Are power converters safe?

[lewsterr]

I've been considering purchasing a 12v DC to 120v AC power converter to plug into the 12v outlets in my 2008 V to power items such as a laptop, DVD player, video games, and other low amperage items. I am fearful, however, that this may put a tremendous drain on the battery and possbly damage the electrical system. Are these converters safe to use without harming the vehicle's electrical system?

[tsmithvt]

Originally Posted by lewsterr

I've been considering purchasing a 12v DC to 120v AC power converter to plug into the 12v outlets in my 2008 V to power items such as a laptop, DVD player, video games, and other low amperage items. I am fearful, however, that this may put a tremendous drain on the battery and possbly damage the electrical system. Are these converters safe to use without harming the vehicle's electrical system?

It should not be a problem as long as the DC load is less than 15 amps (the accessory power socket(s) fuse rating). If you exceed the DC limit the fuse will blow but that's what protects the vehicle's electrical system.

BTW, 15 amps at 13.5 volts is 200 watts. Your actual AC load limit will be somewhat less than that because of the efficiency of the inverter (inverter losses).

[Davecr-v]

Its fine don't worry about it I have been using these units forever and not one has done any damage to the vehicle.

[lewsterr]

Thanks for your responses. I'm going to run out this weekend and get one. Are there any brands that are better than others? Any to stay away from? What about the AC out...are there minimum output ratings I should be looking at?

[revel22]

Originally Posted by lewsterr

I've been considering purchasing a 12v DC to 120v AC power converter to plug into the 12v outlets in my 2008 V to power items such as a laptop, DVD player, video games, and other low amperage items. I am fearful, however, that this may put a tremendous drain on the battery and possbly damage the electrical system. Are these converters safe to use without harming the vehicle's electrical system?

Owners manual on my 05 says maximum accessory watts is 120. "When more than one socket is being used, the combined power rating of the accessories should be 120 watts or less(10 amps). So, per Honda you are asking for fried wires or blown fuses if you run 200 watts.

[revel22]

Originally Posted by lewsterr

Thanks for your responses. I'm going to run out this weekend and get one. Are there any brands that are better than others? Any to stay away from? What about the AC out...are there minimum output ratings I should be looking at?

I use a Belkin with 300 continuous watts available. However....read your owners manual because on my 05 crv the maximum total wattage should not exceed 120 Watts for all outlets combined.

[X-Brawn]

I had a simple 100W power inverter I bought WAY back to use with the laptop or whatever when in the car.

I was driving with it plugged into a lighter in my old Ridgeline (with nothing plugged into it) when I heard a POP and smoke came out of it. Oh, well, it was only $20 and I've had it for several years when it died.

Get one that is properly rated for the load (wattage) and DO NOT OVERLOAD IT!