Generac Power Systems 006180-0 User manual

Owner's Manual
DC-AC Power Inverter
Models: 006180-0 (750W)
006179-0 (400W)
006178-0 (200W)
200W Model
400W/750W Models
www.generac.com or 1-888-GENERAC
Power inverter produces powerful voltage that can cause death
or great physical harm.
Read and Save These Instructions

Introduction.......................................................................................................... 1
Read this Manual Thoroughly.............................................................................. 1
Safety Rules ........................................................................................................ 2
General Information............................................................................................. 6
Unpacking........................................................................................................................... 6
Features.............................................................................................................................. 6
Short-circuit Protection................................................................................................ 6
Overload Protection...................................................................................................... 6
Thermal Shutdown Protection ...................................................................................... 6
Low Voltage Shutdown ................................................................................................ 6
Low Shutdown Warning............................................................................................... 6
High Voltage Shutdown................................................................................................ 6
Components ....................................................................................................................... 7
Operation ............................................................................................................. 8
Preparing for Operation ....................................................................................................... 8
Care and Maintenance ................................................................................................. 8
Appliance Wattage Information............................................................................................ 9
Operating Time ................................................................................................................... 9
Connecting the 400 & 700W Power Inverter...................................................................... 10
Connecting the 200W Power Inverter ................................................................................ 11
Disconnecting the Power Inverter Using the Battery Power Cord........................................ 12
Disconnecting the Power Inverter Using the Vehicle Power Cord........................................ 12
Troubleshooting ................................................................................................. 13
Safety Warnings and Shutdowns ....................................................................... 14
Specifications .................................................................................................... 15
Warranty............................................................................................................ 16
Table of Contents

1
This manual contains important instructions for operating this
power inverter. For your safety, and the safety of others, read this
manual thoroughly before operating the power inverter. Failure
to properly follow all instructions and precautions can cause you
and others to be seriously hurt or killed.
NOTE:
Since there are many variations in the circumstances surrounding the installation and
operation of power inverters, we cannot possibly anticipate or provide advice or safety
messages to cover every situation.
If any portion of this manual is not understood, contact Customer Service for operating
procedures.
The operator is responsible for proper and safe use of the equipment. We strongly recommend
that the operator read this manual and thoroughly understand all instructions before using the
equipment. We also strongly recommend instructing other users to properly operate the unit.
This prepares them if they need to operate the equipment in an emergency.
The inverter can operate safely, efficiently and reliably only if it is properly located, operated and
maintained. Before operating the equipment:
• Become familiar with and strictly adhere to all local, state and national codes and regulations.
• Study all safety warnings in this manual and on the product carefully.
• Become familiar with this manual and the unit before use.
The manufacturer cannot anticipate every possible circumstance that might involve a hazard.
The warnings in this manual, and on tags and decals affixed to the unit are, therefore, not all
inclusive. If using a procedure, work method or operating technique that the manufacturer does
not specifically recommend, ensure that it is safe for others. Also make sure the procedure,
work method or operating technique utilized does not render the equipment unsafe.
THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN WAS BASED ON EQUIPMENT IN PRODUCTION AT
THE TIME OF PUBLICATION. GENERAC RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY THIS MANUAL AT
ANY TIME.
Introduction
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING
This product contains or emits chemicals known to the State of California
to cause cancer, birth defects and other reproductive harm.

2
Throughout this publication, and on tags and decals affixed to the inverter, DANGER, WARNING,
CAUTION and NOTE blocks are used to alert personnel to special instructions about a particular
operation that may be hazardous if performed incorrectly or carelessly. Observe them carefully.
Their definitions are as follows:
INDICATES A HAZARDOUS SITUATION OR ACTION WHICH, IF NOT
AVOIDED, WILL RESULT IN DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY.
Indicates a hazardous situation or action which, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury.
Indicates a hazardous situation or action which, if not avoided, could
result in minor or moderate injury.
NOTE:
Notes contain additional information important to a procedure and will be found within
the regular text body of this manual.
These safety warnings cannot eliminate the hazards that they indicate. Common sense and
strict compliance with the special instructions while performing the action or service are
essential to preventing accidents.
These safety warnings cannot eliminate the hazards that they indicate. Common sense and
strict compliance with the special instructions while performing the action or service are
essential to preventing accidents.
Four commonly used safety symbols accompany the DANGER, WARNING and CAUTION
blocks. The type of information each indicates is as follows:
This symbol points out important safety information that, if not
followed, could endanger personal safety and/or property of
others.
This symbol points out potential explosion hazard.
This symbol points out potential fire hazard.
This symbol points out potential electrical shock hazard.
Safety Rules

