Top tips when choosing the best power inverter

Top pick: Progressive Industries PT50C 50A Portable Electrical Management System
The Power Bright PW6000-12 Power Inverter 6,000W 12VDC To 110VAC is our step-up pick. Built with heavy duty features, this power inverter has a peak power of up to 12,000W. With a continuous power of 6,000W, its LED display can show the output wattage and input wattage. The durability is delivered by anodised aluminum case and in addition, the cooling fan can help.

On the other hand, the Progressive Industries HW30C 30A Hardwired Electrical Management System with Remote Display is a budget pick. It can protect against accidental 220V protections and this 30A power inverter also protects against AC frequency, open neutral, high low voltage and others. Its compressor for air conditioning has a time delay.

A little background
A power inverter is a very helpful machine when it comes to handling equipment. Power inverters are mostly used in RVs and solar panel systems. Every power inverter is important in these systems because they not only convert DC into AC but they can also protect the system from overload and under voltage instances.

It is not just RVs and solar panels that can benefit from a power inverter - even cars, vessels and similar setups need a system that can run smoothly, and this is why they need a power inverter to help them out. It is important that solar chargers will be system protected when it comes to charging batteries.

How we picked
We chose the best power inverter according to the following criteria:

Is the power inverter durable and compact at the same time? A power inverter must be capable of being able to take a lot of load for any system and so it must also be built with a durable casing as well as a good locking system to keep it in place and maintain the best power converter possible.

What kind of protection can the power inverter offer? Other than protection against surges and spikes, power inverters must have some protection offered for low voltage and overloading so that it can be an effective power inverter. A thermal management system is also a good deal for a power inverter.

What is the price of the power inverter? Most power inverters are priced $200 above and these best ones are the ones that are mostly used for bigger purposes such as RVs and solar panels. Below this price range are small power inverters that might not last long enough, so consider a power inverter that is priced above $200 for maximum performance and power as well as durability.

What is the size of the power inverter? This is so that you will know if the power inverter can fit perfectly with any home or space. The power inverter must fit perfectly and also have some features to keep it in place.

Do the reviews say that the pros outweigh the cons more? Take note of all the reviews of the power inverter to make sure that it will definitely have better performance than you expected it to be. Weigh them down and make sure that the cons are not deal breakers for the power inverter.

Where is it best used? This roughly depends on where you want to use the power inverter. For instance, some power inverters are suitable for vessels and RVs, while some are good for solar panels. Some are best suited for the simplest home appliances, so know what it works best on.

Our pick

Top Pick: Progressive Industries PT50C 50A Portable Electrical Management System
Our top pick is the Progressive Industries PT50C 50A Portable Electrical Management System which is our best power inverter and includes a high low voltage protection feature. Protection is top notch because it has protection against accidental 220V. Perhaps the best thing about this power inverter is that compared to most warranties by other companies, this power inverter comes with a lifetime warranty, which is definitely worth its price.

Specifically speaking, this 50A power inverter and the good thing is that it offers protection against open neutral and C frequency. One more thing to add to its features is that the air conditioning compressor has a time delay. Adding to that, it has a functional and steady surge indicator to alert you if there is a failure of protecting the system from failure. One more thing it has is that the surge protection has a total of three modes.

You can easily get protection against AC frequency, accidental 240V, reverse polarity, open neutral and open ground. Last, but not the least, the lock bracket is built-in and comes with the unit to keep it secured to the source of power.

The Progressive Industries PT50C 50A Portable Electrical Management System weighs 5lbs and has overall dimensions of 17x5x5".

Who else likes it?
The site Dyers Online has rated the Progressive Industries PT50C 50A Portable Electrical Management System a good rating as well.The majority of the reviews said that this power inverter overall gives peace of mind to whoever uses it. It was also said in the review that it is very suitable for use in RVs and similar uses like vessels. In addition, this power inverter is indeed great for protecting against low voltage and spikes so that your equipment and system stays in shape and away from getting damaged.

One more thing to add to the features of this awesome power inverter, according to the reviews, is that it is weatherproof and has a whopping lifetime warranty unlike most brands. The reviewers also said that the bike chain lock helps to keep it free from being stolen. Overall, the Progressive Industries PT50C 50A Portable Electrical Management System is a good long term investment despite its price.

