It is a sensible thing to wonder before you buy one: can you just leave the inverter sitting in the socket, or do you have to fuss with it every time? Here is the straightforward answer.
While the engine is running: yes
With the engine on, the alternator keeps the battery topped up, so a plugged-in inverter powering your devices is no problem at all. This is exactly what it is designed for.
With the engine off: unplug it
Here is the one habit that matters. An inverter draws a small idle current even with nothing connected to it. Leave it switched on for days with the engine off and that trickle can slowly flatten your battery. So when you park up for a while, switch it off or unplug it.
Use a good one
Cheap inverters can output dirty "modified" sine wave power that stresses sensitive electronics, and some lack basic safety features. A pure sine wave inverter with over-load, over-temperature and low-voltage protection is safe for your laptop and camera and protects your car's battery from being over-drained.
Quick safe-use checklist
- Powering devices while driving — leave it in, no worries.
- Parked for a while — switch off or unplug.
- Running something with the engine off — keep it short, or run the engine now and then.
- Stay under the inverter's wattage rating.
The EchoRepel 200W Pure Sine Wave Inverter gives you clean, protected power for exactly this kind of everyday use. For picking the right one, see what size car inverter do I need.