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On 23 Dec 2004 00:06:56 -0800, wrote:

So I think your 2000 watt inverter isn't overkill, it's pretty much the
minimum specification to power your 700 watt microwave.

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It's probably a bit over what is needed but not by much. My old boat
had a 3000 watt modified sine wave inverter with a 440 A-H battery
bank. It had no problem at all with a 1200 watt microwave plus a
refrigerator. Even if you never plan to draw 3000 watts, the
advantages are that it comes with a bigger battery charger and a
higher rating on the transfer switch.

I think the biggest problems with most inverter installations are too
small a battery bank and wiring that is too small. Either will lead
to large voltage drops under load causing shutdowns or inefficient
operation. I used 2/0 wire on the 12 volt side and it was no more
than just adequate. Far too many inverters end up being installed
with ready made battery cables which are usually 2 or 4 guage wire,
not nearly big enough for a steady 150 amps.