DC to AC power explained

The most cost effective methods of producing alternative power involves 'Direct Current' (DC) power.

The only reliable storage facility for power is the battery, which stores DC power. 

All of the usual household appliances in New Zealand use 230 volt AC (Alternating Current) power. Therefore, any alternative power system needs to convert DC power to AC power. 

This is the purpose of the inverter, to convert the DC power to AC power suitable for all household appliances. The usual DC systems are 12 volt, 24 volt, 36 volt and 48 volt. 

An alternative power system has to safely provide all the power your appliances need. 

Watts out of the inverter equals watts into the inverter. Example: 

If a fridge uses 1200 watts, (1.2kW) = 230 volts AC x 5.2 amps, therefore, the inverter output will be 5.2 amps AC. The input to the inverter will be 1200 watts = 24 volts DC x 50 amps, therefore, the input to the inverter will be 50 amps DC.

It can be seen from this example that the input currents can be very high, so it is important that the right type and size of cable is used to prevent the risk of fire and damage to equipment.