What Is the Difference – Although many different generator types are referred to as portable generators, there are actually significant differences between generator types in terms of technical requirements, design, and function.
What Is the Difference Between an Inverter Generator and a Conventional Generator?
Particularly, an inverter generator differs significantly from what many people consider a traditional portable generator. Inverter generators frequently appear on lists of the “top portable generators” and “best portable generators,” despite their significant distinctions.
This is due to the fact that most inverter generators are lighter and more portable than bigger, high-power generators.
Both varieties of generators have advantages and disadvantages. What the generator will be used for determines which benefits outweigh which drawbacks.
Continue reading to learn how an inverter generator differs from a typical portable generator. This assists you in selecting the generator type that best suits your requirements.
What Is Considered a Conventional Portable Generator?
People typically refer to mobile fossil fuel-powered generators when they use the term “portable generator.” These are the generators that are most frequently bought.
In its most basic form, a typical portable generator is a fuel-powered engine with an electrical output from an alternator. Gasoline, diesel, and propane are the three most popular fuel types utilised for portable generators.
There are hybrid portable generators. This indicates that the engine can run on multiple fuels, most frequently a blend of gasoline and propane.
The primary feature of a traditional portable generator is the engine speed and the related electrical output. A typical portable fuel-powered generator is designed to run at 3600 revolutions per minute in order to produce 120 volts and a frequency of 60 Hertz.
However, the inability of the machine to maintain a constant 3600 rpm is one of the fundamental drawbacks of the majority of fuel-powered portable generators. This implies that both the voltage and the Hertz fluctuate.
Harmonic distortion is the name given to the fluctuations. Fuel-powered portable generators do not provide what is referred to as “clean electricity” due to the frequent variations in electrical output or significant harmonic distortion.
For sensitive electrical appliances like computers, DSLR cameras, mobile phones, etc., clean energy is preferred. Another factor contributing to the loudness of fuel-powered portable generators is their inability to maintain a consistent 3600 rpm.
However, the inability of the machine to maintain a constant 3600 rpm is one of the fundamental drawbacks of the majority of fuel-powered portable generators. This implies that both the voltage and the Hertz fluctuate.
Harmonic distortion is the name given to the fluctuations. Fuel-powered portable generators do not provide what is referred to as “clean electricity” due to the frequent variations in electrical output or significant harmonic distortion.
For sensitive electrical appliances like computers, DSLR cameras, mobile phones, etc., clean energy is preferred. Another factor contributing to the loudness of fuel-powered portable generators is their inability to maintain a consistent 3600 rpm.
How Does an Inverter Generator Work?
Inverter generators have slightly more intricate mechanics than traditional portable generators. The process of producing the final electrical output involves many components.
Additionally, a lot of inverter generators use fossil fuels. Inverter generators have a battery, alternator, and inverter in addition to receiving electricity from the gasoline tank.
The alternator transforms the high frequency AC current that powers the engine into DC current. The inverter then converts the DC current back into AC current.
Inverter generators provide 120 volts at 60 Hertz, the same as traditional portable generators. The current of an inverter generator is much more steady, though, as a result of the additional phases in the power generating process.
In other words, less harmonic distortion results in the “clean power” that inverter generators are touted to provide. Similar to the quality of electricity you receive from your mains electrical source, inverter generators can create high-quality electricity.
Two things make it feasible to have clean electricity. The initial AC current in an inverter generator has a high frequency, which results in higher electrical energy as the first factor.
The conversion of DC current back to AC current constitutes the second element. An inverter generator’s mechanical design gives it greater control over the AC frequency, enabling it to produce a sine wave that is incredibly steady.
Inverter generators are quite energy-efficient due to the increased control over the electrical output. It can sustain a 3600 rpm while adjusting its voltage to just what the associated load requires.
Inverter generators are considerably quieter than traditional portable generators, thanks in large part to the steady current.
What Are the Key Differences Between an Inverter Generator and Conventional Portable Generator?
The primary distinctions between traditional portable generators and inverter generators are summarised below. There are mechanical differences as well as secondary differences that arise from the mechanical differences, as you can see.
In other words, the way an inverter generator functions differs from a normal fuel-powered portable generator, opening up new design and application options. Continue reading to learn how these variations might be advantageous or disadvantageous for a variety of jobs.
Difference #1: Current
The type of electricity produced by inverter generators and conventional generators is the primary technological distinction between both. Unlike inverter generators, which produce electricity in three phases, conventional generators only produce AC electricity (high frequency AC to DC back to a stable AC current).
Inverter generators are special because of their constant sine wave, which is referred to as a “clean electrical source.” As a result, it provides a safer energy source for delicate devices like a cell phone, tablet, or laptop because there is little harmonic distortion.
In contrast, the sine wave from a typical portable generator is significantly messier and results in greater harmonic distortion. Even while it’s still a good power source for many electrical equipment, this kind of current can harm more delicate personal electronics with microprocessors.
