I have a small 240v domestic fridge (97 litre with 16 litre freezer compartment). When running it is consuming 43w/0.21A cos phi is around 0.95 to 1.0.
Would a Phoenix 24v 500VA inverter run the fridge OK? 400w capacity with 900w overload capacity - but no indication of overload duration.
The data sheet has
“High start-up power
Needed to start loads such as power converters for LED lamps, halogen lamps or electric tools.”
I understand that start up current is likely to be 3 - 7 times running current - so 0.63A to 1.47A which should be covered by the 400w/1.7A capacity of the inverter.
As per my experience it would be close call - without trying You could only guess the current during the inrush. From the numbers it looks promising.
I have 24/800 inverter. It starts old 140 l fridge with ease - the normal consumption is around 130 W, at start it goes up to 1000 W.
With Wood’s dehumidifier (fridge “in reverse”) on low setting it was impossible: 240 W running, way over 2000 W at start. The solution was DYI soft starter, which took down the start current to 1200 - 1400 W.
I would suggest to speak to local dealer - maybe it’s possible to get such unit for test run to be sure.
Thanks for your information. The fridge runs fine on the 24/500 inverter. There is sometimes a transformer buzz on start up and VE Connect does show 900w or so. Once running down to 41w/41VA.
It would be good to put my beer/wine/drinks fridge (actually a small freezer, current rating 0.5A, with an external thermostat to maintain at fridge temperature). But it possibly wouldn’t be good if both started together.
So, I found this circuit Refrigerator Motor Soft Start Circuit – Homemade Circuit Projects
Or a NTC thermistor??
I also thought about Eco mode and how long between switch on checks?