I'm looking for a minimal inverter. I need 240v split phase w/ neutral inverter (think whole house generator input). I only need to run lights, fridge, and small electronics, but I need to feed a 240v split phase panel. I only need to feed 1200-1500 watts max.
What's the smallest split-phase inverter I can get? Can be 12 or 48v
Take a look at the Samlex EVO 4248sp for 48VDC to 120/240 VAC 4200 Watt Inverter/Charger. It will be on my short list of Inverters when upgrading to 120/240 VAC. Currently running the the Samlex EVO 2224 for a 24 VDC to 120 VAC and very pleased with the unit as it is very programmable. No software to mess with just the remote control to program it.
The Samlex EVO 4248sp also has a low no load power consumption of less than 30 watts. This really helps lower battery drain and is really noticeable when used with small loads of 1200 to 1500 watts max.
Purchased a few inverters from Don Rowe and have had no problems. Don Rowe is known for there good support and Samlex is as well.
Samlex EVO 4248sp link at Don Rowe.
The Samlex America EVO-4248SP, 4200 Watt, 48 VDC, 120/240 VAC Split Phase Pure Sine Wave Inverter/Charger with 60 Amp Charger is a rugged inverter/charger designed for back up and off-grid applications
www.donrowe.com
The Samlex-EVO-RC-PLUS remote control is needed to program the inverter.
The Samlex EVO-RC-PLUS Remote Switch provides convenient remote power control, operational status monitoring and data logging for the EVO inverter/charger series.
www.donrowe.com
The manuals for the Samlex EVO 4248sp and the EVO-RC-Plus and very well written and detailed. Called Samlex for questions and firmware update and they were very helpful and responsive.
Samlex EVO 4248sp Manual link
Samlex-EVO-RC-PLUS remote control Manual link
Samlex EVO 4248sp Link
Get full utilization of 120/240 VAC appliances at your remote or off-grid location with the Samlex EVO-4248SP split phase inverter charger.
samlexamerica.com
A 12 VDC to 120/240 option is the 3000 watt Sigineer Inverter Charger. It is not Tier 1 like the Samlex, but is generally considered a good unit. It will also have about twice the no load power consumption of the Samlex, but usually not considered excessive considering the price paid. It is a simple inverter charger and has a few options that can be programmed with several dip switches.
3000W Pure Sine Power Converter, converts 12V to 120VAC 240Vac. Built with smart battery charger of 70 amps. LF transformer inverter, 50Hz 60Hz output.
www.sigineer.com
Better price on amazon with $100 coupon.
One thing to realize is the Samlex is only rated for an output of 2100 watts continuous at 120 volts and the Sigineer can only output approximately 1500 watts continuous at 120 volts. This is due to the design of split phase inverters. Split phase inverters generally output 1/2 the 240 VAC watts rating on each leg (L1 & L2 to netural) of 120 VAC. If this is new information suggest researching split phase inverters before purchasing one.
