10 Best Portable Inverter Generators Reviews and Buying Guide
Table of Contents
Why You Need a Portable Inverter Generator?
Portable inverter generators are an excellent alternative to conventional generators. With low noise and optimal efficiency, these generators are ergonomically designed to transport them easily. Their comfy size and easy usage prove to be a significant aid in various scenarios.
You can carry a portable inverter generator to recreational activities like boating, camping, etc., to charge your devices, cook something, or run the lights. This equipment is also useful for commercial purposes. Appliances like a window air conditioner, refrigerator, etc., can be run for a considerable time using a portable generator. And some invert generators can also be used as RV solar generators or camping solar generators.
When buying the best portable inverter generator, consider how and where you will be using the equipment. For example, if you are looking for portable generators for camping, you may consider buying a portable power station and solar panels to make them as solar panel kits. Also, the power requirements have a direct impact on the generator’s size and portability. So, you can interlink these aspects along with the outlets, fuel, and others to make the best buy.
If you are looking for the best portable generators, read on and have a handy solution in every scenario.
Quick Summary
Here are top best portable inverter generators on the market that you can purchase
Best Overall Portable Generator: ECOFLOW DELTA 1260Wh Solar Generator
Best Large Backup Portable Generator: Westinghouse iGen4500 Super Quiet
Best Portable Generator with Dual-fuel: Champion Power Equipment Dual Fuel
Best Portable Generator with Fuel Efficiency: WEN 56380i Super Quiet 3800-Watt
Best Value Portable Generator: BLUETTI AC200P with Solar Panel
Best Portable Generator with Surge Wattage: Briggs & Stratton Q6500 Power Series
Best Lightweight Portable Generator: WEN Super Quiet 2000-Watt
Best Portable Generator for Camping: Pulsar Portable Gas-Powered
Best Portable Generator for Multipurpose Usage: Generac 7127 iQ3500-3500 Watt
Best Solar-powered Portable Generator: Jackery Solar Generator
Top Rated Portable Inverter Generators Reviews
1. Westinghouse iGen4500 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
The Westinghouse outdoor portable power equipment provides a dual starting facility and an optimal solution for outdoor travel. The generator delivers a higher wattage of 3700 units with a 4500-wattage peak output. It features a fuel tank with a capacity of 3.4 gallons and weighs around 98 pounds.
This generator features a Tt-303 Amp RV-Ready outlet, a 5-20R Duplex Household Outlet of 120V, and two USB outlets. These connections are a great aid for traveling and running household appliances at the same time. This inverter generator is extremely quiet and emits as low as 52dB noise output.
It is gas-powered and runs with a 224cc efficient engine which is designed to work at variable speeds. With a peak runtime of 18 long hours, this generator also features an economy mode for enhanced efficiency. The push-button electric start and wireless key remote charge provide easy ignition from a distance of up to 109 yds. The recoil start facility is also available in case you prefer that.
The LED display of this power generator shows different readings like fuel level, power output, voltage output, remaining runtime, and others, easing the generator’s operation. This generator comes in different models with various features and outputs to choose from, suiting different purposes. It provides significant backup for a long time, even when you run multiple devices on the generator at once.
Pros:
- Multipurpose usage
- Extremely quiet operation
- Economy mode for fuel efficiency
- Different outlets to cover various devices
- Digital display for the effective operation
Cons:
- Can have battery backup
Related: 7 Best Westinghouse Portable Generators Reviews
2. Champion Power Equipment 200961 2500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator
This inverter generator operates on either propane or gasoline and comes with a dual-fuel mechanism. It is among the lightest inverter generators in the market. This generator delivers a maximum startup power of 2500 watts and runs at 1850 watts. It comes with a 4-stroke engine with a 79cc capacity, and its fuel tank can take 1.1 Gallon of fuel in it.
This generator comes available in different models for you to choose from at your convenience and doesn’t require any assembly before usage. It can run up to 11.5 hours when fueled with gasoline. In the case of propane or liquid petroleum, this generator can run for 34 hours and delivers 1665 running watts. This generator comes with a THD of less than 3 percent and different accessories.
This generator also has a limited warranty lasting for 3 years with lifelong technical assistance. The noise emitted from this equipment is ultra-low (53dBA). This power generator features two 120V household outlets, an automotive-style outlet with 12V capacity, and a USB adapter with dual ports.
