Everstart 750 Watt Power Inverter

Last summer changed everything for me. What started as a simple road trip through the Rockies turned into a three-week adventure that transformed how I approach travel forever. The game-changer? An unassuming black box that fits in my glove compartment: the Everstart 750 Watt Power Inverter. After relying on this device for countless trips, power outages, and outdoor projects, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about this portable powerhouse that’s become my constant companion.

When I first purchased my Everstart inverter, I had only a vague understanding of what it could do. Now, after putting it through its paces in almost every situation imaginable, I can confidently say that a quality power inverter is an absolute essential for anyone who values independence and preparedness while on the move.

Let me walk you through everything you need to know about the Everstart 750 Watt Power Inverter — from basic functionality to real-world applications that might just change how you travel, camp, and respond to emergencies.

What Exactly Is the Everstart 750 Watt Power Inverter?

Before diving into specifics, let’s clarify what this device actually does. The Everstart 750 Watt Power Inverter is essentially a converter that transforms your vehicle’s DC (Direct Current) power into household AC (Alternating Current) electricity. This magical transformation allows you to run standard electronic devices directly from your car’s battery.

My first experience with the concept came during a power outage at my cabin. A neighbor showed up with an inverter connected to his truck, powering a small TV and charging everyone’s phones. I was immediately sold on the concept, and within a week, I had my own Everstart unit.

The “750 Watt” in the name refers to the continuous power output it can provide. This means it can reliably supply 750 watts of power on an ongoing basis — more than enough for most portable electronics and small appliances. It also has a peak power rating (usually around 1500 watts) for handling brief surges when devices first power on.

The Nuts and Bolts: Technical Specifications

After unboxing my Everstart inverter, I spent some time familiarizing myself with its specifications. Here’s what I discovered:

• Input Voltage: The inverter connects to a 12V DC power source (your standard vehicle battery)
• Output Voltage: Delivers 110-120V AC power (standard household electricity in the US)
• Continuous Power: 750 watts of sustained power
• Peak Power: Approximately 1500 watts for momentary startup surges
• AC Outlets: Two standard three-prong household outlets
• USB Ports: Yes! Two USB charging ports for direct device charging
• Dimensions: Compact enough to fit in most glove compartments (roughly 8″ x 4″ x 2″)
• Weight: Approximately 2 pounds
• Safety Features: Built-in cooling fan, overload protection, and low battery shutdown
• Wave Form: Modified sine wave (important for understanding compatible devices)

I quickly learned that the Everstart uses a modified sine wave output rather than pure sine wave. Without getting too technical, this means it produces electricity that works perfectly for most devices but might not be ideal for some sensitive electronics like certain medical equipment or high-end audio gear. For 95% of applications, however, this hasn’t been an issue in my experience.

Connecting the Everstart to Your Vehicle: Simpler Than You Think

When I first got my inverter, I was slightly intimidated by the connection process. Would I need special tools? Could I damage my car’s electrical system? These concerns quickly evaporated once I actually tried it.

There are two primary methods to connect the Everstart 750 Watt Power Inverter:

Method 1: Cigarette Lighter/12V Outlet Connection

For lower power needs (under 150-200 watts), you can simply plug the inverter directly into your vehicle’s 12V outlet (formerly known as the cigarette lighter). This is incredibly convenient for charging laptops, phones, or running small devices.

I’ve found this method perfect for road trips when I just need to keep my camera batteries charged or power my laptop for a few hours of work.

Method 2: Direct Battery Connection

For the full 750 watts of power, you’ll need to connect the inverter directly to your vehicle’s battery using the included alligator clips. Here’s my step-by-step process:

1. Turn off your vehicle completely
2. Open the hood and locate your battery
3. Connect the RED clamp to the POSITIVE (+) battery terminal
4. Connect the BLACK clamp to the NEGATIVE (-) battery terminal
5. Double-check that connections are secure but not overtightened
6. Turn on the inverter using its power switch
7. Connect your devices to the AC outlets or USB ports

The first time I did this, it took about 3 minutes. Now I can complete the process in under a minute. I recommend practicing this connection in daylight before you might need to do it in an emergency or in the dark.

What Can You Actually Power with 750 Watts?

