25 watt pump and 300 watt heater power usage

[HKfshkpr1]

I am trying to set up a back-up plan for power outages. I figure the "minimum" I need is a 400gph pump( 25 watt) and a 300 watt heater.

I understand a 300watt incandescent light uses about 2.5 amps. Does a 300 watt heater use the same?

I have tried runnning the pump and heater together for 20 minutes using a DC to AC convertor( rated at 300 watts & 30 amps) with no issues. I would like to know if I could add more equipment if necessary. Thank you!

 

[hijinks7]

My 300watt heater draws 3.5 amps when on according to my apex.

 

[Dennis McGrath]

Anytime you're talking about power, it's best to overestimate. The minimum I'd use would be 500 watts. If your inverter is rated at 300 watts, it might work but it also might overheat from the load.

 

[HKfshkpr1]

Anytime you're talking about power, it's best to overestimate. The minimum I'd use would be 500 watts. If your inverter is rated at 300 watts, it might work but it also might overheat from the load.

That's why I want to make sure although it has an indicator light when there's a fault. I just checked a Penguin 1140 powerhead( 300gph) that says 0.15 amp. My 400 gph pump has much
more pressure/height so I est. it draws 3-4 amps. As my invertor is rated at 30 amps I think it's safe even when "doubling" the pump and heater.

I also plan to shut it down for a few minutes every half hour to let it cool down. Let me know if I'm on the right track.

 

[Dennis McGrath]

That's why I want to make sure although it has an indicator light when there's a fault. I just checked a Penguin 1140 powerhead( 300gph) that says 0.15 amp. My 400 gph pump has much
more pressure/height so I est. it draws 3-4 amps. As my invertor is rated at 30 amps I think it's safe even when "doubling" the pump and heater.

I also plan to shut it down for a few minutes every half hour to let it cool down. Let me know if I'm on the right track.

If your inverter is rated at 30 amps, it would have a 3600 watt capability, not 300, unless you're talking about the INPUT amperage, then that would make sense since 12VDCx30amps is 360 watts input, otherwise 120vACx30amps=3600 watts.

 

[HKfshkpr1]

If your inverter is rated at 30 amps, it would have a 3600 watt capability, not 300, unless you're talking about the INPUT amperage, then that would make sense since 12VDCx30amps is 360 watts input, otherwise 120vACx30amps=3600 watts.

OK I'll use a 250 watt heater but likely will get another inverter with higher output. Thank you!