You may use an inverter to charge a laptop. But make sure that the input voltage from an inverter is precisely the same as your laptop’s documentation.
As a universal solution, an inverter should charge any laptop. Though all laptops may not function with an inverter; to be sure, check the manufacturer or documentation of your laptop.
This article is going to cover everything you need to know before charging your laptop with an inverter.
How Does An Inverter Work?
The primary task of a power inverter is to transform direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC).
The batteries, connected to an inverter, store energy in the form of DC, whereas the laptops we use require AC. It converts that DC into AC and charges the laptop. That is how inverters function. Inverters are used to power laptops in cases of power outages and other emergency situations.
Can You Charge a Laptop With an Inverter?
Inverters are designed to convert DC power to AC power. If your laptop requires AC power, you can use one to charge your laptop.
There is no problem in using an inverter if the laptop is receiving the required voltage. Typically, 100-240V AC is used as the input voltage for laptop chargers. And it delivers a 19V DC output.
Simple math will help you to choose the perfect inverter for your laptop. Follow this formula:
Laptop watts + 20% (safety margin) = inverter size
A standard laptop needs 100-watt power to run. The majority of inverters are rated at 85% efficiency. You must add at least 15% power to run a laptop. For safety, let’s increase that to 20%.
100 Watt + 20% (safety margin) = 120 Watt
To run a 100-watt laptop, you will need an inverter that can provide 120-watt power. Besides, check your laptop’s manual or manufacturer to see whether an inverter can be used to power it.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Charging a Laptop With an Inverter
Advantages
The following are some benefits of having an inverter:
- In case of a power cut, an inverter helps you to charge your device.
- You can use the inverter in your automobile to charge your laptop as a universal option. It will be helpful if you drive your car a lot.
Disadvantages
The following are the drawbacks of using an inverter to charge a laptop:
- Using an inverter could harm your laptop if it cannot be charged with one.
- Overloading an inverter will affect your laptop’s performance.
- Picking an inverter that does not fulfill your laptop’s required voltage will affect its longevity.
- If an inverter is misused or you do not know how to operate that, it might harm your laptop.
- The MOSFET power chip of a laptop can be ruined by the voltage difference.
Safety Precautions When Charging a Laptop With an Inverter
- First of all, check the manufacturer or documentation of your laptop. If your laptop does not work with an inverter, avoid it.
- Either horizontally or vertically, place the inverter on a sufficiently flat surface.
- Maintain a dry environment. Avoid exposing it to wetness or rain.
- Do not place an inverter near the sources of heat.
Conclusion:
A 120-watt power inverter will be sufficient for a basic laptop. In case of an emergency, an inverter is excellent for charging laptops and other electronics.
Besides, it can be used at home, in a car, or in an RV. Following the safety precautions will ensure the proper use of an inverter.
Most importantly, check your laptop’s manufacturer or paperwork to see if an inverter can be used to charge it.