ADVICE about inverters from Sawley Marina where there was a 'very serious near miss' when an inverter-charger over heated in a boat and caught fire.
Luckily it was caught in time, with advice being given to its moorers to keep a close eye on electrical equipment in the hot weather.
Make sure do not overheat
To make sure such as inverters, that tend to get hot, do not overheat, always install in a ventilated open environment. Never pile clothing or other items on or around inverters and battery chargers.
It is also advises to consider isolating equipment whilst out or asleep if this is possible, and always be aware of anything smelling of overheating or burning. At any sign of fire turn off all supply, unplug a landline if connected and telephone the fire brigade.
Finally
With final words of advice from the marina:
'Do make sure all electrical equipment is installed correctly and cables are correctly sized, if in doubt have your system inspected by a professional. Do also make sure that your equipment is correctly fused and fused at the battery end closest to the battery'.