It didn’t take much time or cause me any stress when installing this useful product. You don’t have to worry about product safety with this device, either, as it comes with multiple protection systems.
The product’s overall design was another impressive trait, as it features heavy-duty materials. It shouldn’t have any issues offering long-lasting results for years to come. In this regard, it might be the best on this entire list.
I wasn’t too thrilled with the customer service provided by Go Power, either. I had some questions about the using process, and their representatives were utterly unhelpful. This issue isn’t what I expect from a well-respected brand like this one.
15. XYZ INVT 4000 Watt Pure Sine Wave Inverter
XYZ INVT’s 4000 Watt Pure Sine Wave Inverter is another option with a durable, compact design for camping purposes. This design should fit perfectly inside those tight areas within an RV without any stress or realignment needed.
You should find the product’s being a solar power inverter rather appealing, as well. This aspect means it’ll provide free and clean energy to all your rig’s devices. Its usage will lower your energy consumption by a significant margin.
I was also pleased with this product’s ability to work on other vehicles besides RVs. People have reported it being useful in trucks, cars, boats, and worksites. It’s quite clear this device was well-crafted and capable of offering great results.
These excellent results come from its impressive 4000W continuous rating and 8000W peal surge ratings. Both these ratings are among the highest on our list and ensure this model can be a useful power source during outages.
Aside from these aspects, this model comes with many that have become familiar from prior reviews. These include an intelligent cooling fan, digital LED display, affordable price, and many protection systems. Each of these features will make a rig owner’s life much easier on the road.
I should also mention that this model comes with all-sided protection technology. What does this mean? It’s capable of protecting both your rig’s battery and the product itself. As a result, all safety hazards are accounted for with this inverter’s usage.
16. GIANDEL 2200W Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter
Our last product is another from GIANDEL, which doesn’t fail to meet the standard set by their previous option on our list. I found myself impressed with this model’s overall convenience as it comes with a remote control equipped with a 15ft cable. This aspect will make using the product a much simpler process.
The device’s aluminum alloy housing was another trait that caught my eye. This design will ensure the product can last and offer peaks levels of durability. In other words, this product will be a long term investment rather than something you’re replacing in a few years.
You should find this model’s 20A solar charge control appealing, as well. This aspect makes it capable of being connected with a 300W solar panel. Therefore, your energy consumption should go way down when this feature is utilized.
As with earlier models, this product comes with a cooling fan capable of reducing heat and preventing shortages. It’s an effective way to ensure the product runs properly, and no hazardous situations occur from its usage.
The device comes with an auto-restart function, too, which should help in this regard. It’ll make sure to shut down the device when an issue occurs. The various protection systems are a crucial part of this product’s safety measures, as well.
I have to mention this product’s price tag as another appealing trait. You won’t find many other options equipped with this many great features that are available at this price. It doesn’t happen often, and bargain buyers should take full advantage when it does.
RV Inverter Buyer’s Guide
Having the right RV inverter will play a vital role in your trips being as comfortable as possible. But this benefit is only possible when securing a top tier model. I intend to ensure you get one of these products by discussing what features make up the best options out there.
Each of these discussions will ensure this entire process goes much smoother. Let’s now look at them and see where you stand on these crucial factors.
Inverter Power or Watts Capacity
You’ll need to know this factor to figure out what size unit is needed for your rig. It’s essential to note that these devices have to meet two specific needs or elements when concerning power. The first concerns its peak power or surge, and the other is the typical or usual power.
As you might know, surge will refer to the max amount of power that the inverter can supply. It often will have a short period where it can offer this much power, usually a peak of about 15 minutes.
You should also know that some appliances will require a high startup surge. This quality is especially true for devices, which use an electric motor. As for the typical power, this refers to the power that’s needed to be supplied steadily.
This feature is sometimes known as continuous rating and usually lower than what you’d see for surge rating. I would also suggest any buyer to get a better handle on knowing an inverter’s average power. It’s an aspect that will be much lower than both typical and surge power.