This was my biggest question when purchasing the inverter. After extensive testing, I’ve compiled a list of devices I’ve successfully powered:

Definitely Works Well:

• Laptops and computers (typically 45-150 watts)
• Phone and tablet chargers (5-20 watts)
• LED TVs up to 32″ (30-100 watts)
• Small fans (15-60 watts)
• CPAP machines (30-90 watts)
• Camera battery chargers (10-30 watts)
• Portable gaming systems (15-45 watts)
• LED lighting systems (10-50 watts)
• Small projectors (50-150 watts)
• Drone battery chargers (50-100 watts)
• Small portable coolers (35-60 watts)

Works But Pushes Limits:

• Mini refrigerators (200-400 watts, but high startup surge)
• Small microwave ovens (600-700 watts, close to maximum)
• Coffee makers (600-750 watts, depends on model)
• Hair dryers on low settings (400-700 watts)
• Small power tools (variable, check individual ratings)

Not Recommended:

• Full-size refrigerators (too high power draw)
• Space heaters (typically 1000+ watts)
• Air conditioners (too high power draw)
• High-powered tools like circular saws
• Hair dryers on high settings
• Toasters and toaster ovens

I learned an important lesson about power requirements during a camping trip. I had planned to use a small 700-watt coffee maker, which theoretically should work with the Everstart. However, the initial power surge when it started caused the inverter to shut down. This taught me to always check both the continuous power rating AND the startup power needs of appliances.

The Mini Fridge Question: Can It Handle It?

One of the most common questions about the Everstart 750 Watt inverter is whether it can power a mini fridge. The answer is: it depends.

My personal experience with a 2.7 cubic foot mini fridge (rated at 350 watts) has been successful but with caveats. The key to successfully running a mini fridge is understanding the difference between running watts and starting watts.

When the compressor first kicks on, most refrigerators require a brief surge of power (starting watts) that can be 2-3 times their regular running watts. This means a mini fridge rated at 350 watts might briefly need 700-1000 watts when starting up.

I’ve found that the Everstart can handle my mini fridge during camping trips, but I follow these practices:

1. Start the fridge when nothing else is connected to the inverter
2. Make sure the vehicle is running to maintain battery charge
3. Never run the fridge for more than 4-6 hours without giving the battery a break
4. Pre-cool the fridge before connecting it to the inverter

On one memorable occasion, I successfully kept a mini fridge running during a 36-hour power outage by alternating between running my vehicle for an hour, then letting it rest for 3-4 hours, repeating as needed. This saved hundreds of dollars in food that would have otherwise spoiled.

USB Charging: A Convenient Extra Feature

One feature I use constantly is the built-in USB charging ports. The Everstart 750 Watt inverter includes two USB ports that allow you to charge phones, tablets, and other USB devices directly, without needing to use up one of the AC outlets or your own charging brick.

This might seem like a minor convenience, but I’ve found it incredibly useful. During a family road trip last year, we were able to simultaneously:

• Charge two phones via USB
• Power a portable DVD player via one AC outlet
• Run a small fan via the second AC outlet

The USB ports deliver standard 5V/2.1A power, which isn’t the fastest charging available today (no USB-C PD or quick charging), but it’s perfectly adequate for overnight charging or maintaining battery levels during use.

Camping and Road Trip Applications: A Game Changer

If there’s one environment where the Everstart truly shines, it’s during outdoor adventures. After numerous camping trips and cross-country drives, I’ve developed a system that maximizes the inverter’s usefulness:

Camping Applications:

• Power LED string lights for ambient campsite lighting
• Charge camera batteries after a day of photography
• Run a small fan inside a tent on hot nights
• Power a portable projector for outdoor movies
• Charge portable power banks during the day for use at night
• Run a CPAP machine for those with sleep apnea
• Power a laptop for journey journaling or photo editing

Road Trip Applications:

• Keep kids’ tablets and gaming devices charged
• Power a cooler to keep food and drinks cold
• Charge drone batteries between flight locations
• Run a laptop for navigation or work
• Power a small blender for roadside smoothies
• Charge camera equipment between shooting locations

My most ambitious use was during a two-week road trip through national parks, where the inverter powered our entire mobile office setup. My partner and I both worked remotely while traveling, using the Everstart to power our laptops, monitor, and even a small printer for necessary documents.

Price Point and Value Proposition

When it comes to cost, the Everstart 750 Watt Power Inverter represents exceptional value. Currently priced between $59-$79 (as of my last purchase), it’s significantly more affordable than many competing brands offering similar specifications.

I initially hesitated between the Everstart and a premium brand costing nearly twice as much. After researching the specifications and reading reviews, I took a chance on the Everstart and haven’t regretted it. After more than a year of regular use, it continues to perform reliably.

You can purchase the Everstart 750 Watt Power Inverter at Walmart stores nationwide or through their online store. Occasionally, I’ve seen them at auto parts stores as well, though typically at a slightly higher price point.

