Tapping Into a High Power DC-AC Inverter for Model 3 12V Circuits? Buy Safer Alternatives Instead!
When it comes to safely tapping into a high-power DC-AC inverter (1.5-2 kW, or 100-150A) for Model 3 12v circuits, it is not recommended. The 12 volt charging system from the main battery to the 12 volt battery won't be able to keep up, and the 12 volt battery will quickly die. A safer alternative is to buy one of those large portable batteries often seen on Youtube.
Unfortunately, there are no vehicles that can sustain 100-150A sustained 12V loads. If you need this amount of power for any length of time, the only option is a gas generator. The Ford-F-150 Lighning may be able to handle large loads but it requires a lot of batteries and there is a trade-off between power draw and run-time.
For those looking for an alternative solution, something like a 3.6kW @ 1500 W draw can be purchased for around $3100. This should provide more than 2 hours of use, although it won't run all night with 1500 watts. To put this in perspective, kWh stands for kiloWattHour which means it has 1 kW worth of power for 1 hour. Most cars have around a 70kWh battery and use around 0.25 to 0.35 kWh per mile (250Wh to 350Wh per mile).
An EG4 LFP server rack battery is just over 5kwh and costs $1500. It comes in a standard, LCD, and marine waterproof version in 12-48v versions and provides 5.12kwh for $1424 - a much better deal than the 3.6kW option.
For those who need a lot of power, the best option is to buy a large solar panel array. This will provide more than enough power for most applications and can be used in conjunction with a battery bank. The cost of a large solar panel array is around $10,000 but it will last for many years and provide clean energy.
Finally, if you are looking for something more portable, there are several companies that make portable generators that can be used to power 12v loads. These range from small 500W units to larger 10kW units. They are usually quite expensive but they are very reliable and can be used in remote locations where there is no access to grid power.
In conclusion, when it comes to safely tapping into a high-power DC-AC inverter for Model 3 12v circuits, it is not recommended. A safer alternative is to purchase one of the large portable batteries or solar panel arrays available on the market. If portability is needed, then a portable generator may be the best option.
Is it safe to tap a high-power DC-AC inverter (1.5-2 kW, or 100-150A) into Model 3 12v circuits?
No, it is not recommended. The 12 volt charging system from the main battery to the 12 volt battery won't be able to keep up and the 12 volt battery will quickly die. A safer way to do that if camping etc is to buy one of those large portable batteries you see all over Youtube.
Are there any vehicles that can sustain 100-150A sustained 12V loads?
No, regrettably the only answer is a gas generator. And don't believe what you hear about the Ford-F-150 Lighning - most every statement that is made about that thing comes with a BIG BUT! Running large loads takes a LOT of batteries.
What are some alternatives for powering a high-power load?
If you have the money to spend, something like this will do it: $3100 for 3.6kW @ 1500 W draw is a little over 2 hours of use. Alternatively, an EG4 LFP server rack battery is just over 5kwh and it's $1500. It can be purchased in standard, LCD, and marine waterproof versions in 12-48v versions.
What are the pros and cons of using a gas generator?
The pros of using a gas generator are that it is relatively inexpensive, easy to use, and can provide a lot of power. The cons are that it is noisy, produces exhaust fumes, and requires regular maintenance. Additionally, it is not as efficient as other alternatives such as solar or wind power.