What is an Inverter Generator?
Inverter generators are the newest innovation in stand alone power sources for emergencies, tailgating, job sites, and camping. In order to insure the power is smooth and unwrinkled, the machine first generates an AC current, which is then converted to DC current and the finally back to AC current. This produces very little harmonic distortion in the delivery of electricity.
The Working Process of an Inverter Generator
Most inverter generators run on gasoline. Just to explain this further when the engine is started it turns an alternator, which produces high frequency Alternating Current (AC). That current is then transformed, or “inverted” into Direct Current (DC) for stabilization. Then the DC current is converted back into AC. In the end the output is reliable, stable and consistent power suitable for any device that will plug into the generator.
What is a Standard Portable Gasoline Generator?
In comparison let's look at a standard portable gasoline generator. The main difference between the two systems is that the standard generator does not go through an inversion process. It generates its power through the alternator directly into whatever device it's powering. Like this the power can be rough and inconsistent which can cause problems with many sensitive devices especially fragile electronics. You don’t have any of that with an inverter generator.
What makes the inverter the better choice over the standard generator?
Inverter generators produce cleaner power. The electrical signal is stable and consistent without significant fluctuations. This is most important when running sensitive electronics. You can’t guarantee their safety with standard generators if there is surges in the voltage.
Inverter generators are more fuel efficient than standard generators. They automatically adjust engine speed according to the power needed. Standard generators do not have this ability and therefore use more fuel for basically the same output.
Inverter generators also run more quietly (check out bullet points at the top of the page) than standard generators. There can be as much as a 20-25 decibel difference in the same size generator, inverter to standard. Less disruptive inverters can therefore be used more easily in residential settings, or camping.
Lastly, inverter generators are usually more compact and lightweight, making them easier to carry around. In contrast, standard generators tend to be heavier and more difficult to transport.
Only in price does the standard generator beat out the inverter
Standard generators do tend to cost less. Which might make them more attractive to your wallet regardless of all the other advantages that inverter generators have. This is why you need to decide which is best for your needs. (Compare the 2200 watt gasoline generator cost with the 2300 inverter generator cost) there is 100 watts more in the inverter but that is small amount compared to the price difference.
