1. Shop Vac Power Consumption:
- Check the shop vac's specifications for its power consumption, usually measured in watts (W). This information can be found on the product label or in the user manual.
- For example, let's assume your shop vac has a power consumption of 1,000 watts.
2. Inverter Efficiency:
- Power inverters are not 100% efficient, meaning they lose some power during the conversion process. The efficiency of an inverter is typically around 85-90%.
- Let's assume an inverter efficiency of 85%.
3. Calculating Inverter Size:
- To determine the inverter size needed, you need to divide the shop vac's power consumption by the inverter efficiency:
- Inverter Size = Shop Vac Power Consumption / Inverter Efficiency
- In this example:
- Inverter Size = 1,000 W / 0.85 = approximately 1,176 VA (volt-amperes)
- Therefore, you will need a power inverter with a capacity of at least 1,200 VA to safely run your shop vac in your car.
Remember that this calculation provides an approximate value, and it's always better to opt for an inverter with a slightly higher capacity to ensure sufficient power and avoid any potential issues. Additionally, consider the type of power outlet available in your car (12V or 24V) and choose an inverter that matches your vehicle's electrical system.
