Inverters
Modern inverters are extremely reliable and have failure rates of well under 1%. Inverters come in many configurations to meet the needs of different applications. We will discuss the different types of inverters and the benefits or downside of each type in more detail.

Almost all alternative energy systems (solar panels, wind, and micro-hydro) produce DC (Direct Current) which can be stored in batteries.  Our homes and appliances run on AC (Alternating Current). There are DC appliances out there, but they are more expensive and harder to find.  

The Inverter first takes the DC current from the batteries and transforms it to AC.  The two types of output are Sine-wave and Modified-sine wave. Modified-Sine wave inverters are fine for most small to medium applications with some limitations.  These limitations can effect Audio and computer equipment.  

In some Audio equipment the gear will pick up a 60-cycle buzz through the speakers.  It won’t hurt the equipment, it is just annoying.

Computers can run 99% of the time off of a modified-sine wave inverter.  Just make sure you have a high quality UPS (uninterruptible power supply).  One computer item, the laser printer, is not well suited for use in an Off the Grid application. This is due to the high energy standby mode.

How big an Inverter do you need?
The size of your inverter will depend on your power needs.  Let’s say you have a small family cabin application:  The cabin has four 30 watt fluorescents, a 19 inch TV, a DVD and a radio.  If everything was on at the same time, 120 watts lighting, and 100 watts for the TV, 40 watts for the DVD and 10 watts for the radio, 260 watts would be your total, and you would need an inverter rated at 300-500 watts minimum.  

To power a whole house full of appliances and lights requires a little more planning.
Medium to full size microwaves require 1500 watts of energy to operate alone. Hand held power tools are also energy hogs. So any inverter under 2500 watts will not work.  

Most homes that practice conservation can operate nicely on a 2500 watt inverter.  Other homes that demand more can employ multiple inverters.  Outback Power has one of the best configurable systems out there.

If you plan your system correctly, you can start small and continue to grow over the years as needed. Ask a Professional Installer to help you plan an Off the Grid system using Outback Power equipment. You will be glad you did.