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vacuum connected to power inverter

Discussion in 'Gen 1 Prius Plug-in 2012-2015' started by galileofigaro, Feb 15, 2022.

  1. galileofigaro

    galileofigaro Junior Member

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    I'd like to plug a 1600 watt vacuum to the cigarette lighter using a 150w power inverter.
    My pip is just filthy and I know I'd save a ton if I would be able to use the vacuum to fulfill the task. Do you think I can fulfill the task without any explosions or similar issues?
     
  2. QuantumFireball

    QuantumFireball Active Member

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    The 12 V sockets in the car are rated for 10 A or 120 W, not to mention your inverter is also clearly unsuitable. You'll just blow the fuse.
     
  3. jerrymildred

    jerrymildred Senior Member

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    Yup! The fuse will blow so fast, you'll think the 12V outlet was already dead. Or you might hear a little click or pop as it blows.
     
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  4. rjparker

    rjparker Tu Humilde Sirviente

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    Your best bet is a 14 gauge extension cord. Not a cheaper 16 awg cord which could burn out your vacuum cleaner. Even then your household vacuum is maybe 1/4 the power of a coin operated car wash vacuum.

    A 150 watt inverter has no chance with a 1600 watt load. You would need a specialized pure sine wave inverter 10 to 11 times bigger and even then it would have to be connected directly to the 12v battery. A 1650 watt inverter would draw a staggering 137 amps of 12v power and require cables as thick as your little finger.

    If there is no ac power within extension cord distance (maybe 100 feet), then a battery powered vacuum from a tool manufacturer like Makita or Milwaukee would be the next best thing. The 18v lithium batteries made to run power tools can output enough to come close to direct corded power. The motors in modern portable equipment are usually brushless which allows more battery power to be converted to mechanical work. If you already have an 18v tool platform, find a vacuum that uses those batteries.

     
    #4 rjparker, Feb 15, 2022
    Last edited: Feb 15, 2022
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  5. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    how would that possibly 'save a ton'? :confused:
     
  6. ChapmanF

    ChapmanF Senior Member

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    The 150 watt inverter might protect the car's fuse by blowing first.
     
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