Inverter Size Calculator

Estimate the inverter size needed for appliances, tools, motors, pumps, RV loads, solar systems, battery backup, and off-grid power. Calculate continuous watts, surge watts, VA, battery current draw, safety margin, inverter load percentage, and recommended inverter size.

Calculate Inverter Size

Recommended inverter size = running watts × safety margin × continuous load factor. Surge rating should cover starting watts.
Your result will appear here.

How the inverter size calculator works

Running load:
The calculator totals the continuous running watts of the loads you want to power.

Surge load:
It checks starting or surge watts so the inverter can handle motor startup and short high-power demands.

Battery draw:
It estimates DC battery current from AC load watts, battery voltage, and inverter efficiency.

Why use an inverter size calculator?

An inverter size calculator helps estimate the wattage rating needed for solar systems, battery backup, RVs, cabins, off-grid systems, vehicles, and portable power setups.

It can help with refrigerators, microwaves, pumps, tools, lights, outlets, computers, chargers, medical devices, appliances, and motor loads.

What your result means

Your result shows recommended inverter watts, recommended surge watts, load VA, battery current draw, existing inverter load percentage, estimated battery runtime, required battery amp-hours, safety margin, continuous load factor, and detailed load row totals.

Inverter size calculator formulas

Frequently asked questions

How do I calculate inverter size?

Add the running watts of the loads you want to power, then add a safety margin. Also check starting or surge watts for motors, pumps, compressors, and appliances.

What size inverter do I need for a refrigerator?

Use the refrigerator running watts and starting surge watts from the nameplate or manual. Refrigerators often need a higher surge rating than their running wattage.

Why does battery voltage matter for inverter sizing?

Battery voltage affects DC current draw. A 12V system draws about twice the current of a 24V system for the same AC load, before efficiency losses.

Can this calculator choose the final inverter?

No. This calculator gives a planning estimate. Final inverter selection should account for surge rating, waveform type, battery voltage, wiring size, fuses, disconnects, grounding, ventilation, manufacturer limits, and electrical code.