A client of mine bought a 2ga pancake compressor and then decided to run it off an inverter in his van. Compressor nameplate says 2 amp, but it won’t start off his 300W inverter.
What inverter capacity should he have to take starting load of a 2amp compressor motor?
Replies
Just a quick guess, the inverter rating should be at least double the expected load. The starting surge from a 2-amp compressor is quite a bit different than running a couple of light bulbs or a "universal" motor (drills & saws).
Best option would be to call the inverter manufacturer and ask them.
Are you sure that is 2 amps and not 12?
A compressor running a the little paint sprayers with the glass jars (can' think of the name now) used for arts and craft project such as painting a t-shirt might be that small.
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A-holes. Hey every group has to have one. And I have been elected to be the one. I should make that my tagline.
Volts X Amps = Watts
120 x 2 = 240 Watts
Start up surge 480 Watts
Sounds like a tiny aircompressor.
Jason
If it's a 12 amp you are looking at more like a 3000 watt inverter.