Inverter issues

Xantrex 1800i Sine Wave

I need some advice.

My inverter seems to have died. It seems the circuit board has issues and I'm told that, over here, they no longer do rebuilds.I am an electrical ignoramus of the first order so i will have to take their word for this.

When researching replacements the prices very from about $350 to $2,000 for a replacement.I have a feeling that this Sine Wave term is important as every time it is mention the inverter in question is on the upper end of the price scale.

The old unit seemed pretty well balanced with my battery capacity(400Ah) through a 12 volt system.Question is do I leave well enough alone and replace like with like, or should I take this opportunity(?) to make a change?

Any advice much appreciated.

PS Can I easily adapt a 24 volt unit to my 12 volt boat system, as one may be available second hand.

I have a feeling that this Sine Wave term is important as every time it is mention the inverter in question is on the upper end of the price scale.

Sine wave is best for large motors that need to work hard when operating.

A TV , microwave , blender or house fridge dont usually give a damn so a $200 1700W unit should take care of most boating convienance items.

If you use it to power an air cond , scuba compressor , or water maker the sine wave will be more usefull.

24V is hard to generate ,the 2 - 12v batts have to be charged and then joined ( hot rod starter solenoid) when switching on the inverter.

Yes it could be done but a big PIA!

Andy,
Stick with your 12 volt system.
If you are going to replace this unit, is it a straight inverter or inverter charger, I would go preferably for a Victron Multiplus 12/1600/70 ( 12 volt, 1600 Watt with a 70 amp charger)
Outback marine have these for about $1600.00 a 2000 watt unit with an 80 amp charger is approx. $2000.00
It all depends on your electrical load and requirements, but stick with a pure sine wave inverter as you this way you will not have any problems running equipment.
Cheers
Benn

Thanks for the info guys.

If you increase the size of your inverter, don't forget to factor in the cost of larger cables and fuses. Probably not a huge parts expense, but more of a labor factor.