Average power will be a crucial aspect because you can use it to estimate the required battery capacity. Lastly, it’s important to remember when looking at an inverter’s watts, or power is that its sizing should be centered around max peak load and continuous load.
Inverter Power Rating
Another pivotal factor will be an inverter’s power rating. The first thing to know when thinking about this feature is that these devices are available in a wide range of size ratings. You can expect to see units with size ratings ranging from 50 watts to 50,000 watts.
But it’s vital to know rig owners don’t usually use inverters capable of providing more than 5,000 watts. You must also know about your chosen inverter’s max surge before making a firm, responsible decision.
Furthermore, a buyer will need to figure out how long each option can maintain its max surge. This info will be pretty easy to figure out as surge rating is specified with a number of watts per several seconds.
In other words, it shows how many watts the inverter can handle during the amount of time stated. This rating or capacity will change from inverter to inverter. As a result, you’ll need to examine each option before deciding what one can meet your needs.
RV Inverter Types
Anyone looking to buy an RV inverter will need an understanding of the different types. I’ll discuss each of them below to provide a better idea of what one fits your needs. These talks should make this entire process much more manageable and smoother.
Pure Sine Wave Inverters
One of the most common and popular is called the pure sine wave inverter. This type refers to what someone will get from a utility or generator company. It’s a favorite among buyers because you can generate it by rotating air conditioning equipment and machinery. You should also know that sine waves are naturally produced through this rotation.
An excellent benefit provided by this type is all your equipment and appliances will be suitable for it. In fact, all devices on sale right now will be able to work with a sine wave unit. Due to this, you have a guarantee that your rig’s appliances and equipment will work to their full ability.
It’s worth noting that some appliances like motors or microwave ovens are only capable of providing their max output when using sine wave power. Along the same lines, other tools like battery chargers, bread makers, and light dimmers will require one, too.
But there’s one huge problem with this type, which is their price tag. These devices are much more costly than either of the following kinds. However, the results provided by them make the extra money worth paying.
Modified Sine Wave Inverters
Modified sine wave inverters are useful because it works well with the bulk of equipment onboard an RV. But please remember, these units will cause reduced efficiency or power in both appliances and equipment.
Motors found in fans, pumps, and fridges will use more power from these devices because of this lower efficiency, as well. In fact, they will usually use about 20% more power than they’d use with a regular sine wave type.
RVers with fluorescent lights inside their rigs should expect them to be less bright than while using other inverters types. People have also noted these fixtures producing some buzzing or humming sounds when using these inverters to power them.
In general, the noise level produced by these units will be higher than with a regular sine wave. Buyers who don’t care about noise or these issues could find this type to be a practical option, though. It also helps that these devices are cheaper than the regular options.
Square Wave Inverters
But neither of the prior two types are cheaper than square wave inverters. These devices are known for their ability to run simple tools without problems. For instance, tools using universal motors should work with these devices.
However, it’s purpose is limited to this ability. It’s the main reason you don’t see many RV owners with square wave inverters.
Inverter’s Energy Efficiency
Your chosen unit’s energy efficiency will have a large impact on making sure this choice isn’t something you regret. The model should be energy efficient, which means that its use shouldn’t affect your energy usage much. It should also not cause any loss of power or energy in the devices themselves.
Inverter’s Input and Output Voltage
You’ll need to determine each inverters’ output and input voltage, as well. These pieces of info will help you figure out whether the model is a good fit for your rig. In other words, you need to choose a unit that is a fit with the battery’s voltage, which supplies the inverter power.
For instance, people using a 12V battery should choose a 12V DC inverter. You should also pay attention to the AC or output voltage. It’s essential to know that electronic appliances and devices in the US, Canada, Mexico, and some other Latin American countries use 120V AC power. Devices coming from different parts of the world use 220V to 250V AC power.
RV Inverter FAQs
Our FAQ section will cover topics that the previous buying guide didn’t. Any questions still rolling around in your mind should be answered by these following talks. Once you’ve read them, the process of picking an inverter should be as simple as choosing new clothes.
