1. Introduction
The Tripp Lite PV1800HF Power Compact Inverter converts 12V DC battery power into 120V AC power, allowing users to operate standard AC appliances from a vehicle's battery or automotive DC source. This inverter is designed for use in automobiles, RVs, trucks, fleet, and emergency vehicles, providing up to 1800 watts of continuous output power and 3600 watts of peak output power for demanding equipment startups.
Its compact, lightweight metal case features a grooved surface for efficient cooling and is built to withstand vibration and impact, making it suitable for remote worksites and various mobile applications. The unit includes diagnostic LEDs to indicate battery voltage and load levels, along with safety features such as a low battery alarm with auto-shutoff and automatic overload shutdown.
2. Features
- Converts 12V DC battery power to 120V AC power.
- Provides 1800 watts continuous output power and 3600 watts peak output power.
- Equipped with 4 AC outlets (5-15R type).
- Compact, lightweight design with a durable all-metal housing and grooved surface for efficient cooling.
- Diagnostic LEDs indicate low battery voltage level and load level.
- Low battery alarm with auto-shutoff feature to prevent deep battery discharge.
- High-efficiency operation to conserve battery power and prolong run time.
- Cooling fan regulates internal temperature and extends unit service life.
- Includes nut-and-bolt style DC terminals for secure installation.
- Features integral mounting slots for permanent installation.
- RJ45 port for optional remote control module (Tripp Lite model APSRM4).
3. Package Contents
- PV1800HF Power Inverter
- Instruction Manual
4. Safety Information
Important Safety Precautions:
- To protect against high current draw that may occur during inverter failure, a fuse link rated at 250A should be positioned no more than 18 inches from the PV1800HF's battery in the positive line.
- This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
- Ensure proper ventilation around the inverter to prevent overheating.
- Do not disassemble, heat above 60°C, or incinerate the unit.
5. Setup and Installation
The PV1800HF inverter is designed for simple installation and equipment connection. It can be permanently installed on any rigid, horizontal surface using its integral mounting slots.
5.1 Connecting to a 12V Battery
Connect the inverter to your 12V battery system using user-supplied cables. The unit features nut-and-bolt style DC terminals for secure connections. Ensure the positive (+) terminal of the inverter is connected to the positive terminal of the battery, and the negative (-) terminal of the inverter is connected to the negative terminal of the battery. Observe proper polarity to prevent damage.
Figure 1: Rear view of the PV1800HF inverter showing DC input terminals and cooling fan.
Figure 2: Front and back view of the PV1800HF inverter, highlighting AC outlets and DC terminals.
5.2 Mounting the Inverter
The inverter includes integral mounting flanges for permanent installation. Choose a rigid, horizontal surface that allows for adequate ventilation around the unit. Secure the inverter using appropriate fasteners (not included).
5.3 Connecting AC Equipment
AC power is provided through four 5-15R receptacles located on the front of the unit. Plug your AC-powered equipment directly into these outlets. Ensure the total wattage of connected devices does not exceed the inverter's continuous output capacity of 1800 watts.
Figure 3: Close-up of the PV1800HF front panel, showing AC outlets, diagnostic LEDs, and the On/Off/Remote switch.
5.4 Optional Remote Control
The PV1800HF is equipped with an RJ45 port for connecting an optional Remote Control LED/Switch Module (Tripp Lite model APSRM4). This allows for convenient control and monitoring of the inverter from a remote location within your vehicle.
Figure 4: Diagram highlighting key features of the PV1800HF, including AC outlets, DC input terminals, operating mode switch, remote control jack, battery charge level LEDs, connected load level LEDs, sturdy extruded aluminum case, battery charge conservation dial, cooling fan, mounting flanges, grooved cooling surface, and grounding lug.
6. Operation
6.1 Powering On/Off
Use the 3-position On/Off/Remote switch on the front panel to control the inverter's power. Set to "On" for direct operation, "Off" to power down, or "Remote" if using an optional remote control module.
6.2 Monitoring with Diagnostic LEDs
The inverter features diagnostic LEDs that provide important status information:
- Low Battery Voltage Level: Indicates the remaining charge in the connected 12V battery.
- Load Level: Shows the current power draw from connected AC equipment (High, Medium, Low).
6.3 Battery Charge Conservation (Load Sense)
The Load Sense feature helps prevent overtaxing your batteries by adjusting power output based on demand. This maximizes battery performance and prolongs run time.
7. Maintenance
- The integrated cooling fan helps regulate internal temperature. Ensure the fan vents are not obstructed to allow for proper airflow.
- Regularly inspect battery connections for tightness and corrosion. Clean as necessary.
- Keep the inverter's exterior clean and free of dust and debris.
8. Troubleshooting
The PV1800HF includes several automatic protection features to prevent damage to the inverter and connected equipment:
- Low Battery Alarm with Auto-Shutoff: If the battery voltage drops too low, an alarm will sound, and the inverter will automatically shut off to prevent deep battery discharge, ensuring enough power remains to start your vehicle.
- Automatic Overload Shutdown: If an overload is detected at the inverter outlets, the unit will shut down automatically. The red Load Level Indicator LED will flash to alert you of the overload. Reduce the connected load before restarting the inverter.
9. Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | PV1800HF |
| Input Voltage | 12 VDC |
| Output Voltage | 120 VAC |
| Frequency Compatibility | 60 Hz |
| Continuous Output Capacity | 1800 watts |
| DoubleBoost Output Capacity | 3600 watts / 10 seconds |
| Outlets | 4 x 5-15R |
| Overload Protection | Output circuit breaker |
| Cooling Method | Fan |
| Input Connection | 2 x DC input terminals (user supplies cables) |
| Switches/LEDs/Alarms | 3-position On/Off/Remote switch, 6 x diagnostic LEDs, Low voltage alarm/automatic shutdown |
| Dimensions (HWD) | 4.0 x 6.0 x 15.0 inches |
| Weight | 7.25 lbs |
| Material of Construction | Aluminum |
9.1 Equipment Sizing Guide (Examples)
The PV1800HF can power a range of equipment. Typical wattages are provided for reference; actual wattage may vary.
- Power Tools: Finishing Sander (200-225W), 1/4-in. Drill (250W), Heat Gun (500-1500W), Jigsaw (450-600W), Disk Grinder (600W), 1/2-in. Reversible Drill (700W), Circular Saw (800-1000W), Router (500-1800W), 14-in. Chain Saw (1200-1600W).
- Pumps: 1/6-hp Submersible Sump Pump (1200/800W), 1/4-hp Submersible Sump Pump (1300/900W), 1/3-hp Submersible Sump Pump (1600/1050W), 1/2-hp Submersible Sump Pump (1400W).
- Audio/Video: Game System (10-200W), VCR/DVD Player (50W), CD Changer/Mini System (50W), LCD TV (13-19 in. 50-100W, 25-36 in. 120-135W, 43-60 in. 200-250W), Stereo Amplifier (240W).
- Appliances: Can Opener (200W), 3-Speed Fan (12 in. 250W), Mixer/Blender (200-400W), Food Processor (400W), Portable Vacuum (800W), Toaster Oven (1200W), Coffeemaker (800-1200W), Microwave (600-1800W).
- Mobile Office: Battery Charger (25W), Inkjet Printer (100W), Laptop Computer (75-150W), Fax Device (150W), Computer/Monitor (250W), Portable Laser Printer (350W).
10. Warranty and Support
The Tripp Lite PV1800HF Power Inverter comes with a 1-year product warranty. For support or warranty claims, please refer to the contact information provided in your product packaging or visit the official TRIPP LITE website.
