Uploaded January 2024 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
This video is presenting a rough idea of what to expect when using a power inverter converting DC to an AC appliance. How efficient is a 12v to 120v
inverter?
It is stated by many companies that
inverters are about 10% inefficient when
converting from 12 volts DC to 120 volts
AC but there is more to the story.
Inverter Efficiency: While this 10% can be
true, it is often rated when running them
at max output and with inductive loads.
Wattage AC is not converted to DC equally so adding the difference plus the losses in inverter inefficiency you will see about a 20% loss so expect to see an additional amperage draw in DC.
120v - 7amps = 840watts , you can expect a DC amperage draw of about 77 amps . Using Ohms law for ac to dc wattage would display 70 amps but in reality is closer to 77 amps + inverter inefficiency and wiring losses so just assume adding about 20% when using Ohms law for ac to dc wattage calculations.
I do not participate in sponsorships or
The videos on my channel are for entertainment purposes only. I do not assume any responsibility for anything shown or mentioned on this channel. I recommend you always consult a professional.
This video is presenting a rough idea of what to expect when using a power inverter converting DC to an AC appliance. How efficient is a 12v to 120v
inverter?
It is stated by many companies that
inverters are about 10% inefficient when
converting from 12 volts DC to 120 volts
AC but there is more to the story.
Inverter Efficiency: While this 10% can be
true, it is often rated when running them
at max output and with inductive loads.
Wattage AC is not converted to DC equally so adding the difference plus the losses in inverter inefficiency you will see about a 20% loss so expect to see an additional amperage draw in DC.
120v - 7amps = 840watts , you can expect a DC amperage draw of about 77 amps . Using Ohms law for ac to dc wattage would display 70 amps but in reality is closer to 77 amps + inverter inefficiency and wiring losses so just assume adding about 20% when using Ohms law for ac to dc wattage calculations.
I do not participate in sponsorships or
The videos on my channel are for entertainment purposes only. I do not assume any responsibility for anything shown or mentioned on this channel. I recommend you always consult a professional.