Another site, Camping World, the Progressive Industries PT50C 50A Portable Electrical Management System works as expected according to the reviews given in the said site. Other reviews have also stated that this best power inverter indeed gives peace of mind and it also has a reliable customer service. Furthermore, the reviews also say that the installation is very easy and hassle free.

RV Upgrades also loves the Progressive Industries PT50C 50A Portable Electrical Management System. Many people have said that it works as it was advertised and compared to other contenders; this is not overpriced for a power inverter. Not to mention, they have also said that this power inverter has a great lifetime warranty. All in all, this power inverter gives you peace of mind. Many have also said that it has a fast shipping, good delivery and great tech support.

Flaws but not deal-breakers
Not much is to say about the Progressive Industries PT50C 50A Portable Electrical Management System and its flaws. The only concern by some people is that it may be a bit too big for some users and in addition, the tin area is quite thin to run through a small cable for security purposes. However, these cons are very minor in comparison to its pros.

Step-up pick

Power Bright PW6000-12 Power Inverter 6,000W 12VDC To 110VAC
Built with heavy duty features, the Power Bright PW6000-12 Power Inverter 6,000W 12VDC to 110VAC is our step-up pick. It has a peak power of up to 12,000W and with a continuous power of 6,000W; the power inverter’s LED display can show the output wattage and input wattage.

There is no question about the sturdy power inverter because the durability is delivered by anodised aluminum case. One cool feature is that its cooling fan can help. Being coated in blue finish and it has a no load draw of less than 0.3A and gives out 29.2A.

On the power inverter, there are three prong AC outlets x 4 in which the fuses are internal 30A spade-type and has an audible alarm for low voltage. It can easily shut down in case of overload, short circuit and thermal.

The Power Bright PW6000-12 Power Inverter 6,000W 12VDC To 110VAC weighs 29.2lbs, has overall dimensions of 27x12x9".

Budget pick

Progressive Industries HW30C 30A Hardwired Electrical Management System with Remote Display
Our budget pick can protect against accidental 220V protections - it is the Progressive Industries HW30C 30A Hardwired Electrical Management System with Remote Display. Specifically speaking, this 30A power inverter protects against AC frequency, open neutral, high low voltage and others. It is also suitable for many purposes, as its compressor for air conditioning has a time delay.

This power inverter also includes a surge indicator and has up to three modes of surge protection. All in all, it is able to protect against reverse polarity, open ground, open neutral and AC frequency and in addition to that, it has an information panel on the remote. This power inverter also includes a bypass switch and it is equipped with a modular design.

Bearing the overall dimensions of 10x5x4", the Progressive Industries HW30C 30A Hardwired Electrical Management System with Remote Display weighs 3lbs. It is also under a three year warranty by the manufacturer.

Best solar power inverter

SUNGOLDPOWER 2000w Peak 6000w Pure Sine Wave Inverter Power Inverter, Solar Inverter DC 12VAC Output 110V Converter LCD Remote Control With 65A Battery Charger
The SUNGOLDPOWER 2,000W Peak 6,000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter Power Inverter, Solar Inverter DC 12VAC Output 110V Converter LCD Remote Control With 65A Battery Charger is one heck of a power inverter that has also been praised for being a very useful power inverter for solar panels, solar energy and renewable energy.

This is a pure sine wave inverter and this has a direct connect terminal block which makes it very versatile and useful to power inverting and converting. Equipped with a four step progressive charging, this power inverter has a max transfer time of 10ms between the AC and the battery and it has the capacity to serve up to eight battery types, including De-sulphatio, open lead acd, calcium, gel euro, sealed lead acid, agm1, gel USA and agm2.

What’s more - the high surge capacity is up to 300% and in addition, it can run for 20 seconds at 6,000W. One thing to look forward to from this power inverter is on the fact that it has a built-in battery selector. The best applications are televisions, garden trimmers, grinders, drills, circular saws, lights, coffee makers, scanners, fax machines, printers, computers, monitors, air compressors, blenders, toasters, lamps, drills for this power inverter.

