Can an 800 Watt Inverter Power a Refrigerator?

As an SEO for Google, it's essential to address common questions from users. One frequently asked question is whether an 800-watt inverter can run a refrigerator. While the short answer is 'no,' the reasons behind this can be quite informative and helpful for those in need of power solutions.

Why Not?

First, let's tackle the common misassumption that an 800-watt inverter is plenty for running a refrigerator. As mentioned, even a 700-watt desktop PC is significantly more powerful. This indicates that an 800-watt inverter is just too small for most refrigerators. However, let's delve deeper into why this is the case.

Understanding the Power Requirements

Refrigerators can draw substantial amounts of power, especially when starting their compressor. The starting current often requires more power than the operating current. Some models of refrigerators may have a maximum power consumption that far exceeds 800 watts, leading to potential issues even with this inverter size.

Important Factors to Consider

Larger Inverter Recommendation

Most experts recommend that the inverter should be at least 1500 watts or more for a reliable performance. However, as an exception, some residential refrigerators can work with a 1000-watt inverter, as seen in the author's experience. This highlights that while 800 watts is way too small, it is not entirely inconceivable under specific circumstances.

Key Components for Successful Operation

For an inverter to successfully power a refrigerator, you need several key components:

Large Battery Bank: To support the initial draw required to start the electrical motor, a large-capacity battery is essential. For the author's setup, a pair of deep-cycle lead-acid batteries (type DC-27, about 140AH) worked seamlessly. Appropriate Cables: The 12-volt cable linking the battery bank to the inverter must be of large cross-section. In the US, AWG 2 (33.6 mm2) cables, around 6 feet (1.83 meters), are commonly used. These ensure the compressor starts reliably. Inverter Compatibility: Some 800-watt inverters come with smaller AWG 8 (8.36 mm2) cables, which may be insufficient for starting the compressor.

Operational Considerations

Compressor Lockup and Rest Periods

Refrigerator compressors need rest periods between startups to allow the pressure to equalize. Some models require a 2-3 minute rest, while others might need 7-8 minutes. Compressors can enter a "lockup" state when supplied with too much electricity, which results in the refrigerator stopping its attempts and going to sleep after a few seconds. They will retry a few minutes later.

For a compressor to start, it is crucial that the inverter provides enough current. If the information plate inside the refrigerator shows a maximum power consumption higher than 6.66 watts, it is likely that an 800-watt inverter will be too small. For a more exact measurement, many North American refrigerators list their maximum power consumption in watts on the information plate inside the refrigerator. If this exceeds 800 watts, a larger inverter is required.

Conclusion

While an 800-watt inverter might run a refrigerator in rare cases, it is generally not sufficient, especially considering the starting power needed and the potential compressor lockup issues. Always ensure your inverter matches or exceeds the maximum power draw of your refrigerator for reliable performance.