Schumacher PI-140 User Manual 2

OWNER’S MANUAL

MANUAL DEL USUARIO

GUIDE D’UTILISATION

Model / Modelo / Modèle : PI-140
Power Inverter / Inversor de corriente / Onduleur de puissance

Converts 12V DC battery power

to 120V AC household power

Convierte la energía de baterías de 12V de CC

a 120V de CA de energía doméstica

Convertit la tension d’une batterie 12V CC

en 120V CA domestique

DO NOT RETURN THIS PRODUCT TO THE STORE!

Contact Customer Service for assistance:
Phone: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Web: www.batterychargers.com

¡NO LO DEVUELVA ESTE PRODUCTO A LA TIENDA!

Contacte Servicios al Cliente para asistencia:
Teléfono: 800-621-5485
Correo Electrónico: [e-mail]
Sitio Red: www.batterychargers.com

NE PAS RETOURNER LE PRODUIT AU MAGASIN!

Contactez le service clientéle pour l’aide :
Téléphone : 800-621-5485
E-mail : [e-mail]
Site web : www.batterychargers.com

READ THE ENTIRE MANUAL BEFORE USING THIS
PRODUCT. FAILURE TO DO SO COULD RESULT IN
SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

LEA EL MANUAL COMPLETO ANTES DE UTILIZAR ESTE
PRODUCTO. CUALQUIER FALLA PODRÍA RESULTAR EN
SERIAS LESIONES O PODRÍA SER MORTAL.

LIRE ENTIÈREMENT LE GUIDE AVANT D’UTILISER CE
PRODUIT. L’ÉCHEC DE FAIRE AINSI PEUT S’ENSUIVRE
DANS LA BLESSURE SÉRIEUSE OU LA MORT.

0099001321-00

IMPORTANT: READ AND SAVE THIS SAFETY AND INSTRUCTION MANUAL.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS – This manual will show you how to use

your inverter safely and effectively. Please read, understand and follow these
instructions and precautions carefully, as this manual contains important safety
and operating instructions. The safety messages used throughout this manual
contain a signal word, a message and an icon.

The signal word indicates the level of the hazard in a situation.

Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will
result in death or serious injury to the operator or bystanders.

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury to the operator or bystanders.

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could
result in moderate or minor injury to the operator or bystanders.

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could
result in damage to the equipment, vehicle or property.

Pursuant to California Proposition 65, this product contains chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or
other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

1. IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS – SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.

This manual contains important safety and operating instructions.

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK OR FIRE.

1.1 Keep out of reach of children.

1.2 For the most effective use, place the power

inverter on a at surface.

disperse heat generated while it is use. Make sure there are several inches of
clearance around the top and sides and do not block the slots of the inverter.

1.4 Make sure the inverter is not close to any potential source of ammable fumes

or clothing.

1.5 Do not place the inverter in areas such as battery compartments or engine

compartments where fumes or gases may accumulate.

1.6 Keep the inverter dry. DO NOT allow the inverter to come into contact with rain

or moisture.

1.7 DO NOT operate the inverter if you, the inverter, the device being operated or any

other surfaces that may come into contact with any power source are wet. Water and
many other liquids can conduct electricity, which may lead to serious injury or death.

1.3 Keep the inverter well ventilated in order to properly

• 2 •

1.8 Do not place the inverter on or near heating vents, radiators or other sources of

heat or ammable materials.

1.9 Do not place the inverter in direct sunlight. The ideal air temperature for operation

is between 50° and 80°F.

1.10 Only connect the power inverter to a 12 volt battery or power supply. Do not

attempt to connect the inverter to any other power source, including an AC power
source. Connecting to a 6 volt or 16 volt battery will cause damage to the inverter.

1.11 Make sure the AC plug is tight.

1.12 Do not modify the AC receptacle in any way.

1.13 Do not try extending or otherwise changing the 12 volt power cord supplied with

your inverter. Make sure the cord connections are tight.

1.14 Incorrect operation of your inverter may result in damage and personal injury.

same as any ordinary household AC wall outlet.

