What's an inverter generator
What's an inverter generator
Blog Article
What's an inverter generator
If you don't like the hassle of power cuts, reliable power backup solutions are the only option. However, it would be an added advantage if the power backup solution was portable. We now have inverter generators with the advent of advanced electronics and inverter technology. But what is an inverter generator? If you want an answer to this question, stay with us and keep reading this article.
What are inverter generators?
A portable generator called an inverter employs an electronic alternator to produce energy. Inverter generators use advanced technology to convert the direct current (DC) power produced by the engine into alternating current (AC) power, which can be used to power various household appliances or devices. It is designed to produce clean, stable electricity to make the most efficient fuel use and reduce emissions.
Important inverter generator terms
a) Distortion
When a generator produces AC (alternating current) power, the voltage and current produced should ideally be perfect sine waves with a smooth and uniform pattern over time.
Distortion means deviation from ideal waveforms in these output power waveforms.
Distortion can mean increased or decreased voltage frequency fluctuations. All of these can lead to a less-than-perfect power supply.
b) Alternating current (AC)
An electric current changes direction (back and forth) at regular intervals.
AC power is used for most electrical applications, including lighting, motors, appliances, and electronic devices.
The electricity is generated by power stations and distributed to our homes and businesses through the power grid.
c) Direct current (DC)
Unlike alternating current, direct current does not change direction continuously but flows in only one direction.
It is used in many small electronic devices, such as phones, computers, and home electronics.
However, it cannot be easily transmitted over long distances by power lines, so it is not used in the national grid.
How does an inverter generator work?
Working of inverter generators is a step-by-step process, which is listed below.
Fuel (petrol) runs the engine, which rotates the alternator.
The alternator produces AC power that is full of distortion and unusable at that time.
The AC power thus generated is sent to the rectifier circuit, which converts it into DC power.
In this step, the DC power is transferred to the inverter module, which converts it back to AC. The AC power thus generated is clean and distortion-free.
Finally, electricity is available for use through the generator's outlets.
Advantages of an inverter generator
Inverter generators have their advantages, which are discussed below.
a) Less fuel consumption
An inverter generator does not need to run at 3600 rpm all the time to generate AC power. The engine speed is automatically changed to match the amount of power being used by the attached load. If the load is less, the engine will run at lower speed, resulting in less fuel consumption. On the other hand, conventional generators operate continuously at 3600 RPM, regardless of the power drawn from the connected load.
b) Clean power
The AC power produced by the inverter generator is free from harmonic distortion and is safe to use with small electronic devices. The output form of AC power is a pure sine wave that is not known to damage household appliances and sensitive electronic equipment such as medical devices.
c) Parallel operation
If one inverter generator cannot meet your power needs, combine several to get the desired power output. This is something that is not possible with conventional generators.
d) Portability
Inverter generators are mostly small and easy to carry around. Their portability makes them an ideal power backup solution when camping.
e) Quiet operation
Since the generator operates at variable speed, it is less noisy than conventional generators. The noise level is acceptable and will not disturb you during your camping vacation.
Disadvantages of inverter generators
a) High cost
Inverter generators cost more than conventional generators. This is because they incorporate complex designs and circuitry with efficient inverter technology. But trust us, inverter generators are worth every penny you spend buying them.
b) Low power output
An inverter generator produces a lot less power than a typical AC generator. But still more than enough for everyday household electronics and small appliances.
c) Not safe indoors
An inverter generator uses gasoline to run its engine. Therefore, it will emit gasses like carbon monoxide, so it's unsafe to use indoors.
How to use an inverter generator?
Inverters can, in theory, be used like traditional portable generators. In practice, there are differences due to their lower wattage.
Tips to connect an inverter generator to your home
You can use an extension cord, utility cord, wall outlet, or manual transfer switch to connect an inverter generator to your house. There's no difference between connecting an inverter generator and installing a regular portable generator in your home.
Most people will not install an inverter in their home because it'll only power a few items. However, in some instances, homeowners have connected an inverter generator to their furnace system circuit using a manual transfer switch to get emergency heat during the winter.
Can inverter generators be used indoors?
No! The good generator safety rule is never to run it in confined areas. Inverter generators may look small and harmless, but they contain a combustion engine that emits exhaust gasses that can poison and kill you.
There are no exceptions to this rule. You may not use an inverter generator in a detached garage, open garage, under a deck, shed, or anywhere within 15 feet of your home. People have died doing this, and there is no acceptable solution.
Is an inverter generator worth it?
An inverter is a convenient, fuel-efficient way to power your sensitive electronics during outages. Many people find that the high upfront costs are offset by the fuel savings, quiet operation, and portability offered by inverter generators.
If you experience frequent power outages and need heavy backup power, use a large portable generator or a home standby generator. If you're looking for backup power for trips, minor power outages, or outdoor activities, you can't beat the efficiency of an inverter generator, and it'll be worth it.
How to select an inverter generator
Before selecting the right inverter generator, you need to determine two things:
- How much power will you need?
