Conventional Vs Inverter Generator,Which Is Best for Home Use？

When buying a generator, you will come across conventional and inverter conventional generator models. Choosing between the two can be daunting as you’ll have to sacrifice some features. This article compares the two so you can make an informed decision.

What is a Conventional Generator?

An electric generator or dynamo is a machine that converts mechanical energy to electricity. This is crucial, especially during a power blackout. The power generated can be used for commercial, domestic, or industrial purposes depending on the generator’s power output capacity. 

How Does a Conventional Generator Work?

Conventional generators are based on electromagnetic induction, which Michael Faraday discovered. Ideally, it is called the Faraday law of electronic induction.

The law states that when an electrical conductor is exposed to a varying magnetic field, the current is induced. When the conductor moves in the magnetic field, there’s a difference in voltage between the conductor’s ends, causing the production of electricity.

The Main Parts of a Conventional Generator 

The following are the main components of an electric generator

Types of Conventional Generators 

There are two main types of electrical generators: AC (Alternating Current) and DC (Direct Current) generators. 

AC Generators

As the name suggests, they are devices that convert mechanical energy into alternating current (AC). Mechanical energy is supplied through combustion, steam turbines, and others.

Like a conventional generator, it uses the Faraday law of electromagnetic induction.

AC generators are made up of the following components:

• Field: These are the coils that receive voltage from the source to produce magnetic flux. 

• Rotor:  The generator’s rotating component.

• Prime mover: An external mechanical device that rotates the rotor. For example, engine combustion.

• Armature: The component that produces voltage.

AC generators are easy to use since they are smaller than DC generators. In addition, you can use step-up and step-down transformers to increase and decrease electricity voltage levels respectively.

DC Generators 

DC generators convert direct current electrical energy into mechanical energy. There are three types of DC generators: self-excited, separately-excite, and permanent-magnet generators.

With self-excited generators, it provides current to the field winding. There are two types of self-excited generators: series wound and shunt-wound generators. 

A separate direct current source energizes separately-excited generators while there are no field windings near the poles in a permanent magnet generator.

Unlike AC generators, DC generators power commercial to industrial machines. Their designs are simple and reduce electric fluctuations providing continuous power.

Related article: DC To AC Converter (Understanding How Power Converters Work)

What is an Inverter Generator?

An inverter generator is a portable device that uses an electronic alternator to  produce electricity. They use inverter technology to convert AC power into DC, then back to stable AC power with stable frequency and voltage.

Unlike conventional generators, they produce clean and stable power. This makes them an ideal option for domestic applications. 

How Does an Inverter Generator Work?

This is how an inverter generator works.

• The engine runs by rotating the alternator.

• As the alternator rotates, it produces distorted or unstable AC power.

• The AC power is sent to a rectifier circuit that converts it into DC power.

• The DC power is transferred to the inverter where it is converted into stable AC power. 

• Finally, you can connect your appliances to the generator. 

What is a Solar Generator with an Inverter?

A solar generator with an inverter is a device that utilizes solar power and converts it to electric energy. It consists of three main parts: an inverter, a battery bank, and solar panels.

• Solar panels: Solar panels capture sunlight, converting it into direct current (DC). They are made of photovoltaic cells that generate electric current when exposed to sunlight. They can either be mounted on the generator or connected to the device through cables.

• Battery: A battery bank stores excess electricity that solar panels produce. It is stored in the form of DC electricity, which can be used when there’s no sunlight or at night. 

• Inverter: The inverter converts the DC power into AC electricity. Thanks to the inverter, you get stable, clean, and continuous AC power which is a standard for most household appliances. 

Related article: Solar Generator VS Generator (Technology Compared)

Key Differences Between Inverter Generators and Conventional Generators

There are many differences between the two generators including the following:

• Starting mechanism 

Inverter generators are easy to start since they feature an electronic starting mechanism such as a start button. This makes them ideal for different users, old and young. On the other hand, conventional generators can take time to start. Most feature a manual pull-start mechanism that requires effort to start the engine. Besides, they may require multiple attempts before running.

• Output power quality

As we’ve seen, inverter generators produce stable and clean power ideal for most household appliances. Since the power is similar to electricity that utility companies generate, it can be used to power sensitive electronics.

Unfortunately, conventional generators produce unstable electricity. Often referred to as “dirty” power, it features fluctuations and harmonic distortions.

