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A marine power inverter can be a great piece of equipment for your boat. This device is designed to convert DC power from your marine batteries into AC power so you can power your onboard appliances. Compared to a generator, inverters do not require fuel or an exhaust system and are also very economical, compact, and quiet.
There are a wide variety of options when it comes to inverters, and depending on the amount of power needed, there are different power outputs available. We have selected some excellent products with different specifications to make your choice easier. To choose the best marine power inverter for your needs, check out our review and buying guide, where we’ll break down the details.
Contents
Marine Power Inverter Reviews 2022
1. ProMariner TruePower – Editor’s Choice
A power inverter will be ideal for providing energy for your electrical needs while on water, and with the TruePower Plus from ProMariner, you can power up just any appliance in your boat. ProMariner’s 12V power inverter transforms the power source to operate devices that require large power. To achieve this efficiently, it has a continuous power of 2,000 watts that reaches a maximum of 4,000 watts.
In addition, the 12V inverter is equipped with an LCD Message Center that allows you to see the battery percentage and the input and output voltage of the power supply. It’s capable of producing pure sine wave and modified sine wave energy.
In terms of safety, the device is protected against under-voltage, overvoltage, reverse polarity, overload, short circuit, and overheating.
The ProMariner’s 12V power inverter is very useful for making inductive loads to motors, electric drills, washing machines, lawnmowers, or high-power coffee machines.
To be able to monitor it, it has an LED display that shows the voltage of the DC battery and the amount of charge left.
The device includes a thermal shutdown, short circuit, and overvoltage protection for added safety. It also features an automatic shutdown function in the event of low voltage and an alarm that will alert you when it is too high or low.
It is undoubtedly one of the most incredible power inverters that convert 12 volts to 115 AC. With the most excellent value for money on the market, it’s good in performance and features. Click here to see the best price.
Key features
- 2,000 continuous and 4000 surge watts
- GFCI outlets
- LCD Message Center
- 9 feet cable
- On/off remote
- Produces peak power up to a maximum of 4000W
- Pure sine and modified sine wave energy output
- LED display showing DC battery voltage and charge level
- Protects against under-voltage, overvoltage, reverse polarity, overload, short circuit
- It’s more expensive than other 2,000 watt inverters
2. GIANDEL Power Inverter – Best Modified Wave Inverter
The Giandel Inverter is a 2000 watt continuous power inverter that has a peak power of 4000 watts. This modified sine wave device is capable of converting 12 V DC into 110 V and 120 V AC of power and to do so you just need to connect the DC battery cables directly to the marine battery.
Like the others, the Giandel Inverter has all the necessary protections to avoid damage such as overload, temperature rise, short circuit, etc.
Everything can be kept under control thanks to the presence of the LCD which displays all the data provided by the device in real-time. Included in the package are accessories such as the 2 feet battery cables and the wired remote controller. The inverter has 30 A fuses built inside.
The USB port and the two 120 volt output sockets allow you to charge multiple devices at any time and simultaneously. The presence of a silent built-in cooling fan prevents the appliance from overheating.
With an excellent quality/price ratio, the Giandel Inverter is the ideal tool for those who love to travel in a camper, go on a boat without giving up the convenience of having the right amount of electricity at hand. The inverter is also ideal for use in a truck.
The 2000 Watt Giandel Power Inverter is a very versatile device, useful for charging computers, TVs, DVDs, Play Stations, vacuum cleaners, fans, razors, toasters, and various household appliances that help make trips in a campervan, days camping, camping holidays, boat trips, etc.
It is a fairly sturdy and compact inverter that transforms the energy coming from the marine battery into a modified sine wave.
The protection systems mounted inside it allow to avoid overvoltage, overload, temperature rise, and low voltage.
The installed high-quality fan allows you to always have a stable and controlled temperature. The presence of an LED replaces the display, but in the same way, provides information on the battery capacity.
In short, this device is ideal for short holidays and emergencies. The compact and simple design allows you to carry the inverter anywhere and always have it at hand in any situation. The price is accessible to everyone and the model is quite functional. Click here to see the best price.
