Best inverter for the buck

prroots · #1 (**permalink**) 01-19-2012

I'm in the process of installing a 400 Watt solar system with MPPT controller. This system, hopefully, justifies the installation of an inverter. It should be capable of running our microwave. I would very much appreciate recommendations. It should have high efficiency, high reliability, and very low drain when no loads are connected. As the title, indicates, price is definitely an important factor. I don't want a combo inverter/charger since I already have a nice charger installed.
Pete

Mattmm · #2 (**permalink**) 02-08-2012

If you want the inverter to be left on you need to make sure you purchase one with a "search mode" feature. my favourite would be hands down xantrex. nice quality without breaking the bank.

mitiempo · #3 (**permalink**) 02-08-2012

Why would you want the inverter to be left on, drawing power for nothing? Easy enough to flip a breaker on when you need it.

Mattmm · #4 (**permalink**) 02-08-2012

Quote:

Originally Posted by mitiempo

Why would you want the inverter to be left on, drawing power for nothing? Easy enough to flip a breaker on when you need it.

an inverter in search mode uses about 5 watts. the number of advantages this constant supply of power provides outweighs the energy consumed immeasurably... for instance i have the Freedom SW system installed and was able to install a 115 volt 3.4 cu ft fridge.. just the savings from the fridge alone paid for the inverter. also i can run air conditioning while on the hook (to some degree)

the more i can automate the systems on a boat the more i can concentrate on things like relaxing.

mitiempo · #5 (**permalink**) 02-08-2012

If you have cycling loads such as a fridge or AC it can make sense but Pete is only powering his AC outlets, mainly for a microwave and probably one or two small appliances. Hardly makes sense to take a constant DC hit for that, however small.

Mattmm · #6 (**permalink**) 02-09-2012

Quote:

Originally Posted by mitiempo

If you have cycling loads such as a fridge or AC it can make sense but Pete is only powering his AC outlets, mainly for a microwave and probably one or two small appliances. Hardly makes sense to take a constant DC hit for that, however small.

i can fully agree with that, no drain is always best. on another note. i saw microwave mentioned. electronic microwaves dont work well with search mode as the board doesnt stay energized. actually pretty much everything electronic isnt compatible with search mode. this is definately a big drawback of the feature.