Can the 12 volt power outlet car in a car be used as a power outlet?
The 12 volt power outlet, also known as a usb cigarette lighter socket or DC outlet, is a common feature in most vehicles. It is used to power a wide variety of devices, including smartphones, laptops, and even small appliances. However, the question arises whether this outlet can be used as a power outlet and the answer is yes, under some considerations.
Designed for small devices with 12 volt cigarette lighter socket
The 12 volt power outlet in a car is designed to provide a specific amount of power to devices that are plugged into it. This power is measured in watts, and the typical 12 volt outlet in a car can provide up to 150 watts. This is enough to power most small devices, such as smartphones and tablets, but it may not be enough to power larger devices, such as laptops or portable air conditioners.
Using a power inverter for large devices with usb cigarette lighter socket
If you want to use the 12-volt outlet to power larger devices, you’ll need to use a power inverter. A power inverter is a device that converts the DC power from the car’s battery into AC power, which is what most devices require. Power inverters come in a variety of sizes, from small ones that can provide 100 watts to larger ones that can provide up to 2000 watts. It’s important to use a power inverter that is appropriately sized for the device you want to power.
It’s important to note that even though you can use 12 volt usb cigarette lighter socket to power a device, it could be not recommended to use it for a long period of time or for heavy-duty devices. Continuously drawing a lot of power from the car’s electrical system can put a strain on the battery, alternator and other electrical parts. It is always recommended to check your car’s owner manual or consult with a professional mechanic to know the recommended usage time or power limits of your 12 volt power outlet car before using it to power devices.
Another consideration is safety, using a power inverter also means that you’ll have to have the device plugged in while the car is running to ensure that you have enough power. This can be a safety hazard and should be avoided.
Overall, the 12 volt power outlet car in a car can be used as a power outlet with the use of a power inverter. However, it’s important to make sure that the device you’re trying to power is compatible with the amount of power that the outlet provides, and also to avoid overuse that can damage the car’s electrical system. Safety should always be the first consideration, following the car’s manual and consulting a professional if needed.
5 Accessories to Put Your Car’s 12 volt cigarette lighter socket to Work
- USB Car Charger: This is a small device that can be plugged into the cigarette lighter socket to provide USB charging ports for your devices. This is a great way to keep your phone, tablet, or other USB-powered devices charged while you’re on the go.
- Air Purifier: Some 12-volt cigarette lighter-powered air purifiers can be plugged into your car’s cigarette lighter socket to remove pollutants and freshen the air inside your vehicle. This is especially useful for people with allergies or asthma, as well as for eliminating tobacco smoke or strong food smells.
- Car Cooler/Warmer: This is a portable device that can be plugged into your cigarette lighter socket to cool or heat the contents of your car. This is particularly useful for keeping drinks and snacks cool during a long road trip, or for warming up a baby’s bottle or coffee on a cold morning.
- Car Vacuum: Car vacuums can be powered by plugging into your cigarette lighter socket, which can be great for quick clean ups and keeping the car tidy. This is a great solution for anyone who wants to keep their car clean without having to haul out a full-size vacuum.
- Dash Cam: Having a dash cam can be really helpful for safety and security reasons. Many dash cameras can be powered by your cigarette lighter socket, allowing you to record your drives without having to worry about running out of battery.
These are just a few examples of the types of accessories that can be powered by your car’s 12-volt usb cigarette lighter socket. With so many options available, it’s easy to find a device that can make your time in the car more convenient, comfortable, and safe.
Check your power requirement when using 12 volt cigarette lighter socket
It’s important to note that before using any accessory, be sure to check the power requirements and compatibility, as well as consult your car’s owner manual. Overuse, overloading or using an incompatible device can damage your car’s electrical system. Also, keep an eye on the power usage and make sure not to use the 12 volt cigarette lighter socket continuously for long period of time as it can drain the car’s battery.
Overall, the 12 volt power outlet car in your car is a versatile feature that can be used to power a wide variety of accessories, making your time on the road more convenient, comfortable, and safe.