what is an inverter generator

If you don't like the hassle of power cuts, reliable power backup solutions are the only option. However, it would be an added advantage if the power backup solution was portable. We now have inverter generators with the advent of advanced electronics and inverter technology. But what is an inverter generator? This is a detailed guide to inverter generators. It contains everything you need to know about the ins and outs of inverter generators.

Important inverter generator terms

Distortion

When a generator produces AC (alternating current) power, the voltage and current produced should ideally be perfect sine waves with a smooth and uniform pattern over time.

Distortion means deviation from ideal waveforms in these output power waveforms.

Distortion can mean increased or decreased voltage frequency fluctuations. All of these can lead to a less-than-perfect power supply.

Alternating current (AC) 

An electric current changes direction (back and forth) at regular intervals.

AC power is used for most electrical applications, including lighting, motors, appliances, and electronic devices.

The electricity is generated by power stations and distributed to our homes and businesses through the power grid.

Direct current (DC)

Unlike alternating current, direct current does not change direction continuously but flows in only one direction.

It is used in many small electronic devices, such as phones, computers, and home electronics.

However, it cannot be easily transmitted over long distances by power lines, so it is not used in the national grid.

What are inverter generators?

A portable generator called an inverter employs an electronic alternator to produce energy. Inverter generators use advanced technology to convert the direct current (DC) power produced by the engine into alternating current (AC) power, which can be used to power various household appliances or devices. It is designed to produce clean, stable electricity to make the most efficient fuel use and reduce emissions.

How does an inverter generator work?

Working on inverter generators is a step-by-step process, which is listed below.

1. Fuel (petrol) runs the engine, which rotates the alternator.

2. The alternator produces AC power full of distortion and unusable at that time.

3. The AC power thus generated is sent to the rectifier circuit, which converts it into DC power.

4. In this step, the DC power is transferred to the inverter module, which converts it back to AC. The AC power thus generated is clean and distortion-free.

5. Finally, electricity is available for use through the generator's outlets.

BISON inverter technology uses the original power generated by the generator and uses a special microprocessor to adjust it through a multi-step process to provide clean power for sophisticated electrical equipment. A microcomputer control system controls the entire process, including engine speed, voltage, current, frequency, power, etc. The output power can be automatically adjusted according to the size of the external electrical appliances, thereby improving the output efficiency of the generator. BISON uses only high-quality inverters in our generators to ensure stable and consistent power generation.

What are the benefits of using an inverter generator?

Inverter generators have their advantages, which are discussed below.

Less fuel consumption

An inverter generator does not need to run at 3600 rpm all the time to generate AC power. The engine speed is automatically changed to match the amount of power being used by the attached load. If the load is less, the engine will run at a lower speed, resulting in less fuel consumption. Fuel consumption can be reduced by as much as 40%. It also helps reduce exhaust emissions.

Clean power

The AC power produced by the inverter generator is free from harmonic distortion and is safe to use with small electronic devices. BISON inverter technology means stable, high-quality power, you don't need to worry about damaging precision electrical appliances or electronic products. BISON inverter generators use pure sine wave inverters. Therefore, in most cases, THD is limited to less than 1%. Inverter technology allows the generator to power any electronic device, no matter how sensitive it is: laptops, cell phones, cameras, tablets, etc.

Parallel operation

If one inverter generator cannot meet your power needs, combine several to get the desired power output. This is something that is not possible with conventional generators. The average power of the inverter generator is about 2000-4000 watts, you can pair it with another device to double your power. The parallel function allows you to use two smaller, lighter generators to complete the work of a larger generator-without sacrificing portability.

Portability

Inverter generator factory - BISON considered portability when designing the inverter generator. Most types of inverter generators are lighter, with handles and wheels. Their portability makes them an ideal power backup solution when camping. 

Quiet operation

Since the generator operates at variable speed, it is less noisy than conventional generators. The noise level is acceptable and will not disturb you during your camping vacation. BISON inverter generator produces 59dB noise when working, which is equivalent to a conversation between two people. In addition, special sound-absorbing materials and BISON engines also help to keep our inverter generators quiet.

no maintenance

The inverter generator uses a permanent magnet generator, no carbon brushes, no wear and no maintenance. Traditional generators have low power generation efficiency, high power consumption, and troublesome maintenance. The brushes of traditional generators need to be replaced regularly.

What are the drawbacks of using an inverter generator?

High cost

Compared with portable generators of the same power, inverter generators tend to have a higher price. This is because they incorporate complex designs and circuitry with efficient inverter technology. But trust BISON, inverter generators are worth every penny you spend buying them.

Low power output

An inverter generator produces a lot less power than a typical AC generator. If you need to power an entire house or heavy machinery, the inverter generator may not be powerful enough. Inverter generators are more suitable for outdoor activities, RVs and emergency situations to power some household appliances.

Not safe indoors

An inverter generator uses gasoline to run its engine. Therefore, it will emit gasses like carbon monoxide, so it's unsafe to use indoors.

Applications of inverter generators

Due to the high quality of the power it produces, inverters are ideal generators for ordinary consumers to power electronic devices, no matter where they are: country houses, garages, camping, hunting, fishing... professionals also The advantages of the inverter can be used, especially the mute. For example, a construction company will work at any time without disturbing neighbours; a marketing company will organize outdoor activities... It is not recommended to use inverter equipment to power machines that operate under extreme power or consumption conditions, such as motors Welding machines, hammers, concrete mixers, construction machinery, inverter welding machines or metallurgical machines. They can also be used for more reasons, such as:

• Power failure or failure of the backup power supply.

• Use low-power generators.

• Provide electricity for caravan travel.

• Food truck.

• Outdoor activities.

• I use large electronic devices.

• The power source is far away from the main grid.

Frequently asked questions about inverter generators

Can an inverter generator run a refrigerator?

Yes, most inverter generators can provide enough power to run a refrigerator. In general, an inverter generator with an output of at least 2 kW should be able to handle this task without any problems. For example, a 360-watt refrigerator can run for 3 hours on a 1500-watt inverter generator.

Is an inverter generator AC or DC?

An inverter generator creates AC power through a two-step process. In the first stage, it generates DC power, and then in the second stage, it converts it to AC using a microprocessor-controlled inverter.

How do I know if my generator is an inverter?

In conventional portable generators, the engine speed is set, typically 3600 RPM, and always runs at the same speed. A portable inverter generator variable speed to produce the required electricity. Turn on a few lights, and the engine revs up. Close them again, and the engine will slow down.

How many hours does an inverter generator run?

If we use this question as a basis, you can expect typical portable camping generators to last between 1,000 and 2,000 hours. Inverter generator manufacturers such as BISON provide full support or warranty for up to 1,000 hours of run time for portable inverter generators.

How loud is an inverter generator?

The decibel meter registered up to 76 dB for the typical generator and only around 66 dB for the inverter generator. This low-noise operation is perfect for campgrounds where there may be official noise restrictions in addition to getting a good night's sleep.

Conclusion

Now you know what an inverter generator is. To sum up, understanding the working principle, advantages, disadvantages and technical terms associated with inverter generators is key. Whether you are a consumer looking for efficient power solutions or a dealer looking for reliable in-stock products, this knowledge can help you make informed decisions.

As an experienced inverter generator manufacturer in China, BISON has already occupied a place in this industry.

We invite you who are passionate about providing customers with sustainable, efficient, and reliable power solutions to work with us. With our high-quality inverter generators, you will provide your customers with the best products on the market. Let us power the future with top-quality inverter generators.