Inverter Vs Generator | Differences and Comparison between them

The main difference between an inverter and a generator is that generators are complex machines. They are huge and heavy and take considerable time to begin functioning. Whereas, the inverter starts functioning immediately. Generator produces great noise while the inverter is quiet. Inverter is powered through a battery whereas a generator uses kerosene, natural gas or petroleum to generate power. Thus, a generator produces smoke while an inverter is pollution free.

The inverters and generators are the terms which are often confused with each other and this makes it hard to distinguish both the terms. The conventional generator is very different from the inverter generator and this article will cover the whole thing in great detail. So, dive in! 

Things you should consider before getting yourself a generator 

You need to choose the inverter generator very wisely depending on what you require it for. This can be tricky and hard to decide and requires great consideration. Not only do you need to know the purpose but also the tools you need alongside. There are a few generator options which are listed below so that you do not have to do the labor. 

1. Gasoline 
2. Propane 
3. Combinational 

Decide wisely so that you have the right one with you! 

Inverter generators or standard ones? 

Generators have these two options which are quite popular among the masses. The best two, the inverters and the standard variants have made a fix for what type is better suited to their needs and requirements. Both have their advantages plus the downsides.

People are very fond of keeping the portable ones along due to the utmost convenience they come up with. Inverter generators have recently been taken over the market due to their quality functionality and amazing usage. Let us have an in-depth viewpoint on both of these. This will let you decide better what is appropriate according to your wants and requirements. 

The comparison 

Inverter generators which have made quite a success in recent years are smaller when compared to the standard ones. These are also manufactured in a way that they are quieter and come with lighter weight.

They are highly advanced as they can smoothly change the DC mode to the AC mode and vice versa. The operation can be performed with enhanced ease on high frequencies which is another plus point. Due to this conversion in inverter generators, the fluctuations are greatly eliminated. 

Whether the generator is a standard one or the inverter, it has great variations. From fuel sources to power capabilities, the models can vary in a number of things.

The inverter generator, which is just like a standard one with an inverter built in the main assembly, significantly differs from the standard one due to the overall efficiency it promises. 

The standard ones, on the other hand, are very reliable. They, however, come with non-adjustable speed. The constant, non-adjustable speed makes these last long.

The noise together with huge fuel consumption and unnecessary exhaust output makes this type unwanted. 

Coming towards the inverter generators, they offer variable and highly adjustable speed due to the innovative engines they have been equipped with. These engines carry the capability to respond to the load they are subjected to.

Due to this, the operation is very quiet and much more fuel effective. Moreover, they are safer for the environment due to lesser exhaust output. 

More about Inverter Generator 

This works by drawing the power from a power source operating on DC current. This can be either a car’s battery or either a solar panel. After getting the DC power, it converts that to the AC power using the electronic circuits integrated.

The conversion is made according to the device which requires power. It adjusts the voltages as well as the frequency accordingly. The usual conversion is from 12 volts DC to 120 volts AC. 

More about Generators 

These conventional ones have been in the market for quite a long time and have been serving the masses perfectly. The principles are the usual conventional ones.  They use the power from a fossil source which is usually propane or diesel.

These energy sources which provide power which will drive the motor which in turn will drive the alternator thus producing electricity. The speed of the engine should be atleast about 3000 rpm so that the appliances in your house are powered adequately. If the speed is subjected to fluctuations, the output will also reciprocate in the same way. 

The fuel of the generator 

Your generators will either obtain power from propane, gasoline or will be a combinational one. It is important that you are aware about the type you are getting and if it is the best option for you out there. 

• Gasoline generators 

The generators operating on gasoline stand out in efficiency and they are uncomplicated to set up and use. Moreover, they last long due to great reliability. The maintenance is pretty simple which will let you easily figure out the issue if your generator is not working perfectly and indicating some disturbance. 

There are, however, a few downsides to it. You cannot store a gasoline generator with a fuel stabilizer at the side. If there’s a black out, the gas can’t be accessed as the gas pumps also require electricity to pump the gas.

The corrosive nature of the gasoline is another drawback. It leaves the unwanted residue which makes cleaning necessary and so difficult. This requires you to regularly check the carburetor, the fuel lines as well as the corroded gaskets. 

• Propane generators 

Propane, having great shelf life, can be stored with great convenience. There is little to none chances of spillage. In addition to that, the burning of this fuel is very clean which eliminates the fuss of maintenance and keeps the generator clean.

However, you do have to compromise on the efficiency a bit. Together with that, these generators are complex and very complicated to fix. Moreover, if the temperature drops below 20 degrees, this can not function perfectly. 

• Dual-fuel generators 

This is again a great option as it optimizes the efficiency and power losses. You can use whatever fuel is appropriate at a time. 

