To invert or not to invert, that is the question

[mjmalcolm]

We are in the process of finalizing our electrical plan for our 1968 Pathfinder complete restoration project.

SPECIFICALLY, what AC component(s) do you expect to run off of an inverter? We are struggling to find anyone who can provide detailed information about "why" we actually need one in our camper. We know what they do, we need to know what "real-world" application is provided by having one installed in our 16 foot trailer.

Thank you for all the wonderful advice and suggestions provided through this website and we look forward to the responses.

[offspringin]

I guess it depends on the type of camping you do. We do not have one in our trailer. We have a dome light that can run off the truck if its lights are also turned on. Other than that, everything is 120volt. We always camp at campgrounds with electric though. If we did more traveling (where you stopped overnight in a parking lot) type thing it might be something i would have added.

I cant give you reasons to add it i guess since i don't use it. But i can tell you its not something we would have needed.

[desertman]

I have a inverter in my pick up that I use to charge batteries for my phone, computer, & camera. I wouldn't want to use one to brew coffee unless it was wired with 10 ga. wire. Just my thoughts.

[schweetcruisers]

I plan to run a small inverter to charge phones and a plug encase I need to plug something in. This is what I am going to use.

www.cobra.com/detail/cpi-880-800-watt-power-inverter.cfm

Keep in mind mine is only really going to be used for the usb charging ports and maybe the outlet for a toaster. Neither my wife or I drink coffee, and we are using a icebox so I don't need a lot of power.

[offspringin]

I guess i should add that i do carry that type of inverter in the truck, just nothing hardwired in the trailer. So i guess i could technically charge things if were out in the boonies.

[tylerbes]

I really dont see much of a need. All of the lights in my camper are 12VDC. My fridge is combo 12VDC/120Vac... and if I am "roughing" it I have an inverter built in the dash of my Ram that can charge a phone or run small items.

[Gone Kayaking]

We have a dual system. Converted all the light fixtures to 12vdc. no fridge (icebox). Mostly use the inverter for my computer. Phones are charged using a 12vdc plug. Put an inverter in while doing the electrical (no reason you couldn't add it later) for future options to plug in TV, table lamp, twinkle lights (for outside) or other small appliances. Could totally get by without it while boondocking.

[mjmalcolm]

Thank you for the comments and suggestions. I think we have decided that we are not going to put one in the trailer. We could not come up with any true good reason to have one and one less thing to take up our already limited space.