Quote Originally Posted by gnihcraes View Post
400 w inverter isn't much power. I've had issues with battery powered inverters, the battery doesn't supply enough voltage to activate the inverter. 12-13.8 volts. the inverter I have only works if the voltage supplied is 13.8 and great, and I must run the vehicle to get it to work.

The solar panel would be good to keep the battery alive though, but will take a long time to recharge if the battery is really drained.

I made my own similar setup for Ham Radio use and emergency situations, but the battery always was dead or going bad when I needed to use it. The cost to replace it was significant and I never needed to use it. So I gave up on that item.

All that said, it might be good for the small dwelling use when there isn't much room for generators and similar items.
this inverter runs down to 10.5 volts. The battery replacement cost is $38.40 http://www.batteryspec.com/cgi-bin/c...tarter_Battery

though in a SHTF you can use batteries from commercial backup systems that you can scrounge like fire control panels or emergency lights.