3
ELECTRICAL HAZARDS
Power inverter produces powerful voltage that can cause death or
great physical harm.
• NEVER operate in rain or snow, set on wet surfaces, immerse in liquid, or use in marine
applications.
• NEVER touch bare wires or receptacles.
• NEVER use electrical cords that are worn, frayed, bare, or otherwise damaged.
• NEVER use power inverter for any purpose other than its intended use.
• NEVER place the power inverter near the vehicle’s heat vent or in direct sunlight as this
prevents proper cooling.
• NEVER use the power inverter if it is damaged; replace immediately.
• NEVER open the power inverter. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.
• NEVER connect to AC distribution wiring or to any areas marked “Ignition Protected”. This
power inverter is NOT approved for ignition protected areas such as marine applications.
• NEVER insert foreign objects into the AC or USB outlets.
• ALWAYS disconnect the power inverter AND appliances from the power supply when not
in use.
• The inverter produces the same potentially lethal AC power as a household outlet. It is
suggested that it be treated as such.
• Store indoors in a dry location out of reach of children.
• Some appliances are not recommended for use with this power inverter. See “Appliance
Wattage Information” for further details.
• Use only UL-listed, three-prong extension cords intended for outdoor use when connecting
appliances to the power inverter outdoors. Use the proper size (wire-gauge) extension cord
to handle the electric load that will be plugged into it.
MEDICAL AND LIFE SUPPORT USES
• In case of emergency, call 911 immediately.
• NEVER use this product to power life support devices or life support appliances.
• NEVER use this product to power medical devices or medical appliances.
• Inform your electricity provider immediately if you or anyone in your household depends on
electrical equipment to live.
• Inform your electricity provider immediately if a loss of power would cause you or anyone
in your household to experience a medical emergency.
Safety Rules

4
FIRE AND BURN HAZARDS
NEVER operate near flammable materials, fumes, or gases.
• NEVER expose to extreme heat or flames.
• ALWAYS install the power inverter in a location not likely to come into contact with skin as
the surface may become hot.
• NEVER operate the power inverter near fumes or gases (such as the cabin of a gasoline
power boat or near propane tanks) or in an enclosed area that contains lead-acid batteries
for automotive use. This type of battery emits explosive hydrogen gas which can be ignited
by sparks.
Battery gases are explosive.
• NEVER allow open flames, lit cigarettes, sparks, or spark producing equipment near the
battery.
Battery electrolyte fluid is comprised of sulfuric acid, which can
be very dangerous and cause severe burns.
• NEVER allow battery fluid to contact eyes, skin, or clothing. If contact or spillage occurs,
immediately flush the area with water.
To avoid electric arcing, which can result in electric shock, follow
these instructions exactly.
Exposed terminals, even on disconnected batteries, can cause
electric shock.
• NEVER touch both battery terminals with bare hands at the same time.
• Remove rings, watches or any other object containing metal when working with battery.
If metal comes into contact with battery terminals, electric shock and serious burns can
result.
• Only use insulated/non-conducting tools when working with or near battery.
• NEVER lay tools or other metal objects on top of battery.
• NEVER operate in rain or snow, set on wet surfaces, immerse in liquid, or use in marine
applications.
Safety Rules

