If you're living in a remote place where you have only Direct current for power, a power inverter is a necessity. However, when you encountered an inverter that’s not functioning as it should, what can you do? Don’t panic. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the common reasons why an inverter might fail and provide solutions to help you fix the issue.
Why My Inverter Isn't Working
A cordless power inverter that stops working usually has a different set of possible issues compared to a wired one for its internal battery and compact circuitry. Here are common reasons why a cordless power inverter might not work
Low or Dead Battery: The most common reason for a cordless inverter to stop working is a drained or dead battery
Overload Protection Activation: If the inverter was connected to a load that exceeded its capacity, the overload protection may have been triggered, which can prevent it from turning on.
Faulty Switch or Buttons: If the power button or switch itself is faulty, the inverter won’t turn on. Inspect the switch for any signs of wear or damage, and replace it if necessary.
Faulty connection: If the battery terminals and connectors on the inverter are not clean, or corrosion, as debris can prevent a secure connection. Besides, if the battery doesn’t click in securely, the connection might not be complete, and the inverter won’t receive power.
How to Repair My Power Inverter
1. Check Power Source and Connections
Ensure the battery or power source supplying Ecarke inverter is fully charged. If the battery doesn't hold a charge after long periods of charging, you need to replace the battery. Check that all connections are secure and free from corrosion. Double-check that the battery is installed properly according to the manual. Re-seat the battery if necessary.
- 2. Overheating or Overload Protection
Ensure the cooling fan is working properly. If the fan isn’t running, the inverter might be shutting off due to overheating. Check if the inverter is overloaded. If the inverter shuts down during heavy use, you may need a larger inverter or reduce the load.
- 3. Inspect the Inverter’s Circuit Board
If you have some experience with electronics, you can open up the inverter (be cautious of high-voltage components). Check for any visible signs of damage on the circuit board, such as burn marks or a burnt smell, as well as any bulging or leaking capacitors, as these are common components that fail. Capacitors can often be replaced relatively easily if you’re comfortable with soldering.
- 4. Testing with a Multimeter
With the inverter connected to a power source, use the multimeter to test the AC output. If there’s no AC output, it could indicate an internal fault. Besides, verify if the inverter is getting the correct DC input voltage from the battery. Check transistors, diodes, and resistors, for continuity or shorts, which can give you an idea of which component might be faulty.
- 5. Consult the Manual or Professional personnel
The manual might have a troubleshooting guide with error codes or light indicators to help diagnose the issue. If you’ve gone through basic troubleshooting steps and your inverter still isn’t working, it’s wise to consult a professional technician or service center.
Ecarke power inverter is vital for providing backup power and enabling off-grid living, so it's understandably frustrating when it stop working. However, many issues can be resolved with a bit of troubleshooting. Following the steps outlined above helps you identify and fix the problem yourself, saving time and money.