110 vrs 220 volt inverters.

[twrdocktor]

I am slowly changing my Benteau 393 over to 110 power, and have decision to make with my new Sterling 12 volt 1800 watt 220 AC inverter. The inverter was new in January, and was installed to run the 220 volt fridge. As the fridge almost immediately failed after I bought the boat, I now only run one 220 volt outlet from it. The question is, do I use more energy converting to 220 only to run a charger that converts back to 17 volts for a computer, razor or toothbrush, or should I sell it for what I can and install a 110 inverter. I am looking for a smaller cigarette light type inverter to run the smaller chargers, but in the meantime I'm stuck with the Sterling. Any thoughts?

[ericoh88]

Have you tried using a step down transformer 220v 60hz to 110v 60 hz? Not sure if this method will work for some 110v 50hz equipment.

I have an Entec 4.2KVA 110v 50hz which I use a step up transformer to run all my stuff on 230v tools.

[Florida Mike]

Short answer no, there are alwase trade offs.

[btrayfors]

There are losses associated with just about ANY kind of conversion.

Most computers these days have power supplies which will run on 220VAC 50 cycle current.

That leaves the toothbrush, razor, etc. For these tiny and intermittent loads, why not get either a very small inverter, or use a step-down transformer?

Bill

[boom23]

I would keep things simple...

Also, most chargers accept 110V-220V.

[noelex 77]

A 220v inverter will not use any more power than a 110v inverter.

As others have said many appliances are muli volt so it is usually cheaper to shop for appliances that can operate on the voltage of the inverter.

There is a big difference between the real world efficiency of inverters.
Generally the smaller inverters that will still run the load are better, but their are considerable differences between brands/models.

Have as much as possible running from 12v directly is the best option. There is not a lot used on the average cruising boat that cannot be run from 12v.
At least try and have commonly used items direct from 12v if you want maximium efficiency.