What is an inverter?
An electrical system uses two types of current: alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC). In the eighties and nineties it was common to use either an onboard generator or a shore-power connection (with a battery charger) to run AC appliances. However, AC is not storable in batteries so one was dependent on live feed. But nowadays, after the introduction of efficient inverters in the boating scene, most sailboats with living accommodations are inverter-equipped. These inverters convert DC power out of your batteries into the household-type AC power.
An inverter changes DC voltage from batteries or solar panels, into standard household AC voltage so that it can be used by common tools and appliances. Converters: What are sometimes called “converters”, especially in the RV world, are actually battery chargers and/or DC power supplies. Why they are called converters in RV’s and no place else we have not a clue. A “converter” is basically the opposite of an inverter. Essentially, it does the opposite of what a battery charger or “converter” does. DC is usable for some small appliances, lights, and pumps, but not much else. Most systems should include an inverter of some type, even if it is just an el-cheapo $29 Walmart thing to run the TV occasionally. Some DC appliances are available, with the exception of lights, fans and pumps there is not a wide selection. Most other 12 volt items we have seen are expensive and/or poorly made compared to their AC cousins. The most common battery voltage inputs for inverters are 12, 24, and 48 volt