1.15 Do not use the inverter with a product that draws a higher wattage than the

inverter can provide, as this may cause damage to the inverter and product.

1.16 Do not open – No user serviceable parts inside.

1.17 This device does not include an internal Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI).

The inverter output is 120V AC and can shock or electrocute the

2. INVERTER FEATURES

1. LED Indicator Light (Green = Power ON)

2. Standard Electrical 120V AC Outlet

3. 12 Volt Power Plug

4. USB Power Port

5. Low-Battery Protection

3. BEFORE USING YOUR POWER INVERTER

NOTE: This inverter is designed to be used with a single battery, up to group 31

type (130 Ah or smaller in size).
NOTE: Do not use the inverter with a product that draws a higher wattage than the

inverter can provide, as this may cause damage to the inverter and product.
When you turn on a device or a tool that runs on a motor, the device basically

goes through two stages:

1. Start Up – Requiring an initial surge of power (commonly known as the

“starting or peak load”).

2. Continuous Operation – Power consumption drops (commonly known as the

“continuous load”).

The wattage (WATTS) or amperes (AMPS) can normally be found stamped or
printed on most devices and equipment, or in the user’s manual. Otherwise,

contact the manufacturer to nd out whether the device you want to use is
compatible with a modied sine wave.

• 3 •

To calculate the wattage: Wattage = AMPS x 120 (AC Voltage).
To calculate the starting load: Starting Load = 2 x WATTS. In general, the start

up load of the device or power tool determines whether your inverter has the
capability to power it.

To calculate the continuous load: Continuous Load = AMPS x 120 (AC Voltage).

particular piece of equipment or device. In the event of a power overload, the
inverter is designed to automatically shut down. This safety feature prevents
damaging the inverter while testing devices and equipment within the wattage
range of the inverter.

If a device does not operate properly when rst connected to the inverter, turn the

inverter ON (I), OFF (O), and ON (I) again in quick succession. If this procedure is
not successful, it is likely that the inverter does not have the required capacity to
operate the device in question.

used with the vehicle 12 volt accessory port. To use the full output you must use
the battery clips adapter and connect the inverter directly to the battery.

NOTE: The 100 watt limit is to accommodate the fuse ratings for all vehicles.
Some vehicles may allow the full output. If the fuse blows when you switch on the
device you are trying to use, you have to either use a smaller device or you must
purchase the 12 volt accessory outlet to battery clips adapter (Schumacher Model
SAC-103) and connect the inverter directly to the battery.

not recommend you use it to power the following devices:

1. Switch mode power supplies

2. Linear power supplies

3. Class 2 transformers

4. Line lter capacitors

5. Shaded pole motors

6. Fan motors

7. Microwave ovens

8. Fluorescent and high intensity lamps (with a ballast)

9. Transformerless battery chargers

Doing so may cause the device to run warmer or overheat.

Always run a test to establish whether the inverter will operate a

This inverter is designed to power 100 watt devices or less when

This inverter uses a nonsinusoidal waveform. Therefore, we do

• 4 •

4. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

1. Push the 12 volt power plug rmly into the 12V accessory outlet.

2. The LED indicator light should glow GREEN, verifying the inverter

is receiving power.

3. Make sure the device to be operated is turned OFF.

4. Plug the device into the inverter AC outlet or USB port.

5. Turn the device on.

6. To disconnect, reverse the above procedure.

NOTE: You may hear a “buzzing” sound being emitted from inexpensive sound

systems when operated with the inverter. This is due to ineffective lters in the

sound system’s power supply. Unfortunately, this problem can only be resolved by

purchasing a sound system with a higher quality power supply or higher quality lter.

5. POWER SOURCE

Your average automobile or marine battery at full charge will provide an ample power
supply to the inverter for approximately 3 hours when the engine is off. The actual
length of time the inverter will function depends on the age and condition of the battery
and the power demand being placed by the device being operated with the inverter.

If you decide to use the inverter while the engine is off, we recommend you turn
OFF the device plugged into the inverter before starting the engine. To maintain
battery power, start the engine every 2 to 3 hours and let it run for approximately
10 minutes to recharge the battery.