What is better, Inverter or Generator? 

The new inverters are what a number of people prefer rather than the old ones which didn’t comprise the capability to power a number of devices due to limited technology. Whereas, the generators powered those devices which old inverters failed to power.

Both devices, inverter as well as standard generator are great and are an excellent source of electricity but below is an in-depth comparison which helps you decide which is the best for you. 

This difference is laid down on the basis of some major factors which comprises the capability of the device to power the appliances, the efficiency, the run time, and lastly the budget. Let us get straight to the factors. 

Inverter vs Generator: Portability 

Inverters are usually very portable and lightweight when compared to the enormous power they carry. They are a perfect fit when it comes to traveling and touring. Therefore, if you require electricity on the move, an inverter is the right solution for you. 

On the other hand , the standard generators are not only bulky and heavy but also make a lot of noise. These are best when placed on wheels so that it is easy to move them. This kind lacks the portability factor. When inverters are small, easy to transport and lightweight, these are bulky, difficult to carry and heavy. 

Inverter vs Generator: Efficiency 

Generators are manufactured with certain, specified power. This power defines how many appliances can smoothly run on the particular generator. This is not size specific but varies significantly in models. 

Well, now we are aware that inverters are lightweight and enhance portability due to the elimination of fuel tanks which is an important part when it comes to generators. This results in limited and small fuel capacity. Despite having that, it promises better efficiency as the power is rightly adjusted based on the load requirements. On the other hand, the run times are significantly reduced in inverters. 

Although lesser than generators, 10 hours is still adequate and decent run time for most of the people. The efficiency is greatly enhanced by a rating of 40 percent of fuel saving. Together with that, it is environmentally very friendly as it reduces the emissions of exhaust output fuel. 

Inverter vs Generator: Noise level 

One of the most significant and important factors that distinguishes both these kinds is the noise they produce. The conventional generators make a lot of noise and spread disturbance since they work at 3600 rpm when producing electricity.

During production, the speed of the engine cannot be varied. Inverters, relatively new and advanced, comprises the capability to adjust the engine’s speed according to the loads due to the integrated microprocessor.

The adjustment of the speed minimizes the fluctuations and hence significantly reduces the noise levels. Therefore, inverters are much quieter than the generators. 

Inverter vs Generator: power quality 

The function of the generator is to produce electricity at the same speed regardless of the load applied. The engine runs at high speed producing unwanted noise in order to achieve the specified frequency which is always the same.

This results in throttling. Whatever output the alternator provides directly goes to the load no matter what value it was. 

On the other hand, the inverter converts DC to AC and adjusts the power according to load which not only makes it quieter but also makes it perform smoother and much more efficiently.

The capacitors devoted to DC current will make the signal smooth before it gets transmitted hence a smoother and a desirable operation is performed. The signal is adjusted to the demanded frequency as well as the voltage.

The power which it provides is indeed reliable and is independent of the speed of the engine. It is also environmentally friendly. The quality of the power supplied through inverters is as high as that by the electric company. 

This is for a fact that the electrical appliances now include the processors and other electrical equipment which displays great sensitivity to the electric power.

If a cleaner source is not employed, that might result in decreasing the life and affecting the durability of the device. Therefore, one should purchase the source wisely. 

Inverter vs Generator: cost 

Generator comes with many benefits as well but it fails when you require high power output. The prices of the generators are very reasonable. In addition to that, the maintenance is quite cheap. So is the case with repair.

The parts of the generator are easily accessible due to its widespread use and its simple and uncomplicated design. No one can contradict the fact that inverters are portable and have better power output but their prices are very high.

If you are not that tight on budget, you can consider going for a cleaner electricity, better efficiency inverter rather than a generator. 

Inverter vs Generator:  Parallel device 

If you want more power, don’t you worry because inverters have got you all covered. You can pair the identical generators for a power output double to the normal ratings.

This makes it easy for you to take a large amount of power or to take the same amount but replace the larger one with several smaller ones. Conventional ones, when compared to this, lack this property.

They cannot be connected to other identical generators which is yet another downside. Moreover, in order to connect them to their output, you require special cables. 

Best inverter generators in the market 

Dual Fuel generators that are a must have 

Final Verdict 

If you are looking for an external electricity supply device, inverters as well as generators can aid you out. But, you need to make a wise decision on what to get that largely depends on your needs, wants and requirements.

Where inverters have superior portability, great power output stability and cleaner energy, the generators come at a relatively cheaper cost. If you are not very tight on your budget, inverters are definitely worth getting due to the utmost reliability and premium durability together with other great aspects. Rest is for you to decide according to your pockets and demands.