You can enhance this generator’s output with a parallel kit sold separately. So, parallelly connecting it with another 2500-watt equipment can double its capacity. Since it can operate on dual fuels, this generator is easily maintainable and convenient to use.
Pros:
- Duel-fuel running capacity
- Parallel connection to increase the output
- Ultra-quiet performance
- 3 percent THD
Cons:
- Can have more outlets
3. WEN 56380i Super Quiet 3800-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
This portable generator can deliver an output power of 3800 surge watts and 3400 running watts. Its noise emissions are just 57dB, leading to a quiet operation. Its 4-stroke OHV engine has a 212cc capacity and can run for 8.5 hours on half load. This generator weighs 99.2 pounds, and yet, can be transported easily. It delivers clean power with a THD of less than 1.2 percent to run your devices efficiently.
The fuel shut-off feature of this portable inverter generator allows the engine to use the remaining fuel in the carburetor before shutting off automatically. This leads to a considerable improvement in the generator’s lifespan and blockage prevention. The digital display present on this generator displays all the necessary values for better operation.
This generator is RV-ready and has a special spark arrestor too. It features an electric start and comes with an eco-mode. Its control panel features a 12V DC outlet, 2 three-prong receptacles of 120V, a 5V USB port, and an AC TT-30R RV receptacle of 120V. There is also a special port for a parallel connection to increase the output. You can use the manual shut-off switch to stop the generator right away.
This generator presents itself in different output wattages and connections to suit multipurpose usage. Its fuel efficiency is an added advantage for prolonged usage. Adding to this is the generator’s fuel tank with 2.2-gallon capacity, which can keep the appliances and electronic devices running for quite a long time.
Pros:
- Parallel connectivity
- Eco-mode and fuel shut-off features
- Low THD and clean output power
Cons:
- Noise emissions can be reduced
4. Briggs & Stratton Q6500 Quiet Power Series Inverter Generator
This best portable inverter generator comes with a special Quiet-Power series. This arrangement leads to a generator that is more than 60 percent quieter than its counterparts. This generator comes with an all-steel frame enclosed by a protective shell to minimize noise emissions and protect the internal components. Its design is ergonomic and compact, while it weighs 30 percent lighter than standard portable generators.
It works the best to deliver consistent power output to sensitive home appliances, making it the best fit for home and recreational usage. Due to its lightweight and 45 percent more compactness, this power generator is easy to store and use. There is a telescoping handle attached to the generator for its convenient movement around the required areas of work.
The CO Guard Carbon Monoxide shutdown technology of this generator keeps the surroundings safe. This technology shuts off the generator immediately and automatically after detecting harmful levels of CO. Its 306cc integrated engine is highly efficient and can run for 14 hours. This generator has a surge capacity of 6500 watts, making it suitable to run any home appliance and sensitive electronic device. There is also a 4500-watt surge model for this generator if you don’t need such high outputs.
Different outlets from this generator include two USBs, a 120V-240V locking outlet, and four 120V-20A outlets.
Pros:
- High surge capacity
- CO Guard technology
- Compact and quiet-power design
- Long runtime
Cons:
- Complexity can be reduced
5. WEN 56203i Super Quiet 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
This is the best portable inverter generator among the lightweight designs. Its weight is just 39 pounds and yet stands by for 10.8 hours. Its compact design makes the generator the best fit for traveling too. This generator produces clean power with less than 1.2 percent total harmonic distortion, making it safe to run sensitive electronic devices too.
The 79cc 4-stroke OHV engine of this generator emits an extremely quiet noise of 51 decibels when operating on a quarter load. The fuel shut-off feature eliminates blockage and improves the generator’s lifespan. This generator requires limited maintenance, as the fuel shut-off feature uses the carburetor’s fuel remains before automatically shutting off.
This generator runs on gasoline and comes with a 1 Gallon fuel tank. The eco-mode feature of this generator lets the motor adjust the fuel consumption automatically. This arrangement helps save fuel significantly. The outlets include a 12V DC receptacle, two 120V receptacles with three prongs, and two 5V USB ports.
This inverter generator comes with a 2-year warranty from the manufacturers and delivers a surge output of 2000 watts. Its running power is 1700 watts. You can increase its output through a parallel connection with a similar unit generator.
Pros:
- 1.2 percent THD
- Extremely lightweight
- Eco-mode and fuel shut-off
- 3-in-1 switch
Cons:
- Might need external grounding
6. Pulsar G2319N 2,300W Portable Gas-Powered Inverter Generator
This inverter generator provides the best portability, suiting different purposes like camping and tailgating. It weighs less than 47 pounds and is easy to handle. With a tank volume of 1.18 gallons, this generator can cover for 6 hours continuously on half load. The generator delivers stable and clean output power to help run different devices without damage.
