Inverter or generator - which is best for home use

Inverter Or Generator – Which Is Best For Home Use?

If you need a smartphone, you will have to buy one. Buying a feature phone won’t do any good, right? Both are phones and can make calls or send text messages. Still, there are a lot of differences between them.

In the same way, inverters and generators are treated, and both have advantages and disadvantages. So, in this article, we will try to know which one serves the best for which situations. And you will be able to decide in the end.

Inverter Or Generator – Which Is Best For Home Use?

One thing you have to understand is that both devices can generate power for your home appliances. So, you can’t rule out a specific one to be the best. Depending on your needs, either one can be the most effective one than the other. So, let’s get to know more about them, and you decide on for your home.

Types Of Inverter

Types of inverterAccording to the output voltage waveform, you can divide the inverters into 3 basic categories.

Sine Wave Inverters:

These are the best power inverter for home uses because you can run sensitive appliances with it without worrying about anything. Our main power lines provide similar kinds of AC output, and sine wave inverters provide nothing different. As a result, this type of inverter is used widely in homes and offices.

Square Wave Inverters:

The output waveform of these types of inverters is square, which is not supported by most of the devices we use every day. Only some basic appliances like motors can operate with such an output. Other instruments can get severely damaged by running them with it. This is the reason square wave inverters are least used despite its low price.

Modified Sine Wave Inverters:

These are the hybrids of the above two inverter types. If you sum two square waves, you will get the resemblance of sine wave but not a pure one. So, you can power up the appliances that are not so sensitive to the output waveforms. Except for microwaves, laser printers, and similar devices, you can use it to run other appliances in your home.

Benefits Of Using An Inverter

There are a lot of advantages to using an inverter at home. It can efficiently change DC power to AC without causing any harm to the appliances. It can step the voltage up or down and provide the necessary isolation to the output circuit from the input circuit.

Because of the smooth output voltage waveform and safety features, you will be sure to have the maximum longevity of the appliances. You might need the best 2000 watt inverter or any other capacity depending on your needs.

Note: Reading the types and benefits, if you are convinced to have one, you can read our article on how to choose a power inverter.

Types Of Generator

Types of generatorResearching on the internet, you will see that there are many types of generators are available. All of those types fall into 3 categories namely portable generators, inverter generators, and standby generators. Let’s try to know a little bit about those types.

Portable Generators:

Portable generators use gas or diesel fuel to provide power for many hours. The most important benefit is that it can provide power in any place on demand. Moreover, you can connect the generator’s output to the mainline.

Some portable generators are so lightweight that you can easily carry it around. Some are a bit heavy and comes with wheels making it convenient and highly portable. If you go out for camping, you can take a portable generator, and you will be able to have the best outdoor experience.

These are very easy to use and come with different fuel options. As a result, most of the house owners prefer this type to the others. With the best 10000 watt generator, you will be able to use almost all of the devices in your home.

Inverter Generators:

The most significant advantage of an inverter generator is that it is the most efficient generator of all. The reason is the engine speed that can adjust itself automatically according to the output power requirements. Other generators produce constant power even when your demand is less.

Furthermore, you can set the voltage and frequency of the output AC power matching the ratings of the appliances you tend to use. As a result, you will be assured that the devices won’t get damaged due to sudden surges or impure sine waves.

The output power undergoes three phases making it the safest power source for your devices. The compact design and lightweight features of these generators make them perfect for use in cars, RVs, boats, etc.

Standby Generators:

Standby generators are mostly used in emergencies where the power can’t go out even 5 seconds. These are big and can use liquid propane or natural gas as the power source. During a power outage, it can power up within seconds automatically. As a result, lifts of emergency devices in hospitals can keep running saving lives.

Benefits Of Using A Generator

The best thing about a generator is that you can get as many hours of backup as you want. Keep providing its fuel, and you will have uninterrupted service for many hours, unlike a power inverter. Also, it can give you AC power as well as DC power on demand.

Note: To stay fully secured from a power outage, you should know how to choose a generator.

Which Is Best For Home Use: Inverter Or Generator

Inverter or generator - which is best for home useFor powering up the appliances at home, we saw that some requirements aces. For example, capacity and operating hours are the most important consideration here. One needs to run furnaces, pumps, refrigerators, microwave ovens, etc. at home for long hours.

Both inverters and generators are capable of powering up those appliances, but we got a winner when it comes to the duration. As long as you can provide fuel, a generator can give you power, which an inverter can’t.

Because you can’t provide an unlimited number of batteries to its input power source and so, generators are the best option for homes. For the best backup system, you can get the best portable propane generator, or the best dual fuel portable generator will be perfect for home-usage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to keep inverter in the bedroom?

Yes, keeping an inverter in the bedroom isn’t safe until you ensure proper ventilation. Inverter batteries emit a minimal amount of fumes and gases, but that won’t harm you. So, you can keep one in your bedroom if you have no other options.

How many watts inverters do I need for a home?

Sum up the number of watts of the appliances you want to use and increase the value to 20% to 30%. If you need 1700 watts, you will have to buy a 2000-watt inverter. Also, keep the surge capacity in mind while buying.

Do I need a transfer switch for my generator?

Yes, according to the National Electric Code, you will need a transfer switch to use a generator in your home. The switch isolates the main power line from the generator line, which improves safety.

How big of a generator do I need to run a house?

There are no 100% correct answers to that question because the need varies from house to house. For example, houses with smaller furnaces need less capacity and so on.

Final Remarks

We think it all comes down to the budget. Act according to your budget, but if you want expert-opinion, here it is. For home usage, we think a generator would serve you the best, and keeping an inverter in your vehicle will be the wisest choice. But inverters can also be your first choice in case you can’t tolerate a generator’s noise at all.

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