Due to the degree of comfort they provide, RVs let people get closer to nature.

Instead of spending the night in a tiny tent, you can unwind in the RV while watching your preferred streaming network after a day of swimming, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

If RVing is new to you, you may be curious as to how that is feasible.

An RV power inverter is a piece of equipment required to power those creature amenities.

These gadgets convert 12-volt DC electricity into the 120-volt AC power that our home appliances need.

Even though it could appear difficult, selecting an appropriate inverter is simple if you have a broad idea of how it works.

Not to worry.

Our guide offers some recommendations to help you in your search.

Superior Overall

AIMS 5000 Watt 12 Volt DC Power Inverter

This customized sine wave inverter provides 5,000 watts of electricity to your RV.

It is the ideal illustration of why changed inverters are becoming more and more well-liked.

Pros

  • 5-kilowatt power source
  • Reasonably priced
  • Performance tracking using LEDs
  • Can easily power most gadgets

Cons

  • Noisy fan
  • Remote problems are frequent.

Best Price

KRIËGER 1100 Watt 12V DC Power Inverter

An inexpensive inverter that yet delivers the required results.

This model has a 1,500-watt power supply, making it perfect for those who use technology sparingly but still need to use necessities.

Pros

  • Exceptional price
  • Small size
  • Several features despite being expensive

Cons

  • Limited electricity supply

Exceptional Mention

ENERGIZER 3000 Watts Power Inverter

This is a wonderful choice for individuals that want a middle-of-the-road solution with a 3,000-watt power supply.

For all RVers, the recognized quality and dependability provide peace of mind.

Pros

  • Reliable electricity source
  • Affordable pricing range
  • Reputable features and performance

Cons

  • Large model with lower power than usual given its size

RV Inverter Benefits

  • Use electronics when traveling. A power inverter’s most apparent advantage is that it enables you to use contemporary technology outside. Televisions, microwaves, hair dryers, coffee makers, and other appliances depend on 120-volt AC electricity, which is converted into 12-volt DC power via inverters.
  • Hook up to the shore power. Shore power is the electricity that is already there due to the batteries. You may access that source using a power converter instead of using a generator. You will be able to save the fuel that generators use by doing this. You may also take use of the luxury of an RV without being bothered by background noise.
  • Charge your gadgets often. Perhaps it overlaps with the first advantage, but charging electronics is crucial. You are in the woods after all, and you never know when you’ll need to send or make an emergency call. Additionally, having a fully charged phone and laptop enables you to remain in contact with coworkers or update your pals on how wonderful life is through social media.

Various Inverter Types

#1. Wave Square

A square wave is a more traditional kind of power inverter.

This technique has mostly been overtaken by other technologies, although owing to their cheap cost, they are sometimes still used.

These inverters can operate tiny appliances or power tools, but their total operating range is limited.

#2. Totally Sine Wave

The best choice is pure sine wave inverters.

Despite the fact that they are often the most expensive choice, they are very popular for a reason.

This is due to the fact that they provide your devices the cleanest power source possible and often have higher capacity.

This is the choice for individuals who want their gadgets to function as they would at home, to put it briefly.

#3. Alternate Sine Wave

Adapted sine wave inverters often have a poor name.

Since of their cheap price, many people assume that they are merely rubbish because they use more battery power and may not operate gadgets as effectively.

The truth is that they are becoming more and more well-liked.

This is due to the fact that as time goes on, technology helps them to become more effective.

To make sure the model you buy will function as you need it to, it is still necessary to be aware of the usual problems and do your research.

Best Brands

#1. PowerMax

The headquarters of this closely owned company are in Bradenton, Florida.

For more than 15 years, PowerMax has provided generators, DC inverters, and battery chargers.

The business has a solid reputation for satisfying customers.

The business owner credits their sophisticated quality control method, which assesses components at every stage of production—including incoming parts, works in progress, and finished goods—for their success.

#2. AIMS

The goal of AIMS Power is to provide sustainable and off-grid electricity.

The business was founded in 2001 when the creator built his first power inverter in a Reno, Nevada, garage.

Since then, the business has expanded and currently provides 95 items, among them the 8000 Watt DC to AC Power Inverter.

Today, AIMS is a multinational corporation that supplies goods to businesses like NASA and works to develop clean energy sources.

#3. WindyNation

Small business WindyNation is located in Ventura, California.

It is well known for producing solar and wind generators with an emphasis on do-it-yourselfers.

