Question on Inverters (How they work)

There are 2 type of inverters. Small ones can plug into cigarette lighter and big ones need to be hard wired into truck and connected directly to batts.

Inverters can power pretty much anythign you plug into a standard outlet. Depending on draw, you MAY get away with a cigarette lighter one. As for run time, it varries a lot based on what you have plugged in. If you do let your batts get low, just start the truck and charge um back up. PS3 does use a bit of power and if tv is on as well you probaly need a hard wired one. For large draws like microwaves and such, start the truck before you turn the micrwave on and leave it running untill your done.

 

Those inverters you need to talk to your company about.If they allow inverters then their shop installs them.If you go against company policy it could be grounds for termination if you get caught.The ones that plug into a cigarette lighter you can use and company wont say anything.Those are good for computers,dvd players and your cell.But for a tv,you'll need a bigger voltage inverter.

 

Some companies already have inverters installed in all their trks,the ones that come equipped with fridges.Then some allow high voltage inverters and some companies sale them,but if u was to buy one u would have to get it approved from the shop.

 

I've also read about wiring your inverter into a set of jumper cables for a "temporary" hardwire for use with the higher voltage inverters.

 

Forget all that bs reading,if they're not installed just right,inverters can start a fire,thats why the companies have policies concerning inverters.

 

A little common sense goes a long way with this too. Making sure to have the line fused properly with the proper amperage as well as ventilation for the unit will prevent a fire.

 

A Cobra CPI 880 will work for what you want. It includes battery cables with alligator clips for portable use. Hook it up when you are sitting and run you a short extension cord.
Another alternative is the CPI 480 which can plug into a cigarette lighter and run only the TV and game console. They both use maybe 300 watts max together.


http://www.amazon.com/Cobra-CPI-880...15182&sr=8-1&keywords=cobra+800+watt+inverter

http://www.amazon.com/Cobra-400-Wat...15372&sr=8-2&keywords=cobra+800+watt+inverter

 

It doesn't take a rocket scientist to install one as long as you follow some simple rules. We know you're a girl!

Keep feed cables 4' and under. Run a short extension cord for additional length.

The biggest concern to prevent fires... Protect the cables at the floor hole penetration with a rubber grommet and silicone to prevent the floor edge from rubbing holes in the cables.

Use the correct size cables for the inverter. To make it easy the cable should be as big as the mount hole on the inverter, no smaller.

Buy an inverter fuse which bolts straight to the battery post.

Ground the inverter chassis to the truck chassis.


That's for a permanent install. Follow that and you'll never have a problem.