Key features
- 12-volt power inverter
- Continuous rate of 2,000 watts
- Peak power of 4000 watts
- Modified sine wave power inverter
- Wired remote controller
- Two 120V AC sockets
- 90 percent maximum efficiency
- Versatile inverter for trucks, RVs, and boats
- Has a protection system against short circuit
- Overload and overvoltage protection
- The small cooling fan whirls extremely quietly
- Ideal for sensitive devices
- No downside found
3. Aeliussine Power Inverter – Best With Safety Features
The Aeliussine model provides a starting power of up to 3,000 watts and can reach 6,000 watts in surge watts. It’s a high-quality and powerful inverter on which it is possible to connect everything you need just by having a battery to connect the product to.
This power inverter uses a modified sinusoidal system with a continuous output of 3,000 nominal watts, which allows us to reach a maximum power of up to 6,000 watts. The product has a considerable current conversion efficiency, estimated at 85%, and is compatible with any conventional 12-volt input that you have within our reach.
This signal maintains adequate stability during use, regardless of the devices that we connect to it, although always within the working range supported by the device. To do this, the internal technology of the product is responsible for optimizing the operation of the equipment, so that energy is used most safely and conveniently.
Since we are talking about a quality inverter, both its connectivity and its control system are up to the task. Starting with connectivity, the product has three conventional AC outlets, in which it is possible to plug-in appliances that work with this type of connector. It doesn’t have a USB port, with which to charge your mobile phone.
Regarding the control system, the screen included with the product informs us at all times of its operating status and the connected load. Additionally, you also have a remote control switch, with which it is possible to activate or deactivate the inverter without having to be in front of it, although you can also manually control the inverter. It has a remote receptacle just below the on/off switch.
Since we are talking about batteries, cables, and electricity, it is essential to have adequate security measures for the risks offered by the product. Among these security measures is the fuse system included in the device, which is responsible for keeping the voltage under control at all times and cutting it off if it is triggered, thus avoiding possible risks of discharges and other inconveniences.
The device is protected against under-voltage, overvoltage, reverse polarity, overload, short circuit, and overheating.
Additionally, the model has an internal fan, to properly cool the equipment during operation and prevent the inverter from overheating while it is working. Click here to see the best price.
Key features
- 3,000 continuous watts
- 6,000 surge watts
- Modified wave power inverter
- Protected from undervoltage and overvoltage
- Also protected from reverse polarity, overload, short circuit, and overheating
- Easy to operate
- Highly powerful
- Large LCD screen
- Safe inverter with up to 6 protective features
- Low charging power
4. WZRELB Power Inverter – Most Powerful
The WZRELB range of pure sine wave inverters are solar inverters with minimum power capacity ranging from 500 watts to 1500 watts and 3,500 watts. In this range, you will find models that can convert 12V DC and 24V DC to 110 V and 120V AC power. However, this model especially is a 3000 watts 24 V pure sine wave generator.
It comes with comprehensive safety protections such as over-voltage, under-voltage, overload, short circuit, over-temperature, polarity reverse protection (fuse), electricity leakage protection.
Built-in smart cooling fans work according to temperature, extend battery life, and cool the device efficiently.
It also features a remote control, so you can control the inverter within the room. It’s much more convenient to be used as a car and home power supply.
It has a high-quality pure copper induction that filters the waveform, ensures pure sine wave AC output, and protects your equipment. The WZRELB power inverter provides 3000 watts DC to AC continuously and 6000 watts surge power with LED displays for DC/AC voltages.
The remote control which uses a switch ensures better control of the inverter on/off and monitoring of the actual working status (voltage indicator audible alarm).
It is an ultra-compact inverter built at 14.1 x 9.3 x 3.7 inches and 14.8 pounds, which is an ideal design for use on boat vacations, work trips, and camping. Click here to see the best price.
Key features
- Solar power inverter
- Pure sine wave energy
- Dual voltage
- Dual cooling fans
- Converts 24 V to 110 and 120V AC
- Dual cooling fans ensure quiet and stable performance
- Available in different versions
- 90% energy efficiency
- Comes with one year warranty
- Noisy fans as there are two
5. Giandel Power Inverter – Best Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter
The Giandel brand is a real guarantee for the production of this range of appliances and, for this reason, a kit from this manufacturer could not be missing in the selection of the best inverters for boating.