This generator is almost silent from 10-feet away and emits only 52dB noise. Its surge output is 2300 watts and its rated output is 1800 watts. It can run small appliances and electronic devices like laptops, smartphones, etc. Its parallel capability can help if you need more output or numerous devices to run simultaneously. There is a 4500-watt model of this generator to operate bigger appliances too.
There is a 3-in-1 switch on this generator with three different controls. This switch can be adjusted to on, off, or choke the engine. This generator’s easy functionality and ergonomic design often make it convenient for camping and other recreational activities.
This generator has an 80cc OHV engine with a super-quiet operation. There is a low-oil sensor, a 12V DC cigarette outlet, a 5V USB outlet, two 120V AC outlets, and a warning display on this power generator. There is also an Economy Switch for the generator’s efficient working. It requires a recoil start and includes a Spark Plug Wrench in the package.
Pros:
- Economy Switch feature
- Parallel connection
- Low noise emission
- Tailgating and camping
Cons:
- Can have more features
7. Generac 7127 iQ3500-3500 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
This ultra-quiet generator comes with an enclosed design and advanced inverter technology for optimal and noise-free operation. It has a steel enclosure and delivers clean power outputs. This generator can work for job sites and recreational activities like camping. This inverter generator comes in a compact design for easy portability. It weighs around 109.1 pounds.
This generator features power rush advanced technology to deliver more power compared to its counterparts. It comes with a digital smart LCD, a digital wattage meter, an hour meter, fuel level indication, and a remaining runtime display. This generator provides multiple outlets, including USB ports, 120V AC outlets, and more. There is also an electrical start switch to start the generator manually.
This portable inverter generator also includes a 3-in-1 switch with on, off, and choke controls. The Power Dial of this generator integrates the start, stop, and run functions into a single dial. This generator is extremely quiet and has top-notch build quality.
With a startup power of 3500 watts, this generator can supply a running power of 3000 watts continuously. It comes with a 12V lead-acid battery (included) to start the engine. This generator fits the best for multipurpose usage. As in, you can comfortably use it for industrial purposes, recreational activities, or at home.
Pros:
- Power rush advanced technology
- 3-in-1 switch control
- Battery start mechanism
- Compact design
Cons:
- Can be light in weight
8. ECOFLOW DELTA 1260Wh Solar Generator with 160W Solar Panel
This power generator includes a solar panel and runs on a battery. It includes the complete kit of solar panels and required accessories. This generator is incorporated with a patented X-Stream Technology to improve the recharging speed by 10 times. It requires a standard AC cable and charges to 80 percent in an hour. The generator needs 1.6 hours for a full charge.
This generator features six AC outlets, two 60W USB-C outlets, four USB-A outlets (two each for normal and fast charging), and one car port of 13.6V. With a surge of 3300W, this generator can provide 1800 watts of running output. The solar panels of this generator are anti-reflective, monocrystalline, and provide high conversion rates. These panels with an MC4 charging port are waterproof and can withstand bad weather.
Generally, this inverter generator is compatible with any solar panels in the market and requires 400W of solar input. It also accepts a 10-65V DC input to get charged. This generator can be charged through a car or an AC outlet too. It can run up to 13 devices simultaneously. This generator is the best buy in every aspect like purpose, standby capacity, price, working, and maintenance.
In the case of solar charging, this generator needs 10-21 hours for a complete charge when using 160W solar panels. You can connect these panels through its chainable feature. You can store the solar energy using more panels as well. Its unique design is intended to charge laptops and run electronic devices like mini-cooler, mini space heaters, air fryers, coffee makers, etc.
Pros:
- Multiple ways to charge
- 13 device-operation
- Fast charging in 4 hours
- X-Stream Technology
Cons:
- Price can be reduced
RELATED: Best EcoFlow Portable Power Stations Reviews
RELATED: Best EcoFlow Solar Generators Reviews
9. Jackery Solar Generator 1500, 1800W Generator Explorer 1500 and SolarSaga 100W
This is another portable solar generator that runs gas-free. It produces almost no noise and provides an eco-friendly and sustainable solution. This generator can run electronic appliances like refrigerators, electric stoves, microwaves, and power tools too. With a surge capacity of 3600 watts, this generator can run 1800 watts constantly.
