Inverter
Flexible use of 230-volt devices on the move
From the onboard battery to household-standard power supply
An inverter converts the 12-volt direct current from the onboard battery into 230-volt alternating current. This enables you to run numerous devices that are typically powered from a standard household socket – for example laptops, chargers or kitchen appliances – even without a direct mains connection.
AL-KO VT offers pure sine wave inverters for various performance requirements. The key selection criteria are the continuous and peak output required by the connected appliances, as well as the battery capacity and the specification of the onboard system. This allows the 230-volt supply to be planned according to the individual energy requirements of your recreational vehicle.
Inverter overview
Reliable 230-volt supply for various requirements
An inverter expands the possibilities of your onboard electrical system and enables 230-volt appliances to be used independently of the mains supply. For the system to work reliably and efficiently, the inverter, battery, wiring and fusing must all be coordinated with each other.
- 12 V to 230 V: Converts the direct current from the onboard battery into alternating current for 230-volt appliances.
- Pure sine wave: Provides a consistent output voltage and is suitable for sensitive electronic devices.
- Different performance classes: Allow needs-based selection depending on the consumers connected.
- Coordinated onboard power system: Battery, cable cross-sections and fusing must be rated for the required output.
- Less dependent on mains supply: 230-volt appliances can also be used on the move or on pitches without external power supply.
What output does my inverter need?
The connected appliances determine the required output class
The required output of an inverter depends on which 230-volt devices you wish to run, and whether several appliances will be used at the same time. It is not just the nominal output that matters: some electrical devices will need a much higher output for a short time when switching on. The inverter must be able to provide this peak output as well.
The higher the inverter output, the higher the current draw on the 12-volt side. Battery, wiring and fusing therefore need to be dimensioned accordingly. The entire energy system should be considered when making your choice – not just the output of an individual appliance.
Why choose a sine wave inverter?
A reliable power supply, even for sensitive electronics
Sine wave inverters produce a sinusoidal alternating current, making them suitable for reliably operating a wide range of 230-volt appliances. This is especially important for sensitive electronics, power supplies or devices with electronic controls.
The inverter range from AL-KO VT generates a pure sine wave and thus provides a versatile solution for 230-volt power supply in recreational vehicles.
Inverters from AL-KO VT
For different performance requirements
The pure sine wave inverters from AL-KO VT are available in different performance options, providing a tailored 230-volt supply to meet your needs. Whether for smaller electronic appliances or higher-powered devices, the inverter can be selected to match the requirements of your individual onboard system.
Control
Convenient operation and well-matched installation
Suitable accessories support safe installation and convenient use of the inverter. Depending on the system, remote control panels, for example, can allow the inverter to be operated from the living area. The wiring and fusing must also be adapted both to the output of the system and to the technical requirements of the vehicle.
What to consider when choosing an inverter
Power, battery and onboard power system must be compatible
An inverter should always be considered as part of the overall energy system. Along with the necessary continuous and peak output, the capacity and load capability of the onboard battery, cable lengths and cross-sections, as well as suitable fusing, all play an important role.
Your individual energy consumption also needs to be considered: high-output 230-volt appliances can draw heavily on the battery within a short time. Correct dimensioning of all components therefore ensures reliable and efficient operation.
And note that losses are incurred when converting from DC to AC. The actual energy needed on the battery side will therefore be greater than the energy consumed by the connected 230-volt appliance.
Frequently asked questions about inverters
An inverter converts the 12-volt direct current from the onboard battery into 230-volt alternating current. As a result, suitable 230-volt appliances can be used even without a mains connection.
Both terms are often used interchangeably when referring to the conversion of 12-volt DC to 230-volt AC. 'Inverter' more precisely means the process of producing alternating current from direct current.
In principle, suitable 230-volt appliances can be used, provided that both the continuous and peak output of the appliance are within the performance limits of the inverter and the onboard system is adequately specified. For high-performance appliances, the high energy demand from the battery must be taken into account in particular.
Add up the power ratings of the appliances you want to use at the same time and consider possible starting peaks. The inverter, battery, wiring and fusing should then all be specified for these requirements together.
An inverter that is switched on also requires energy for its own electronics when idling. If no 230-volt supply is needed, switching the inverter off can help reduce energy consumption.
On the 12-volt side, high currents may occur, particularly with high-output inverters. For this reason, suitable cable cross-sections, short cable runs, appropriate fusing and sufficient ventilation are important. Installation should follow the manufacturer's specifications and current electrical requirements.
The battery type is not the only important factor; it is especially important that both the battery and the onboard system are able to supply the required current reliably. The higher the inverter output and the power demand of the attached appliances, the higher the requirements for the energy storage, wiring and fusing.