Victron MultiPlus 12/500 - 20-16 - 120V - VE. Bus [PMP121500100]

Victron MultiPlus 12/500/20-16: 500VA = 430 watts continuous

A 12V inverter/charger from Victron Energy with 120V AC output: an inverter, a battery charger (up to 20 A) and an automatic transfer switch (16 A) in one box. On shore power or a generator it charges your batteries and passes AC through to the boat; when shore power drops, it switches to the batteries.

Why the VA number isn't the watts: Victron rates its inverters in VA (volt-amps). This one delivers 430W continuous at 77°F (25°C) and 900W peak for motor and compressor start-up. Size your loads around 430W, not 500W. Compare all Victron inverters →

What it will run on a boat

At 430W it handles electronics and entertainment gear, satellite internet, LED lighting and small appliances that stay under its rating. Add up everything you'll run at the same time and leave 20–25% headroom.

Battery draw and wiring

At full continuous output it pulls roughly 40 amps from a 12V battery bank (430W ÷ 12V ÷ 90% efficiency). Size the battery cables, DC fuse and battery bank for that current. The manual lists Victron's recommended cable and fuse sizes for this model.

Mounting it in a hot engine room?

Continuous output drops as the temperature rises: 400W at 104°F (40°C), 300W at 149°F (65°C). In the Keys an engine room or lazarette can easily run hotter than 104°F, so size for the hottest spot you'll mount it and give it airflow.

Idle draw at anchor

Switched on with nothing plugged in, it uses about 6W, roughly 12Ah per day from a 12V bank. Turn on 2 W in search mode to cut that down when you're off the dock.

On shore power

Charging is adaptive, 4-stage (default 14.4 VDC absorption / 13.8 VDC float), programmable for lithium, AGM or flooded banks.

Specifications (from Victron)

Documents

• Datasheet
• Manual
• Example system wiring diagram 1
• Example system wiring diagram 2

Note: Victron has released a newer version of this unit (part number PMP121500110). Call us if you want the current model.

Buying from OnBoard

We install Victron systems on boats in Marathon and the Florida Keys. Not sure which size you need? Call 305-998-4300 or email contact@onboardmarinegoods.com and we'll help you size it and plan the wiring before you buy. Local pickup is available at our shop on US-1 in Marathon.

WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.