Inverter systems are a smart solution for coping with the increasing temperatures and frequent power outages that occur during summer. Helping to meet basic needs, they act as a reliable power backup by allowing appliances to function smoothly. Selecting an inverter system that meets all the household-specific power requirements requires careful planning. And so does the installation and setup of the inverter for the home.
Understanding the technical and safety aspects helps ensure a proper and secure setup, while maximising the benefits of the inverter. Hence, here is all the relevant and practical information to assist in the endeavour of installing an inverter for the home. Read on to plan your way to a hassle-free power backup experience!
Preparation to Install an Inverter For Home
It is recommended to have proper information on important aspects before installing the inverter system. These include:
Calculating Power Requirements
It will include identifying and listing the equipment that you need to power from the inverter. This will be followed by checking the power requirements of each, which include continuous power for normal operation and surge power for starting the appliance. The surge power is generally higher than normal operating power and is required initially to start the appliance.
Sum up the total power of all the appliances you need and consider a power factor of 0.8 to calculate the final inverter rating. For instance, if the requirement is 500 W, then including the power factor, an inverter with a capacity of 700 VA will be sufficient. For unaccounted power surges or to accommodate new appliances later, choose the inverter with a 1200 VA rating. Thus, adjust the appliances to be connected to the inverter you have.
Choosing the Location of the Inverter
The place where the inverter for home will be kept must be:
- Properly ventilated to avoid heating the surroundings
- Easily accessible for regular maintenance and inspection
- Distant from flammable materials
- Dry and cool, away from moisture and sunlight
- Flat and stable to prevent the accidental tipping of the equipment
Collecting Necessary Tools
Having the right set of tools beforehand will streamline the process. Ensure you have an inverter, a mounting system, circuit breakers, an insulation tester, power cables, hand tools, a clamp meter, and safety gear. Review the instruction manual and gather the additional required items (if listed).
Method to Install and Set Up an Inverter For Home
Now have a step-by-step insight into how to install the inverter for home:
Gather Everything
Based on the preparation, you will now have a dedicated area to keep the inverter. Place the inverter system on the mounting surface at this location. Ensure it is fixed, stable, and properly ventilated for effective heat dissipation. Also, ensure to have all the necessary tools required for the process with you.
Turn Off the Power Supply
Working with electrical supplies carries the risk of short circuits, electric shock, and fire hazards. So, switch off the main power supply to ensure safe operation. During the process, ensure that you do not touch the voltage source and be mindful to prevent contact with corrosive substances and flammable gases.
Thoroughly Assess the Cables
Check the battery cables and overall equipment for damage. Examine wear and tear, loose fittings, or any other abnormalities to take appropriate actions as required. Also, check the positive and negative terminals of both the inverter and the battery beforehand to avoid any mistakes.
Connect the Battery
Now, connect the positive and negative terminals of the inverter to the corresponding terminals of the battery. Use the right cable gauge or diameter for efficient load handling. Furthermore, ensure that you tighten the connections to avoid loose contacts in the system.
Wire the Inverter to the Main Power Panel
It is a crucial procedure that a qualified electrician must perform. It will involve using heavy-duty cables of an appropriate gauge to connect the inverter’s output to the power supply. The cable size will be influenced by the required amperage and voltage.
Ground the System and Install Circuit Breakers
Ground all components to avoid potential differences and prevent any possible damage, electrical faults, and surges. It will be done through a copper grounding rod connected to the inverter’s grounding terminal via a thick copper wire. Further, set up the circuit breakers to avoid electrical surges.
Complete the Process
The inverter setup is complete. Now switch on the inverter system and assess if the backup power functions correctly.
Conclusion
Setting up an inverter for a home requires careful preparation and adherence to safe installation practices. While the steps are easy to perform, it is recommended that a qualified electrician do the setup. It ensures following safety guidelines and prevents any possible hazards. It also offers long-term reliability and safety.
If you are doing it yourself, ensure that you understand each aspect and follow every safety precaution thoroughly. Also, focus on the preparation beforehand for a better and more efficient inverter setup and performance.
