An inverter generator is a power generator that can process raw power into a power feed similar to the power received through power lines. The generator part of an inverter generator is usually powered by gasoline or diesel fuel. "Inverter" means that the power is converted from direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC). Inverters are in direct contrast to rectifiers which turn AC power into DC power.
Both rectifiers and inverters are types of power converters, devices that change the current from one type to another. Direct current is current that flows only in one direction in a circuit. Batteries are charged using DC power. Alternating current is current that switches direction on a circuit. It is the type of current distributed to homes and businesses over power lines.
An example of a power inverter without a generator would be a device that plugs into a car's cigarette lighter and outputs power through a standard electrical outlet. In this case, the inverter is changing the DC power from the car battery. The car battery can be drained of power while the car is not running, but it stays charged by the alternator while the car is being driven.
Advanced inverter generators condition power to provide a smooth flow for delicate electrical devices. Different models of inverter generators use different methods to condition the power feed to mimic power line power. Commonly, the AC power created by the generator is converted into DC power, rectifying the power, then it is changed back into conditioned AC power, inverting the power.
Inverter generators can be lightweight and portable, heavy-duty and somewhat portable, or they may be devices installed inside recreational vehicles (RV). Inverter generator machines are often preferred methods of generating power because they run more quietly and produce a more reliable power feed than traditional generators. A steady power feed is key when operating sensitive equipment like computers that can lose data or incur damage if power levels change too much. Inverter generator devices help protect powered machines from damage due to power surges or drop-outs.
In situations in which data can be lost by power changes, an inverter is necessary to ensure the safety and continued function of the powered hardware. For situations in which the power feed does not necessarily need to be conditioned for use, a generator without inverter capabilities can be used. Without an inverter, power surges and fluctuations can happen, so it is better to reserve generator-only power systems for emergency power situations.
Tips When Buying an Inverter Generator
If you are buying an inverter generator for the first time, the following tips can help:
1. Size
In general, a larger generator will run longer, provide more power, and have more feature features. They are also more expensive and difficult to move around. Consider larger models as backup generators for home and portable generators as a source of energy for camping or on the job site.
2. Power
The watt number is the power available in the circuit when your generator is running. It is important to get a generator that can run any device you want without exceeding the maximum power, which can be dangerous. Check the power requirements of each device and always leave a little play to make sure. A portable generator is useful for camping, work, or emergencies. Whether you need a portable generator or a standard-size model to power your entire home during an emergency, you now know what to look for when buying a generator.
3. Calculate power consumption
First, let's start with the fact that in the category converter generator there are no models with a capacity greater than 6 kW. Therefore, before buying this device, it is necessary to accurately calculate the energy consumption of lighting and household appliances in the house.
4. Consider whether you need a generator for continuous use
If the generator is purchased for continuous use, it is better to give preference to classic models. But it will be necessary to bring the load of the electrical network and the power of the equipment to equal levels.
5. You only need it for a part of the house
If you need a small mobile set of generators that will not supply electricity for the whole house, but some or a certain number of devices that consume electricity then the inverter type is the best option for that.
Takeaway
We recommend that you first determine the working conditions of the equipment in the house, and then make the right choice based on the analysis. The modern industry in the field of electrical engineering today offers many different generation devices, which differ not only in price but also in the principle by which electricity is produced. Therefore, when it comes to buying or renting mobile generator technology, many may have a question about it, as well as a desire to compare the advantages of different types of equipment, in this case, inverter and conventional generators.
