Ridgid 100 Watt Power Inverter

Power inverters are indispensable for those of us who spend a lot of time on the road and need to keep our devices charged and ready to go. The Ridgid 100 Watt Power Inverter (model RD97100) caught my attention with its impressive features and compact design. Having spent a few weeks putting it through its paces, I’m ready to share my thoughts.

Design and Build Quality

One of the standout features of this Ridgid inverter is its compact design. It fits neatly into most car consoles or dashboards, making it incredibly convenient for travel. The unit feels sturdy and well-made, with a protective case that adds a layer of security. The illuminated power controls are a nice touch, especially for those late-night drives where visibility might be an issue.

Power and Performance

The Ridgid 100 Watt Power Inverter is designed to handle up to 100 continuous watts, which is sufficient for charging small electronics like phones, tablets, and even some laptops. It features a standard 12-Volt/15 Amp outlet and two 5-Volt USB outlets, making it versatile enough for various devices.

In my experience, the inverter performed well within its specified limits. Charging my smartphone and tablet simultaneously was a breeze. The inverter also managed to keep up with my laptop's power demands, though just barely. The fan-cooled design is supposed to help with extended use, and for the most part, it does its job. The fan only kicks in when the unit gets hot, and it’s relatively quiet compared to other models I've used.

Practical Use

Using the inverter is straightforward. Plug it into your car's 12V socket, and you’re good to go. The color-changing indicators are a helpful feature for tracking watt usage, though I found the red and green lights to be somewhat confusing at first. There are no detailed instructions explaining these indicators, which can be a drawback for those who like to understand every feature of their device.

One downside I noticed is that the unit gets quite hot during extended use. While the fan helps to some extent, it doesn’t entirely prevent the unit from heating up. This heat can be a bit concerning, especially if you're using the inverter for prolonged periods.

Durability and Reliability

Here’s where things get a bit tricky. My initial experience with the inverter was positive, but I did encounter some issues over time. The most significant problem is the fuse. After a few weeks of use, the fuse blew. Finding a replacement fuse was an exercise in frustration. It seems Ridgid has used a unique fuse size that’s not readily available in most stores. This makes the product practically useless once the fuse blows, unless you manage to find a compatible replacement online.

Additionally, the power cord isn’t the most durable. In my case, it started showing signs of wear after a couple of weeks, and eventually, it failed altogether. This is disappointing, given that the inverter itself performs well when it’s working.

Noise Level

The noise level is another aspect worth mentioning. While the fan only activates when necessary, it can be pretty loud when it does. This might not be a dealbreaker for everyone, but it’s worth noting if you’re sensitive to noise.

Compatibility Issues

I also encountered compatibility issues with the cigarette lighter plug. The plug seems to be designed for older vehicles, and it didn’t fit well in the newer car models I tested it with. I had to use an adapter, which adds another layer of complexity and inconvenience.

Final Thoughts

The Ridgid 100 Watt Power Inverter has a lot going for it. Its compact design, versatility, and ease of use make it a convenient option for those who need a reliable power source on the go. However, it’s not without its flaws. The durability of the power cord and the challenging search for replacement fuses are significant drawbacks that potential buyers should consider.

Would I recommend the Ridgid 100 Watt Power Inverter? It depends on your needs and tolerance for potential issues. If you need a compact and versatile inverter for light use, this could be a good fit. Just be prepared to hunt for replacement fuses and possibly deal with a failing power cord. For more heavy-duty or prolonged use, you might want to consider other options that offer better durability and easier maintenance.

In conclusion, while the Ridgid 100 Watt Power Inverter has its strengths, the drawbacks related to fuse replacement and power cord durability make it a less-than-perfect choice. It performs well within its limits, but if reliability and longevity are your top priorities, you may want to look elsewhere.