What is meant by "continuous 2000-watts and peak 4000-watt surge"?

Some appliances or tools, such as ones with a motor, require an initial surge of power to start up ("starting load" or "peak load"). Once started, the tool or appliance requires less power to continue to operate ("continuous load")

 
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What can an inverter do and what can I use one for?

A power inverter converts DC power into conventional AC power which can run all kinds of household products such as: kitchen appliances, microwaves, power tools, TVs, radios, computers and more. You just connect the inverter to a battery, and plug your AC devices into the inverter and you've got power on the go. The inverter draws its power from a 12volt battery, or several batteries wired in parallel. The battery will need to be recharged as the inverter draws the power out of it. The battery recharges by running the automobile motor, gas generator, solar panels, or wind and not with the inverter. During blackouts, an inverter can be used for emergency power by use with a car battery with the vehicle running and an extension cord running into the house, where you can then plug in electrical appliances.

 
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Can I operate a microwave with an inverter?

The power rating used with microwave ovens is the "cooking power" which refers to the power being "delivered" to the food being cooked. The actual operating power requirement rating is higher than the cooking power rating (for example, a microwave with "advertised" rating of 600 watts usually corresponds to almost 1100 watts of power consumption). The actual power consumption is usually stated on the back of the microwave. If the operating power requirement cannot be found on the back of the microwave check the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer.

 

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What is the difference between Modified Sine & Pure Sine Wave?

Modified Sine Wave If your equipment can accept some voltage fluctuation, consider a modified sine wave inverter. These inverters provide mobile power at a more affordable price and come in a full range of sizes. Sine Wave If you want to run your equipment exactly to the manufacturer’s specifications, choose a true sine wave inverter. With true sine wave, motor loads start easier and run cooler. Some equipment only operate properly with true sine wave power—laser printers, variable speed motors and digital clocks. Waveform is an important consideration when choosing an inverter. Sine wave inverters provide premium power that is identical to or even better than power supplied by your utility company. Modified sine wave inverters provide good performance at a great value.

 

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Does any inverter above 400 watt include a cigarette lighter adapter?

No, cigarette lighters cannot handle large loads, the highest model with a cigarette lighter is the PI-400. If the cigarette lighter in your car is rated at 10 AMPS you will only be able to use the inverter up to 120 watts, 15 Amps will allow you to use it up to 180 watts and a 20 Amps up to 240 watts or up to 400 watts using the cables by connecting them directly to the battery.

 
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What is the difference between a 12-Volt and 24-Volt?

The difference is the type of battery you want to run your power inverter on. Most vehicles run off a 12 volt battery. The 24 volt are generally used in large trucks or industrial motors.

 

 
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How long can I run the inverter on my battery?

To calculate the approximate power drain on your battery you will want to estimate the reserve power ("amp/HR") of the battery, and the amps the inverter will require, to meet the continuous load demands of the appliance.