Inverters

How wonderful it is to drop anchor after a day of sailing and enjoy a cold drink with some delicious bitterballen. Thanks to modern technology, this is very easy: just turn on the airfryer for a bittergarnituur, and the next morning make a Nespresso with one push of a button. These are just a few examples of what you can do with an inverter. An inverter converts the 12V or 24V direct current from your battery into 230V alternating current, so that you can use normal household appliances.

At Zarcillo Smartmarine we sell inverters from VictronThese are available as a separate converter or as combination of inverter and charger. Victron offers different models:

Phoenix models

These are converters without a built-in charger. They are ideal for those who already have a charger or prefer to use separate components.

Multiplus models

This combiners an inverter and charger in one device. The Multiplus can charge both the leisure battery and the starter battery and is suitable for most situations on board.

Quattro models

These offer the same functionality as the Multiplus, but with the additional possibility to connect a generator. This is useful if you need more power than your batteries can supply. The Quattro can also charge both the household bank and the starter battery.

Power on board

How do you read the model types?

Phoenix models

Once you know what the numbers stand for, it becomes easy. Let's start with the Phoenix models, such as the "Phoenix 12/250" or "Phoenix 24/800":

  • "Phoenix" is the model name.
  • “12” or “24” indicates the voltage, suitable for 12V or 24V systems respectively.
  • The latest numbers (250 of 800) indicate Volt-Ampere (VA), which is often confused with Watts. A simple way to calculate Watts is to multiply VA by 0,8. For example, a Phoenix 12/250 delivers approximately 200 Watts of continuous power and a Phoenix 24/800 delivers approximately 640 Watts. This is the maximum continuous power, while each device also has a peak power for short moments.

Multiplus models

The Multiplus models work in a similar way, but with some extra information. Take for example the “Multiplus II 12/3000/120/32”:

  • “Multiplus II” stands for the second generation of this model.
  • "12" indicates that this model is suitable for a 12V system.
  • "3000" is the power in VA, which is approximately 2400 Watts continuous.
  • "120" is the maximum charging current in amperes that goes to the battery. (Note: the starter battery is always charged with a maximum of 3 amperes.)
  • "32" stands for the forward current in amperes, which indicates how much power can be switched through to your AC devices when shore power is active.

Victron inverters

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How to choose the right inverter or combi?

Now that you know how to read the numbers, the question arises: how do you know what type of inverter or combi you need? And what else is involved?

First of all, it is important that your batteries are in good condition and can supply sufficient power. Also make sure that you adjust the wiring and fuses to the specifications of your inverter. In the manual of each Victron-converter you will find advice on the right cable diameter and fuses. If you have any questions about this, you can always email us for advice. Email: info@smartmarine. Nl

Also consider what exactly you want to do with the inverter. If you only want to power a device like the Starlink router, a 250VA inverter will be sufficient.

View the chart to help you estimate the power consumption of different devices:

Device Watt How much VA Particularities
Starlink 75 250 There is no lower
Boiler 800 1200 Always have hot water on board for showering or washing dishes
Laptop 60 250 Fast Charging Laptop on AC
Fast charging phone 30 250 Using your fast charger in a normal socket
Coffee machine 1500 2000 For example, a Nespresso fluctuates enormously and can therefore also be used with a 1600 VA
Kettle 2000 3000 Usually 2000 but often also found in 1200 watts
Microwave 900 1200 There are also settings of 250 or 600W of course
air fryer 2000 3000  
Electric cooking 1 burner 2000 3000 Usually you only use the highest setting temporarily and then you are at 20-30% of the power
Electric cooking 2 burner 3000 5000 On 24V there is a 5000 VA inverter for sale. But you can also have both burners on low power and use the 3000 VA.

Note: These are just estimates of power consumption. Every situation is different. Do you want to use multiple devices at the same time? Then you may need a more powerful inverter.

Why choose Victron?

Victron is one of the most reliable brands in the field of on-board power supply. This typically Dutch company, based in Almere, is known for its robust, efficient and innovative products. In addition, they offer excellent support and their products are available worldwide, which is of great importance when you are at sea.

Do you have specific questions or would you like tailor-made advice? 

Feel free to send us an email. We will be happy to help you make the right choice for your situation on board. Email: info@smartmarine. Nl

Victron

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