I currently own an Aims 300 pure sine and looking to upgrade with more power for tools that don't require pure sine. I use the inverter for camping and power failures. I'm really trying to get the kids involved with electricity, and one of the best ways to influence them with mobile power is having the Playstation at their disposal while out camping. Great way to keep them occupied once the sun goes down.
I have 225 watts of photovoltaic panels that charge three marine batteries. The batteries are mounted on a garden cart for easy mobility into the house once the weather threatens. Our power failures usually don't last more than a few hours. However, it's amazing to walk outside to a pitch black neighborhood and have the only house around with lights and the TV showing the severe weather updates. I have had a few neighbors ask, "How do you do that?" It's a blast to explain!
I use this inverter mainly for pleasure but using the Dremel out in the shed, too far for an extension cord, it sure comes in handy! With more inverter capacity, I can use more of my tools out in the yard or garage. Nothing would excite me more than to run a circular saw off battery power supplied by the sun!!!
