emergency backup / espresso machine

[DCC]

I want to purchase a small backup, like a Jackary, to run a light and maybe tv during blackouts. I think most of them will work for this, but between blackouts, I want it to power a coffee cart with an espresso machine and grinder. The grinder is only about 250 watts, so this should not be a problem, but the espresso machine is 1400 watts. If I am doing the math right, this means the 12 volt battery would be providing 117 amps max, for about 15 minutes 1400/12= 117 amps, or about 29 amp/hours. It will only be used once or twice a day, so In between uses, I'll plug it in to the wall to keep it charged. Given these parameters, do I just look for something that can provide at least 1400 peak watts or do I need to be considering something else? Any suggestions?

 

[BentleyJ]

You will need an inverter that is rated for at least 1500W CONTINUOUS. Peak values listed on most product datasheets is only for a few milliseconds or maybe a few seconds. Depends on the brand.

If I were doing this project I would be over sizing the inverter slightly. 2000W continuous would be the minimum consideration.

EDIT: Battery should be 200Ah to keep the 117A (its actually more since the inverter is not 100% efficient.) current under 1C.

 

[MichaelK]

You are stuck in what they refer to as a "12V box". Why do you think you are limited to only 12V? You have the choices of implementing either 24V, or 48V systems. I can tell you that my 48V system supports the 1700W load of my microwave just fine.

My morning latte is very important to me. Rather than sticking with electric, I just bought one of the Italian stovetop models. Picked up mine at the local flea market for 2$. Wife though I was using the very expensive Starbuck machine she wanted for Christmas. Paired with one of the little battery-powered milk frothers, I can make a winning latte.

 

[Hedges]

"Cart" sounds like commercial application. 1400W sounds small for commercial, maybe a single group machine like I use at home.
Is it 120V?

For 240V elements, I suggest running them at 120V for 1/4 the peak power.

Your total of < 2000W, mostly resistive, should be pretty easy to power. The grinder may take some surge power to start, but probably brush-type so pretty easy to start. It still could surge to 5x momentarily, and of course starts under load. You may need an inverter capable of 3000W or so for a couple seconds surge if both are on at same time. You might want to test with a meter that captures surge, unless you buy an inverter rated 3500W or higher. Or set up a switch that turns off espresso machine when grinder is turned on.

 

[prometheanfire]

You are stuck in what they refer to as a "12V box". Why do you think you are limited to only 12V? You have the choices of implementing either 24V, or 48V systems. I can tell you that my 48V system supports the 1700W load of my microwave just fine.

My morning latte is very important to me. Rather than sticking with electric, I just bought one of the Italian stovetop models. Picked up mine at the local flea market for 2$. Wife though I was using the very expensive Starbuck machine she wanted for Christmas. Paired with one of the little battery-powered milk frothers, I can make a winning latte.
View attachment 182690

moka pot is awesome for power outage situations, just make sure you have a grinder ready as well.