Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter: Peak and Continuous Power Explained

So you have decided to purchase a pure sine wave power inverter. Well, good for you! Over the last few of years, this electronic device has proven to be a reliable mobile power solution and an excellent alternative to power generators. Because of its versatility, you can expect many great things from this nifty power equipment.

When buying a power inverter, meanwhile, some of the most typical questions many buyers have are those concerning the size of the inverter. We're not talking about the physical size of the device because most users are aware that inverters usually come in a standard, compact size. What we mean is the size of the power supply the device is capable of generating. When it comes to inverters, take note that they need to supply two needs: peak or surge power and the typical or continuous power.

Surge or peak power is basically the maximum power it can provide, usually for only a short period of time. This is a key requirement when powering up appliances that have electric motors and those that require a much higher start-up surge power than they do when running. Examples of these appliances include pumps, compressors, air conditioners, freezers, and refrigerators.

On the other hand, typical or continuous power is what the power inverter has to supply on a steady or continuous basis. Continuous power is typically lower than the surge power. For example, this would be what a refrigerator will consume after the first few seconds it takes for its motor to start up. Take note that when buying an inverter, make sure that you will select a pure sine wave inverter with a continuous power rating that can handle the surge power rating of your appliance or device. This way, you can prevent the inverter from burning out prematurely.

Also, you should not rely on the inverter's surge power to start your electronic appliance or equipment. It is because according to experts, the typical pure sine wave power inverter doesn't usually like to operate in its surge mode all the time. Unless the inverter has a longer surge time than normal, using its surge power to start up electronic appliances might have a detrimental effect on the inverter.

Before you make your purchase, therefore, you should consider the type and the power requirements of the electrical appliances and devices you would like to use with the pure sine wave power inverter. This will help narrow down your choices as it allows you to easily determine the size of the inverter you should get.