Safety Features: Protection for Your Devices and Vehicle

One aspect I particularly appreciate about the Everstart inverter is its comprehensive safety features. These have prevented potential problems several times during my use:

Overload Protection

If you connect devices that exceed the 750-watt capacity, the inverter automatically shuts down to prevent damage. I’ve triggered this a few times when attempting to run too many devices simultaneously. The inverter simply turns off, and after reducing the load and resetting the power, it works perfectly again.

Low Battery Shutdown

This feature has saved my vehicle’s battery more than once. When your car battery voltage drops to approximately 10.5 volts, the inverter automatically shuts off to prevent completely draining your battery. This is crucial because draining a car battery too low can permanently damage it.

Thermal Protection

The built-in cooling fan activates automatically when the inverter is under significant load or operating in high temperatures. If the unit still gets too hot, it will shut down until it cools to a safe temperature. I’ve only experienced this once, when using the inverter in direct sunlight on a 95°F day.

Short Circuit Protection

If a short circuit occurs in a connected device, the inverter will shut down immediately to prevent damage. I haven’t personally experienced this, but it’s reassuring to know the protection exists.

Efficiency Considerations: Managing Power Loss

One technical aspect worth understanding is efficiency. No power inverter is 100% efficient — some energy is always lost as heat during the DC to AC conversion process. The Everstart typically operates at around 85-90% efficiency, which is standard for this class of inverter.

What this means in practical terms is that if you’re drawing 500 watts from the inverter’s AC outlets, you’re actually pulling about 550-590 watts from your car’s battery. This becomes important when calculating how long you can run devices before needing to recharge your vehicle’s battery.

I’ve developed a rough rule of thumb: take the wattage of all connected devices, add 15%, and use that figure when estimating battery drain. This has helped me avoid unexpected battery depletion during extended use.

How Long Can You Run the Everstart Continuously?

This is perhaps the most common question, and unfortunately, there’s no simple answer. The runtime depends on several factors:

1. Your vehicle’s battery capacity (measured in amp-hours)
2. Whether your engine is running while using the inverter
3. The actual power draw of connected devices
4. The age and condition of your battery
5. Ambient temperature (batteries are less efficient in cold weather)

From my experience, here are some general guidelines:

With Engine Off:

• Light loads (under 100 watts): 3-5 hours on a healthy battery
• Medium loads (100-300 watts): 1-3 hours
• Heavy loads (300-750 watts): 30 minutes to 1 hour

With Engine Running:

With your engine running, your alternator continuously recharges the battery, so theoretically, you could run the inverter indefinitely as long as your vehicle has fuel. However, I don’t recommend running at maximum capacity for more than 4-6 hours continuously, as this puts significant stress on your alternator.

During a recent power outage, I alternated between running my vehicle for 1 hour, then turning it off for 2-3 hours while still using the inverter for essential devices. This cycle allowed me to conserve fuel while still maintaining power for critical needs.

Warranty and Support: Peace of Mind

The Everstart 750 Watt Power Inverter comes with a standard 1-year limited warranty. While this isn’t as generous as some premium brands that offer 2-3 year warranties, I’ve found it sufficient given the device’s reliability.

I had one occasion to contact customer support with a question about maximum runtime, and they responded promptly with helpful information. The warranty process appears straightforward, requiring the original receipt and returning the unit to the place of purchase if issues occur within the warranty period.

Maintenance and Care: Extending Inverter Life

Proper maintenance can significantly extend the life of your inverter. Here’s what I’ve learned about keeping the Everstart running optimally:

1. Keep it cool: Ensure the cooling vents remain unobstructed, and avoid using the inverter in extremely hot environments.
2. Clean connections: Periodically clean the battery connection points with a wire brush to remove any corrosion or buildup.
3. Protect from moisture: While the unit can handle humidity, direct exposure to water can damage it. I keep mine in a plastic container when not in use during camping trips.
4. Proper storage: Store in a cool, dry place when not in use, and disconnect completely from power sources.
5. Regular testing: Even if you don’t need it regularly, test the inverter every few months to ensure it’s working properly.

The most common point of failure I’ve seen (in friends’ units, not my own) is the cooling fan. If you notice the fan not activating under load or making unusual noises, it might be time to consider a replacement before more serious issues develop.

Power Draw and Battery Considerations

Understanding how much power the inverter draws from your battery is crucial for planning. Here’s a simplified calculation:

Watts ÷ Volts = Amps

So for example, if you’re using 500 watts from your inverter:
500 watts ÷ 12 volts = 41.7 amps (plus efficiency loss)

This means your 500-watt device is pulling over 40 amps from your car battery. For context, a typical car battery might have 50-80 amp-hours of capacity when fully charged.

