How Does An Inverter Generator Work? All You Need To Know

By Ellie Perez | Updated: November 13, 2023

If you’ve ever been uncomfortable with power cuts, surely you will know how important it is to have solid backup plans. For that reason, inverter generators were invented following the development of science and technology, along with the backup fuel needs of users around the world today.

Based on BeforeBuy’s experience, we have many years of know-how and use of many types of inverter generators. Therefore, we are entirely confident that we can give you the answer to how does an inverter generator work? as well as helpful information about this generator.

Overview of Inverter Generator

*These engines consume less fuel and pollute less, making them environmentally friendly.*

An inverter generator is a device inverting electricity, providing users with a cleaner and safer power supply for sensitive electronic equipment. Compared to traditional generators, inverter generators have many benefits, such as:

They are more fuel-efficient, as they adjust their engine speed according to the power demand.
They are quieter, as they run at lower speeds and have noise-reducing features.
They are lighter and more compact, as they only have a single unit that combines the engine and the generator.
They are safer for sensitive electronics, as they produce pure sine wave power output having less harmonic distortion.
Ideal for powering devices and appliances that require high-quality and consistent power, such as laptops, TVs, refrigerators, and air conditioners. They are also appropriate for outdoor activities, such as camping, RVing, and tailgating, as they are easy to transport and operate.
With less distortion (changes in the power source), voltage drops, and noise, an inverter generator’s output is more trustworthy and stable than a regular generator’s.
Good for the earth because they use less fuel and put out less pollution than regular engines

Maybe you don’t know? Inverter generators just take 12V DC power from a DC source and turn it into 120V AC power, which most machines need.

Important term:

AC (Alternating Current): AC refers to the electrical current in which the direction of electron flow regularly oscillates.

DC (Direct Current): DC is the direct current flowing in one direction constantly without reversing

How Does An Inverter Generator Work?

*It is very easy to use an inverter generator.*

Before we talk about what an inverter generator is and the way it works, we’ll take a quick look at how all generators work.

1. A fuel, like gasoline or propane, is burned by the engine, turning a wheel.

2. The rotor gets power from the engine shaft, which turns the rotor. This electricity is sent to the control box and can power tools, machines, and other things.

3. The traditional generator gets its power from the engine and takes it straight to the control box.

4. The power may go through a voltage regulator or other protective devices, and the power might be “cleaned up,” but that’s not always the case. Because of this, power from a traditional generator has more total harmonic distortion (THD) than power from an inverter generator.

*The way it works on the inside is very complicated (Source: garpen.com)*

It is time to mention the way the inverter generator works. The inverter generator works unlike a traditional generator.

1. When the alternator makes alternating current (AC) power, it is sent to a rectifier, which converts AC power to direct current (DC).

2. After that, a computer inside the inverter generator turns this DC power back into AC power before sending it to the control screen.

When the computer controls the power to the control panel, the THD of inverter generators will be much lower than that of traditional generators.

Note: In some cases, THD can be as high as 25% when using traditional generators. This matters for charging electrical devices like tablets and smartphones. If you plug these things into high-THD power, they could be damaged. For that reason, they need “clean” power, which is electricity with low THD.

Important term:

THD (Total Harmonic Distortion): THD measures how clean the power is and is used to assess the power supply’s quality.

Rotor: The rotor is the rotating part of a generator, powered by the engine’s motion.

Stator: The stator is a generator’s stationary part, creating a magnetic field for electricity.

Main components of Inverter Generator

Inverter generators generate clean, reliable power with five essential components. Each part is summarized for you:

Fuel Source: These Inverter generators require fuel sources to function, such as gasoline, propane, diesel, or natural gas. And, of course, this source of fuel choice depends on the type of machine you are using.
Engine: The engine is the centerpiece of the generator. It can determine the output power and has a cooling system to prevent overheating. When investigating inverter generators, it is necessary to consider the engine criteria such as output wattage, cooling factors, oil.
Alternator: This part is in charge of changing mechanical energy into AC power that has not been filtered.
Inverter: The inverter transforms unstable AC power to DC and back to regulated AC. It comes with batteries and current filters to make sure your power is clean and steady.
Power Panel: The power panel offers an interface for easy connection, monitoring, and utilizing your inverter generator. The fuel meter, idle switch, and USB p make this user interface convenient. Inverter generators provide outputs for every household demand and situation.

Additionally, power panels typically offer 120-volt outputs, with options for 30-Amp connections for large appliances and tools, as well as 20-Amp connections for household applications. If you’re considering using an extension cord, consult recommendations for the best plugin setup for your generator.

Important term:

A Fuel Meter: A Fuel Meter measures the remaining fuel for the generator’s operation, aiding fuel management.

Idle Switch: Idle Switch is a control generator’s idle mode for reduced noise and fuel consumption.

USB: USB is provided as a power source for charging electronic devices inverter generators.

Types of Inverter Generator

*Each type has its own pros and cons, as well as distinctive features*

Nowadays, on the market, you can easily see there are two main sub-types of inverter generators, including closed-frame and open-frame. Each type has its distinctive features as well as its own pros and cons, which you really need to know.

Sub-types of inverter generators	Features	Advantages	Disadvantages
Closed-frame inverter generator	Enclosed design for reduced noise	Quieter operation, suitable for quiet environments.	Limited power output
	Compact and lightweight	Easy to transport	More expensive than open-frame models
	The protective shell absorbs noise	Decreasing the shell’s acoustic effect greatly	Just can power small loads
Open-frame inverter generator	Open, lightweight design	Can handle larger loads	Louder due to open design
Open-frame inverter generator	Higher power output capacity	Less expensive than closed-frame choices	More bulky than closed-frame models.

Pros and Cons of two main sub-types of inverter generators: closed-frame and open-frame.

Note: Although open-frame inverter generators are louder than closed ones, they are still 50% quieter than traditional generators. They produce equally clean power and can manage larger loads.

3 Applications of Inverter Generator

*3 amazing applications of inverter generator that you want to know*

An inverter generator is an optimal choice for finding a backup energy source. However, in addition to that application, inverter generators also have many other great applications. So here are 4 great applications that will make you gasp in amazement:

Recreational activities

Thanks to its compactness and convenience, it becomes an indispensable source of energy for your entertainment activities. Just imagine how great it would be to not have to worry about your phone running out of battery. It’s also a great place to charge your electric vehicle or other tools you need when you’re on the go.

Emergencies

*An inverter generator might help you overcome difficult conditions*

The main reason for buying a portable inverter generator is for use during emergencies. When the power immediately goes out, inverter generators are really beneficial tools. These can be used as backup power for houses, tiny companies, RVs, and many other places.

Worksites

Inverter generators are now a good way to power sensitive electrical devices for your business, thanks to new technology, because devices like computers or printers need a clean and fast power line to help them work better and last for longer.

Important term: RVs (Recreational Vehicles) are motorhomes or trailers for travel and camping.

Conclusion

This is the end of the article, and you now know how does an inverter generator work? Understanding how they work and their many advantages can help you make an informed decision when choosing a generator for your specific needs. Inverter generators are really a reliable and versatile power source that can meet your requirements effectively.