This portable inverter generator features a lithium-ion battery. It includes a 5V USB-A outlet, quick charge 3.0, USB-C, and AC outlets. This solar generator comes with an MPPT solar regulator with the manufacturer’s Solarpeak Technology. It boosts the rechargeability of this generator by 30 percent. This generator needs 4 hours of solar power to charge up to 80 percent.
This generator comes included with an AC Cable, four solar panels of 100W each, a car charger cable, and two solar panel parallel adapters. On a single charge, this generator can run multiple devices, including laptops, mini coolers, televisions, kettles, electrical stoves, coffee makers, and mobiles.
The battery management system of this generator has six protection layers to guard the equipment. This generator includes a one-press operation that suits different scenarios like household usage, recreations, etc. It is the best portable inverter generator with a reasonable niche suiting different applications.
Pros:
- Solarpeak technology
- One-press operation
- Effective battery management system
- Better rechargeability
Cons:
- Running power can be more
Related: 10 Best Jackery Portable Power Stations Reviews
Related: 5 Best Jackery Solar Generators Reviews
10. BLUETTI AC200P Portable Power Station with Solar Panel Included 2000W Solar Generator Kit
This generator also works on solar power and weighs 60.6 pounds. It comes with three foldable solar panels of 200W each. Also, all the necessary accessories of a solar kit, like the MC4 Solar charge cable, AC adapter charger, car charging cable, and an aviation plug are included with this power generator. The charging cables are pretty long (around 118 inches) and provide convenient rechargeability.
This generator comes with a 4800W surge and 2000W running power. So, it can run high-power appliances too. The control panel features multiple outlets suiting different devices, power tools, and appliances. This equipment allows multiple ways to recharge it, including a Lead-acid battery, car battery charging, solar panels, AC adapter plug-in, and generators.
This generator comes with a lead-acid battery. A 400W AC adapter can fully charge this generator in 5.5 hours. Likewise, you can use dual AC adapters to charge it fully in 3 hours. A 24V/12V car battery can charge this generator in 10/20 hours. The charging time varies based on the number of solar panels used and their capacity. The solar panels accompanying this generator are 5 percent more effective and come with ETFE lamination.
This portable inverter generator is available in different designs, each with unique features and various output capacities. Different accessories included within the package and multiple chagrin ways make this generator a valued purchase and suit different applications.
Pros:
- Multiple charging ways
- High surge output
- Solar kit inclusive
- Effective solar panels
Cons:
- Can have more outlets
Related: 10 Bluetti Portable Power Stations Reviews
Related: 5 Best Bluetti Solar Generators Reviews
What is a Portable Inverter Generator?
A portable inverter generator is the upgraded version of an older portable generator. This device inverts electricity from DC to AC while adjusting its engine speed. It is also a function of normal portable fuel generators, such as dual fuel generators, gas-powered generators, and portable propane generators.
A regular generator usually maintains constant speed irrespective of the load. An inverter generator meets the electrical demand of the appliance or device being run on it.
Types of Portable Inverter Generators
The purpose of using the power generator decides its type. When choosing such a device, consider its type and head to the remaining aspects. You can pick from the following types of a portable generator:
1. Limited-power Generators
These generators can cover small capacity loads and work sites. You can run a handgun, air compressor, nail gun, and similar devices using these devices. They can operate for short-term usages.
2. Quiet Portable Generators
These are ideal for recreational activities like camping, boating, etc. Known for their quieter operation, these generators can cover lights, radios, heaters, smartphones, and more.
3. Home-purpose Generators
Portable generators for home purposes cover the occasional and emergency scenarios when you need a power backup. These are usually wheeled out when there is a significant outage. The main coverage is appliances like refrigerators, lights, freezers, etc.
How Do Portable Inverter Generators Work?
The basic working of a portable generator is as simple as converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. You can find different fuel units but the fundamentals remain the same for most models.
Components of a Portable Generator
The working of a portable inverter generator is best understood through the overview of its components. Though it seems like a piece of complex machinery, its crucial components are fairly simple.
Internal Combustion Engine
The crux of an inverter generator is its internal combustion engine. The fuel is fed to this chamber for the device’s work. The engine then creates a spark, converting the fuel into energy (mechanical in this case).
Alternator
An alternator is made of two significant components – rotor and stator. The rotor creates a magnetic field around the wounded coils and induces power in the stator. This generates excess electrons, producing electricity.
