In an emergency, the first thing many of us think about is how to get power to our appliances and devices. In the event of a disaster such as a power outage, relying on an outlet for electricity can render many daily conveniences completely useless. Power inverters transform the direct current energy generated by batteries into alternating current energy that your appliances can use to run. This means that in a pinch you can plug in and keep essential devices going even before you get power back. Power inverters are also handy for travel, and give you access to portable power stations that let you plug in even when you’re miles away from the nearest outlet. We’ve put together a list of some of the best power inverters out there, so that you can cover all of your energy needs in any eventuality. We’ve chosen these power inverters for their versatility, ease of use, and power capacity. Keep reading to find the perfect device to keep your appliances running no matter what. 

Power inverters work by connecting to a battery and transforming its energy supply so that it is compatible with most appliances. Because your inverter draws power from a battery instead of your grid, it means it won’t put any extra demands on your home’s power, or any extra strain on your wallet. The only costs related to running your power inverter are the upfront cost of any batteries, so you won’t have to worry about your bills going up. 

Power inverters incorporate plug-in ports similar to those that we use to connect our devices to mains power. This means that you can use your power inverter to run most appliances that you would typically expect to plug into the wall. If you are unsure, you can check with the manufacturer to see whether your appliance runs on the AC power that inverters produce. 

Having a power inverter around in your emergency supply kit, or just to help run spare appliances, is a smart choice for any homeowner. However, knowing which device will do the best job of keeping your gadgets running smoothly when you need them can be tricky. Keep in mind a few factors and you can come home with a power inverter that you can count on in a pinch. Consider your reason for purchasing a power inverter, how much use you need to get out of it, and any environmental considerations, and you can be sure that the power inverter you invest in will suit your needs. 

Deciding when you are most likely to need your inverter is an essential step when choosing which option to purchase. If you are investing in a power inverter to dedicate to operating an appliance that doesn’t have access to the mains, it is easy to invest in a device that meets the exact wattage requirements of your equipment. Check the manufacturing details of your gear to see how much power it requires to run, and narrow down your selection to a power inverter that meets this need. However, if you are picking up a power inverter to rely on in case of emergency, you’ll need a device that can sustain a power outlet that is variable enough to cover any appliance that you might need to hook up to a battery. Power inverters that range between 3000 and 6000 watts are powerful enough to run appliances such as microwaves, fridges, and even air conditioning units, so you can operate as close to normal as possible until things are back up and running. 

In certain spaces or during certain emergencies, you may need to hook up more than one device to your power inverter. Knowing generally how many appliances you need to power can clue you in to which inverter you need to buy. Larger power inverters offer additional sockets that you can plug into, so you can run various appliances simultaneously. If your space has a lot of gadgets that need attention, consider a power inverter that can take care of them all at once. 

Due to the nature of some situations that might call for a power inverter, it can also be smart to opt for a model with some protections in place. Thunderstorms can often knock out the power, leaving you with no choice but to pull out your inverter. In circumstances like this, it can be great to have a power inverter with certified damp and moisture proofing, so that whatever elements you are contending with don’t disrupt your power, or degrade your device. By keeping these factors in mind, you can be sure that the power inverter that you take home will be solid and reliable whenever you need some extra juice.  

Efficient Charging

This power inverter includes two AC outlets alongside two additional USB ports. 

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This inverter allows you to quickly recharge devices such as smartphones and computers and easily connects to your car via the cigarette lighter port. 

Multiple Outlets

This inverter has an integrated fan to safeguard your device against overheating during use. 

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This inverter has a smart digital display that keeps you informed about the power output and status of this device. 

Digital Displays

This inverter features certified safe wiring and numerous fail-safes to prevent over-voltage, overload, or short circuits. 

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This device features displays that keep you updated about the status of the energy output and any associated risks. 

Compact Size

This low-watt inverter is great for charging numerous smart devices simultaneously. 

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This incredibly portable device is about the size of a business card and easy to take on the go. 

Many USB Ports

This dual-function inverter provides simultaneous USB and AC port charging for a range of different devices. 

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This inverter features a smart display that will keep you updated about the voltage of your vehicle’s battery when plugged into the cigarette lighter plug.