5
• ALWAYS make sure connections are made to the correct terminal. Damage due to reversed
polarity is not covered by warranty.
• NEVER connect or set up the power inverter or appliances while operating a vehicle. Not
paying attention to the road may result in a serious accident.
• NEVER plug the power inverter into a location that interferes with the vehicle controls (i.e.
near the gear shift lever).
• ALWAYS use the power inverter where there is adequate ventilation.
• NEVER block ventilation slots. NEVER install in an engine compartment or in any enclosed
area in the vehicle that does not allow air circulation.
• NEVER place materials that could be damaged by heat near the power inverter during use.
• ALWAYS make all DC connections before making AC connections.
• NEVER service an AC appliance without first disconnecting from the power inverter.
• NEVER connect the power inverter to live AC power circuits.
• Some chargers for small nickel-cadmium batteries can be damaged if connected to the
power inverter. Do not use the power inverter on the following items:
- Small battery-operated appliances such as flashlights, razors, and night lights. Charge
these items using a standard household outlet.
- Certain battery chargers for battery packs used in hand power tools. These chargers
will have a warning label indicating that dangerous voltages are present at the battery
terminals.
• Loose connections may cause wire overheating, melted insulation, and damage to the
power inverter.
• ALWAYS use the power cords that were included with the power inverter.
• NEVER use the power cords for any other purpose than with the power inverter.
• Connect the power inverter to batteries with a normal output of 12VDC only; Do not use
with 6V or 24V systems.
• NEVER use with positive ground electrical systems. Reverse polarity connections will result
in a blown fuse and may cause permanent damage to the inverter and void the product
warranty. (Most modern automobiles, RVs, and trucks are negative ground systems.)
• NEVER operate the power inverter in areas with high levels of dirt, dust, or debris.
• Follow ALL manufacturer instructions: power inverter instructions, battery manufacturer
instructions, and the manufacturer of any equipment intended for use with this power
inverter.
Safety Rules

6
ANYONE using this power inverter must read, understand, and
follow all safety and operation instructions provided in the
product manual. Failure to closely follow these instructions can
result in circumstances leading to property damage, serious
injury, and death.
• Inspect for damage. Carefully inspect the product for any damage that may have occurred
during shipment. If loss or damage is noted, return the product to the retailer.
The power inverter will shut down if a short circuit occurs.
The power inverter will shut down if an overload situation occurs.
The power inverter will shut down due to insufficient ventilation or a high temperature
environment.
The power inverter will shut down if the power source voltage drops below 10.5 +/- 0.3 volts
to avoid damaging the power source.
Indicates that the power source has dropped to 11.0 +/- 0.5 volts. The power inverter will
continue to operate.
The power inverter will shut down if the power source voltage exceeds 15.5 +/- 0.5 volts to
avoid damaging the power inverter.
General Information

7
EG
C
D
F
IA
J
200W
L
I
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
A
J
K
400W/750W
Models
A - Positive DC Terminal Post - Connects to the red ring terminal on the DC Power Cord.
B - Red LED Indicator - Illuminates red when the power inverter has a fault (400W and 750W
models only).
C - Green LED Indicator - Illuminates green when DC power input is present.
D - On-Off Switch - Turns the power inverter on and off.
E - AC Outlet - Provides power to run equipment with AC power cords.
F - USB2.1A Port - Provides 5-volt power to run equipment with USB power cords.
G - Ventilation Openings - Draws air flow through the power inverter to the cooling fan to
prevent over-heating.
H - Battery Power Cord - Connects to the vehicle’s battery.
I - Negative DC Terminal Post - Connects to the black ring terminal on the DC Power Cord.
J - Cooling Fan - Protects the inverter from over-heating.
K - Powerbar - Illuminates orange indicating magnitude of load connected to inverter output
(400 and 750W models only).
L - Vehicle Power Cord (not included with 750W models). Contains a replaceable fuse
accessed by unscrewing the tip. Replace only with a similar type fuse, 8 amp, type 3AG,
time lag/slow blow.
General Information

8
Thoroughly read and understand all information provided in this
Owners Manual before operating this power inverter.
Power inverter produces powerful voltage that can cause death or
great physical harm.
• NEVER operate in rain or snow, set on wet surfaces, immerse in liquid, or use in marine
applications.
• NEVER place the power inverter near the vehicle’s heat vent or in direct sunlight as this
prevents proper cooling of the power inverter.
• ALWAYS use the power inverter where there is adequate ventilation.
• NEVER block ventilation slots.
• NEVER operate the power inverter near fumes or gases (such as the cabin of a gasoline
power boat or near propane tanks) or in an enclosed area that contains lead-acid batteries
for automotive use. This type of battery emits explosive hydrogen gas which can be ignited
by sparks.
• NEVER operate the power inverter in areas with high levels of dirt, dust, or debris.
The power inverter should be kept in areas that are:
• Dry - Do not allow water or other liquids to come in contact with the power inverter.
• Ambient - During operation, temperature should be between 32° and 104° F (0° - 40° C).
• Ventilated - During operation leave at least a 2” clearance around the power inverter for air
flow and ensure the ventilation openings are not obstructed.
• Clean - Avoid environments with high levels of dirt, dust, or debris.
• Secure - Keep the power inverter in a location where it will not be dropped, exposed to
direct sunlight or heating units, or placed in areas of high humidity or dampness. Keep out
of reach of children.
Operation

