Yes there was an article on Teddy in the local paper, it was rather amusing.

From what i have read the better inverters have very high reliability. But you are correct that inverters are not 100% effecient, there is always a power loss. And if you size your inverter to run the well pump then only run a light bulb the ineffeciency of the inverter is quite substantial.

The only problem with 12v appliances is the the extra expence involved and then trying to convince the cook of the house that you want to buy a new refrigerator that doesn't defrost itself.