Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the best inverter trolleys available in South Africa in 2023. With frequent power cuts and load shedding becoming a common occurrence, having a reliable backup power system is crucial.
In this blog post, we will explore the top-rated inverter trolleys that can provide an uninterrupted power supply to meet your needs.
What is an Inverter Trolley?
An inverter trolley, also known as an inverter with a trolley or a portable inverter or a portable power station, is a compact and mobile power system that combines an inverter and a battery in a single unit.
It is designed to convert direct current (DC) power from batteries, typically lead-acid or lithium-ion batteries, into alternating current (AC) power that can be used to run various electrical appliances and devices.
Inverter trolleys are commonly used as backup power solutions, particularly in areas with frequent power cuts, load shedding, or where grid electricity is unreliable.
They provide a convenient and reliable power source during such instances, allowing you to continue using essential appliances like lights, fans, refrigerators, computers, or charging electronic devices.
Best Inverter Trolleys
Goscor 2000W Portable Inverter + 100Ah (2560Wh) Lithium Battery
Goscor 1000W Portable Inverter + 100Ah (1280Wh) LITHIUM Battery
Goscor 3000W Portable Inverter + 120Ah (3072Wh) Lithium Battery
How does an inverter trolley work?
An inverter trolley works on the same principle as a standard solar inverter that you would install in your house.
The best Inverter trolleys are also equipped with solar charging capabilities allowing you to connect solar panels to the unit, which then converts the DC power from the solar panels into alternating current (AC) power that can be used to run appliances and devices.
The inverter trolley can also be charged by making use of a wall ac outlet, the inverter will then store the excess energy in the lithium battery that is built into the unit.
This will ensure that you have backup power during a power outage or load shedding. The inverter trolley can also be charged through a generator.
How do I choose the best inverter trolley?
When choosing the best inverter trolley for your needs, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key points to help you make an informed decision:
- Power Capacity and Load Requirements: Determine the power capacity you require based on the appliances and devices you want to run during a power outage. Consider the total wattage or VA (volt-ampere) rating of your devices to ensure the inverter trolley can handle the load.
- Battery Capacity and Runtime: Assess the battery capacity of the inverter trolley, usually measured in ampere-hours (Ah) or kilowatt-hours (kWh). A higher battery capacity allows for longer backup power runtime. Consider your specific power requirements and the expected duration of power cuts in your area.
- Inverter Output and Waveform: Check the inverter’s output waveform, which can be pure sine wave or modified sine wave. Pure sine wave output is preferred as it provides clean power, suitable for sensitive electronics. A modified sine wave can work for basic appliances but may cause issues with certain devices.
- Charging Options: Consider the charging options available for the inverter trolley. Some models offer multiple charging methods, such as solar panel charging, AC charging, and even vehicle charging. Choose a trolley with charging options that suit your needs and available resources.
- Solar Panel Compatibility: If you plan to use solar panels to charge the inverter trolley, ensure compatibility between the trolley and the solar panels. Check for features like built-in solar charge controllers, appropriate connectors, and recommended solar panel specifications.
- Portability and Durability: Evaluate the trolley’s portability features, such as wheels, handles, and weight. Ensure it is easy to move around when needed. Additionally, consider the trolley’s build quality and durability, as it should be able to withstand transportation and outdoor conditions if required.
- Additional Features: Look for extra features that can enhance usability, such as built-in AC outlets, USB ports for charging devices, LCD displays for battery status and power information, and built-in protection mechanisms against overloading, overheating, and short circuits.
- Customer Reviews and Reputation: Research customer reviews and ratings for the inverter trolley models you are considering. Pay attention to feedback on performance, reliability, and customer support. Consider reputable brands known for producing quality power products.
- Budget: Determine your budget range and consider the cost-effectiveness of different inverter trolley options. Compare features, capacities, and warranties to find a balance between affordability and quality.
Remember, it is essential to choose an inverter trolley that meets your specific power requirements and suits the conditions and challenges you anticipate.
Consider consulting with experts or seeking advice from professionals in the field to help you make an informed decision.
What size Inverter Trolley do I need?
To determine the appropriate size of an inverter trolley you need, you should consider the total power consumption (load) of the appliances and devices you intend to run during a power outage.
Here’s a step-by-step process to calculate the required size:
- Identify the Appliances: Make a list of all the appliances and devices you plan to power with the inverter trolley. Include their power ratings in either watts (W) or volt-amperes (VA). You can find this information on the labels or specification sheets of the appliances.
- Determine Power Consumption: Find the power consumption (wattage or VA) of each appliance and device on your list. If the rating is given in amps (A), multiply it by the operating voltage (usually 120V or 230V) to convert it to watts or VA (Power = Voltage x Current).
- Account for Starting Surge: Some appliances, such as refrigerators or air conditioners, require additional power during startup due to motor or compressor loads. This surge of power can be significantly higher than the normal running power. Check if your appliances have surge power ratings or consult the manufacturer’s documentation for this information.
- Calculate Total Power Consumption: Add up the power consumption of all the appliances, including any surge power if applicable. This will give you the total power requirement in watts or VA.
- Consider Efficiency and Safety Margin: Inverters are not 100% efficient, and some power is lost during the conversion process. To ensure optimal performance and avoid overloading the inverter, adding a safety margin of around 20-30% to the total power consumption calculated in the previous step is recommended.
- Select the Best Inverter Trolley Size: Look for an inverter trolley with a power capacity that meets or exceeds the total power consumption, including the safety margin. Inverter trolleys are available in various sizes, typically ranging from a few hundred watts to several kilowatts. Choose a size that comfortably accommodates your power requirements.
How to Calculate the best inverter trolley size.
Assume you have the following appliances:
- Laptop: 80 watts
- LED TV: 120 watts
- Refrigerator: 200 watts (with a surge power of 500 watts)
- Ceiling Fan: 70 watts
- Light Bulbs (4): 60 watts (15 watts each)
Step 1: Identify the Appliances
We have a laptop, LED TV, refrigerator, ceiling fan, and light bulbs.
Step 2: Determine Power Consumption
- Laptop: 80 watts
- LED TV: 120 watts
- Refrigerator (Running Power): 200 watts
- Refrigerator (Surge Power): 500 watts
- Ceiling Fan: 70 watts
- Light Bulbs (4): 60 watts (15 watts each)
Step 3: Account for Starting Surge
The refrigerator has a surge power rating of 500 watts.
Step 4: Calculate Total Power Consumption
Total Power Consumption = Sum of Power Consumption of all appliances + Surge Power of the Refrigerator
Total Power Consumption = 80 + 120 + 200 + 70 + 60 + 500 = 1,030 watts
Step 5: Consider Efficiency and Safety Margin
Let’s add a safety margin of 20% to the total power consumption:
Safety Margin = 20% of Total Power Consumption
Safety Margin = 0.2 x 1,030 = 206 watts
Total Power Requirement with Safety Margin = Total Power Consumption + Safety Margin
Total Power Requirement = 1,030 + 206 = 1,236 watts
Step 6: Select the Inverter Trolley Size
Based on the total power requirement, you would need an inverter trolley with a power capacity of at least 1,236 watts or higher to handle the load.
Remember to also consider the battery capacity of the inverter trolley to ensure an adequate backup runtime based on your needs.
Please note that this calculation is a simplified example, and it’s essential to consult the specific power ratings and surge requirements of your appliances and devices to accurately determine your power requirements.
