Many devices are very demanding on the quality of the supply voltage, mainly on the stability of its value. This primarily applies to imported models that either work incorrectly with our networks, or are completely disabled, since protection is triggered. There are many examples - heating boilers, PCs, television receivers, circulation pumps and other types of household appliances.
Therefore, this aspect must be taken into account when deciding on the choice of an autonomous power source. Let's figure out which of the generators for the home is better - inverter or conventional.
In the private sector, for a number of reasons, they are more common. In terms of their design, such mini-power plants are practically no different from conventional analogues.
The difference is only in the electronics, more precisely, in the principle of obtaining voltage at the output of the installation. Actually, this is the criterion for evaluating which of the generators is better.
Feature of inverter models of generators
In generators of this type, current (~ voltage) is not immediately supplied to the output terminals. It first straightens, that is, it is transformed into a constant one, which charges the battery built into the circuit. Further - to the inverter, the output of which is stable 220/50. The picture clearly explains everything.
Comparison of distinctive properties of generators
Regular Models
- Large selection of power units.
- Reliability of generators. This is understandable - the simpler the device of any installation, the less problems arise with it.
- Lower price compared to inverter counterparts. For example, the cost of a conventional model for 1.2 kW is in the range of 14,260 - 16,180 rubles (depending on the manufacturer and series).
- The instability of the generated voltage with some (over time) decrease in its value. The main reason is the gradual wear of parts, which affects the speed of rotation of the rotor. She is decreasing. Therefore, during the operation of a conventional generator, it is necessary to periodically increase the speed, and this is an additional fuel consumption.
- Such models require optimal loading. By the way, rarely does anyone pay attention to this moment, choosing a generator in the usual, traditional version. First of all, because of ignorance of the specifics of his work. If you carefully read the instructions from the manufacturer (and almost no one does this either at the point of sale or at home), it becomes clear that all its parameters correspond to certain operating conditions. Namely, the minimum load is 25%. This is the limit. Only a few hours during the year are allowed, nothing more. If it is systematically less, then the useful life of the unit (non-repairable) is reduced. But the fuel consumption will be more than calculated.
For example, if the total power of consumers on the line is 2.2 kW, and the generator itself is 4, then it will “eat” fuel precisely at the rate of four. That is, almost half of the installation is idle. In practice, this is usually what happens - a regular "underload".
The accumulation of combustion products (soot) inside the engine also leads to increased consumption, that is, the problem of premature maintenance and repair again pops up.
It turns out that an incorrectly selected load on a conventional generator is fraught with a whole “package” of problems. Therefore, saving on its cost, the owner in the long term loses on fuel and spare parts. And some of my free time too. Whether this is justified is up to you, the reader. Especially when you consider that the generator is purchased for systematic (or even permanent) use for many years.
inverter models
- Profitability. There is no need to increase the motor shaft speed. It only affects the battery charging time. This achieves fuel consumption optimization.
- When the load changes, the output voltage rating remains constant. Such stability is due to the presence of the electronic circuit of the converter.
- Noiselessness. For an inverter generator, you do not need to choose a place like for a conventional model. Even installed in the next utility room, through a thin partition, it will not interfere with the household.
- Compact and light weight. An inverter generator can be easily reinstalled within a house or plot, transported over a distance (for example, to a summer cottage). That is, unlike conventional units, such installations are mobile.
- High price. A 0.7 kW inverter generator will cost about 18,580 rubles. Accordingly, more powerful models are even more expensive. For example, for 5 kW - about 86,000. The difference with conventional generators is noticeable.
- The battery is an integral, and non-removable part of the inverter. If it fails, it cannot be replaced.
- An inverter generator cannot be bought for the future. It is selected under a certain load. Its subsequent increase (turning on additional consumers) will lead to the fact that the battery discharge will occur faster. So, you have to wait until the end of the charging process, change the mode of operation. How convenient is it?
- Restriction of a model range on power. If you look at the websites of manufacturers, dealers and online stores, then inverter generators with more than 6 kW are not found. Will such an installation be enough to meet all the needs of the owners in electricity?
Conclusion
- For the organization of backup (emergency) lighting, electric / supply systems / sites or buildings that do not have complex electronic equipment, it is better to purchase a generator assembled according to the classical scheme. Or, as they call it, ordinary. In such situations, no one imposes increased requirements on voltage quality, and given the lower cost of such power plants, they are the best option.
- But to connect to the electrical circuit of a residential building, literally stuffed with various household appliances, it is better to opt for an inverter-type installation. The advantages of such generators are indicated, so commenting on this recommendation, in principle, does not make sense. The main thing is to make accurate power calculations.
Helpful advice
If the country house is large, and it is necessary to provide electricity not only for it, but also for the backyard, outbuildings, then it makes sense to combine it. That is, to make the wiring of the lines. Some connect to a conventional generator, others to an inverter. With proper drawing up of a power supply scheme, it is possible to optimize costs and obtain a stable voltage in those circuits where it is necessary, depending on the specifics of the load.