by daveesl77 » Thu Jun 15, 2017 7:12 am
I will start this out by first saying a true sine wave inverter is normally the best way to go. HOWEVER, the cost differential between that and a MSW can be substantial and depending on your 120v devices, maybe not necessary to spend the extra $$ on a true sine wave inverter.
For several years we have used an old Haier 3.3 cu ft, 120v dorm fridge I re-acquired from my daughter after college. When traveling, for the past 2 years, we run it from a cheap, Centech MSW 2,000 watt inverter from HF. When driving the fridge runs on the inverter, which is powered by a 12 volt farm battery (Ruralking Exide) and charged from the minivan. When stopped at a place without 120v, we charge the battery with solar panels. I watch both the interior fridge temps, using one of those two location digital, wireless thermometers from WallyWorld and a plug in volt tester. On this last trip of 3,400 miles, 14 days with 8 days driving and 2 days parked without 120v plugin, inside temp on the fridge was maintained at between 31 to 36 F. No problems at all. Days 1, 2, 13, 14 outside temps were between 85 and 95 F and high humidity. We also carry a small 400 watt that we've had for over 10 years, inside the car to use if needed.
So, if you have inexpensive, not real sensitive components, then you may want to consider the MSW over the SW inverter. Like I said, we've been using them for years with no problems, but YMMV.
dave