9
NOTE:
The values provided in the following table are estimates only.
ALWAYS verify actual wattage requirements for appliances by checking appliance label,
operating manuals, or contacting the manufacturer.
Appliances with electric motors require additional power when starting.
Appliance Watts Appliance Watts
Bluetooth Headset 2 27” LCD TV 125
MP3 Player 3 12V Drill 250
Digital Camera 3 Dorm Fridge 250
Cell Phone 10 Halogen Light 250
Handheld Video 50 Orbital Buffer 700
Laptop 60
Before using the power inverter, take time to check the power rating of the appliance and verify
the wattage does not exceed the power inverter output. Power rating information can usually
be found on an appliance’s product label, stamped inside, or on the back of the appliance.
If the appliance power consumption is rated in amps AC, simply multiply by the AC volts (115)
to determine the wattage.
Appliances with electric motors require additional power when starting.
High-wattage appliances or equipment that produces heat, such as hair dryers, microwave
ovens, and toasters CANNOT be operated by this power inverter.
Operating time varies depending on the battery charging level, capacity, and power level drawn
by the AC load.
With the vehicle running, the inverter can operate indefinitely.
With the vehicle not running, it may be necessary to start the vehicle periodically to recharge
the battery.
Most vehicle batteries are designed to provide short periods of high current for starting the
engine. Constantly operating the power inverter from the vehicle battery until the low-voltage
shut-off occurs will affect battery life. If appliances need to be powered for long periods of time,
consider using a separate deep cycle battery.
Operation

10
Read and follow all the Safety Rules before connecting the power inverter.
1 - Connect the red positive (+)
ring terminal to the power inverter
positive (+) DC terminal post.
2 - Connect the black
negative (-) ring
terminal to the power
inverter negative (-)
DC terminal post.
3 - Connect the black negative (-)
lead to the negative (-)
battery terminal.
4 - Connect the red
positive (+) lead to the
positive (+) battery terminal.
5 - Turn the power
inverter on.
6 - Confirm the LED indicator is green.
7 - Turn off the appliance to be powered.
8 - Plug in and turn on the appliance.
9 - Plug in other appliances following steps
7 & 8, if desired. NOTE: Do not exceed
rated power of the power inverter.
Operation

11
Read and follow all the Safety Rules before connecting the power inverter. The vehicle power
cord is included with the 200 and 400W models and can be used for outputs up to 80W.
1 - Connect the red positive (+)
ring terminal to the power inverter
positive (+) DC terminal post.
2 - Connect the black
negative (-) ring
terminal to the power
inverter negative (-)
DC terminal post.
3 - Plugs into the vehicle
accessory outlet.
4 - Turn the power
inverter on.
5 - Confirm the LED indicator is green.
6 - Turn off the appliance to be powered.
7 - Plug in and turn on the appliance.
8 - Plug in other appliances following steps
6 & 7, if desired. NOTE: Do not exceed
rated power of the power inverter.
Replaceable Fuse
(Replace only with
similar type fuse,
8 amp, type 3AG,
time lag/slow blow.
Operation