Fuel Tank
Generally, portable generators use gas, propane, or diesel as fuel. They come with a safety spout to fill the fuel.
Starter
As the name suggests, a starter starts your power generator. It can either be a pull-cord mechanism or a DC battery.
Control Panels
The power outlets and all the connections are laid on the control panels. Usually, these devices come with different outlets to connect mobiles, appliances, and other devices based on usage.
First, the fuel is fed into the tank, and the generator is initiated using the starter. The engine receives the energy source and transfers it to the alternator. The generated electricity is then converted to the required wattage and fed to the generator plugs.
Some inverter generators come with exhaust and cooling systems, exterior frames, lubrication pipes, etc., based on the chosen model. These are to enhance your generator’s efficiency and functionality.
What You Can Expect of a Portable Inverter Generator?
The best portable inverter generator is known for its top-notch performance. Anyone buying this generator can expect the following benefits that are sure to last long.
1. High-quality Power Output
Inverter generators are known for their outputs close to line power. The precision in design and performance help achieve a superior level of output based on the connected device. The power from these generators is as reliable as your home’s supply is. Though they are ergonomic, their working enables accurate power delivery to every device and appliance running on them.
Usually, the power outputs of portable generators are limited due to other aspects like efficiency, size, and several other aspects. However, you can still expect a considerate output from them that can meet your devices’ power requirements. Based on the inverter you buy, you can charge several devices or run different appliances like coffee machines or even run several lights.
2. Fuel Efficiency
Another distinguishing advantage of portable generators is their fuel efficiency. They are available in different fuel models like propane and gasoline, which will be the main factor if you use them as home back batteries. Apart from these, they also come in dual-fuel models that can operate on two different fuels with a flip switch. Since the engine speed of a power generator adjusts to the device’s needs, their efficiency is way more than conventional generators.
Traditional generators usually run at 3600 rpm to deliver a constant output. Portable generators come with special features to run at low RPMs and deliver the required frequency. Since the engine doesn’t run at constant speeds for long, the fuel consumption reduces, leading to enhanced efficiency.
3. Size
One biggest disadvantage with conventional generators is their size. Inverter generators come with an ergonomic design where the engine and generator parts are integrated. The alternators are combined with engine flywheels, or the other components are adjusted accordingly to improve the design. This way, these generators are smaller and lighter, easing their portability.
4. Parallel Capability
Parallel capability lets you use two generators to work as a larger unit. You can double the power output of your inverter generator without losing its portability. As in, you can pair your portable generator with another similar-sized generator to enhance its capacity. However, you need to check with the generator’s specifications to know if this can work.
Portable inverter generators are quieter than conventional ones as the engine doesn’t run at high speeds constantly. Some generators also use sound dampening materials to further reduce the noise. So, these are incredibly quiet, easily portable, and can cover numerous devices when used.
How to Choose a Portable Inverter Generator?
You might want to buy a portable inverter generator looking at its benefits. Considering some factors listed below can help choose the appropriate one. However, the best portable inverter generator cannot be found by only looking at the aspects like its brand, price, etc.
Price, reviews, and brand don’t have a significant impact on the generator’s performance. But if you still want a generator in a specific price range, consider the following factors for choosing a portable generator.
1. Power
When choosing a portable inverter generator based on your needs, you first need to know its power requirements. That means you need to understand what size of a generator can cover that. Here, you need to consider two aspects – the startup power and the running power.
Startup Power:
It is the power your portable generator can supply to start the device. Some devices like refrigerators might need additional power for a few seconds to start the motors. Startup watts value is higher than running watts. Interestingly, this is usually the maximum power your portable generator can produce.
Running Power:
The running power of an inverter generator is the power output from it. Also known as rated watts, they are the constant watts needed to run your devices. Running power is usually adjusted by the generator based on the device.
For example, your refrigerator may need only 800 watts to run but requires 2000 watts as startup power. A portable generator with 1000 watts capacity can run your appliance but cannot start it. So, such a device cannot work for you, and this is why it is always suggested to pick a generator with the output matching the starting power of your appliances.
2. Total Harmonic Distortion
THD or Total Harmonic Distortion is a cumulative degree. It is a measure of the distortion of the electrical current compared to the ideal values. Generally, a distortion of less than 6 percent is acceptable. Distortion more than this limit can damage your devices. Moreover, some inverter generators provide a square-wave output.
If you wish to run electronic devices like a laptop, you need to consider the generator’s waveform. Clean power or pure sine wave presents a predictable voltage level and provides a stable generator. However, pure wave generators are a little expensive and come with limited wattage capacities.
