Choosing the ideal portable generator can seem overwhelming, especially if you are doing it for the first time. Considering the number of options available these days, this is one shopping item that may prove to be a challenge.
Most people get confused and overwhelmed so they end up spending money on a generator that doesn't work well for their needs. This is why it is very important that you consider the different factors involved before deciding on what to buy. Do you get a traditional generator or buy an inverter generator. Which brings us to the question: are inverter type generators better than their traditional counterparts?
Gentrax GT3500 Inverter Generator
There are big differences between the two generator types and we will explain those differences here. Once you know how one is different from the other, it will be easier for you to decide which back-up power source will work for your needs.
But let's start by getting to know each type.
Overview of traditional generators
Traditional generators have been used in homes and businesses for many years. Their core design and principles have not changed for these many years. These generators produce energy from fuel: diesel, propane or gasoline. The fuel powers the generator's motor that is connected to an alternator that produces the electricity.
Traditional generators also come in smaller more portable designs and both can be used during power interruptions. It can keep your lights running and power-up appliances like fans, refrigerators, even air conditioning units.
Portable generators are meant to be taken with you anywhere so they are smaller. They are often used as power sources for camping and contractors use them on construction sites.
An important thing to note about traditional generators is they require a constant motor speed of 3,000 RPM to produce a stable electric current that you can use for appliances. In the event the engine performance changes while you are using it, the amount of power it generates also fluctuates. This means that in order for you to use a traditional generator, it should be running at almost full power all the time, regardless if you only need it to run small appliances.
Gentrax GTX4200 Pro Inverter Generator
Overview of Inverter Generators
For several years generators have had the reputation for being bulky and noisy machinery. The minute the word 'generator' is uttered, those two characteristics come to mind. However, with technological advancements, the inverter generator was created and has since made waves in the market.
Inverter generators are more lightweight and compact in design. They are also quieter than traditional generators. They are also a bit more expensive but well worth the money.
An inverter generator works by transforming raw DC power into AC power and has a built-in system that reduces power fluctuations which are common in traditional generators. Basically, it produces electricity that is on par with electricity that you get from your main electricity provider. The electricity that inverter generators produce is safer to use on sensitive gadgets like mobile phones and laptops.
Main benefits of an inverter generator
If you are interested to get an inverter generator but are a little put off by their higher price tags, the following benefits make the extra investment worth it.
Portable
Inverter generators are designed to be more portable and lightweight than portable traditional generators. The bigger, more powerful inverter generators come with wheels and handles so you can easily carry them around.
The reason for their portability is inverter generators have smaller fuel tanks. Since they are designed to be fuel-efficient, this eliminates the need for a larger, heavier fuel tank. Plus, the inverter technology combines several parts of the engine and the generator itself, which makes them more compact.
Cleaner power output
With their inverter technology, these generators produce cleaner and more stable power. In fact, the quality of electricity they produce is the same quality of electricity that you get from your main power lines.
This is the reason why many homeowners opt to invest in these types of generators. It is safer to use on modern appliances and sensitive gadgets.
Fuel efficient
Inverter generators like the 4kva generator are NOT gas guzzlers like their traditional counterparts. And this is mainly because of how their engines are designed and how it runs. Inverter generators can adjust their engine speed on demand. So, if you are not using it to charge a lot of gadgets, it will not run on full power. This means it consumes less fuel.
Very quiet
You can hear traditional generators from a quarter of a kilometres away. You will not have the same problems with an inverter generator. You can easily have a conversation beside it as it is running on full power.
This is because inverter generator engines run at a lower RPM only increasing when there is a need for it. The body is also designed to have noise dampening materials, which makes it surprisingly quiet, as far as generators go.
So, do not be surprised at the fact that many campers and homeowners choose to get inverter generators. After all, if you can find ways to avoid disturbing neighbors or fellow campers, go for it right?
Easy maintenance
Inverter generators are designed to be user friendly. It is very easy to maintain even for first time owners and users. These machines do not need constant fussing over. A regular monthly inspection of the components, fuel tank and gauges is sufficient.
Takeaway
Obviously there are many advantages of having an inverter generator over traditional ones. They are easy to maintain, fuel efficient, quiet and safe to use on modern devices. The only downside is they are more expensive than their noisier traditional counterparts.
However, you don't have to worry about disturbing your neighbours or fellow campers and saving money on fuel and maintenance costs are the alternative, then an inverter generator is certainly better than a traditional generator.
Do you have more questions about inverter generators? Do you think we missed some benefits? Let us know by sounding off in the comments below or give us a call to ask questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What is the main difference between an inverter generator and a traditional generator?
The main difference is the type of electricity they produce. A traditional generator produces only AC power directly from the engine's speed, while an inverter generator produces AC power, converts it to DC, and then inverts it back to a "cleaner" and more stable AC power.
-
What type of power do inverter generators produce?
Inverter generators produce "clean electricity" or pure sine wave power. This power is stable and of high quality, making it safe for powering sensitive modern electronics like laptops and smartphones.
-
Why is the power from a traditional generator considered "dirty"?
The power is considered "dirty" because its quality is directly tied to the engine's speed, which fluctuates. This results in unstable power with voltage surges that can damage sensitive electronic devices.
-
Are inverter generators quieter than traditional generators?
Yes, inverter generators are significantly quieter. Their engines can adjust speed based on the power demand, so they don't have to run at full throttle all the time, which dramatically reduces noise levels.
-
Which type of generator is more fuel-efficient?
Inverter generators are more fuel-efficient. Because their engine speed adapts to the electrical load, they consume less fuel compared to traditional generators that must run at a constant high speed (typically 3600 RPM) regardless of the power being drawn.
-
Which generator is better for powering sensitive electronics?
An inverter generator is much better for sensitive electronics. The clean sine wave power it produces prevents damage to devices like phones, computers, and tablets, which can be harmed by the unstable power from a traditional generator.
-
Are inverter generators more portable?
Yes, inverter generators are generally lighter and more compact than traditional generators of a similar wattage, making them easier to transport and store.
-
What is "parallel capability" in an inverter generator?
Parallel capability is a feature that allows you to connect two inverter generators of the same type together to double your total power output. This offers flexibility that traditional generators typically lack.
-
What are the three stages of power production in an inverter generator?
The three stages are:
High-frequency AC power generation.
Conversion of AC power to DC power.
Inversion of DC power back to stable, clean AC power.
-
What is a disadvantage of traditional generators?
A key disadvantage is their constant high engine speed, which makes them very loud, less fuel-efficient, and producers of "dirty" power that can damage electronics.
-
What is a key advantage of an inverter generator?
A key advantage is its ability to automatically adjust its engine speed to match the power load, making it quieter, more fuel-efficient, and safer for modern gadgets.
-
In terms of cost, how do the two types of generators compare?
While not explicitly detailed as a primary point, the article implies that the advanced technology and numerous benefits of inverter generators position them as a higher-value, albeit potentially more expensive, option compared to the more basic traditional models.
-
What is the best use case for an inverter generator?
The best use cases are for recreational activities like camping and boating, or for home backup power where you need to run sensitive electronics safely and operate the generator quietly.
