12v inverter output vA the larger the better

Inverters come in various configurations, each designed for specific power systems. Common rated input voltages include 12V, 24V, and 48V. The choice depends on the application, the size of the power system, and the available power source. A 12V inverter is commonly used for smaller applications, such as in vehicles or small off-grid setups.

24V inverters are typically more efficient than 12V inverters, particularly in larger power systems. This advantage stems from the lower current needed for the same power output in a 24V system compared to a 12V system. For instance, to produce 1,200 watts of power, a 12V system would draw 100 amps, while a 24V system would only require 50 amps.

A large inverter with a small load wastes more power than a small inverter carrying a similar capacity. But if you increase the inverter load, the efficiency level goes up. Inverters use power when in standby mode, that is, even without any load. With a 200W portable inverter, this could be 5 watts.

In your case, it could be something like 200W (allowing for ~90% inverter efficiency, normal for a modern inverter). On the other hand, the inverter output stages need to be engineered for the "apparent" power that may be higher than the "real" power of the load.

For a 12V inverter, the maximum input inverter voltage is typically around 16VDC. This safety margin provides a buffer to accommodate fluctuations in the power source and protect the inverter from potential damage. What happens if voltage is too high for inverter?

Generally, yes. Inverters have an idle power usage. A Victron 48/5000 burns 30W just by being powered on. That's 0.72kWh/day or 60Ah of 12V battery capacity - would kill a medium size car battery in 24 hours even if no loads are supplied. The MPP Solar/Growatt units and most all-in-ones are notorious for high idle energy consumption.