Difference #2: Power and Fuel Efficiency
More power can be generated by conventional portable generators than by inverter generators. This is due to a variety of elements, such as the size of the fuel tank and the mechanical variations in energy generation.
Because of the process used to create the final AC current, inverter generators are more energy-efficient. A normal portable generator cannot automatically adjust its engine to the load, but an inverter generator can.
Smaller fuel tanks are possible with inverter generators due to their higher fuel economy. Greater energy efficiency results in less gasoline being required for equivalent run times, allowing for a smaller fuel tank as well.
Due to their lower fuel efficiency, conventional generators are often larger due to their larger fuel tanks. This bigger gasoline tank does enable a bigger power output, though.
The choice between an inverter generator and a traditional generator is frequently made based on the power differential. Conventional portable generators can produce more than 10,000 watts, whereas inverter generators typically produce 1200 to 4000 watts.
Difference #3: Portability
In general, inverter generators are more mobile than traditional fuel-powered generators. Again, this is related to how much electricity they generate.
Conventional fuel-powered generators require more material to house the unit since they have larger engines and fuel tanks that create greater power. This explains why inverter generators are smaller and lighter than conventional portable generators.
The bigger conventional generators typically feature wheels and handles for pulling in order to remain portable. Nevertheless, given that many portable generators still weigh more than 100 pounds, this can be a difficult undertaking.
Inverter generators are more compact because of their smaller fuel tanks and because they require a smaller engine to provide the same amount of electricity. Inverter generators are frequently light enough to be carried by hand and this saves a lot of weight.
The majority of inverter generators weigh under 100 pounds. An inverter generator typically weighs between 40 and 60 pounds.
Difference #4: Noise
The noise that traditional portable generators produce is well-known. This has to do with how it works, thus despite efforts to reduce noise, typical fuel-powered generators continue to be noisy.
In contrast, inverter generators operate more quietly thanks to their technology. The majority of the noise is reduced by the continuous 3600 rpm operation of inverter generators.
A generator’s noise level is typically specified in the product description. The majority of manufacturers will state the decibel level the generator produces at half or quarter load.
A lot of inverter generators make noise between 54 and 58 dB. Typical conventional generators typically create 64 dB or more of noise, thus this is far quieter.
Difference #5: Parallel Connections
By including a parallel connection, manufacturers attempt to compensate for the inverter generators’ reduced power output. Two different inverter generators (of the same model) can be connected in parallel to provide twice as much power.
Currently, the parallel connection is not available with standard portable generators. It is not surprising given that they are already more powerful and less portable.
Difference #6: Emissions
On the permitted greenhouse gas emissions of generators, each state has its own restrictions. When a portable generator is used in a nature reserve or a national park, the rules may be more stringent.
A portable generator typically needs to be at least EPA compliant. The generator must also comply with CARB regulations in the state of California.
Already, inverter generators emit fewer greenhouse gases into the atmosphere than traditional power-fueled generators. Finding an inverter generator that complies with environmental standards is simpler than finding a traditional portable generator that does.
Difference #7: Price
Typically, traditional portable generators cost less to purchase than inverter generators. When a lot of electricity is required, traditional portable generators are the most cost-effective solution.
Inverter generators are more expensive because they use newer technology and offer several added advantages, like increased fuel efficiency, less harmonic distortion in the electrical current, and increased quietness. Because they have been around longer and are very simple machines, producers may charge less for standard portable generators.
When to Choose an Inverter Generator
Inverter generators have a few advantages over traditional portable generators, such being quieter, lighter, more fuel-efficient, safe for delicate electrical devices, and generally more ecologically friendly. An inverter generator’s drawback is that it often costs more and provides less power than a comparable traditional generator.
An inverter generator is better suited for sporadic use and in particular for outdoor activities like camping given these benefits and drawbacks. When you don’t want a lot of power but do require portable, clean electricity, an inverter generator is an excellent option.
When to Choose a Conventional Fuel-Powered Portable Generator
A normal portable generator has a lot more power output than an inverter generator, which is its main advantage. A portable generator’s drawbacks include the fact that it is heavier, larger, louder, and emits more greenhouse gases.
In locations where there are frequent power outages or threats of natural occurrences like blizzards that are likely to interrupt the mains electricity supply, a conventional portable generator is best employed as a backup generator for the residence. On construction sites, models with rugged track wheels and a solid construction are also preferable.
Which is Better, an Inverter Generator or Conventional Portable Generator?
Depending on the intended application of the generator, an inverter generator or a traditional portable generator may be preferable. While a typical portable generator works better to power a home or a work site, frequent campers may find that an inverter generator is a better choice or can serve as a backup source of electricity while travelling.
Consider the location of your electrical needs and the real power you require. The best technique to choose between the possibilities is in this manner.
Related Tags: What Is the Difference