I am looking for recommendations for converting power from my 12 volt marine battery to AC power. Two plugs would be great.
D
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I am looking for recommendations for converting power from my 12 volt marine battery to AC power. Two plugs would be great.
D
What amperage are you requiring at the 120 AC voltage output ??Quote:
Originally Posted by BigD
I would like to run two 13watt fluorescent bulbs with two 28watt bow and stern lights.
D
You can buy a unit at walmart or target that will hook to your battery to achieve this, granted it wouldn't give you a clean install and would be more like a portable unit. They come with battery clamps and cigarette lighter attachment.
Very cool!
D
I use inverters. Just be careful and keep your powder dry. This A/C stuff can and will kill you.
maby try to get good 12Vdc lights and stay away from the conversion it can be verry dangerous. verry!!
DC is safer? I don't want to get someone hurt. I will have to look into that. I just bought a converter but if it is dangerous I won't use it.
D
I had 12 volt fluorescent lights in my motor home that gave off good light, also you may want to look into those 12v LCD string lights I see people installing in their boats.
What do you guys think of me getting a electric cord with ground fault interrupter in the cord for outdoor? That seems like that would make the inverter safe. Yes it will cost me another 100 dolllars but life is worth it.
The reason I ask is that most of the commercial fisherman use inverters for big lights underwater.
D
Another thing to consider is drain on your battery. Converting from DC to AC is less than 100% efficient -- you're heating your boat with energy from your battery. If you can skip that step and use DC lighting you'll save money by not buying an inverter, reduce clutter and complexity on your boat, and your battery will likely last longer during your night of fishing.
Not to mention that most inverters are not designed for a wet environment, whether you're talking safety or longevity of the unit.
Another fact to consider. When your battery gets down to 10.5 volts, the inverter will shut off due to low battery. So depending on the ac load and battery size and condition, you may only get AC power for a short duration.
With DC, well we all know how to run down a battery with lamps.
I am taking the inverter back. Thanks for all the advice