I learned this lesson the hard way during an early camping trip, when I ran my laptop and a small fan for about 2 hours with the engine off. When I tried to start the car, the battery was too depleted. Now I’m much more conscious of power management and always keep a portable jump starter as backup.

Emergency Power During Outages: A Reliable Backup

One of the most valuable applications I’ve found for the Everstart inverter is during power outages. Last winter, an ice storm knocked out power to our neighborhood for nearly 48 hours. The inverter connected to my SUV became our lifeline, allowing us to:

• Keep phones and emergency radios charged
• Power a small space heater (on low setting) for short periods
• Run LED lighting in key areas of the house
• Keep our refrigerator cold by powering it for 1-hour intervals
• Charge portable power banks for use between vehicle runs

For emergency use, I recommend creating a priority list of devices and a schedule for powering them. This helps manage your vehicle’s fuel and battery capacity efficiently during extended outages.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Over time, I’ve encountered and resolved several common issues with the Everstart inverter:

Inverter Won’t Power On:

• Check all connections for tightness and cleanliness
• Verify vehicle battery has sufficient charge
• Ensure the power switch is firmly in the ON position
• Check for blown fuses in the inverter (refer to manual for location)

Inverter Shuts Off Unexpectedly:

• Likely cause is overload – reduce the number of connected devices
• Check for adequate ventilation around cooling vents
• Battery voltage may be too low – start the vehicle to recharge
• Connected device might have a short – try devices individually

Inverter Makes Unusual Noises:

• Some fan noise is normal during operation
• Buzzing or high-pitched whine might indicate internal issues
• Crackling sounds could suggest loose connections

Connected Devices Behave Strangely:

• Some sensitive electronics may not work well with modified sine wave power
• Digital clocks might run slightly fast or slow
• Some battery chargers might not charge correctly
• Certain audio equipment may produce hum or interference

One memorable troubleshooting session occurred during a desert camping trip when my inverter suddenly stopped working. After checking all the obvious points, I discovered that fine sand had entered the cooling vents and was preventing the fan from spinning properly. A careful cleaning with compressed air resolved the issue completely.

Comparing Everstart to Competitors

Before purchasing the Everstart, I researched several competing models. Here’s how it compares to other popular options in the same power range:

Everstart 750W vs. BESTEK 750W

The BESTEK offers similar specifications but typically costs $20-30 more. It features a slightly more compact design but otherwise provides comparable performance. In my opinion, the Everstart offers better value.

Everstart 750W vs. KRIËGER 1100W

The KRIËGER provides higher power output at a premium price point (usually $20-40 more). It also comes with a 3-year warranty compared to Everstart’s 1-year coverage. If you need the extra power, the KRIËGER is worth considering, but for most applications, the Everstart is sufficient.

Everstart 750W vs. Harbor Freight 750W

The Harbor Freight model (Cen-Tech brand) is occasionally available at a lower price point during sales, but I’ve found its build quality and reliability to be somewhat lower based on friends’ experiences.

After comparing features, reliability reports, and price points, I remain confident that the Everstart represents an excellent balance of quality and value.

Final Thoughts: Is the Everstart 750W Right for You?

After extensive use across numerous scenarios, I can confidently recommend the Everstart 750 Watt Power Inverter for most users. It hits the sweet spot of power, portability, and price that makes it suitable for a wide range of applications.

The Everstart 750 Watt Power Inverter is particularly well-suited for:

• Road trip enthusiasts who need to power multiple devices
• Campers looking for moderate power without a generator
• Emergency preparedness for power outages
• Mobile workers who need to power laptops and devices
• Anyone looking for an affordable entry into portable power

The only people I wouldn’t recommend it to are those who need to power high-wattage appliances (over 750 watts continuous) or those who require pure sine wave output for sensitive medical or audio equipment.

For my needs, the Everstart has been a reliable companion that has enhanced my travel experiences, provided peace of mind during emergencies, and paid for itself many times over in convenience and functionality. What started as a simple purchase has become an essential part of my gear that I wouldn’t travel without.

The next time you’re planning a road trip, preparing for camping season, or simply wanting to add to your emergency preparedness kit, consider the Everstart 750 Watt Power Inverter. In my experience, it’s one of those rare products that delivers exactly what it promises without breaking the bank.

And remember, as with any electrical device, always prioritize safety, read the manual thoroughly, and use common sense when connecting to your vehicle’s electrical system. With proper use and care, your inverter should provide years of reliable service whenever and wherever you need portable power.