The company’s community forum, where users share advice and suggestions on how to put sustainable energy solutions into practice, is one of its most well-liked and beneficial offers.

A well-liked solar-powered RV inverter for off-the-grid living is made by WindyNation.

#4. Xantrex

One of the most popular onboard AC power brands is Xantrex.

It creates technologies for military, construction, emergency medical services, and commercial vehicles.

Mission Critical Electronics, with its main office in Huntington Beach, California, is the owner of the trademark.

The PROWatt 2000 Inverter is one of its best-selling items.

Key Elements

#1. Powered By

It is a waste to have a power inverter that cannot operate the gadgets you want to utilize.

You must first determine how much electricity you will really use.

Do you, for instance, just need to charge your gadgets or does your RV’s full kitchen need electricity? It’s critical to assess the wattage requirements of the gadgets you are powering, combine those numbers together to decide which inverter can handle them.

Your inverter must have a steady output that is more than the number of watts you anticipate using, but not so much excess power that it becomes a financial waste.

#2. Safety Options

Your inverter may experience a number of possible problems, therefore having a gadget with built-in protection is highly beneficial.

The biggest concern is overheating.

Finding a model with cooling fans is essential since RV power inverters generate a lot of heat when operating.

Overload protection, an overvoltage alert, an undervoltage alarm, excellent power surge protection, and a short-circuit avoidance system are further electrical safety features.

#3. Simple Installation

Ensure that the RV inverter you purchase can be connected by you.

There are several methods to connect them, some of which need hardwiring.

Inverters that may be plugged directly into a 12V port with battery connections are some of the versions that are the simplest to set up.

Additionally, think about where the inverter will go and if brackets are included with the device.

The Following Factors

  • Size. The largest and heaviest RV inverters are also of the most costly. It’s vital to think about this before you buy anything since you’ll need to determine where the gadget will fit and if its cost justifies its size.
  • Price. Inverters are often priced depending on their ability to produce electricity. However, this isn’t the only significant consideration, therefore it may not always be worthwhile to pay more money for greater power. Think about the characteristics that are most essential to you and the use you anticipate.
  • Remote Management. A remote switch, both wired and wireless, is included with several RV power inverters. Even though it may not be required, consider where your device will be located and if it will be simple to access the manual on/off switch.

Reviews Of The Top RV Inverters For [Year]

Superior Overall

#1. AIMS 5000 Watt 12 Volt DC Power Inverter

This inverter is a good option for the majority of RVers since it offers all the necessary features.

The 5,000 operating watts available from this model, enough for many people to spend more time outside than inside the RV, is what makes it so fantastic.

Additionally, the pricing is ideal for someone who wants a more powerful device without taking out a modest loan to charge their phone and TV.

Despite the fact that it is a modified sine wave inverter, it shows how effective this kind of inverter can be.

Despite the sine wave, this model nevertheless performs well with pumps, power tools, and other items with motors that often have trouble when powered by this kind of power source.

Additionally, this inverter has LED indications that track its performance in case you are concerned about overworking it.

Regarding the negatives, this model is noisier than others, and it seems that its remote control is a significant weakness.

You can usually get past these problems, but it’s still a good idea to be aware of them.

Best Price

#2. KRIEGER 1100 Watt 12V DC Power Inverter

The KRIGER modified sine wave inverter is the ideal inverter for camping when it comes to smaller, less costly choices.

The additional power may not be required, even if this option has less watts than the other options on the list.

It could be worthwhile to use this powerful tiny gadget to save money if you don’t need to operate all of your appliances simultaneously.

The KRIGER’s overall size is a major selling factor.

Power inverters may be large and occupy a significant amount of your RV’s already constrained space.

Two USB connections, two AC outlets, a remote switch that is provided, and an LED screen that shows battery power, wattage, voltage, temperature, and alerts are all features of this inverter.

The longest warranty on the list, three years, is also included with this item.

The KRIGER is the greatest inverter for travel trailers, yet it falls short in a few crucial areas.

Most significantly, of all the items on this list, this inverter has the lowest power output.

This gadget is not for someone wishing to run many appliances simultaneously.

Additionally, this inverter is susceptible to overheating.

Highest Pick

#3. ENERGIZER 3000 Watts Power Inverter

The Energizer modified sine wave inverter is another excellent RV power inverter that offers you a broad range of gadget alternatives.

The size of this item varies.

This one has a constant power output of 3,000 watts and a peak power output of 6,000 watts.

