Install a Power Inverter in a Vehicle

Install a Power Inverter in a Vehicle

Install a Power Inverter in a Vehicle : Multi-thousand tips to make your life easier.

Having a power inverter in your vehicle is handy if you need to travel for a long period of time and want to access your emails through your laptop, or if you want to be able to charge your phone for emergency purposes.
If you want to install a power inverter in your vehicle, here are the steps you need to follow:

• Choose the inverter that works best for you. Familiarize yourself with terms used with power inverter products. For instance, the maximum efficiency of power inverters varies from product to product. Some may have 88% or 96% efficiency. 88% efficiency means that 12% of the battery power is lost upon inversion. Likewise, 96% efficiency means that only 4% is lost. Another thing to look at is the Input Voltage Range. This indicates the voltage input rating of the unit at its lowest and highest ends. You need to know your vehicle's alternator output when deciding the input voltage range of the power inverter to buy.
• Choose the location of the power inverter. Always keep in mind that, as an electronic device, a power inverter should never be placed in places that are too cold or too hot. Likewise, keep it away from moisture, areas with combustible fuel vapors to avoid accidental ignition, and all types of airborne contamination, as these can shorten the life of the unit. The ideal location should be a compartment that is cool, dry, clean, and ventilated.
• Mount the unit. Secure the inverter by bolting it to a bulkhead or platform. For air circulation, leave at least an inch of space all around the unit. The section where DC cables enter and the inverter face should be easily visible and accessible.
• Install the fuse holder and battery. If you are installing huge power inverters with 1,000 watts and more, you will need to install an auxiliary battery. Protect all battery wires with a fuse of the corresponding size. Place the fuse holder within 18 inches of the battery. The location of the battery must be properly ventilated. Do not place it in an airtight area with the inverter or fuses to prevent accidental ignition. Secure the battery with a battery hold-down, box, or tray. Likewise, it should not be easily movable.
• Prep the vehicle battery. Disconnect the negative terminal of your vehicle's battery. If the car has an airbag and other sensitive electronics, wait for a few moments until any remaining charges have dissipated.
• Connect the inverter cables. Route the inverter cables as close to the frame as possible. If there are wire nuts, tape the cable over them, as any type of vibration may loosen the cables. Run the charging cables directly to the alternator and make sure that you do not use the chassis of the vehicle as a conductor. When routing under the vehicle, make sure that the cables are secured with clamps every 18 inches. Keep them away from the fuel line, drive shaft, and exhaust system. If you plan to route them in the engine compartment, select the coolest way possible.
• Test the inverter. Crimp the connectors and connect them to the power inverter and their respective battery terminals. Reconnect the line that was disconnected from the vehicle battery and test the function of the power inverter.

Installing a vehicle power inverter is not easy. If you are not sure whether you can do this, make sure to have someone knowledgeable help and assist you to prevent any injuries and damage to electrical components.