The pure sine inverter comes with a charger and in addition, it has an LCD status display that shows battery voltage. One more thing to add is that it includes a circuit breaker protection without the need to charge the fuse. Another great feature is that it has a direct connect terminal block. The AC charger has a charge rate of 65.

The inverter has a nominal input voltage of 12V and minimum start voltage of 10V and in addition, the AC output is at 110/220V. Adding to its specs, the output frequency is 60Hz ± 0.3Hz and the maximum bypass current is 30A. It can truly bypass without the battery connected. The over load current of the bypass is 35A and has an alarm and in addition, this power inverter almost instantaneously protects against short circuit after 10 seconds.

One more thing to consider about the SUNGOLDPOWER 2,000W Peak 6,000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter Power Inverter, Solar Inverter DC 12VAC Output 110V Converter LCD Remote Control With 65A Battery Charger is that it has a line mode efficiency of more than 95% with a nominal power of 2,000W and peak power of 6,000W. The display is both LED and LCD. It bears overall dimensions of 17x8x7" and weighs a total of 46lbs.

Power inverter with auto transfer switching

Tripp Lite APS700HF 700W 12VDC to AC Inverter Charger with Auto-Transfer Switching
The Tripp Lite APS700HF 700W 12VDC to AC Inverter Charger with Auto-Transfer Switching is a truly helpful power inverter as it is very compact housing made from metal that is resistant to moisture. In addition, it has a UPS battery backup with auto transfer switching.

It has up to 700W continuous output powers and 1,400W of instantaneous power and adding to that, the heavy connected loads are handled by the extended peak surge power. The AC power is computer-grade and the power inverter has a 6A charging system that has adjustable settings when it comes to gel type batteries. Adding to that, the automatic transfer to battery power is near instantaneous at only 16.6ms, as it provides 200% more output power than the 700W of continuous rating.

To add to its status features, the Tripp Lite APS700HF 700W 12VDC to AC Inverter Charger with Auto-Transfer Switching has six LEDs to indicate the battery charge, load level, system fault and shutdown status and the LED will flash in case of overload. Truly, this power inverter is built to last and ideal for vehicles, RVs, boats and trucks and many other similar uses, all with an overpower output capacity of 1,050W.

In addition, it has a multi speed fan for its cooling method. With a three position on, off and remote switch, this power inverter has two DC input terminals and a six feet cord with a 5-15p plug and one more thing you should know is that this power inverter can be used for power tools, appliances, audio / video appliances and even office equipment.

With an overall dimensions of 2x8x5", the Tripp Lite APS700HF 700W 12VDC to AC Inverter Charger with Auto-Transfer Switching is a truly remarkable power inverter that weighs 4lbs. It is RoHS certified so you can be assured that it conforms to safety standards. It is made from lightweight aluminum material and it also has a one year warranty.

Charge controller power inverter for solar panels

Outback Flexmax 80 FM80 MPPT 80A Solar Charge Controller
The Outback Flexmax 80 FM80 MPPT 80A Solar Charge Controller has an 80 character display that is backlit and shows the current status of the operation and you can get up to 30% increase in PV array output by the continuous max power point tracking that is advanced.

What is truly interesting is that can have more amp hours from any solar panel to the battery with this power inverter charge controller. It has from 12-60VDC of programmable charge to battery. When you have this power inverter, you have to take note that the nominal battery voltages are 12, 24, 36 and 48.

The power inverter’s max current rating in ambient temperatures is has high as 40 or 104°C and in addition to that, it has a technology of intelligent thermal management cooling as well as active cooling. The Outback Flexmax 80 FM80 MPPT 80A Solar Charge Controller weighs 14lbs and has overall dimensions of 5x16x4".

Power inverter that is gas powered

Generac 5791 Portable Inverter
The Generac 5791, 800 Running Watts/850 Starting Watts, Gas Powered Portable Inverter is 40% lighter than similar generators of the same watts. It uses FlexPower technology that saves fuel and makes it quieter and in addition, it offers protection for sensitive electronics.

This power inverter can protect against overloads and the engine is also protected from damage because it has a shutdown protection for low oil. The system status is shown by the LED lights on the control panel and this power inverter is colored orange.

