Blackouts, permanent failures, or any other power outage bring havoc to your home.
All these things disrupt your daily routine and inhibit the appliances that keep people safe during extended periods of intense heat.
Here is when generators come into play.
But when it comes to electricity distribution, the standard terms used are not just generators but inverters. Many people are often confused about the use of generators and inverters.
There’s a question that I often hear from other people: can adding an inverter to a generator enhance its efficiency?
If you’re also searching for its answer, then you have come to the right page.
This article will share insight into adding an inverter to a generator. But, before getting into the main topic, let’s first discuss how both of them differ from each other. So, let’s get started.
Can I Add An Inverter to My Generator?
Yes. an inverter can be used in conjunction with a generator to provide a longer run-time during a power outage.
The inverter can be used to power essential loads, while the generator can start automatically or manually when the inverter battery becomes exhausted.
This allows the inverter to draw power from the generator rather than relying on its own batteries, which can help to extend the run-time of the inverter.
Additionally, using extra batteries can also help to extend the run-time of the inverter, although this option may be more expensive and require more space.
Using an inverter backed up by a generator is a simple and affordable way to produce power for a longer period of time during a power outage.
Do I need an inverter with a generator? Is it a must?
No, it isn’t. Generators provide AC current. So need for an inverter.
However, If you want a backup power source, you can have it. As I explain earlier.
Can a generator charge an inverter?
Yes, a generator can be used to charge an inverter.
An inverter is a device that converts direct current (DC) power from a battery into alternating current (AC) power.
Then it can be used to power home appliances and devices.
A generator is a device that generates electricity, typically by burning gasoline, diesel, or natural gas.
To charge an inverter with a generator, you have to connect the inverter to the generator’s output.
The inverter has a battery bank connected.
The generator will then generate electricity, which the inverter will convert into alternating current and use to charge the battery or other power source.
Several external inverters for the generator
Usually, 5,000-7,500 watts range generators are the most commonly used generators in households.
Therefore, I’m going to list a few inverters which may match this power range.
- AIMS 5000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter
- Cobra CPI-2590 2500W/5000W Power Inverter
- KRIËGER KRGI5000 5000W Power Inverter
- Renogy 5000W 12V Pure Sine Wave Inverter Charger
- Xantrex PROWatt SW 2000/3000/4000/5000 Inverter
Factors to consider when adding an external inverter to a generator
There are a few factors to consider when adding an inverter to a generator.
One important factor is the compatibility of the inverter and generator. Make sure that the inverter is compatible with the generator and has the necessary power capacity to handle the loads being powered.
You should also consider the specific requirements of the loads being powered, such as their power consumption and voltage needs.
Let me tell you, It is always a good idea to consult with a qualified electrician or technical expert before adding an inverter to a generator to ensure that the setup is safe and effective.
How Can You Connect an External Inverter to a Generator?
Adding an inverter to a generator involves several steps, including setting up the inverter, wiring the inverter to the generator, and connecting the loads to the inverter.
Here I have added a general outline of the steps involved:
- Set up the inverter according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This may include installing any necessary hardware and connecting the inverter to a power source.
- Wire the inverter to the generator according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You have to connect the inverter to the generator’s output and input terminals, as well as any necessary grounding wires.
- Connect the loads to the inverter according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use appropriate cables and connectors to connect the loads to the inverter’s output terminals.
- Test the setup to make sure that the inverter is functioning properly and providing power to the loads.
Final Thoughts
Adding an inverter and a generator opens room for better performance, efficiency, and long-lasting usage time. If you didn’t use an inverter and generator simultaneously yet, what are you waiting for? Hurry up and buy one for your home or business and forget worrying about unexpected power outages.
Eng. Matthew Joseph Nandirio is the Founder of walkingsolar.
After graduating from the University of Houston in 2002, matt started working as an electrical and electronic engineer for several multi-national solar energy companies.
He has a wide range of experiences including solar system requirement analysis, planning, maintaining, debugging and even solar device development through research.
He now shares his 20 years of expertise through his articles on the walkingsolar website.
Further, he is also the author of two books on Solar Technology, “Solar Power for Villages” and “DIY Solar System for Dummies”.
