Inverter
Use 230-volt devices flexibly on the move
From the on-board battery to household power supply
An inverter converts the 12-volt direct current from the on-board battery into 230-volt alternating current. This allows you to run numerous devices without a direct mains connection—such as laptops, chargers, or kitchen appliances—that are normally powered by a household socket.
AL-KO VT offers pure sine wave inverters for different power requirements. The crucial factors for selection are the required continuous and peak output of the connected appliances, as well as the battery capacity and configuration of the on-board electrical system. This allows you to plan the 230-volt supply to suit the individual energy needs of your recreational vehicle.
Inverters at a glance
Reliable 230-volt supply for various requirements
An inverter extends the possibilities of your on-board electrical system and allows you to operate 230-volt devices independently from the mains. In order for the system to work reliably and efficiently, the inverter, battery, wiring and protection must be matched to each other.
- 12 V to 230 V: Converts battery direct current into alternating current for 230-volt appliances.
- Pure sine wave: Provides a consistent output voltage and is suitable for sensitive electronic equipment.
- Different power ratings: Enables the selection based on the requirements of connected appliances.
- Matched electrical system: Battery, cable cross-sections and protection must be designed for the required power.
- More independent from the mains: 230-volt devices can be used even when travelling or at pitches without external power supply.
What output do I need from my inverter?
The connected devices determine the appropriate power rating
The required output of an inverter depends on the 230-volt devices you want to operate and whether you want to use several appliances at the same time. The rated output is not the only decisive factor: some electrical appliances require a much higher power when switched on. The inverter must also be able to supply this peak power.
As inverter output increases, so does the current draw on the 12-volt side. Battery, wiring and protection therefore need to be sized accordingly. The whole energy system should be considered when selecting an inverter—not just the power rating of an individual appliance.
Why pure sine wave inverters?
Reliable voltage supply even for sensitive electronics
Pure sine wave inverters generate a sine-shaped alternating voltage, allowing reliable operation of a wide variety of 230-volt devices. This is particularly important for sensitive electronics, power supplies or devices with electronic control systems.
The inverter portfolio from AL-KO VT delivers a pure sine wave and therefore offers a versatile solution for the 230-volt power supply in a recreational vehicle.
Inverters from AL-KO VT
For different power requirements
The pure sine wave inverters from AL-KO VT are available in various power ratings, providing a tailored 230-volt supply. From smaller electronic devices right up to equipment with higher power demands, you can select an inverter to suit your individual on-board electrical system.
Control
Convenient operation and matched installation
Suitable accessories support safe installation and comfortable use of the inverter. Depending on the system, remote control panels can, for instance, be used to operate the inverter from the living area. Both wiring and protection must also match the system's output and the technical requirements of the vehicle.
What to consider when choosing an inverter
Output, battery and on-board electrical system must be compatible
An inverter should always be considered as part of the overall energy system. In addition to the required continuous and peak output, the capacity and load rating of the on-board battery, cable lengths and cross-sections, and suitable protection are all important factors.
Individual energy requirements should also be taken into account: High-powered 230-volt devices can place great strain on the on-board battery in a short space of time. Correctly sizing all components is therefore vital for reliable and efficient operation.
Converting direct current to alternating current also causes conversion losses. The actual energy demand on the battery side therefore exceeds the energy consumed by the connected 230-volt device.
Frequently asked questions about inverters
An inverter converts the 12-volt direct current from the on-board battery into 230-volt alternating current. This means that suitable 230-volt devices can be operated without a mains connection.
When converting 12-volt direct current to 230-volt alternating current, both terms are often used interchangeably. However, "inverter" specifically refers to the process of converting direct current into alternating current.
In principle, any suitable 230-volt device can be operated, provided that the continuous and peak output of the device are within the inverter's power ratings and the on-board electrical system is adequately dimensioned. With high-powered devices, special attention must be paid to the battery's high energy demand.
Add up the power consumption of the devices to be used simultaneously, and take any possible startup surges into account. The inverter, battery, wiring and protection must all be designed to meet these requirements together.
A switched-on inverter uses energy for its electronics even in standby mode. If the 230-volt supply is not needed, switching off the inverter can reduce energy consumption.
On the 12-volt side, particularly with high-power inverters, high currents may occur. Therefore, the correct cable cross-sections, short cable lengths, suitable protection and adequate ventilation are important. Installation must be in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and all applicable electrical requirements.
It's not just the battery type that matters, but above all whether the battery and on-board system can reliably supply the required current. The higher the output of the inverter and the connected devices, the greater the demands on the energy storage, wiring and protection.