Inverters
Use 230 V appliances flexibly on the move
From the on-board battery to a 230 V power supply
An inverter converts 12 V direct current (DC) from the on-board battery into 230 V alternating current (AC). This allows you to operate devices such as laptops, chargers and kitchen appliances without a mains connection.
AL-KO VT offers pure sine wave inverters for different power requirements. The key factors when choosing a model are the continuous and peak power requirements of the connected appliances, the battery capacity and the configuration of the on-board electrical system. These factors help you select an inverter that suits the individual energy needs of your recreational vehicle.
Inverters at a glance
Reliable 230 V power for different requirements
An inverter expands the capabilities of your on-board power electronics and allows you to operate 230 V appliances independently of the mains. For reliable and efficient operation, the inverter, battery, wiring and fusing must be properly matched.
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12 V to 230 V: Converts 12 V direct current from the battery into 230 V alternating current for compatible appliances.
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Pure sine wave: Provides a consistent output voltage and is also suitable for sensitive electronic equipment.
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Different power ratings: Allows you to select a model based on the power requirements of connected appliances.
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Matched electrical system: Battery, cable cross-sections and fusing must be suitable for the required power.
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Greater independence from the mains: Suitable 230 V appliances can be operated when travelling or at pitches without an external mains connection.
What inverter power rating do I need?
The connected appliances determine the appropriate power rating
The power rating you need depends on the 230 V appliances you want to operate and whether you want to use several appliances at the same time. Continuous output power is not the only consideration: some electrical appliances briefly require considerably more power when starting up. The inverter must also be able to deliver the required peak power.
As inverter power increases, so does the current drawn from the 12 V battery. The battery, wiring and fusing must therefore be sized accordingly. Consider the entire on-board electrical system when choosing an inverter, rather than just the power rating of an individual appliance.
Why choose a pure sine wave inverter?
Reliable 230 V power even for sensitive electronics
Pure sine wave inverters generate a sinusoidal AC voltage, allowing reliable operation of a wide variety of 230 V appliances. This is particularly important for sensitive electronic equipment, power supplies and appliances with electronic controls.
The AL-KO VT inverter range provides pure sine wave output, making it a versatile solution for supplying 230 V power in a recreational vehicle.
Inverters from AL-KO VT
For different power requirements
AL-KO VT pure sine wave inverters are available in various continuous power ratings, providing options for different 230 V power requirements. Whether you want to power smaller electronic devices or appliances with higher power demands, you can choose an inverter to suit your on-board electrical system.
Controlss
Convenient operation and compatible accessories
Suitable accessories support safe installation and convenient use of the inverter. Depending on the system, an optional remote control panel can be used to operate the inverter from the living area. The wiring and fusing must also be suitable for the inverter’s output and the vehicle’s technical requirements.
What to consider when choosing an inverter
Inverter output, battery and on-board electrical system must be compatible
An inverter should always be considered as part of the overall on-board electrical system. In addition to the required continuous output power and peak power, the capacity and current delivery capability of the on-board battery, cable lengths and cross-sections, and suitable fusing are all important factors.
Individual energy requirements should also be taken into account: High-power 230 V appliances can draw substantial energy from the on-board battery in a short time. Correctly sizing all components is therefore essential for reliable and efficient operation.
Converting direct current to alternating current also involves energy losses. The inverter therefore draws more energy from the battery than the connected 230 V appliance consumes.
Frequently asked questions about inverters
An inverter converts 12 V direct current (DC) from the on-board battery into 230 V alternating current (AC). This means that suitable 230 V appliances can be operated without a mains connection.
When referring to the conversion of 12 V direct current into 230 V alternating current, both terms are often used interchangeably. However, the term ‘inverter’ specifically refers to a device that converts direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC).
In principle, any suitable 230 V appliance can be operated, provided that its continuous and peak power requirements do not exceed the inverter's ratings and the on-board electrical system is appropriately sized. For high-power appliances, the high energy demand on the battery must also be taken into account.
Add up the power requirements of all appliances you want to operate simultaneously and allow for any start-up surges. The inverter, battery, wiring and fusing must all be sized to meet these requirements.
Yes. An inverter draws power when it is switched on, even if no appliances are connected. If the 230 V power supply is not needed, switching off the inverter can reduce battery consumption.
High currents can flow on the 12 V side, particularly with high-power inverters. Correct cable cross-sections, suitably short cable runs, appropriate fusing and adequate ventilation are therefore important. Installation must follow the manufacturer's instructions and all applicable electrical requirements.
Not necessarily. It's not just the battery type that matters, but whether the battery and on-board electrical system can reliably supply the required current. Higher inverter and appliance power ratings place greater demands on the battery, wiring and protective devices.