• Fuel efficiency 

As you’d expect, inverter generators are more fuel-efficient than conventional options. They automatically adjust to load demand, running at lower RPMs when it is low and vice versa. Conventional generators do not adjust to load demands. Instead, they run at a constant speed, consuming more fuel. They are also noisier than inverter generators.

• Portability 

Inverter generators are lightweight and compact making them ideal for outdoor applications. They also require less storage space than conventional generators. Speaking of conventional generators, they are heavier and larger meaning you cannot transport them easily.

• Parallel operation 

Unlike conventional generators, inverter options offer parallel operation. This means you can connect two compatible units to increase power output. You cannot scale up power output with conventional generators. 

Benefits of an Inverter Generator

So, why should you choose an inverter generator over a conventional option? Let’s find out.

• Cleaner power

Inverter generators produce a pure sine wave output, meaning stable and clean electricity. This makes them ideal for sensitive electronics such as mobile phones. And since inverter generators produce less C02, they are more eco-friendly than conventional generators.

• Portable 

Inverter generators are more lightweight and portable than conventional generators. As such, they are a favorite for most outdoor enthusiasts. They are also easy to start, transport, and maneuver.

• Parallel operation capability

 You can connect two compatible units to double the power output. This flexibility provides extra power when load demands are high.

• Fuel-efficient 

Unlike conventional generators, inverters adjust power output depending on load demands. If the demand is high, the RPM will increase and vice versa. This means you’ll converse fuel for situations where the demand for electricity is high.

• Quiet operation

Inverter-type generators run more silently than conventional units. Some even feature unique designs to reduce noise emissions. Ideally, a traditional generator will produce noise levels of up to 60dBA, which is extremely annoying.

How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Home

Before settling for a generator, you should consider the following aspects.

• Noise level

If you’ll be using the generator inside your house, you need to consider the generator’s noise levels. As mentioned, inverter generators are relatively quieter than conventional units, making them an ideal option.

• Fuel gauge

A fuel gauge enables you to track fuel consumption so you can refill the generator promptly. This is especially beneficial if you are using a gas-powered generator.

• Type of fuel 

Generators run on different fuel types. Conventional generators can use natural gas, propane, and gasoline, while inverter generators with solar run on solar energy. If you want to reduce your carbon footprint, consider buying a solar-powered generator.

• Power requirements

You also need to consider the amount of power you need to run your appliances. With a portable generator, you can power small appliances while a standby unit allows you to power the whole house. 

• Budget 

As you’d expect, conventional generators are cheaper compared to inverter units. As such, you’ll need to work with your budget to buy what you can afford. 

• Additional features

Other features you need to consider when buying a generator include an electric start, automatic start, low-oil shutoff, and multiple outlets.

Why Choose BLUETTI Solar Generators?

If you are looking for efficient yet cost-effective solar generators, consider buying BLUETTI models. Here are some of the reasons to use BLUETTI solar generators.

• Different ways to recharge 

You can recharge the solar generators using different sources of power. This ensures your devices are running at night or when there’s no sunlight.

For example, you can recharge the BLUETTI AC300 using solar, AC and solar, your car, or a lead-acid battery. So if you want to go camping during winter or summer, this is your perfect choice.

• Remote control

Another reason to buy BLUETTI solar generators is their provided app. With it, you can control and monitor the generator with ease. Diagnosis also becomes easy as the app will alert you when it is at fault.

With the BLUETTI AC500, you can control it via WiFi or Bluetooth. All you need is to install the provided app. You can monitor the power usage, battery levels, and charging speed. 

• High capacity and many outlets

Thanks to the high capacity, the generator can power most household products such as a coffee maker, air conditioner, refrigerator, and an electric grill. They also have many outlets to power your phones, laptops, and other portable devices. 

• Pure sine wave

BLUETTI solar generators also produce pure sine wave power which is similar to mains electricity. As such, you can use it to recharge sensitive devices such as laptops. 

This also ensures a consistent and smooth flow of current. The BLUETTI products all provide pure sine waves. They have all kinds of watts to choose from, and they are ideal for charging different electronic devices, such as kitchen appliances.

Related article: How To Install A Pure Sine Wave Inverter? (Step-by-step)

Final Thoughts

As you can see, inverter generators are better than conventional units. They are fuel-efficient, eco-friendly, easy to use, and portable. They also produce stable electricity ideal for household devices. 

And if you want to power your house sustainably, you can opt for solar-powered inverter generators. For this, consider buying BLUETTI solar generators.