With overall dimensions of 15x10x18", the Generac 5791, 800 Running Watts/850 Starting Watts, Gas Powered Portable Inverter weighs 29lbs and has a shipping weight of 36.6lbs. It has a total voltage of 120V and wattage of 800W. Overall, it great for sensitive electronics such as DVD players and computers and in addition, it has less than three percent total harmonic distortion.

Best power inverter and charger

Progressive Dynamics (PD4655V) 55A Converter/Charger with Built-In Charge Wizard
The Progressive Dynamics (PD4655V) 55A Converter/Charger with Built-In Charge Wizard is made in the US in which the swap can be done in about 20 minutes. It also comes with an upgraded DC distribution board.

This power inverter is hassle-free and very easy to install and comes with a great price compared to similar contenders. The Progressive Dynamics (PD4655V) 55A Converter/Charger with Built-In Charge Wizard can replace lower section converters in Parallax, Magnatec and WFCO. It weighs 7.7lbs and is under a two years warranty.

Best pure sine wave power inverter

PowerTech On Advanced Technology PURE SINE WAVE Inverter 3,000W Cont/6,000W Peak, 12VDC to 120VAC w/Black&Red Cables w/Ring Terminals, Remote Switch, Protection System & 4 Output Sockets – PS1004
The PowerTech On Advanced Technology PURE SINE WAVE Inverter 3,000W Cont/6,000W Peak, 12VDC to 120VAC w/Black&Red Cables w/Ring Terminals, Remote Switch, Protection System & four Output Sockets - PS1004’s pure sine power inverter has up to five kinds of protection systems.

This power inverter includes four output sockets (PS 1004) and it also has a continuous power of 3,000W with a surge power of 6,000W. There are 0.5-0.9A available to each AC outlet and in addition, it can be used to recharge the battery with the vehicle running. It is great for use with computers and other sensitive equipment as well as automobiles and in addition, it offers protection against low voltage, under voltage, overload, over voltage and thermal problems.

With a total harmonic distortion of less than three percent, the PowerTech On Advanced Technology PURE SINE WAVE Inverter 3,000W Cont/6,000W Peak, 12VDC to 120VAC w/Black&Red Cables w/Ring Terminals, Remote Switch, Protection System & four Output Sockets - PS1004 has an output voltage of 120VAC. It has a 60Hz frequency and comes with a cooling fan, temperature control and soft start feature and it also comes with a USB port at 2,000mA and 5V. In addition, it also includes a remote switch.

Coming with red and black cables and includes ring terminals, the PowerTech On Advanced Technology PURE SINE WAVE Inverter 3,000W Cont/6000W Peak, 12VDC to 120VAC w/Black&Red Cables w/Ring Terminals, Remote Switch, Protection System & four Output Sockets - PS1004 is very useful for power failure emergency situations which weighs 9.9lbs and has overall dimensions of 25x10x5".

Power inverter for various home appliances

KRIËGER 3,000W 12V Power Inverter, Dual 110VAC outlets, automotive back up power supply for refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, chainsaws, vacuums, power tools. MET approved to UL and CSA
The KRIËGER 3,000W 12V Power Inverter, Dual 110VAC outlets, Automotive back up power supply for refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, chainsaws, vacuums, power tools. MET approved to UL and CSA is good for refrigerators and other appliances and is also listed in CSA STD C22.2 and UL STD 458.

The power inverter comes with ANL fuse kit with 0 gauge and 3 feet and it easily converts from 12VDC to 120VAC. It has a front LCD display that displays input voltage, battery level and output wattage and the battery cables are 100% made from copper. It gives protection against overload, short circuit, temperature problems, and it also has a 2.1A shared dual USB.

The KRIËGER 3,000W 12V Power Inverter, Dual 110VAC outlets, Automotive back up power supply for refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, chainsaws, vacuums, power tools. MET approved to UL and CSA is a 3,000W power inverter for continuous capacity and a peak wattage of 6,000W which comes with in-line fuse and user’s manual. It has 12.9lbs of weight, dimensions of 20x9x8" and has three years warranty for parts and labour.

The competition
These power inverters that we have reviewed thus far are the high rated ones and unique ones perfect for a variety of appliances and instances. The other power inverters that did not make it are mostly overpriced and do not have a lot of good features.

Source: Jen Reviews