How to Account for Inrush Currents When
Learn how to account for inrush currents when choosing an inverter for your UPS or solar power system. Discover why this factor is
Low DC input voltage inverters (12 or 24 Volts DC) require high DC input currents. For example, to provide a service of 15 Amperes at 120 Volts AC (1800 Watts) from a 12 Volt battery, the DC current will approach 180 Amperes! How can we supply such a high current to the inverter safely and efficiently?
Most residential and small commercial inverters use one of the following DC input voltages: As voltage increases, the current required for the same power decreases, making high-voltage systems more efficient for high-power applications. While calculating inverter current is straightforward, other factors may affect the actual current draw:
The success of a DC to AC power inverter installation depends mainly on the methods and materials used for the installation. Low DC input voltage inverters (12 or 24 Volts DC) require high DC input currents. For example, to provide a service of 15 Amperes at 120 Volts AC (1800 Watts) from a 12 Volt battery, the DC current will approach 180 Amperes!
Inverter Current = Power ÷ Voltage Where: If you're working with kilowatts (kW), convert it to watts before calculation: Inverter Current = 1000 ÷ 12 = 83.33 Amps So, the inverter draws 83.33 amps from a 12V battery. Inverter Current = 3000 ÷ 24 = 125 Amps So, a 3000W inverter on a 24V system pulls 125 amps from the battery.
PDF version includes complete article with source references. Suitable for printing and offline reading.
Get detailed specifications, case studies, and technical data for our PV container and energy storage solutions.
123 Renewable Energy Street
London EC1A 1BB, United Kingdom
+44 20 7127 4182
Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM GMT