Honda Yamaha Generator vs Inverter Generator
Honda Yamaha Hyundai iTechworld Generator
What is the difference is between a generator, an inverter and an inverter generator. In this blog we will discuss the differences and help you work out which one is best for your application.
Generators
Conventional generators have been around for a long time, the technology used is pretty much unchanged. Fuel is used which then powers a motor attached to an alternator that produces electricity.
Inverters
An inverter does something different, it changes DC to AC. This AC power can be converted to any voltage and here in Australia we use 240v. The power produced can either be in the form of modified sine wave or pure sine wave. pure sine wave power is beneficial as it creates electricity identical to what you get from mains power.
Inverter Generators
We will use The Redback's inverter technology as an example. The Redback's takes power produced by the generator and uses a specific computerised processors to condition it through a multi-step process.
First, the Redback's alternator produces high voltage multiphase AC power. The AC power is then converted to DC. Finally the DC power is converted back to AC by the inverter. The inverter also cleans up the power to make it pure sine wave.
Redback's inverter is machine made and are of the highest quality which produce stable and consistent pure sine wave power.
The benefits?? Clean enough power to run even the most sensitive electronic equipment including laptops.
Size / Weight / Portability
Weight is key in the RV market. Most older style generators can weigh close to 100kg. Inverter generators weigh a fraction of that. The Redback for example only weighs 33kg. A conventional generator that can produce this much power usually weighs 60-70kg.
Fuel Efficiency / Run Times
Generators generally come with larger fuel tanks than inverter generators but tend to be more fuel hungry. Inverter generators such as the Redback's have features such as automatic economy mode which only allows the generator to rev up to match the load. This takes the strain off the generator and allows it to be more economical.
Noise
Generators are loud, there is no getting away from it. Inverter generators are considerably quieter than their generator counter parts. The Redback's has a noise level range of 49dB - 56dB. This is extremely quiet and wont disturb the neighbours too much.
Max Power Output
Conventional generators come in all shapes and sizes and can produce enough power to run a food stall at a local market to being able to provide power for a supermarket with a power outage. Inverter generator are designed more as back or for RV use. The Redback RB4 produces enough power to back up your home during storm season or to live comfortablly on the road in your RV.
Price
Generators are a dime a dozen and can be picked up for a fairly reasonable price. An inverter generator usually comes with a longer warranty, quieter operation and other features such as remote control start. You pay the premium for this, however you don't need to bust into your lifetime savings.
So Which One Wins – the Conventional Generator or the Inverter Generator?
Horses for courses. But more and more people are finding that the convenience, portability, quiet operation and clean power offered by modern units like the Redback RB4 Inverter Generator is definitely the way to go.
Article author
Ian
ian@itechworld.com.au