12
NOTE:
ALWAYS disconnect the power inverter when not in use to avoid reducing vehicle battery
life.
1. Turn off and unplug appliances.
2. Turn off the power inverter.
3. Disconnect the red positive (+) lead from the battery.
4. Disconnect the black negative (-) lead from the battery.
5. Disconnect the black negative (-) ring terminal from the power inverter.
6. Disconnect the red positive (+) ring terminal from the power inverter.
7. Store the inverter in a location that is:
• Ambient (-13 to 185F, -25 to 85C)
• Dry
• Away from direct sunlight, heating units, dampness, high humidity, dirt, dust, or debris.
• Out of reach of children.
NOTE:
ALWAYS disconnect the power inverter when not in use to avoid reducing vehicle battery
life.
1. Turn off and unplug appliances.
2. Turn off the power inverter.
3. Unplug the power inverter from the vehicle accessory outlet.
4. Disconnect the black negative (-) ring terminal from the power inverter.
5. Disconnect the red positive (+) ring terminal from the power inverter.
6. Store the inverter in a location that is:
• Ambient (-13 to 185F, -25 to 85C)
• Dry
• Away from direct sunlight, heating units, dampness, high humidity, dirt, dust, or debris.
• Out of reach of children.
Operation

13
Troubleshooting
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
No Power / LED not
illuminated
* Only applies to the
200W and 400W
models when using the
optional vehicle power
cord.
Poor connection. Ensure all power inverter ring
terminal and battery lead cable
connections are tight.
Damaged power inverter. Never use a damaged power
inverter. See the warranty.
* Damaged vehicle fuse. Replace vehicle fuse.
* Damaged fuse in vehicle
power cord.
Replace the fuse in the vehicle
power cord.
LED is green but no
power output
Damaged power inverter. Never use a damaged power
inverter. See the warranty.
Audio system
interference
Audio system internal power
supply not filtering modified
sine wave.
Use audio system with higher
quality filtering.

14
Safety Warnings and Shutdowns
CONDITION AC OUTPUTS
AVAILABLE?
AUDIBLE
ALARM LED STATUS CORRECTION
200W, 400W
& 750W
200W 400W /
750W
Operating
normally
Yes none Green Green - On
Red - Off
Over voltage No long pulses Green -
flashing
Green - On
Red - On
Disconnect the power
inverter, check and
repair battery system.
Low voltage
shut down
No 1 short, 1
long
Green -
flashing
Green - On
Red - On
Sensitive devices should
be shut down. Start ve-
hicle to recharge vehicle
battery or check vehicle
battery voltage.
Electrical
over load
No 2 short, 1
long
Green -
flashing
Green - On
Red - On
Disconnect
appliance(s), disconnect
power inverter, wait a
few minutes, plug in the
power inverter, and plug
in reduced load.
Over
Temperature
No 3 short, 1
long
Green -
flashing
Green - On
Red - On
Sensitive devices should
be shut down. Unplug
accessories and leave
the power inverter
plugged in allowing the
fan to cool the unit.
Clear objects away from
the power inverter to
improve air flow, move
it to a cooler location, or
reduce load if the power
inverter is operating
continuously.
Low voltage
warning
Yes short pulses Green -
flashing
Green - On
Red - On
Low voltage shutdown
is about to occur; sensi-
tive devices should be
shut down. Start vehicle
to recharge vehicle
battery or check vehicle
battery voltage.

15
POWER INVERTER 750W 400W 200W
Dimensions
Length [in / mm] 9.8 / 250 8.9 / 226 7.1 / 180
Width [in / mm] 6.6 / 167 5.0 / 127 3.7 / 94
Height [in / mm] 2.8 / 70 2.6 / 66 2.0 / 51
Dry Weight [oz / g] 40 / 1135 40 / 1135 32 / 907
AC Power
Output
Rated Power [watts] 750 400 200
Surge Power [watts]
(<1 Second) 1,500 800 400
Frequency [hertz] 60 60 60
Voltage [volts] (under
load, modified sine
wave)
115 115 115
DC Power
Output (USB
2.1A)
Voltage [volts] 5.0 5.0 5.0
Maximum Current
[amperes] 2.1 2.1 2.1
DC Power
Input
Nominal Voltage
[volts] 12.8 12.8 12.8
Rated Current
[amperes] 75 37 18
Low Voltage
Shutdown [volts] 10.5 +/- 0.3 10.5 +/- 0.3 10.5 +/- 0.3
High Voltage
Shutdown [volts] 15.5 +/- 0.5 15.5 +/- 0.5 15.5 +/- 0.5
Operating
Temperature
Maximum [F / C] 104° / 40° 104° / 40° 104° / 40°
Minimum [F / C] 32° / 0° 32° / 0° 32° / 0°
Specifications

