Inverter Generators: Why Are They So Popular?
An inverter generator is a generator that can supply high-quality electricity that is comparable to a household power source even outdoors.
21/06/2020
consumer reports
Inverter generators are the most popular
among all generators. So why is there a demand
for inverter generators?
An "inverter
generator" is a generator that can supply
high-quality electricity that is comparable to a
household power source even outdoors. It
features a built-in inverter that stabilizes the
frequency, and is capable of producing stable
electricity.
You can use all kinds of home appliances, from cooking home appliances such as hot plates to precision equipment such as personal computers, even outdoors or in emergencies. In Japan, there are regional differences in the frequency of home appliances, but inverter generators can switch frequencies. Most home appliances can operate smoothly. It's also useful as an emergency power supply, so it's a piece of equipment you'll want to have in your family.
About an inverter generator
Among the many generators, the most demanding is the inverter generator. First, I will explain the features of the inverter generator and the differences from other generators.
Features of inverter generator
An inverter generator is a generator that can output electric power with a good waveform at the same level as an outlet at home. It's a bit difficult to understand by itself, so I'll explain each in turn.
First, an "inverter" is a "device that converts direct current into alternating current.” And "DC" is a voltage with a fixed direction and size (such as batteries). On the other hand, "alternating current" is a voltage whose direction and magnitude change over time (such as household outlets).
Electrical equipment that uses a power cord plugged into an outlet operates on AC voltage. And the voltage reaching the household outlet is a clean wave (sine wave).
However, the power generated by a normal generator has a distorted waveform as shown on the left side of the figure below. If you connect a PC etc. in this state, the device may not work properly and may be broken. Therefore, once converted to direct current, and then converted back to alternating current by an inverter, the power of a clean waveform that can be used by a personal computer is output. This is an inverter generator.
Difference from generator without inverter
The big difference between an inverter generator and a generator without an inverter is the ability to use precision equipment such as a personal computer. A generator without an inverter cannot be used for precision equipment because the output waveform is distorted.
However, an inverter less generator can be used for devices that simply generate heat or rotate a motor, such as heaters and fans. Therefore, when choosing a generator, it is necessary to choose with or without an inverter, depending on what kind of equipment you want to use.
Electrical equipment that can be used with an inverter generator
Inverter generators can also be used with the following equipment, which cannot be used with other generators:
1. Precision equipment (charging PCs, smartphones, charging tools using lithium-ion batteries, etc.)
2. Microcomputer controlled electronic devices (rice cooker, TV, microwave oven, etc.)
3. With the help of a 2kw generator you can run deep freezer, freezer, microwave etc.
In other words, the inverter generator is the most versatile generator. As a result, inverter generators are in great demand and many types are sold.
Fuel is affordable, clean and quiet
There are three types of fuel that run an inverter generator, depending on the engine: gasoline, gas, and light oil, and they have the following characteristics. Of course, each fuel is dedicated, so it is not possible to use fuel together, such as using diesel fuel for the gasoline generator.
- Gasoline: Can be used
without worrying about time
Gasoline has
a large output, and once refueled, the generator
can be operated for a long time. Recommended
when power is important, and you want to move
many home appliances for a long time.
On
the other hand, it has the disadvantage that
exhaust gas is exhausted because it is gasoline,
and detailed maintenance such as injection,
replenishment and replacement of engine oil is
required. Many people are worried about the
smell of gasoline while driving, so let's
compare the advantages and disadvantages
carefully.
- Gas: Can be used with a domestic
stove
Although cassette gas filled with
liquefied butane (LPG) is inferior in output and
continuous use time, it is attractive that it
can be easily and inexpensively obtained even in
familiar supermarkets and home centers.
It is easy to exchange and store, and if it
is left over it can be used as a household
stove. This type is recommended if you
occasionally go out outdoors and use it for a
short time.
- Diesel (engine): Uses cheap
diesel fuel as fuel and has low fuel
consumption, resulting in low running cost.
Electricity is generated by moving the engine
with gasoline and rotating a magnet placed near
the coil. This is the principle you learn with
the "hand-held generator" in science at
elementary schools.
How to use inverter generator?
Here, we will introduce how to use the inverter generator. Since the generator uses gasoline etc. as fuel, it is extremely dangerous if handled incorrectly. There are also convenient ways to use it in parallel, so please take a look.
- Recommendations before use
When using an inverter generator, pay attention to the following points when preparing the main unit.
• Install the generator in a stable place
• Do not put flammable objects around
• Install in a well-ventilated place 1 m or more away from the wall
• Unplug the outlet of the equipment to be used from the generator
• Do not use in the rain
• Do not transport the generator by car filled with fuel.
• Preparation of the main body
1. For models with a frequency switch, switch the frequency according to the device.
2. When using the generator for the first time, replenish the maintenance oil.
Conclusion
For leisure, outdoor work, emergency measures at the time of an event or disaster, the inverter generator is a versatile power source that can be used for various purposes.