Because it has many of the same characteristics as the AIMS model but is less expensive, Energizer’s 3,000 Watt 12V Power Inverter is an excellent substitute.

Using this inverter, 12 V DC electricity may be changed to 120 V AC power.

This product features a remote switch and a fan that is far quieter than those on the majority of RV inverters.

Best for Usage

#4. Giandel Pure Sine Wave Inverter

1,200 watts of pure sine wave output power and 2,400 watts of peak power are provided by the Giandel Pure Sine Wave Inverter.

It has battery cables, two AC outlets, a 2.1A USB port, and a 12-volt input.

Air compressors, CPAP machines, fans, freezers, refrigerators, and medical equipment may all run continuously on its power.

For durability, it is comprised of a high-quality aluminum alloy.

The device is safeguarded by safety safeguards against reverse polarity, overloading, low voltage, short circuiting, and overheating.

Additionally, the device offers a gentle start and auto restart feature.

Using the connected remote control makes controlling the inverter straightforward.

A simple-to-read LED panel that shows the input voltage and output power is also a feature of the gadget.

The cooling fan reduces heat and prevents power outages.

Additionally, the manufacturer offers an 18-month warranty.

The bundled cable’s poor construction and tiny size are the main issues with this product.

Furthermore, it may begin to overheat at 1,100 watts even though it shouldn’t till 1,200 watts.

Most Robust

#5. Giandel 5000 Watt Heavy-Duty Power Inverter

Isolated input and output designs are a characteristic of the Giandel heavy-duty power inverter.

It offers 10,000 watts of peak power and 5,000 watts of continuous output.

It transforms 12V DC into 110-120VC AC.

A remote control with four pairs of AWG wires, an LCD monitor, four AC outlets, and a USB connector are all included.

You can monitor battery voltage, AC voltage, and inverter safeguards on the LCD.

It is made of a sturdy aluminum alloy, and a cooling fan helps to decrease heat and prevent shortages.

It contains a number of safety measures, much like the other Giandel model on our list, to prevent issues with overheating, overvoltage, low voltage, overloading, and short circuiting.

It comes with low interference technology and AIG’s product liability insurance.

Users like that the device cuts off power flow to plugged-in objects when problems, such low voltage, arise.

Additionally, it powers a wide range of appliances.

Some people have complained that it may make a high-pitched sound while operating and is a bit loud.

The user guide might need some improvement as well.

Exceptional Mention

#6. Ampeak 2000W Power Inverter

With a peak capacity of 4,000 watts, the Ampeak 2,000-watt power converter continuously outputs DC to AC power.

It has a USB charging connector, three AC outlets, and a converter for converting 12V DC battery power to 110V AC power.

It works with many different gadgets and appliances, including TVs, laptop computers, DVD players, and cellphones.

Smart digital displays, cooling fans, and audio alerts are among the features.

In the event of an overload, low voltage, short circuit, overheating, or overvoltage, the inverter offers protection and automatically shut down.

For additional protection, it incorporates insulated termination wires and a sturdy ABS casing.

To supply electricity during a hurricane, power outage, or other emergency, all you need is a 12-volt battery.

Each item has an 18-month guarantee and is ETL-certified.

Compressors, refrigerators, and microwaves cannot be connected to this inverter since it is not a pure sine wave inverter.

The fan in the gadget has also received some criticism for being a touch too noisy.

Exceptional Mention

#7. Krieger 2000 Watt Power Inverter

Krieger joins our list with another another reasonably priced model.

It’s just a bit stronger this time.

This and our first are primarily different in that it has a 2,000-watt power source.

Even while it may not seem like much extra, it can make a big difference in whether a buyer prefers one model over the other.

The good news is that this model is still quite cost-effective, so the increase in power doesn’t significantly increase the price.

Many of the same characteristics and advantages remain.

It is little, which is another another important factor that is often overlooked.

It has all of the outlets and digital performance monitoring you would anticipate.

Additionally, it comes with the same three-year guarantee.

Thus, it is essentially simply a more powerful version of the product we chose as the Best Value.

Sadly, it has the same problem as the other.

In comparison to the typical entry, it continues to be weak.

You may upgrade to a more potent version, but the cost more than doubles.

Exceptional Mention

#8. POTEK 5000W Power Inverter

Although this POTECK inverter is somewhat more costly than the one it replaces, it has far more power.

Users may charge many devices simultaneously thanks to the 5,000 watts of continuous power and 10,000 watts of surge power it offers.