What does the inverter do on an RV?
RV inverters refer to devices with the main purpose of converting low-voltage DC power into standard AC power. Once an inverter is installed, a rig owner will soon realize how useful these products are in ensuring electrical appliances and equipment work onboard an RV.
You should also know these inverters are capable of fulfilling this purpose by working with renewable energy sources or your RV’s battery to power these devices. It ends up being a reliable power source for these appliances inside an RV, car, truck, boat, or truck.
People use inverters to protect their belongings when a power outage strikes, as well. It can work in this capacity because it supplies emergency power to certain appliances like fridges, freezers, and similar equipment.
Advantages of using an RV converter
Several benefits come from using an RV converter within your rig. I’m going to discuss a few of them to ensure you get a better idea of what getting one is a great idea. You can then decide whether buying a top tier model is worth it for your situation.
Efficient Power Source
A person who invests in the top-rated RV inverters, such as a pure sine wave model, can expect it to offer highly efficient power. This power can then be a reliable power supply for most of the devices and appliances onboard your rig. After all, the bulk of them can work using sine wave power.
Modified sine wave types will be able to be this power source, as well. But these options will offer lower power than pure units. It’s also worth noting these modified options tend to run a little hotter than what’s usually expected.
Due to this, someone looking for the most energy efficient option should stick with the pure sine wave models. It’ll end up costing you a bit more, but it’s worth the higher price for anyone looking to buy the best.
When should I use an RV inverter?
RV inverters are handy devices to have within several situations. A common use for them is when people decide to dry camp or boondock in off-grid areas. An inverter for camper use can make it much easier to use your electronics during these fun adventures.
Another instance where an RV inverter would be helpful is during power outages. For example, I camp in an area that encounters heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. So an RV inverter becomes essential to keep my vital components running when I don’t have access to power.
Overall, an RV inverter is a vital device to have on board your rig. You never know when a campground won’t have reliable power access.
How much does an inverter cost for an RV?
Most RV inverters will cost anywhere between $150 and $300. Of course, where a certain option falls will depend heavily on its features and other vital components. But you can usually find a solid 2500 watt inverter or RV pure sine wave inverter in the middle of this price range.
So RV inverters aren’t an overwhelming purchase like other RVing equipment. In other words, it isn’t like buying a new solar generator or AC unit.
What is the difference between an RV inverter and converter?
Understanding the difference between an RV converter and an inverter isn’t too tricky. It boils down to converters changing AC voltage to DC voltage. Meanwhile, an inverter does the opposite by converting DC to AC voltage.
You can even find an RV inverter converter combo device that provides both functions. But these models will cost a bit more than traditional singular options.
What will a 3000-watt RV inverter run?
A 3000 watt RV inverter can run more devices than a rig owner might expect. You can simultaneously get away with running a fridge, coffee machine, lighting, charging various smartphones, and a few other devices. You can plug in almost any electronic equipment until it surpasses its maximum limit.
Won’t Require Gasoline or Fuel
One of the major benefits provided by an RV inverter comes from its ability to convert battery power. This aspect ensures a rig owner won’t need to use gasoline, which means a lot less hassle on your part.
I mean, you’ll no longer need to store gasoline for power purposes anymore. This situation sounds like a huge win to me. It’s important to remember it’s only possible to store gasoline for one month before it becomes unusable.
As a result, it becomes rather evident that using an inverter instead of a gasoline power generator sounds like a smart option. It’ll keep you from having to always keep storage of fresh gasoline around for potential power outages.
Low Noise Level
Generators are very noisy, which tends to be the main complaint among people who have them. The right RV inverters don’t have this issue and run without making a single peep. It’s a blissful experience rather than a headache-inducing nightmare.
Honestly, who would want a noisy generator running inside a campground? This situation sounds terrible for everyone, including your neighbors. You can reduce the chances the people end up loathing your existence by investing in an inverter.
What size inverter do I need for my camper?
Figuring out the perfect inverter size will depend on how you plan on using this device. It’s crucial to avoid buying an inverter that’s either too large or small. Both these situations can lead to problems no rig owner wants to endure.
