Generator Buying Guide: What Is an Inverter Generator?
A generator is essential for homeowners, businesses, and nomads to have in case they run out of power. Though an inverter generator is slightly different than a typical generator, through this guide you’ll learn all you need to know about what an inverter generator is and why it may be best for you. Take a peek at our generator buying guide and save this page for when you’re ready to make the purchase.
What Makes an Inverter Generator Different from a Normal Generator?
Actually, inverter and conventional generators are similar; however, one notable difference is the size – an inverter is the size of a portable generator, which also makes it lighter than a standard generator. Additionally, these generators, when started, are quieter than a mouse. You’d never notice it’s there, making it ideal for camping and business use.
How Does It Work?
As mentioned above, inverters are quiet machines. They use a microprocessor to convert AC power into DC power. AC stands for alternating current, meaning the electricity moves in waves, and those waves power different devices. When converted to DC (direct current) power, the electric current moves in one straight line to one specific area, such as a room or an entire RV.
Why Is It So Quiet?
The reason inverter generators are so quiet is because of a special enclosure that lessens the number of decibels (dB) being produced by the motor. As a result, the soft hum you hear is similar to the hum you’d hear in an office.
Decibels measure the noise level, or sound production, of electronic devices, signals, and communication systems. If the dB level is high, noise production is greater, and vice-versa. The average noise level to expect from an inverter is 50 to 60dB.
Safety Concerns
As with any purchase you make, there are going to be safety concerns. For one, you’ll need to ensure your generator doesn’t run in an enclosure, as the exhaust it produces needs to be released to prevent overheating and other hazards.
Other safety concerns to keep in mind while browsing for inverter generators are:
- Be careful with the power, as it can cause electric shock if not handled properly.
- Follow the manufacturer’s manual on properly fueling the generator to avoid fires.
- Keep the generator in an open area away from doors, windows, and vents.
The Pros of Inverter Generators
Before you buy a generator, you’ll also need a list of pros and cons. To start, let’s take a look at the benefits of inverter generators.
Cleaner Power
Generated power should be clean; no one wants to pollute their area with fuel fumes. The inverter has a high-quality electric motor, producing fewer fuel emissions. The low level of emissions means a cleaner environment.
Easy to Maintain
An item’s maintenance is essential. If it takes more than a few gallons of gas to power a generator, you’ll have a lot of upkeep to do more often. For the inverter generator, however, there’s much less to do. Since it runs on an electric motor, the amount of maintenance reduces to simply checking the battery monthly.
Completely Portable
Another great thing about the inverter generator is its portability. Compared to the standard generator, the inverter’s easy to carry and store, making traveling less stressful.
The Cons of Inverter Generators
As enjoyable as the pros can be, there are also setbacks to be aware of when buying a generator.
It’s Not as Powerful
Although it works well to reduce the number of gas emissions, the one thing that inverters lack most is power. Due to the compact size, these generators don’t produce intense bouts of energy like the bigger generators. However, there is a way to utilize more power: running two portable generators at once.
They Cost More
The other thing is the cost. It seems like anything portable runs a little bit on the high side. And the inverter generator isn’t an exception. The most you’d spend on an inverter generator is close to $10,000, with the smallest models being around $390. Despite the cost, the amount of quality still makes it worth the investment.
How Is a Generator Used?
Often, you’ll need to find a use for an inverter generator. Not only that, but how common is the usage, and will it work for what you need? That’s entirely up to what your needs are. If you need something with more power to say, power your home, we don’t recommend using an inverter generator. An inverter’s power is best used on the go.
What Features Does an Inverter Have?
Inverter generators contain plenty of features, with the three biggest being the outlets, automatic and electric start, and low-fuel shutoff switch.
Outlets
Since the power is portable, you have the option of having multiple outlets to use for all kinds of electronics. Once everything’s plugged in, your devices are ready for use.
Automatic and Electric Start
An automatic and electric start are great features to have. You not only have an electric button to push, you’ll also have the choice to have an automatic start. The automatic start will turn on immediately once it detects a power outage.
Low-Fuel Shutoff
Low-fuel shutoff is another feature to celebrate. You no longer need to peer down at the fuel gauge to get a full-level reading since it has an automatic shutdown mode when low-fuel levels are detected.
Buy an Inverter Generator Today
Buying an inverter generator is a worthy investment. It’s easy to maintain and it has automatic start and shut-off features available to buyers, making traveling and temporarily powering up homes during a power outage easier. If you’re ready to buy, take a look at our inverter generators on sale.
We hope, after reading our generator buying guide, you’ll feel more confident in your inverter generator purchase. We also hope you enjoyed learning about what an inverter generator is, the pros and cons of buying one, and our highlights of its best features.
Our Generators want to ensure you are satisfied with your purchase by answering any questions you may have while checking out our online shop. We’re happy to help you find the right generator for your needs.
