How to use the Inverter Peak Load & Surge Calculator
The Formula
Continuous watts are the sum of running loads. Peak watts add the largest motor surge margin (running × (factor − 1)) plus 35% of the second-largest—modeling staggered starts instead of every motor at once.
Practical Example
We snap to standard pure-sine tiers with ~2× surge rating and 15% continuous headroom. Verify manufacturer surge seconds and LRA on motor nameplates.
About Inverter Peak Load & Surge Calculator
Continuous vs. peak
Continuous watts are the sum of running loads. Peak watts add the largest motor surge margin (running × (factor − 1)) plus 35% of the second-largest—modeling staggered starts instead of every motor at once.
Picking an inverter
We snap to standard pure-sine tiers with ~2× surge rating and 15% continuous headroom. Verify manufacturer surge seconds and LRA on motor nameplates.
Frequently asked questions
Q: All motors start together? A: Use naive sum (set one load with combined watts) or add a higher surge factor. Q: vs. AC inrush tool? A: That sizes breakers in amps; this sizes inverters in watts. Q: Battery bank? A: Pair with Home Backup Sizing after you know AC load.