Questions for Inverter Installation

How do I connect multiple batteries?

If you require more than one battery, you have two main installation options, depending on if you'd like to increase the overall voltage or increase the runtime:
1. Increase the overall voltage (i.e. add the voltages of each battery together) by daisy-chaining batteries in a Series Configuration.

Example:
Four 10-volt batteries wired in series with one another will create a total of 40 volts. If one battery fails, the others will stop providing power to the load.

2. Increase capacity and extend runtime (i.e. amp/hours available) by connecting batteries in a Parallel Configuration.

Example:
If one 10-volt battery would normally power a circuit for two hours, two 10-volt batteries wired in parallel might power the circuit for four hours, but still supplying only 10 volts to the circuit. If one battery fails, the rest will continue to supply power to load.

What type of batteries should I use in my Inverter installation ?

We recommend using only high-quality deep cycle batteries in Wet, Gel or AGM (Absorbed Glass Matt) technologies to be used with Pooxtra products. Deep-cycle batteries are designed specifically for a deep discharge and a rapid recharge. Wet cell batteries include 6-volt (golf cart) batteries and require some maintenance. Gel cell batteries and AGM batteries are sealed and typically require very little maintenance. Do not use starting batteries for inverter applications.

How far can I keep my inverter from my batteries?

Keep the cables between your inverter and batteries as short as possible.This will help your batteries perform their best and keep the unit’s signal clean. If you plan on going over six ft., drop down to a larger gauge cable.Please call us if you are still unsure. This is pretty important stuff that should NOT be overlooked. If the cables between your battery and inverter get hot while under heavy load, then you should use heavier cables.

With an inverter installed on a truck, can the engine be idled to maintain a charge on the batteries to offset the drain by heavy power tool use?

Yes, most of our customers will leave their vehicle running while using their unit. We recommend that only 2500 watt inverters and below be used on your truck or large vehicle. Advise your vehicle’s manufacture or mechanic to make sure your alternator will keep up with the amps being used.

Connecting Batteries Together in Parallel

If your battery application requires more starting power or reserve capacity you can install multiple batteries together in parallel by connecting the like terminals together (positive to positive / negative to negative).Each time you add a battery in parallel you increase the CCA and Reserve Capacity, the voltage remains at 12 volts. For example, two OPTIMA® 34/78’s in parallel will provide 1600 CCA and 208 minutes reserve. Three in parallel provides 2400 CCA and 312 minutes of reserve.If you have any questions about multiple battery installations, contact an appropriate automotive service center.

Suggestions for connecting batteries in parallel

Use batteries of identical make, model, and age.
Make sure cable gauge is sufficient to handle the higher current flow.
Prevent cables from shorting (do not allow them to rub against the vehicle body).
Use only high quality connectors, clean all contacts prior to installation.
Periodically check all connections for snugness.
If you are unsure of this procedure, contact your automotive service center.

Battery installation tips

Ensure that the battery is properly secured in the vehicle or equipment to prevent movement or vibration wear.
Do not over tighten the hold down bracket
Connect high amperage accessories such as a winch to the top terminals only. Do NOT use the side terminals.
Replace any cables and connectors that have corrosion, rust, or other damage.
Do not install batteries in a non-ventilated or sealed compartment.
Do not lift or handle the batteries by the terminals.
Do not over tighten terminal bolts

Do I need an inline fuse or circuit breaker and why ?

Batteries are capable of supplying large amounts of current, and thousands of amperes could be present if a short circuit were to occur. A short circuit can damage your system, cause a fire and be hazardous to your health. Incorporating an overcurrent device is an effective line of defense against a short circuit occurrence. An overcurrent protection device is typically a fuse or circuit breaker that goes inline on the positive cable, between the inverter and battery, to protect your system. A fast acting fuse or circuit breaker will blow within milliseconds under short circuit conditions, preventing any damage or hazards.

It is important to appropriately size your fuse or circuit breaker for both your inverter and cables. An oversized fuse could result in cables exceeding their ampere capability, resulting in the cables becoming red-hot and dangerous. Consult your owners manual for the recommended sized fuse or circuit breaker and cable gauge for a safe installation.

How do I hook up the inverter ?

Pooxtra small inverters (500 watts and under) come with a cigarette lighter adapter, and may be plugged into your vehicle's lighter socket (although you will not be able to draw more than 150 to 200 watts from the cigarette lighter socket). The small units also come with cables that can be clamped directly to a battery. If you want an inverter that will plug into your cigarette lighter, you must choose one that is 500 watts or less. Larger inverters (600 watts and over) must be hard-wired directly to a battery.

What type of environmental conditions must I consider when installing an inverter?

All Pooxtra Inverters must be installed in a dry, well-ventilated compartment. While most units are designed to withstand corrosion from the salty air, they are not splash proof. The units also require a fresh air supply to operate properly.

Can I install my inverter in a gasoline engine compartment?

All Pooxtra Inverters are not ignition protected and therefore should not be installed in a gasoline engine compartment.

How do I connect two or more batteries?

It may be advisable to operate the inverter from a bank of 12 Volt batteries of the same type in a "parallel" configuration. Two such batteries will generate twice the amp/hours of a single battery; three batteries will generate three times the amp/hours, and so on. This will lengthen the time before your batteries will need to be recharged, giving you a longer time that you can run your appliances.You can also connect 6 Volt batteries together in "series" configuration to double the voltage to 12 volts. Note that 6 Volt batteries must be connected in pairs.

Do I need to install my inverter near my batteries ?

Ideally an inverter should be installed within 10 feet of the battery bank. If you increase this distance, you will need to use larger DC cables to compensate for a drop in voltage and DC ripple.

Can I install the inverter without a fuse ?

No. A fuse (or circuit breaker, depending on the location and nature of the application) is an integral part of the safe installation of Pooxtra products. If your installation does not meet the recommendations and specifications in the user guide, it is possible that an unsafe condition may be created, which could result in a fire. Your insurance company may not be obliged to cover damages in this case. Follow the installation guidelines in the manual for optimal performance and safety of your Pooxtra power inverter product.

What are Safety Precautions when Installing Pooxtra Inverters ?

General Safety Precautions and Installation Tips:
1.Place the inverter on a reasonably flat surface, either horizontally or vertically.

2.The inverter should not be installed in the engine compartment, due to possible water/oil/acid contamination, and excessive heat under the hood, as well as potential danger from gasoline fumes and the spark that an inverter can occasionally produce. It's best to run battery cables to a dry, cool inverter mounting location.

3.Keep the inverter dry. Do not expose it to rain or moisture. DO NOT operate the inverter if you, the inverter, the device being operated, or any other surfaces that may come in contact with any power source are wet. Water and many other liquids can conduct electricity which may lead to serious injury or death.

4.Avoid placing the inverter on or near heating vents, radiators or other sources of heat. Do not place the inverter in direct sunlight. Ideal air temperature is between 50° and 80° F.

5.In order to properly disperse heat generated while the inverter is in operation, keep it well ventilated. While in use, maintain several inches of clearance around the top and sides of the inverter.

6.Do not use the inverter near flammable materials. Do not place the inverter in areas such as battery compartments where fumes or gases may accumulate.