When it comes to using an inverter or a generator, many people are often confused about the usage of these two. Here you will find some crucial details about inverters and generators, along with their pros and cons.
Table of Contents
What is an inverter?
Inverters are electronic devices that convert the DC current to AC current. Different circuits are incorporated for load management and battery charging. The inverter supplies the same power to the electric devices at home as the electric grid. An inverter can operate both in connected mode or stand-alone mode. In short, the DC current converts to the AC current and supplies it to all household appliances.
Pros of an Inverter
- It is best suitable for sensitive appliances like computers and printers.
- The operation of the inverter is very silent
- It is environmental-friendly and does not create pollution
- The mode of operation is inversely proportional, which means that if the load is less, the running time is high.
Cons of an Inverter
- The charge voltage must be limited to extend the battery.
- The frequency of the AC power is inconsistent sometimes.
What is a generator?
Generators are electric devices that convert mechanical energy into electric energy. This device works on the electromagnetic induction principle and generates electricity based on various mechanisms like gas turbines, steam turbines, etc.
Pros of generator
- They come with the high fuel capacity
- Generators can power up high-power-consuming house appliances like refrigerators, AC, etc.
Cons of Generator
- It has a high maintenance cost
- It produces vast noise while operating
- The efficiency is low, and the fuel consumption is high
- Irrespective of the number of appliances running on the generator, the noise generated is the same.
Difference between inverter and generator
Below are the important parameters on which we will compare both devices and suggest which is more better than other.
Operation
An inverter uses a combination of rectifiers and switches to convert the DC current to AC current and then supply it to the household appliances. Before providing it to the appliances, the converted current is passed through filters to produce a stable power output.
On the other hand, a generator converts mechanical energy to electrical energy. This appliance is powered by gasoline, diesel, or petrol. When the fuel is burned, it turns the motor and creates alternating magnetic fields to generate electricity.
Power source
The power source for generators running at home uses propane fuel or gasoline, whereas commercial generators use natural gas, diesel, etc., as a power source. On the other hand, the inverter uses stored current to power up the appliances in case of a power cut.
Capacity
Generators are bulky electrical appliances with great capacity that can tolerate huge loads. They are more resilient to strong power spikes and helpful in areas with prolonged power outages. If the power failure is for a long time, it continues to operate. However, starting a generator takes some time and work. Inverters are low-capacity appliances that work best for home use since they experience fewer power surges.
Maintenance
Most generators run by diesel or gasoline need frequent maintenance like a change of distilled water, change of oil, etc. Diesel and petrol have a short shelf life, with more care. On the other hand, inverters require little to no maintenance. It converts the DC current to AC current with the help of a simple circuit.
Noise
Since the generator works on the induction principle, it makes considerable noise. Since the motor rotates at 3600rpm, the noise is high and cannot be subdued. On the other hand, inverters use microprocessors to lessen the noise and work more efficiently.
Weight
The generators require heavy metal frames and are set up if the power consumption is high. Hence they are very bulky. On the other hand, inverters need significantly less setup and few connected batteries; hence, they are relatively less bulky than generators.
Generators are portable but not convenient, whereas inverters lack portability.
Price
Though generators use gasoline and fuel to operate, the initial setup cost is less compared to the inverters. On the other hand, the advanced technology used in the inverters helps in noiseless operation; hence, their setup cost is high.
Conclusion
Generators and inverters are the two most common power generation devices. While generators are bulky, complex to set up, and require a large amount of fuel, inverters require less power input.
