Load Considerations; Determining Maximum Appliance Wattage - Wagan Elite 400W Pure Sine User Manual

Elite 400W Pure Sine Inverter by Wagan Tech

Load Considerations

The startup load of an appliance is a major factor of whether this inverter can
power it.
Startup load is momentary. With many appliances, it is approximately twice the
continuous load, but some appliance startup loads can be as high as eight times the
continuous load.
To determine if an appliance or tool will operate with this inverter, run a test. This
inverter will automatically shut down in the event of an output overload, so there is
no danger of damaging either the inverter or the equipment. When lit, a red LED
indicator signals a fault.
Maximum Power from Vehicular Accessory Sockets
Most vehicular accessory sockets that are controlled through a vehicle's ignition
switch are fused at 15 amps. This limits inverter output to approximately 140 watts.
A user has some options to power appliances to 400 watts.
1. For temporary use, connect the battery clip adapter cord to the inverter and
follow the procedure located under the "Connecting the Inverter" section.
2. Install a separate fused DC accessory socket wired to the vehicle's battery.
Fuse this circuit at 50 amps.
There is no danger in leaving the inverter directly wired to the battery if the inverter
is turned OFF after use. Further, all inverters will shut off when the battery discharges
to 9.5 volts. This lower battery voltage still allows the vehicle to start.

Determining Maximum Appliance Wattage

Do not exceed the 400 watt maximum AC load or the inverter will shut down.
Most other electrical tools, appliances, and audio/video equipment have labels
that list the unit's power requirements in watts. If the tool or device is rated in amps,
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