Inverter size question

[Cfilipiak]

I have a Summit LE5047, 120 Volt, 150 Watt TV. What is the minimum size inverter I can use?

Thanks

[chuckster57]

If your only looking to power the TV, then a 200W inverter will do the job.

Are you sure the TV draws 150 watts?

[Cfilipiak]

I am not sure. I only know the back of the TV reads, “AC 100-240V~50/60Hz 150W”

[Cfilipiak]

FYI, I tried a 300W inverter, the TV came on for 2 seconds, long enough for me to see the word Summit and then shut down

[chuckster57]

FYI, I tried a 300W inverter, the TV came on for 2 seconds, long enough for me to see the word Summit and then shut down



Ok. The trick is the inverter needs to be as close to the battery(s) as you can get it, or use large gauge cable to keep voltage drop to a minimum.

How long is the 12V run and what gauge?

[Cfilipiak]

Oh, the batteries are at the front of the trailer about 20 feet away from the TV. I was just taking the inverter and plugging it in to the cigarette plug next to the TV.

[chuckster57]

Oh, the batteries are at the front of the trailer about 20 feet away from the TV. I was just taking the inverter and plugging it in to the cigarette plug next to the TV.



That may be the issue. That 12V outlet next to the TV isn’t meant to deliver the amount of power your inverter needs. The wire going to that plug is probably 14-18 gauge and is daisy chained with a bunch of other 12V stuff. You need a dedicated circuit, and the paperwork that came with the inverter should give you a wire sizing chart for the distance from the batteries.