What is a generator?
Generators are a common way to provide backup electricity when the main power supply is interrupted or not available. They can be powered by a variety of fuel sources, including coal, natural gas, and oil, and they are able to generate electricity for an extended period of time. However, these fuel sources do require storage and regular maintenance, which can be a drawback.
Additionally, generators can be noisy and produce emissions, which can be a concern for air quality. Inverters are an alternative power source that converts DC power to AC power and can be powered by batteries, which can be charged with electricity. They are generally quieter and do not produce emissions, but they may not be able to provide power for as long as a generator without needing to be recharged.
What is an inverter?
Inverters are devices that convert DC power, typically from a battery, into AC power, which can be used to power household appliances and other equipment. In order to use an inverter, the battery must be charged regularly or kept on continuously so that it can charge itself and be ready to provide power when needed.
Inverters also require wiring to connect the equipment that will be powered during a power outage, and the equipment must be set up to start automatically when the inverter powers on. Inverters are a useful alternative to generators for providing backup power during power outages, as they are generally quieter, produce no emissions, and do not require fuel storage.
Difference between Generator and Inverter
| BASIS | GENERATOR | INVERTER |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage | Its produce 120 volts AC, 60 Hz | Its converts12 volts DC to 120 volts AC |
| Time period of starting | Takes time to start after a power outage | Restores power immediately |
| Noise and pollution | Makes noise and produces smoke | Silent and pollution-free |
| Source of power | Requires external fuel sources | Uses batteries that can be charged with electricity |
| Starting | Requires manual effort | Starts automatically when there is a power outage |
| Capacities | High | Lower |
| Installation | Already installed or established | Requires installation and wiring |
| Duration of a power outage | Suitable for long outages | Suitable for short outages |
| Backup power | None required | Needs a backup generator for long outages |
| Fuel storage | Requires fuel storage | No fuel storage required |
| Maintenance | Requires regular maintenance | Almost no maintenance required |
| Space | Large and kept outside | Small and kept inside |
| Size and weight | Large and heavy | Compact and light |
| Maximum power output | 500 to 50,000 watts or more | 1,000 to 4,000 watts |
| Parallel operation | Not possible | Can be linked to another identical unit to increase capacity |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
Key Points Difference Between Generator and Inverter
- Generators produce AC power directly, while inverters convert DC power to AC power.
- Generators take longer to start and make noise and produce smoke, while inverters start immediately and are silent and pollution-free.
- Generators require external fuel sources, while inverters use batteries that can be charged with electricity.
- Generators require manual effort to start, while inverters start automatically when there is a power outage.
- Generators are available in higher capacities, while inverters are available in lower capacities.
- Generators are typically used in situations with long power outages, while inverters are suitable for short power outages.
- Inverters require a backup generator for longer outages, while generators do not require any backup.
- Generators require maintenance and fuel storage, while inverters require almost no maintenance and do not need fuel storage.
- Generators are larger and heavier, while inverters are smaller and lighter.
- Generators are available in a wider range of wattages, while inverters are typically available in the range of 1000-4000 watts.
- Inverters can be linked to increasing their power capacity, while generators cannot be operated in parallel.
- Inverters are generally more expensive than generators of the same rating.