- What are you planning to use it for?
If you want to back up a large portion of your home during a storm, an inverter won't do the job. It would help to have a large, emergency portable generator or a standby generator for the home. If, however, you're only trying to power a few essential items, a large inverter generator can cut it.
However, inverter generators are best used for recreational activities. An inverter will be an excellent convenience if you frequent tailgating parties or enjoy camping.
Are inverter generators safer than other portable generators?
Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a severe hazard with all portable generators that are not used properly. As with other portables, inverter generators should only be used outdoors in an unenclosed area, at least 20 feet from your home, with the exhaust port away from your home.
To further reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, some newer portable generators have a built-in sensor that automatically shuts off if CO rises to dangerous levels in an enclosed space. And some even have engines that emit less CO in the first place. The best generators come with both features.
Inverter generators are not inherently safer than other portable generators. Most inverter generators have automatic CO shut-off. But that's also true of most of the traditional portable generators.
Why are inverter generators more expensive?
There are a few reasons why inverter generators come with higher price tags than standard generators.
For one, you usually pay extra for better performance and quieter operation.
Additionally, there is the fact that inverter generators use advanced technology for the power inversion process, and this technology is not cheap to design.
Ultimately, you must evaluate your needs and situation to decide whether spending more money for an inverter generator is worth it.
There are many contexts in which a standard generator would be a great choice, but if you need an inverter generator, they are worth the investment.
Inverter generator safety tips and precautions
You need to follow some universal rules and precautions when you want to operate your inverter generator safely.
- Never connect the generator directly to a structure's electrical system (home, office, trailer, etc.) unless a qualified electrician has properly installed the inverter generator with a transfer switch.
- Always plug electrical equipment directly into the inverter generator using manufacturer-supplied cords or grounded extension cords (3-pronged). Inspect the cables to ensure they are intact and not cut or damaged.
- Use ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), mainly where electrical equipment is used in or near damp or wet locations. GFCIs close the power when an electrical current outside the normal path is detected.
- Never use generators indoors or in enclosed garages, crawl spaces, and basements. Note: Open doors and windows will not prevent CO from forming when the inverter generator is in a confined area.
- If you or others show symptoms of CO poisoning - dizziness, headache, nausea, fatigue - move to fresh air immediately and get medical attention.
- Keep fuel containers away from flame-producing and heat-producing devices (such as water heaters, cigarettes, lighters, and matches).
FAQs
1) What is the difference between an inverter and a regular generator?
Let's see the comparison of inverters vs. regular generators in 5 aspects:
- a) An inverter generator is usually smaller and lighter than a conventional generator.
- b) An inverter generator produces cleaner power, providing a more constant voltage with less fluctuation. This makes them safer using sensitive electronics such as laptops or cell phones.
- c) Inverter generators are also quieter and run longer than regular generators.
- d) Inverter generators are also more expensive than conventional generators, but their high efficiency often makes up for the price difference.
- e) Inverter generators go a step further than regular generators and convert AC power to direct current (DC) through an alternator before it passes through a microprocessor that converts it back into cleaner AC energy.
2) Why would you want an inverter on a generator?
We live in an age full of electronic devices requiring less electricity. Inverter technology ensures that the generator uses less fuel and is safer for power-sensitive electronics. The inverter generator is highly suitable for TVs, laptops, desktops, phone chargers, refrigerators, etc.
3) Can an inverter generator run a refrigerator?
Yes, most inverter generators can provide enough power to run a refrigerator. In general, an inverter generator with an output of at least 2 kW should be able to handle this task without any problems. For example, a 360-watt refrigerator can run for 3 hours on a 1500-watt inverter generator.
4) Is an inverter generator AC or DC?
An inverter generator creates AC power through a two-step process. In the first stage, it generates DC power, and then in the second stage, it converts it to AC using a microprocessor-controlled inverter.
5) How do I know if my generator is an inverter?
In conventional portable generators, the engine speed is set, typically 3600 RPM, and always runs at the same speed. A portable inverter generator variable speed to produce the required electricity. Turn on a few lights, and the engine revs up. Close them again, and the engine will slow down.
6) How many hours does an inverter generator run?
If we use this question as a basis, you can expect typical portable camping generators to last between 1,000 and 2,000 hours. Inverter generator manufacturers such as BISON provide full support or warranty for up to 1,000 hours of run time for portable inverter generators.
7) How loud is an inverter generator?
The decibel meter registered up to 76 dB for the typical generator and only around 66 dB for the inverter generator. This low-noise operation is perfect for campgrounds where there may be official noise restrictions in addition to getting a good night's sleep.
Conclusion
Now you know what an inverter generator is. Inverter generators are the best choice for people who need reliable, clean, and quiet electricity. They are fuel efficient, portable, and can be connected in parallel to increase power output. However, they have some drawbacks, such as high cost, low power output, and unsafe indoor use. Nevertheless, an inverter generator is the best way to go if you are looking for a reliable, efficient, and environmentally friendly generator. Report this page