Although it is not necessary to disconnect the inverter when turning over the engine, it

may briey cease to operate as the battery voltage decreases. While the inverter draws

very low amperage when not in use, it should be unplugged to avoid battery drain.

6. LED INDICATOR AND SHUTDOWN PROTECTION

The LED glows GREEN automatically when plugged into a 12 volt DC source and
will not glow under the following conditions:

1. When the power input from the vehicle’s battery drops to approximately 10V,

low battery shutdown occurs and inverter shuts off. Solution: Recharge or
replace the battery.

2. When the power input from the vehicle’s battery exceeds 15V, high voltage

protection occurs. Solution: Reduce the voltage range to between 12V and 14V.

3. The continuous load demand from the equipment or device being operated

exceeds the continuous load rating of the inverter being used. Solution: Use a
higher capacity inverter or lower rated device.

4. The case temperature becomes hot (exceeds 145°F). Solution: Allow the

inverter to cool. Do not block the cooling slots or air ow over and through the

inverter. Reduce the load on the inverter to the continuous rated output.

RESET: To reset after shutdown occurs, remove the 12 volt plug from the
accessory outlet. Check the source of the problem and correct. Reinsert the 12V
plug into the accessory outlet.

• 5 •

7. IF THE INVERTER FUSE BLOWS

Your power inverter is tted with a fuse, which should not have to be replaced

under normal operating conditions. A blown fuse is usually caused by reverse
polarity or a short circuit within the device or equipment being operated.

If the fuse does blow:

1. Disconnect the device or equipment immediately.

2. Find the source of the problem and repair it.

3. Install a new fuse (15A). The fuse can be found on the end of the plug on the

inverter.

4. Do not tighten the fuse cap too tight; nger-tight is sufcient.

ATTENTION: Do not install a fuse higher than 15A, as this may damage

the inverter. Make sure to correct the cause of the blown fuse before using the
inverter again.

8. TROUBLESHOOTING

PROBLEM REASON SOLUTION

LEDs do not light,
or inverter does not
function.

Poor contact at
terminals.

Fuse blown.

Inverter shutdown.

Inverter may not be
working properly.

Unplug and reinsert the 12 volt
plug.

See “IF THE INVERTER FUSE
BLOWS” section.

See “LED INDICATOR AND
SHUTDOWN PROTECTION”
section.

See Warranty and call Customer
Service.

• 6 •

9. SPECIFICATIONS

Maximum Continuous Power ................................................................ 140 Watts

Surge Capability (Peak Power) .............................................................. 280 Watts

No Load Current Draw .................................................................................. <0.2A

Wave Form ............................................................................. Modied Sine Wave

Input Voltage Range..................................................................10.5V – 15.5V DC

Output Voltage Range .....................................................................120V ± 5% AC

Low Battery Shutdown ................................................................ 10.5V ± 0.3V DC

High Battery Shutdown ............................................................. 15.0V – 16.0V DC

Optimum Efciency ......................................................................................... 85%

AC Outlet........................................................................... One, 120V AC 3-Prong

USB Port .....................................................................................One, 5V 0.5 Amp

Fuse ..................................................................................................... 15A (250V)

Dimensions .......................................................................5.5" L x 2.5" W x 1.5" D

Weight ................................................................................... approximately .45 lb.

10. REPLACEMENT PART S

Fuses – Replacement fuses can be purchased at most electronic component retailers.

11. BEFORE RETURNING FOR REPAIRS

When an UNKNOWN OPERATING PROBLEM arises, please read the complete
manual and call the customer service number for information. This will usually eliminate
the need for return.

If this does not eliminate the problem, or for information

about troubleshooting, call toll-free from anywhere in the U.S.A.

7:00 am to 5:00 pm Central Time, Monday through Friday

For REPAIR OR RETURN, contact Customer Service at 1-800-621-5485. DO NOT
SHIP UNIT until you receive a RETURN MERCHANDISE AUTHORIZATION (RMA)

number from Customer Service at Schumacher Electric Corporation.

