Questions and Answers
Chevy Impala 12 Volt Inverter
Q. Re alternator and battery. I am on oxygen 24 hours a day which makes it impossible to enjoy my former #1 treat, driving. I am contemplating installing my "oxygenator" (4.75 amps @115 volts) in my 1991 Chevy Impala, using a 600 watt inverter from the lighter base.
Am I going to experience a LOT of trouble from the alternator because of this load and will it also be detrimental to my battery? No one manufactures an oxygenator at 12 volts. HELP!
Richard
A. There shouldn't be any problem with what you want to do. The load is very small and the alternator should handle it easily. If you plan on using it with the engine off, you may want to consider upgrading the battery to a higher capacity one.
In fact, for the sake of piece of mind, you can go ahead and upgrade the battery and install a 120 amp alternator (if it isn't already).
Also, I would hard wire the inverter to the electrical system. A cigarette lighter connection is a little too shaky for what you need. I would feel a lot better knowing there wasn't any chance of losing contact.
Additional Information provided courtesy of ALLDATA
