How Long Will Automotive Battery Run Power Inverter # 02294 Pulling 400 Watts of Power
Updated 01/08/2015 | Published 01/07/2015
Question:
I am considering putting one of these in my trailer that does not have any type of external battery charger. How do I calculate how long a device attached to the #02294 will run before source battery is dead? Lets say for sake of discussion the load will be continuous at 400w, the 12v battery is one that you would normally find in a new car. Thanks in advance
asked by: Alan
Helpful Expert Reply:
In order to determine the length of time that an automotive battery will last when using the Power Inverter, # WC3720, pulling 400 watts of power, you will need to know the amp hours of the battery that you plan to use.
For example, if your battery has a 90 hour amp rating, you should be able to run the 400 watt continuous load for approximately 2 hours. The higher the amp hour rating on your battery, the longer the battery will last.
Please keep in mind that an automotive battery is designed to provide a very large amount of current for a short period of time and typically is never drained more than 20 percent of it's total capacity. It is not designed to be totally discharged and will wear out quickly.
For your set-up, I highly recommend looking into a deep cycle battery to provide power. A deep cycle battery is designed to provide a steady amount of current over a long period of time. It is also designed to be deeply discharged over and over again.
