Now we’ll start with the simple answer: Inverters are for sensitive electronics. This is 100% correct, but what many fail to tell you is exactly why they are more suited for sensitive electronics. Which is exactly where the complicated answer comes in. The key difference lies in exactly how power is generated. A standard generator uses a mechanical alternator to create an alternating current (AC) in a Modified Sine Wave output to be used on our appliances. Whereas an inverter uses an alternator to produce Alternating Current (AC) but this is converted into Direct Current (DC). Before a microprocessor inverts it back into AC Power, this is in a Pure Sine Wave output.
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Many people do not fully understand the difference between a generator and an inverter generator, and rightly so! Depending on who you ask, there might be an easy answer or a very complicated one. So, let’s break it down.
What is Sine Wave Energy?
A simple explanation of Sine wave energy would be that it is a waveform. This is made of electric quantity like current, voltage, or power that can vary or change in volume over time. However, to distinguish the difference between a standard generator and an inverter generator’s sine save, we must first know the different types and what they mean.
Pure Sine Wave and its Advantages:
A consistent waveform is very beneficial for certain electronics as they are sensitive to surges and spikes from an overloaded generator or just stuttering.
- Less electrical noise, such as no lines on a TV and no hum in your sound system
- Appliances will last longer and run cooler
- Motor-operated machines run at their intended speed.
- Computer equipment will have fewer errors and they will last longer on an inverter generator.
- Does not include batteries, meaning no shelf life to worry about.
Modified Sine Wave and its advantages:
A modified version of a Sine Wave is apparent when looking at a graph, it has a waveform more in the shape of a square wave but with an extra step.
- Essentially, it is a simulation of AC power inverted from the DC batteries.
- The polarity switches from positive to negative creating a wave that has a stair-like step or square pattern.
- Modified sine wave energy is also a more cost-effective way of running less sensitive appliances and equipment, but with the trade-off of allowing you to run a larger sum of equipment or very demanding equipment and appliances.
Which Should you Choose:
So this begs the question, why get an inverter generator and why get a normal generator? Which one suits your needs better? Down below is a detailed table on the key difference of each that might affect your every day life:
Feature:
Traditional Generators:
Inverter Generators:
Power Output:
High, for demanding Needs.
Efficient, for daily use.
Power Quality:
Good, varies depending on load.
Superior, mimics utility power.
Fuel Efficiency:
Constant Consumption.
Adaptable, conserves fuel.
Noise Level:
Noticeably Louder, also depends on the size of the generator.
Quiter and unobtrusive.
Portability:
Bulkier and Robust.
Compact and easy to handle.
Cost:
Initially Less.
A worthy, lont-term investment.
Durability:
Designed for Durability.
Built with Precision.
Environmental Impact:
Higher.
Significantly Lower.
Maintenance:
Regular Necessity.
Simplified and less frequent.
Suitability:
Heavy-Duty Applications.
Versatile, for everyday use.