1-800-621-5485

12. LIMITED WARRANTY

SCHUMACHER ELECTRIC CORPORATION, 801 BUSINESS CENTER DRIVE,
MOUNT PROSPECT, IL 60056-2179, MAKES THIS LIMITED WARRANTY TO
THE ORIGINAL RETAIL PURCHASER OF THIS PRODUCT. THIS LIMITED
WARRANTY IS NOT TRANSFERABLE OR ASSIGNABLE.

Schumacher Electric Corporation (the “Manufacturer”) warrants this inverter for
two (2) years from the date of purchase at retail against defective material or
workmanship that may occur under normal use and care. If your unit is not free from
defective material or workmanship, Manufacturers obligation under this warranty
is solely to repair or replace your product, with a new or reconditioned unit, at the
option of the Manufacturer. It is the obligation of the purchaser to forward the unit,

• 7 •

along with proof of purchase and mailing charges prepaid to the Manufacturer or its
authorized representatives in order for repair or replacement to occur.

Manufacturer does not provide any warranty for any accessories used with this
product that are not manufactured by Schumacher Electric Corporation and
approved for use with this product. This Limited Warranty is void if the product is

misused, subjected to careless handling, repaired, or modied by anyone other

than Manufacturer or if this unit is resold through an unauthorized retailer.
Manufacturer makes no other warranties, including, but not limited to, express,

implied or statutory warranties, including without limitation, any implied warranty

of merchantability or implied warranty of tness for a particular purpose. Further,

Manufacturer shall not be liable for any incidental, special or consequential
damage claims incurred by purchasers, users or others associated with this

product, including, but not limited to, lost prots, revenues, anticipated sales,

business opportunities, goodwill, business interruption and any other injury or
damage. Any and all such warranties, other than the limited warranty included
herein, are hereby expressly disclaimed and excluded. Some states do not allow
the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages or length of
implied warranty, so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you. This

warranty gives you specic legal rights and it is possible you may have other rights

which vary from this warranty.

THIS LIMITED WARRANTY IS THE ONLY EXPRESS LIMITED WARRANTY
AND THE MANUFACTURER NEITHER ASSUMES OR AUTHORIZES ANYONE
TO ASSUME OR MAKE ANY OTHER OBLIGATION TOWARDS THE PRODUCT
OTHER THAN THIS WARRANTY.

Schumacher Electric Corporation Customer Service

Monday – Friday 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CST

Schumacher® and the Schumacher Logo are registered trademarks

DO NOT RETURN THIS PRODUCT TO THE STORE!

Contact Customer Service for assistance:
Phone: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

Web: www.batterychargers.com

of Schumacher Electric Corporation.

1-800-621-5485

• 8 •

SAVE ON POSTAGE! ACTIVATE YOUR WARRANTY ONLINE –
THE QUICK AND EASY WAY!

Go to www.batterychargers.com to register your product online.

(No internet access? Send in the completed warranty card.)

REGISTRATION

2 YEAR LIMITED

WARRANTY PROGRAM

DO NOT SEND UNIT TO THIS ADDRESS FOR REPAIR.

This warranty is not transferable. Send warranty card only.

The warranty card should be submitted within 30 days of purchase. The customer

MODEL: _____________________DESCRIPTION: ________________________

This is the only express limited warranty, and the manufacturer neither assumes

must keep the ORIGINAL receipt because it will be required for any warranty claims.

nor authorizes anyone to assume or make any other obligation. There is no other

warranty, other than what is described in the product owner’s manual.

• 9 •

Mail this card to: Schumacher Electric Corporation

801 Business Center Drive

Mount Prospect, IL 60056-2179

Name ______________________________________________________________

Street Address _______________________________________________________

City ________________________________State _________ Zip Code _________

Phone _____________________Email ___________________________________

Store Name Where Purchased ___________________ Date of Purchase _________

For faster warranty activation, go to www.batterychargers.com to register your product online.

Store Location ____________________ UPC Number ________________________

Serial Number ______________________________________ (SEE PRODUCT)