For a BESTEK inverter rated at 150W or less, plug it into the car’s 12V cigarette lighter socket, run the engine or set the ignition to ACC, and keep the vents clear. For higher-power models, or any load above the socket’s limit, connect the inverter to the battery with the supplied clamp cables and fuse protection.
Installing a Bestek power inverter in your car is simple. This guide will help you. Follow these steps to install it correctly.
What is a Power Inverter?
A power inverter changes DC power to AC power. Your car’s battery provides DC power. Many devices need AC power to work. A power inverter helps you use these devices in your car.
Why Choose a Bestek Power Inverter?
Bestek power inverters are reliable. They have good reviews. They are also affordable. Bestek inverters are easy to use. They are a good choice for your car.
Tools You Need
Before you start, gather some tools. You will need:
- A Bestek power inverter
- Car battery or cigarette lighter socket
- Connecting cables (included with the inverter)
- A screwdriver
- Electrical tape
- Gloves for safety
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12V Socket or Battery Connection: Which One Do You Need?
The choice depends on how much current the inverter and your devices draw. BESTEK manuals state that loads under 150W can run from a plugged-in inverter in the 12V cigarette lighter outlet. They also say loads over 150W should use direct battery connection with the provided clamp cables. Check the manual for your exact model, such as the BESTEK 300W Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter manual or the BESTEK 500W Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter manual.
| Load or inverter size | Connection | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Under 150W (phone chargers, laptop charger) | 12V socket | Within the typical socket fuse rating |
| Over 150W (300W, 400W, 500W models under real load) | Battery clamps | Current exceeds a typical lighter circuit |
| Large models such as 2000W | Battery clamps only | Far above any socket circuit |
Why the Socket Is Limited to About 150W
Watts equal volts times amps. BESTEK manuals say most lighter ports are fused at 150W, and some cite 10A or 15A fuses. At 12V, a 10A fuse allows about 120W and a 15A fuse about 180W, so 150W is a practical middle figure. A socket is suitable only if the vehicle circuit can handle the current the inverter and load need.
Worked Example: A 300W Inverter on 10A, 15A and 30A Circuits
A 12V 300W inverter can require about 30A of input current, since the inverter also loses some power as heat.
| Circuit fuse | Approx. maximum at 12V | Can it run a 300W load? |
|---|---|---|
| 10A | 120W | No, the fuse will blow |
| 15A | 180W | No, still well short of 30A |
| 30A | 360W | Only if the wiring and socket are rated for it, which most lighter sockets are not. Use the battery clamps. |
So a 300W or 500W BESTEK inverter can be plugged into the 12V outlet only if you keep the load under about 150W. For anything heavier, use the battery.
Pre-Installation Checklist
- Add up the wattage of everything you will plug in.
- Find your socket’s fuse rating in the car’s owner manual.
- Confirm the inverter’s power switch is off.
- Check the clamp cables for cracked insulation.
- Clear a flat, stable spot with open space around the vents.
Step-by-Step Guide to Install Bestek Power Inverter
Step 1: Choose The Right Location
Find a safe place for the inverter. It should be close to the battery or cigarette lighter socket. Make sure there is enough airflow. This will keep the inverter cool.
BESTEK manuals advise a flat, stable surface with good ventilation and no covering over the fan or vents. Do not bury the unit under bags, coats or seat cushions. Keep it away from water and out of direct sun on the dashboard.
Step 2: Connect To The Car Battery
If connecting directly to the car battery, follow these steps:
- Turn off the car engine.
- Wear gloves for safety.
- Find the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on the battery.
- Connect the red cable to the positive terminal.
- Connect the black cable to the negative terminal.
- Secure the connections with a screwdriver.
Connect the cables to the inverter’s terminals first, with the red cable going to the red (+) terminal and black to black (-). Then attach the clamps to the battery. Never let the two clamps touch each other while one is on the battery. Use the cable fuse supplied with your model, and follow the manual for its rating.
Wiring Overview for Battery-Clamp Use
| Part | Connects to | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Red clamp (+) | Battery positive terminal and inverter red (+) terminal | Attach to the battery last |
| Black clamp (-) | Battery negative terminal and inverter black (-) terminal | Reverse polarity can damage the inverter |
| Inverter AC outlet | Your device’s plug | Switch on only after the clamps are secure |
Step 3: Connect To The Cigarette Lighter Socket
If using the cigarette lighter socket, follow these steps:
- Turn off the car engine.
- Plug the inverter into the cigarette lighter socket.
Push the plug in firmly so it makes full contact. A loose fit can cause flickering and heat at the socket.
Step 4: Secure The Inverter
Use electrical tape to secure the cables. This will prevent them from moving. Place the inverter in a stable position.
Step 5: Test The Inverter
Turn on the car engine. Check the inverter’s power light. It should be on. Plug a device into the inverter. Make sure the device works.
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Engine Running or Ignition in ACC?
BESTEK manuals recommend the engine be running or the ignition be in ACC before use, to give stable power and help prevent battery drain. With the engine running, the alternator supplies the power and keeps the battery charged. In ACC the engine is off, so the battery alone supplies the inverter. That is fine for short, light use, but a drained battery may not start the car. For loads near the inverter’s limit, keep the engine running.
Safety Tips
Safety is important. Follow these tips:
- Do not overload the inverter. Check the wattage of your devices.
- Keep the inverter away from water.
- Do not cover the inverter. It needs airflow to stay cool.
- Turn off the inverter when not in use.
- Check the connections regularly. Make sure they are secure.
What Happens If You Exceed the Socket’s Fuse Rating?
The socket’s fuse blows and the outlet goes dead. The inverter may also shut down or sound an alarm on overload. Replace the fuse with one of the same rating from your owner’s manual. A higher-rated fuse removes protection from wiring that was not designed for that current and creates a fire risk. If the fuse keeps blowing, move to a battery connection or lower your load.
Common Problems and Solutions
Sometimes problems happen. Here are some common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Inverter won’t turn on | Check the connections. Make sure they are tight. |
| Device not working | Check the wattage. Make sure the device is not too powerful. |
| Inverter overheating | Check for good airflow. Do not cover the inverter. |
If the Inverter Does Not Power On
- Confirm the inverter’s power switch is on.
- Check that the ignition is in ACC or the engine is running, since many sockets are dead with the car off.
- Test the socket with another 12V device.
- Check the socket fuse in the car’s fuse box.
- Check that the red clamp is on positive and the black on negative, with firm contact on clean terminals.
- Check the fuse supplied with the inverter or cables.
Post-Installation Checklist
- Clamps and plugs are tight and cables are away from moving parts and hot surfaces.
- Vents and fan are uncovered.
- Total load is under the connection’s limit.
- The inverter is switched off when you leave the car.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Running a 300W or larger load through the lighter socket.
- Reversing the red and black clamps.
- Replacing a blown socket fuse with a bigger one.
- Leaving the inverter on with the engine off for long periods.
- Covering the vents with luggage or clothing.
FAQ
Can I use a 300W or 500W BESTEK inverter from the 12V outlet?
Yes, but only for loads under about 150W. Higher loads need the battery clamps.
Do I need the engine running?
The manuals recommend the engine running or ignition in ACC. Running is safer for the battery.
Where can I read more about choosing a size?
See the BESTEK buying guide.
Conclusion
Installing a Bestek power inverter in your car is easy. Follow the steps in this guide. Remember to be safe. Enjoy using your devices in your car!