The first Giandel power inverter we reviewed is a modified sine wave inverter. This time around, this Giandel inverter is a pure sine wave inverter and is ideal for all appliances with inductive loads and requiring protection thanks to the stable and quality output.
The pure sine wave provided by this appliance is 2200 watts continuously. It is equipped with a cooling fan to prevent damage caused by overheating the appliance itself. The fan activates autonomously when the inverter temperature exceeds 104 degrees Fahrenheit and its noise is quite low being less than 45 dB. If the temperature keeps rising, the device will automatically shut off at 149 degrees Fahrenheit.
The presence of an LCD digital display is very useful for constantly checking the battery power, the input and output voltage, and the inverter protection mode. The integrated accessories include eight 30A fuses that help protect the device and the connected battery from risks such as current overload, overheating, and short circuits.
The lightweight and compact design is made of aluminum and is extremely resistant to shock. In the kit, there is a remote control to control the inverter even from a distance. The presence of a 2.4A USB port makes it possible to fast charge your devices.
Giandel makes life easier for people on board by creating a continuous power inverter, which reaches a maximum of 4400 watts. It has two AC power sockets and a 2.4A USB port for direct power supply or emergencies, RVs, and homes.
In addition, the current inverter is equipped with soft start technology with isolated input and output, so that the current flow is gradually adjusted to the required power. Added to this is a complete safety system that prevents overvoltages, overloads, under voltages, overheating, and short circuits.
It includes a built-in fan to cool the heat rises and prevent its performance from degrading, and includes a 15-foot long cable and remote to control power on and off. Click here to see the best price.
Key features
- Pure sine wave power inverter
- Continuous power of 2200 watts to peak 4400 watts
- Soft start technology
- Double AC power sockets
- 4A USB port
- Continuous power up to a maximum of 4400 watts
- Double AC power sockets
- Ideal for boating, camping, and use at home
- Soft start technology with isolated input and output
- A safety system that prevents overvoltages, overloads, and overheating
- Covered with a sturdy aluminum alloy housing
- Built-in fan to cool if the heat rises
- Price a bit too high for its power capacity
Things To Consider Before Buying a Marine Power Inverter
Investing in a good power inverter allows you to have a stable 120V AC power source onboard, even if you don’t have the space. These devices are maintenance-free and easy to install. However, as we mentioned, you will need a different inverter depending on the number of appliances you want to power.
A smaller one will suffice for the television, for example, but if you want to add a stove, a refrigerator, a microwave, or other appliances, you will need more power. Keep in mind that a more powerful inverter will drain your batteries faster, so you’ll need a battery bank, and a good battery charger to restore juice.
The power inverter must be easy to use and, in addition to being a reliable source, it must protect the devices that are connected to it. The best marine inverters are designed in such a way that they control power surges so that sensitive electronics like your computer, mobile phone, or stereo are not damaged.
Wattage
This is the rating you will see on each inverter. The manufacturer will give the continuous power and the maximum power. Of course, higher wattage products are going to cost more. The continuous wattage specification shows how many appliances the inverter can run at the same time.
You can see the wattage of each device you want to plug in and add these numbers together to determine how strong an inverter you need. Some appliances show amps, but you can convert them to watts by multiplying by volts, for example – 2 amps x 120 volts = 240 watts.
It is always a good idea to buy an inverter that is larger than the amount of power you arrive at. If you buy a product that is not powerful enough, you may overload it and experience overheating or the inverter may break completely. Also, you may decide you want something else plugged in later. In addition, marine inverters are only around 85 to 91% efficient, because there is voltage loss that occurs along the way.
Outlets
Outlets to watch out for on the control panel are the possibilities of dual voltage AC outlets (most come in single AC, anyway), a remote receptacle, one or two high-power USB ports, and more. You can also get inverters with additional outlets and features such as earth wire, ON/OFF switch, and more.
Some products have display panels that show a lot of useful information: battery status, current power, voltage, etc. Having an efficient cooling fan is also a good idea to prevent it from overheating and causing damage.
Waveforms
Inverters can have a modified or pure sine wave. This also affects to some extent the mentioned efficiency.
