How to Install a Power Inverter on a Boat
If you want to carry a microwave or an HDTV on your boat, you need a source of 120-volt AC current. A power inverter gives you the option of having 120-volt AC household current aboard your boat by stepping up the power from your deep cycle "house" battery--the secondary battery set that runs your boat's 12-volt DC accessories. While the drain on your batteries is significant, a "smart" inverter also recharges your batteries when the AC power isn't being used, so that you have the power you need without stealing power from your starting battery.
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Instructions
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Use a screwdriver to mount the power inverter to a horizontal shelf, using the screws provided with the inverter. Ensure that the shelf is protected from water or spray, and not more than 10 feet away from the deep cycle battery. Leave several inches of space around the inverter to permit the unit's cooling fan to circulate the air.
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Attach the black negative cable to the negative ( - ) post on the battery. Remove the wing nut from the battery post, set the cable onto the post and tighten the wing nut. If the positive and negative cables run parallel to each other, twist the cables together. Do not connect the cables to the inverter.
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Connect the positive cable to a UL listed, DC-rated, slow blow fuse. Connect the lead from the fuse to the red positive ( + ) post of the the battery, within 18 inches of the battery.
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Attach the black negative ( - ) battery cable to the inverter. Use a torque wrench to tighten the battery bolt to a minimum of 160 foot pounds and a maximum of 180 foot pounds.
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Attach the red positive ( + ) battery cable to the inverter. Use a torque wrench to tighten the battery bolt to a minimum of 160 foot pounds and a maximum of 180 foot pounds.
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Tips & Warnings
This project involves electrical work. Appropriate precautions should be taken and caution during the activity is advised.
