Quote:
Originally Posted by mapletwag
... but I really don't want a large inverter running 24/7 just for the fridge... is the only other option 2 smaller inverters that way i could turn one off when not using kitchen appliances or laptop? but then one will still have to run 24/7? Any other options I'm missing?
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It is a good question and afraid I don't know the answer. I have wondered the same thing as I have a residential refrigerator. I think the answer depends on the inverter (make/model). In the not too distant past, inverters consumed a good bit of power in standby mode and there was even a rule of thumb (x percentage of rated output but I can't remember what X was). I've heard that new/modern inverters are more efficient in standby but again, I don't have details.
I can tell you that, according to the spec sheet (I've not actually measured it), my 3000 watt, 24 volt, PSW inverter consumes about 1.5 amps (@ 24 volts - or 3 amps @ 12 volts) in standby mode. I've seen a few smaller inverters (400 watt-ish) that state they consume 1 amp @ 12 volts in standby mode. So there does seem to be a savings though it isn't linear.
Either way, it is a good bit of power over the course of a day so I think the idea has merit.