How to Choose the Best Power Inverter for Your Campervan in Australia

Choosing a power inverter for your campervan in Australia is one of the most important steps when setting up an off-grid system. A high-quality inverter converts DC power from your battery into 240V AC household power the same electricity used at home. Not all inverters are created equal, and choosing the wrong one can lead to poor performance, inefficiency, or even damage to your system. when setting up your off-grid system. A good inverter turns the DC power from your battery into AC power, which is what most household appliances need to run. But not all inverters are created equal, and the wrong choice can lead to poor performance, wasted energy, or even system damage.

This guide will walk you through how inverters work, what types are available, and how to choose the best inverter for your campervan setup.

How Do Power Inverters Work?

A power inverter converts DC (direct current) power stored in your battery into AC (alternating current) power, allowing you to run appliances like a kettle, laptop, or microwave inside your van. Most campervans use a 12V battery system, so you’ll need an inverter that can convert 12V DC to 240V AC standard household power in Australia.

Inverters vary by size (wattage), waveform, and feature set. Matching the inverter to your power needs and battery system is key to ensuring everything works smoothly.

Types of Power Inverters for Vans

There are two main types of power inverters you’ll see in campervan setups:

Pure Sine Wave Inverters

• Deliver clean, stable power suitable for all electronics
• Best for sensitive devices like laptops, TVs, and medical equipment
• Slightly more expensive, but more reliable and efficient

Modified Sine Wave Inverters

• Cheaper alternative with a choppier power output
• May cause humming, overheating, or device malfunction
• Only suitable for basic tools or appliances like some lights or kettles

For most vanlifers or off-grid travellers, a pure sine wave inverter is worth the investment.

Choosing the Best Power Inverter for Your Campervan in Australia

Here’s a quick checklist to help guide your decision:

• Know your appliance wattage
• Confirm battery capacity
• Prioritise pure sine wave output
• Check for safety certifications
• Consider future upgrades

If you’re shopping for a reliable and efficient inverter, explore our full range of inverters available at Muller Energy. We stock high-performance options suited for everything from weekend getaways to full-time vanlife setups.

When selecting a power inverter for your van or camper, keep the following points in mind:

• Wattage Rating – Add up the wattage of the devices you’ll run at the same time. Then choose an inverter rated at least 20–30% higher.
• Battery Bank Size – Make sure your battery system can handle the power draw of the inverter.
• Efficiency – Look for high conversion efficiency to get the most out of your battery.
• Built-In Safety Features – Overload protection, low-voltage shutoff, thermal protection are non-negotiable.
• Remote Monitoring – Some inverters include Bluetooth or remote displays so you can check status without crawling under the bed.

Tips for Choosing and Using an Inverter

For your power storage, pairing your inverter with the right campervan battery is essential. A dependable lithium battery ensures you’ll get stable output and reliable performance day and night.

• Oversize slightly – If you’re unsure about your needs, go for the next size up. It’s better to have more capacity than not enough.
• Use quality cables – Undersized or cheap wiring can lead to voltage drops and overheating.
• Mount near batteries – To reduce loss and keep cable runs short.
• Fuse your connections – Always use fuses between the battery and inverter to prevent fire risk.
• Plan your use – Don’t expect to run an air conditioner on a small inverter. Know your limits.

Installation Considerations

For heavy-duty setups or multi-battery systems, consider adding a robust charger like the Victron Skylla-TG 24/100 (1+1) Battery Charger. It provides intelligent charging and supports both your house and start batteries.

• Ventilation – Inverters generate heat. Make sure there’s airflow around the unit.
• Accessibility – Mount it where you can see the readout and access controls.
• Compliance – If you’re installing 240V wiring in your camper, it must comply with Australian electrical standards. A licensed electrician is required for anything beyond plug-in gear.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use any inverter in a campervan?
   Not all inverters are suitable for campervans. Choose an inverter that matches your voltage system (usually 12V) and has enough wattage to support your appliances. A pure sine wave inverter is best for compatibility and safety.
2. How many watts do I need for a campervan inverter?
   It depends on what you plan to run. For basic appliances, 600W–1000W may be enough. If you’re using a microwave, toaster, or coffee machine, consider a 1500W–3000W inverter.
3. Do I need a pure sine wave inverter for my van?
   Yes, especially if you’re powering electronics, tools, or appliances with sensitive components. Modified sine wave inverters can cause interference or even damage to certain devices.

Need Help Choosing the Right Inverter?

At Muller Energy, we help vanlifers, campers, and off-grid adventurers across Australia get the most out of their battery systems. Whether you need a reliable pure sine wave inverter, a full battery and solar setup, or simply expert advice we’ve got your back.

Visit us at 3 Cal Cl, Somersby NSW 2250 or give us a call on +61 493 274 334 to speak with our team.