The first step in determining your ideal inverter will be remembering these units will be rated in watts. As a result, you can find these devices in various power ranges and sizes. In fact, they can run from 75 to 5,000 watts.
People who do most of their camping in campgrounds might be fine without an inverter. After all, you have a constant supply of electricity in these communities. But you might find your RV adventures more convenient with having an inverter and batteries capable of meeting your 120V needs.
If you fall into this category, the next thing to assess is the inverter’s output capacity. You must find a model capable of handling the loads put onto it. So please, remain aware that these devices come with two capacity ratings, the continuous output rating, and surge capacity.
Buyers should also keep in mind that these inverters are now available in portable and small sizes. These devices are the ones capable of plugging directly into a cigarette lighter or 12V outlet. Once plugged in, these smaller inverters will supply power or electricity to your rig’s entire electrical system.
These smaller units are capable of being installed permanently, as well. Some buyers find it more appealing to go with chargers or inverters that are found in most RVs out there. They don’t only function as inverters but serve as a battery charger and transfer switch in one convenient unit.
You see, the unit will work as a battery charger each time they’re plugged into an electricity source or when a generator is being used. These inverters will also be capable of storing DC power without any source of electricity or generator power. As a result, they can automatically transfer power into a battery charger.
How to install an RV inverter?
Most people will love to find out installing an inverter isn’t too tricky. In most cases, it’s a task that a person can do by themselves without help. Buyers who get a small inverter that operates at around 75 watts can simply plug into the outlet for your cigarette lighter.
But larger units will have a few more steps to do as these inverters will need direct wiring into your batteries. People who do choose this method will need to do it very close to the batteries, which will help lessen the risk of losing any voltage.
I would advise checking the device’s manual as it should provide a suggestion about the right wire size. There’s no reason not to follow this suggestion, but it wouldn’t hurt to go for a larger wire size as a precaution.
The actual install process has a few ways of being done. The most effective, but costly option would be by connecting your inverter into your rig’s AC distribution box. You can combine these two things with a transfer switch.
But please remember, the type of switch will differ depending on your inverter’s power and whether you’re using a generator. If shore power is available, the transfer switch will choose it without issue.
If shore power isn’t available, the transfer switch will choose the inverter’s power. Some people prefer to choose this method when doing the install. But selecting this route means you shouldn’t power up your RV converter using the inverter. You can avoid this happening by using a split distribution panel.
You can also install an RV inverter using an extension cord. This process consists of running the extension cord from your inverter to any device you want it to power. Of course, this method is very inconvenient, as you will have to plug and unplug devices constantly.
Modified vs. pure sine wave inverter: Which one is better?
As I mentioned previously, a pure sine wave inverter is the more effective option than a modified model. Pure sine waves will be able to offer a highly efficient power source for your rig’s appliances that a modified unit can’t match.
But the price difference between the two types does make many buyers settle for a modified sine wave inverter. Honestly, pure sine wave models are much more costly, which makes them a hard pill to swallow for bargain buyers like myself.
However, the results provided by them are hard to argue with as a consumer. These devices are truly the better option without any doubt. Due to this, I’d suggest taking the bullet and spending a little extra to obtain one.
It won’t be a decision any rig owner will regret after they see the results provided by them. It’s a drastic difference and one worth paying for as an RVer.
Conclusion
After reading this article, picking the best RV inverter shouldn’t be much of an issue. I would just suggest using what you’ve learned during the process. If you do, I promise the right choice should become abundantly clear.
But if anyone runs into more issues or has further questions, feel free to let me know in our comment section. I’ll make sure to answer each post with a detailed and precise response. After all, I want to make sure the entire process goes as smoothly as possible. Thanks for reading!
Hi, I am Dane Heldt, a full-time RVer since 2016. I am always passionate about building and joining an RV community where people share their love for RV lives. This blog is a dream of mine, as I can finally share my experiences to help people who want to start living differently. So, feel free to reach out to me!