The difference between a low-cost power inverter and more expensive models
Have you ever wondered why some inverters cost so much more than others of the same power? I will briefly describe one of the main differences between a low cost power inverter and a high cost item.
Finding a power inverter to convert power from DC to AC may seem like a simple task, but when you start shopping for a power inverter for your personal use, you will soon find that you will be faced with many options. With prices ranging from less than $ 25 to more than $ 1000, it can be difficult to know what features are important and how to choose a unit that is right for your needs.
While the power you need and how you will connect the unit to your power source are items to consider, another item to consider is the waveform output of the inverter. There are two general types of power inverters: true sine wave or modified sine wave (square wave). True sine wave inverters produce power that is identical or sometimes slightly better than that of the utility grid system. The power wave when viewed through an oscilloscope is a smooth sine wave. Modified sine wave and square wave inverters are the most common types of power inverters on the market. Modified sine wave power inverters produce a power wave that is sufficient for most devices. The energy wave is not exactly the same as electricity from the power grid. It has a waveform that appears as a choppy square wave when viewed through an oscilloscope. What does that mean for the everyday user? Not much. Most household electrical devices will work perfectly in any type of waveform.
Most of our customers who use a power inverter to run a laptop, air-conditioned cell phone charger, fan, or camera find that a modified sine wave power inverter operates through the cigarette lighter socket. cigarette is the easiest to use.
We generally suggest choosing power inverters rated less than 300 watts when using the 12-volt cigarette lighter plug found in most vehicles. We suggest this because after reaching 300 watts of draw on the inverter, the fuses in your car will start to blow. There are several units available on the market with a power of between 100 and 200 watts that connect directly to the cigarette lighter of a vehicle. It has only one outlet, but since plugging it into a 12-volt outlet is all that is required for its operation, it is unbeatable for its ease of use. These small units generally supply around 150 watts of continuous operation and typically have a built-in surge protector.
Square wave drives or their inexpensive power inverters fall into the following three groups:
500w or less For home appliances, televisions (up to 19 “), VCRs, desktop computers and other mobile office equipment. Most of these connect through a 12-volt outlet.
501-999w For appliances, large screen televisions, 5 amp power tools and bread machines. Most of these inverters are connected directly to the 12-volt battery and have three or more grounded outlets to power multiple products at the same time.
1000-3900w For appliances, larger power tools, microwave ovens, toasters and hair dryers. All of these inverters are designed for direct connection to the battery grid and can generally supply 750 to 2500 watts of continuous power.
The waveform issue only comes into play when it is necessary to power specialized equipment. Here are some devices that could have problems when connected to an inverter that produces a modified sine wave signal: oxygen concentrators, fax machines, laser printers, high voltage cordless tool chargers, equipment with variable speed motors, razors electric and garage. Door openers. For most other applications, you can go for the inexpensive power inverter.
In closing, it really is not necessary for the average user to opt for the true sine wave unit. The modified sine wave found in most inexpensive power inverters will be enough to take care of your applications.