Troubleshooting
Possible Problem Loads
The inverter can drive most loads, however, there are special conditions that can cause a load to behave differently than expected. The following describes some of the common problems encountered when using an inverter.
| WARNING: Fire Hazard |
| Transformerless Battery Chargers are not to be used with any model of the |
| PowerHub 1800 family. Connecting a transformerless battery charger could |
| result in a overheating condition and possibly a fire. |
|
|
Ceiling Fans | Most large diameter, slow turning fans run correctly, but generate more |
| noise than when connected to utility power. High speed fans tend to |
| operate normally. |
Cell Phones | Some cellular telephones experience interference in the form of a clicking |
| sound. |
Clocks | The inverter keeps the frequency accurate to within a few seconds a day; |
| however, external loads in the system may alter the inverter’s output |
| waveform causing clocks to run at different speeds. There may be periods |
| where clocks keep time and then mysteriously do not. |
Dimmer | Most dimmer switches lose their ability to dim the lights when used with |
Switches | an inverter and operate only in the fully ON or OFF position. Newer, |
| microprocessor controlled dimmers tend to work better in inverter |
| applications. |
Heavy Loads | If the battery bank cannot deliver the necessary amperage to drive a heavy |
| load, the inverter will shut OFF. The battery voltage will then slowly rise |
| back above the low voltage threshold causing the inverter to resume |
| operation. As soon as the heavy load draws the batteries down, the cycle |
| will continue unless the load is reduced or an additional source of power |
| is added. |
Microwave | Microwave ovens are sensitive to peak output voltages. The higher the |
Ovens | voltage, the faster they cook. Since the inverter’s peak output voltage is |
| dependent upon battery voltage and load size, the microwave’s cook time |
| may need to be increased. |
Printers | Most inkjet type printers work well in inverter applications. Laser |
| printers, however, require high current for their fusing circuit and are not |
| recommended for use with an inverter. |