Getting Started –Your Power Requirement
The loads connected to the Big Genny should have a combined power draw that does not exceed the
inverter’s 1,000-Watt continuous power rating / 2,000-Watt surge power rating. Prior to connecting an
appliance to the Big Genny, determine how much power your appliance requires to run (“continuous
load”) and to start up (“starting load” or “peak load”).
Power consumption is rated in Watts, or it can be calculated from Amperes (Amps). This information is
usually stamped or printed on most appliances and equipment. If this information is not indicated on the
appliance or equipment that you wish to connect to the Big Genny, check the appliance’s manual for its
power ratings.
Calculate power consumption (Watts) by multiplying the appliance’s AC Amperage rating by its AC
Voltage rating:
AC Amps x 120 Volts = AC Watts
This formula yields a close approximation of the continuous load of your appliance.
When a motorized appliance or a tool turns on, there is an initial surge of power to start. This surge of
power is referred to as the “starting load” or “peak load.” Once started, the tool or appliance requires less
power to operate (referred to as the “continuous load”).
Calculate the appliance’s starting load by multiplying the appliance’s continuous load draw by two:
AC WattsContinuous x 2 = AC WattsStarting
This formula yields a close approximation of the starting load of most appliances. Exceptions are
motorized appliances such as pumps, freezers and air conditioners. These appliances can have startup
loads of up to eight times the continuous rated Watts. To ensure that the Big Genny is capable of
powering the appliance at hand, check the appliance’s manual for its Starting Watts rating.
Operating a Microwave Oven with the Big Genny’s Power Inverter
The power rating displayed on microwave ovens is the "cooking power" —the power being "delivered" to
the food being cooked. The microwave’s actual operating power rating is typically listed on the back of
the microwave. If the operating power cannot be found on the back of the microwave, check the owner's
manual or contact the manufacturer.
The Big Genny is capable of powering a small microwave, rated at a 750 Watt power draw or less.
Television and Audio Suggestions for Operation with the Big Genny’s Power Inverter
Although the inverter is shielded and filtered to minimize signal interference, some interference with your
television picture may be unavoidable, especially in weak signal areas.
However, here are some suggestions that may improve reception:
•First, make sure that the television antenna produces a clear signal under normal operating
conditions. Also, ensure that the antenna cable is properly shielded and of good quality.
•Change the positions of the inverter, antenna cables and television power cord.
•Isolate the television set, its power cord and antenna cables from the 12-volt power source by
running an extension cord from the inverter to the television set.
•Coil the television’s power cord and the input cables running from the 12-volt power source to
the inverter.
•Attach a "Ferrite Data Line Filter" to the television power cord. More than one filter may be
required. These filters are available at most electronic supply stores.
