When upfitting a work truck for your general contractor business, it’s essential to consider the power needs of your tools and equipment. An inverter or inverter/charger with lithium ion battery can provide a reliable and efficient power source and for certain instance much preferable than running a generator, but selecting the right one requires careful planning.
Whether you are looking to power a number of light tools at an unpowered remote job site or have a fume free job site with minimal noise, an inverter or inverter charger can help a general contractor stand out from competitors.
Here are some key factors for general contractors to consider when working with spec writers and upfitters:
1. Power Requirements:
- Peak and Continuous Power: Determine the maximum power output required for your tools and equipment. Consider both peak and continuous power needs to ensure the inverter can handle the load.
- Tool Compatibility: Check the power requirements of your specific tools and equipment to ensure compatibility with the inverter’s output. Some tools may require pure sine wave inverters for optimal performance.
2. Inverter or Inverter/Charger:
- Charging Capability: If you need to recharge batteries on the go, an inverter/charger is a valuable option. It combines inverter functionality with a battery charger, allowing you to power tools and recharge batteries simultaneously.
- Battery Compatibility: Ensure the inverter or inverter/charger is compatible with your chosen battery type (e.g., lead-acid, lithium-ion).
3. Battery Capacity:
- Auxiliary Battery: The capacity of your auxiliary battery will determine how long you can run your tools before needing to recharge. Consider the duration of your typical workdays and the power demands of your equipment to select an appropriate battery size.
- Charging Options: Determine how the auxiliary battery will be charged. Options include charging while driving, using solar panels, or connecting to external power sources.
4. Installation:
- Location: Decide where the inverter or inverter/charger will be mounted in your truck. Consider accessibility, safety, and potential interference with other components.
- Wiring: Ensure proper wiring and grounding to prevent electrical hazards and ensure reliable performance. Consult with a qualified technician for professional installation.
5. Safety and Regulations:
- Compliance: Verify that the inverter or inverter/charger complies with relevant safety standards and regulations.
- Overload Protection: Look for inverters with built-in overload protection to prevent damage to the equipment or electrical system.
6. Additional Features:
- Remote Monitoring: Consider inverters with remote monitoring capabilities to track battery status, power consumption, and other performance metrics.
- Solar Integration: If you plan to use solar panels for charging, ensure the inverter is compatible with solar charge controllers.
7. Budget:
- Cost-Benefit Analysis: Evaluate the cost of the inverter or inverter/charger against the potential benefits, such as increased productivity and reduced downtime.
- Long-Term Savings: Consider the long-term savings that can be achieved by reducing the need for generators or external power sources.
By carefully considering these factors and working closely with your spec writer and upfitter, you can select an inverter or inverter/charger that meets your specific needs and enhances the efficiency and versatility of your work truck.