16
GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS LIMITED WARRANTY FOR
DC-AC POWER INVERTERS
Consumer Use Warranty Product is Not for Commercial Use
LIMITED WARRANTY
Generac Power Systems (Generac) will repair or replace, free of charge, to the original retail customer
in North America, any parts of the Power Inverter found by Generac to be defective in material or
workmanship. This limited warranty covers the cost of the replacement parts and labor for defects.
Transportation charges are the responsibility of the customer. This limited warranty has time period con-
ditions, operating conditions and disclaimers, limitations of remedies and exclusions as stated below.
For warranty service, customer should visit www.generac.com.
LIMITED WARRANTY PERIOD
Two (2) Years Limited for Consumer Personal Use Only
NO WARRANTY FOR COMMERCIAL OR RENTAL USE
COMMENCEMENT AND DEFINITIONS
The limited warranty period begins on the date of retail purchase by the original purchaser. The limited
warranty is not transferable. "Consumer use" is personal use by a retail customer. Commercial use" or
"rental use" is any usage for income producing, business related use.
NO EXTENSION OF WARRANTY
Repair or replacement pursuant to this limited warranty shall not renew or extend the original warranty
period, and any repaired product shall be warranted for the remaining original warranty period only.
WARRANTY CLAIM PROCEDURE
A Power Inverter believed to be defective may be returned to retailer where it was purchased. The retailer
will work with Generac who will repair or replace it, as its sole discretion. Proof of purchase may be
required. If the Power Inverter is repaired, new or reconditioned replacement parts, or a comparable
equivalent product, may be used, at Generac's sole discretion. The repaired or replaced product will then
be subject to the remainder of the Power Inverter's limited warranty period.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state
to state.
DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES
To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, this limited warranty is exclusive and expressly in lieu of
any and all other warranties, including, without limitation, any implied warranties of merchantability or fit-
ness for a particular purpose or any other implied warranties that may arise from a course of dealing or
usage of trade. Generac hereby disclaims and excludes all other warranties. The duration of any implied
warranties allowed by law (including, but not limited to, implied warranties of merchantability or fitness
for a particular purpose) is limited to the shortest duration permitted by applicable law or the limited
warranty period provided herein, whichever is longer.
LIMITATIONS OF REMEDIES
Generac shall not be liable to customer, or to anyone claiming under customer, for any other obliga-
tions or liabilities, including, but not limited to, obligations or liabilities arising out of breach of contract
or warranty, negligence or other sort of any theory of strict liability, with respect to the Power Inverter
or Generac's acts or omissions or otherwise. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, Generac
shall not, in any event, be liable for incidental, consequential, special or other damages, including but not
limited to loss of use, loss of income, loss of time, loss of sales, injury to personal property, or liability
customer incurs with respect to any other person, or any other type or form of consequential damage or
economic loss.
Warranty

17
Warranty
EXCLUSIONS
In addition to the foregoing limitations and the terms above, the following is a non-exhaustive list of
exclusions to the limited warranty, to be determined at Generac's discretion:
1. Misuse, neglect, abuse, overload, improper connections to electrical appliances are not covered by
this limited warranty.
2. Lack of proper care will negate coverage under the limited warranty.
3. This equipment is not warranted for shipping or handling defects or damage.
4. Any alteration or modification of the product voids the limited warranty.
5. Use of unauthorized parts or repair by an unauthorized agent voids the limited warranty.
6. Accessories included with the product, or purchased separately for the product, are not covered by
this limited warranty.
7. Removal or altering of manufacturer's serial label voids the limited warranty.
8. Normal wear and tear is not covered by this limited warranty.
9. Normal maintenance and wear items are not covered by the limited warranty.
10. Failures due to acts of God, war, other force majeure beyond Generac's control are not covered by
the limited warranty.
REGISTRATION
Warranty registration with the company is required on all products. Register your product online at www.
generac.com.
OTHER WARRANTY QUESTIONS
Call 1-888-GENERAC (1-888-436-3722) or visit www.generac.com.
Part No. 0J7032

Manual Part No. 0J6495 Revision A (09/23/11)