Power Inverter to run PC and ShopVAC

[Charleston]

Sometimes I don't have access to a wall outlet.

Anyone run a Power inverter? What model?

Thanks

[Kengo123]

I've read on here that it's a good idea to invest in a marine battery, appropriate cables and a bigger alternator if you're going to be using it regularly and with heavier wattage.

I've personally tried one of those cheap 750/1500 inverters from walmart, but the biggest vacuum I could use that would be under the limit is the Home Depot bucket head vac, which is much weaker than the wet/dry vac I use regularly

[beamerstrumpet]

I recently looked into all this,, and my conclusion is... get the handy little 130 dollar generator from Harbor freight. it was on sale this past month for 100. But just wait a bit and it will pop up again. because a heavy enough inverter and cables is going to run you about the same f not more. Me? Give me something I can take and not have to pop my hood or buy a new alternator. If this month had not had a few unexpected expenses I would have gotten it.

[Kengo123]

I was going to pick up that generator, but the power ratings are still too low to power a decent vacuum. I think it's a better idea than risking it on a cheap inverter though

[beamerstrumpet]

I was not looking at if for a vacuum though. However if you read all the reviews with a power strip a lot of ppl have done a lot with it.

I was looking at it to run a DA (the HF), and some lights since if you use the curly bulb spots,, you are only using about 23 watts each but getting about 90 watts and 1000 lumens each So I was looking at 2 or 4. 90 total watts used. plenty left over.

[BobbyG]

I was going to pick up that generator, but the power ratings are still too low to power a decent vacuum. I think it's a better idea than risking it on a cheap inverter though

When looking at power consumption look at the product requirements, not the horsepower rating.

Don't get caught up in the Horsepower!!

The numbers

• 1 horsepower = 745 watts
• Watts \ Volts = Amps

Craftsman (6.5hp X 746) / 115 volts = 45.25 amps
RIGID (5hp X 746) / 115 volts = 32.5 amps
Shop-Vac (6.5hp X 746) / 115 volts = 45.25 amps

Regardless of manufacture they all do it and in my opinion BS...

I guess I should be running my old Craftsman vacuum on a #6 wire and a 50amp circuit breaker but for some reason I've never had to, it's always run fine on a standard 15amp circuit breaker...

[BillE]

Great point Bobby!

I know it has been mentioned 'somewhere', but where/what is with the ridiculous HP claims? Is it some sort of 'peak HP'? I dun know.

Bill

[allenk4]

This week we ran a FLEX 3401, Rupes 21, 500w Halogen, 800 lumen led and a Mytee Firebird Steamer on a 15 amp circuit at the same time

Never tripped the breaker, but there was RPM drop when running the FLEX and the Rupes at the same time...maybe 1 click on the dial

[beamerstrumpet]

Amazon has a bunch of 130 to 150 Dollar generators. one that peeked my interest has two 110 outlets and a DC outlet. Also looking close at these they all look like they come from the same place in china .... The storm cat by Chicago Electric has an upgraded pull cord thing you can buy.

[kevin_1981]

Great point Bobby!

I know it has been mentioned 'somewhere', but where/what is with the ridiculous HP claims? Is it some sort of 'peak HP'? I dun know.

Bill

Bill - I think you're right.... either that, or some kind of backwards math.

My guess/thought:
Usually starting inrush current for a motor is 6x the running current.
So for instance a "6HP" vacuum:

4.5HP x 746W/HP = 3357W

3357W / 6 (starting current) = 560W

560W / 746W/HP = 3/4HP which sound much more likely. I think im gonna go home and throw a power meter on my wetvac.