Purkeys has produced a video providing instructions for how to reset an inverter on a heavy-duty tractor.
Inverters take 12V, DC power from tractor batteries and convert it to 110V, AC power, which Purkeys says allows drivers to operate devices, such as laptops and microwaves, while on the road. Inverters are good tools for drivers, but they do have limitations. It is important to understand how much an inverter can handle, the company says.
“When the 1200-11-8 inverter batteries drop below to 11.8 volts for more than 30 seconds, the inverter will shut off to protect the truck’s batteries from excessive draining,” says Larry Rambeaux, national fleet and truck representative.
The green light on the inverter will begin blinking when the voltage drops below a predetermined point, like 12.3v or 11.8v. If proper voltage is not restored within 30 seconds, the light will turn red and the inverter will shut off. The 30 second requirement eliminates false turn-offs from short-term loads, like an engine crank, Purkeys says.
To reset the inverter, first, turn on the vehicle so the batteries start charging. Second, connect a voltmeter to the inputs at the back of the inverter to make sure the input voltage is read correctly. Once proper input voltage is reached, turn the switch off and back on. The light will switch back to green when the inverter is operating correctly, Purkeys says.