You can run everything from an air compressor to a coffee maker or electric saw thanks to the four AC outlets and two USB charging connections that are included.

This inverter features a Bluetooth wireless remote control system, which is a good feature.

You may operate the device from up to 33 feet away if you download the necessary software.

The cooling fan begins to run when the temperature reaches 104 degrees or above.

Additionally, it features six internal fuses and protection against overload, undervoltage, overcurrent, overheating, and short circuits.

However, some customers have criticized it for producing a loud buzzing noise while in use.

It doesn’t have a warning light, and the voltage range may not be as high as you’d want.

Exceptional Mention

#9. GoWISE Power 1000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter

For 12V DC to 120V AC power, the GoWISE pure sine wave inverter offers 1,000 watts of continuous power and 2,000 watts of surge power.

It comes with three output sockets (two AC and one USB), a remote switch, cables with ring terminals, and comprehensive instructions.

It can power delicate equipment, including computers, and was created for use in automobiles or during power outages.

This device contains a low voltage protection warning and offers protection against overload, overheating, overvoltage, and undervoltage.

It has soft start low interference technology and a cooling fan with temperature control.

An LED light on the gadget notifies consumers of any problems.

Additionally, GoWISE offers free lifetime assistance if you run into any issues.

It has excellent power control, is dependable and efficient, and after a power outage, immediately comes back on.

The unit’s chord may be a bit short, which is a drawback.

Additionally, the remote is a bit cumbersome since it isn’t wireless.

The mounting screw is also not in the greatest location and is difficult to reach with a screwdriver on the unit’s rear.

Exceptional Mention

#10. EDECOA Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter

The constant power output of the EDECOA pure sine wave power inverter is 3,500 watts, while the peak power output is 7,000 watts.

It is intended for usage when camping, on boating excursions, and in locations without readily available power.

To provide electricity, an inverter is connected to a battery and the electrical appliance.

The gadget has four AC outlets, one hardwire connector, a remote control, and an LCD screen that shows the voltage display, inverter output voltage, battery pattern, and power.

The gadget will flash when it is in protective mode.

The device has automated voltage regulation, intelligent power management, and intelligent fan control for additional security.

Users like the clean electricity it produces and how simple it is to install.

One issue is that there is no online information and the user’s handbook is not very good.

Contacting customer support might be challenging.

Reading the display may also be challenging due to the wiring to the block.

Tips

  • Even in standby mode, inverters use electricity. You should turn it off if you are certain that you do not need continuous power inversion. If not, you should spend money on a reliable battery system to keep the power source from running out completely.
  • Modified sine wave inverters may power devices like air conditioners, ovens, and refrigerators. Modified sine inverters, on the other hand, are less effective and can’t fully power anything with an electric motor, thus depending on your appliances, a pure sine inverter could be needed.
  • The amps per hour of your RV battery will influence how long your inverter can operate on the battery before it runs out of juice.
  • Inverters need constant power, thus one solution is to use a generator to continually charge the batteries. Purchasing solar panels is a different option that accomplishes the same result without using fuel or making noise.
  • There are differences between power converters and power inverters. A converter converts AC electricity from DC, while an inverter does the exact reverse. To effectively power your gadgets, you must understand what they need.

FAQs

What functions do RV power inverters perform?

Your RV’s battery produces DC (Direct Current) energy, which a power inverter transforms to AC (Alternating Current) electricity.

This enables you to utilize the RV batteries to power your everyday appliances and home goods.

Do inverters and converters vary from one another?

Yes.

A converter converts the form of electricity in the opposite way from what an inverter does, from DC to AC (AC to DC).

How should I use an inverter for an RV?

The ease of use of power inverters is one of its many advantages.

Once you’ve completed the initial configuration (as specified by your particular product), all you need to do is switch on the inverter and connect in any devices that need electricity.

Final Reflections

The AIMS 5000 Watt 12 Volt DC Power Inverter is the greatest RV power inverter overall.

Due to its practical power supply and reasonable price, this gadget meets the needs of the majority of RVers.

The KRIGER 1100 Watt 12V DC Power Inverter is your best option if you don’t want so much power and prefer a more reasonably priced item.

This model still offers some top-notch features while being suitable for lower power requirements.

Updated on

Written by Bob Matsuoka
Bob Matsuoka is a blogger and founder of RVing Beginner blog. He has been blogging for over five years, writing about his own family’s RV adventures, tips for people who are interested in buying an RV or taking their family on an adventure by RV.