Pure Sine Wave Inverter
On the one hand, pure sine wave inverters have higher efficiency, create more power and give better quality. That is why this type is recommended for the most sensitive electronics.
This type of inverter produces a clean and constant sine wave similar to the home electrical network and feeds all appliances at 220 V. These appliances allow you to use any household appliance that can be used on the boat, at home, and even on the camper.
In general, pure sine wave inverters are on the market at a higher price than the modified sine wave ones that we are going to see.
Modified Sine Wave Inverter
On the other hand, modified sine wave inverters are generally cheaper and can be a solid power source for most things. Here, we have two functional phases: first, the voltage of 12 V is brought to 300 V, and then it is modulated by two signals that are responsible for controlling the outgoing voltage and polarity.
By doing so, a stepped wave is transmitted. Such an inverter will be ideal for powering lamps, electrical appliances, and all low-wattage devices. These are cheaper than the aforementioned pure wave but are equally functional for the bare minimum.
Batteries
This is a very important point that is closely connected to your device. The inverter needs a constant supply from the batteries to function properly. It runs on a 12V battery, and larger inverters draw a lot of power from your battery bank. So choose a good marine battery to make it work.
You need to monitor the battery charge and manage it according to the manufacturer’s instructions to get the best life. Draining it completely is often not very good for the battery. You can buy a battery charger and connect it to a shoreline or use a generator to power it.
There are also engine alternators that can recharge the battery while the engine is running. The alternatives are solar panels or wind generators or investing in an inverter that has a charging function.
When it comes to wiring, you have to follow the instructions on how to install everything. Please note that the inverter converts the current to 120V AC, which can be very dangerous and cause electric shock and serious injury.
FAQs
What size inverter do I need on my boat?
The size of the inverter needed for your boat depends on the power of the appliances you need to power and the size of your battery bank. So, try to find out the total wattage of the appliances before getting an inverter and a battery bank. However, note, your inverter must be more powerful than your appliances and your battery bank must be more powerful than your inverter. If you have appliances that total 1,500 watts, then an inverter size of 2200 continuous watts should be enough and a battery bank that is 20% bigger than your inverter.
Can you use a power inverter on a marine battery?
Yes, you can hook up a power inverter to your deep cycle marine battery provided you're using an inverter that is at least 600 watts in size. Make sure you choose a marine power inverter over auto power inverters. Marine power inverters generally represent a higher quality power source and a better option for sensitive electronics that can be damaged by a sudden change in electricity. This is especially true for pure sine wave inverters. On the other hand, auto power inverters are usually of the modified sine wave type. This is a more cost-effective solution, and they do not have as high requirements as marine power inverters. They are used to power small devices through the car's cigarette lighter socket.
How long will a marine battery last with an inverter?
Most marine batteries will last for 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the inverter size and the load as well as the marine battery size. Larger inverters will drain the battery faster, so it's good to have more than one battery for this or a charging solution as we discussed. In terms of the power it produces, it can vary from very small inverters with an output of 100W to large ones that give more than 3000 continuous watts.
How many batteries do I need for a 2000 watt inverter?
You would need at least two batteries for a 2000 watt inverter. However, as for lithium batteries, a 1000ah 12 volt battery is enough. The general recommendation is to place the inverter as close as possible to the battery bank. The distance should be less than 10 feet, to avoid unnecessary power loss and voltage drop, as well as to reduce the chances of a hazard occurring. The place where it is stored should be dry and ventilated (getting a waterproof inverter can also help), and this goes for battery storage as well.
Conclusion
As you can see, power inverters are complex and very useful equipment. They are essential for producing electricity off the grid, in the boat, RV, truck, or anywhere you may be. They are also used to convert currents in old buildings and to be able to connect our electrical appliances to direct current networks. Power inverters present a very reliable AC source when not docked.
In this article, we have explained everything you need to know to buy the best marine power inverter on the market. We have analyzed in detail the most important aspects of these items and we have explained what you should look for when choosing your team. As you could see, the models in our marine power inverter review are more affordable although there are a few high-end models. But it comes down to your particular needs when choosing the best marine power inverter. Now it’s your turn, follow our advice and you will not fail to get the right purchase.