3. Extent of Usage
Usually, every portable inverter generator manufacturer provides a consumer warranty for certain months. So, almost every setup can cover your requirements during emergencies. But if you need to run the generator every other day, it is best to look for commercial engines that last long. Here, you also need to check the wattage based on the devices connected to it. On a positive note, you can get a warranty that lasts more than a year.
4. Fuel Type
Fuel type can have an impact on your portable generator’s efficiency. You can use different fuels like diesel, gas, propane, etc., to run your generator at convenience. If you want to avoid filling the fuel tanks, you can choose battery generators instead.
Fuel-based:
Diesel generators are known for better efficiency. It can cover your entire home for a long time. Moreover, diesel is easy to find compared to gasoline. You can also lay hands on propane or gas generators here. Gas generators can be converted to propane generators when needed. As mentioned above, you can find dual fuel generators too. In that case, you can switch between different fuels based on efficiency and availability.
Battery-powered:
Portable inverter generators also come with battery power. These have the least emissions, almost no noise, and are rechargeable. Battery-powered portable generators don’t have much output capacity but can run efficiently. Some generators of this kind come with different charging facilities like solar panels too, so that you can use them as a solar generator or a solar battery charger. But these are a little expensive compared to the fuel version. They are ideal for recreational activities.
5. Fuel Tank
When you talk about a generator’s fuel tank, you need to consider its size and type. The capacity of your generator’s fuel tank can change its dynamics, while the construction can affect its working.
Capacity or Size:
Usually, an inverter generator with large fuel tanks runs for a long time compared to small fuel tanks. The best portable inverter generator runs for 7-9 hours at 50 percent load. You can extend the generator’s runtime by reducing the load. The reverse is when the generator runs only for a few hours when the load increases. It is best to choose a portable generator with a larger fuel tank. But keep in mind that this has an impact on its weight and portability.
Construction or Type:
Generally, a portable generator’s fuel tank is made of plastic. You don’t have to worry about corrosion. But there is no guarantee of its damage. Other materials might corrode or react with the fuel and reduce the inverter’s efficiency. So, try going with a less problematic construction of the fuel tank.
6. Starting
As mentioned earlier, a portable inverter generator can start with a battery or a pull cord mechanism. If you want to avoid the hassle of pulling the strings, you can go with the electric engines. These are a great buy if you wish to put in the extra investment. Since it is a portable generator, you might use lead-acid batteries like your car’s. You can lay hands on lithium-ion batteries too, for that matter.
7. Outlets
Talking of the outlets takes you back to the purpose of purchasing a power generator. The generator should have sufficient and the right type of outlets you’ll need. Generally, you get USB outlets and all the relevant ones to run your appliances. If you want to run a higher wattage appliance like an air conditioner, you’ll need a 30-amp locking-type outlet from the generator. Best to consider all the devices you might need to run on the generator and then look for the appropriate outlets.
8. Other Accessories
The best portable inverter generator comes with an additional cord set. This heavy-duty cord set has four standard household outlets on one end. This way, you can avoid using multiple cords to connect your devices to the generator. Some portable generators also come with a wheel mechanism to transport the equipment easily. Apart from these, you can find several extensions to a generator like solar panels to charge the battery, additional outlets to connect different devices, and a lot more. You can decide to choose or skip them based on how and where you want to use your portable inverter generator.
Portable Inverter Generators – FAQs
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Inverter Generators vs Portable Generators
Are you wondering whether an inverter generator and a portable generator are different devices? Yes, they are different. The difference is all about having sufficient power for your RV and camping needs. Even, it involves keeping a few essential appliances running during a power outage and tailgating. Both these generators can do the job if they have sufficient power capacity. But, smaller generators and inverters cannot handle some bigger jobs. When you take the case of the smallest portable generators with less than 2000 watts capacity, they will not have sufficient power to begin and run appliances. Particularly, they cannot handle heavier appliances like air conditioners, freezers, and refrigerators.
Also, when powering your devices, clean power is important. You cannot expect this from portable generators. But, an inverter generator can handle the requirements of computers and other electronics by providing them with safe and clean power. So, for powering sensitive devices, you can opt for an inverter generator. But, if you need to power some professional tools like welding tools and pumps, you can opt for a portable generator.
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How to Choose Quiet Inverter Generator?
If you are planning to choose a portable inverter generator, good news awaits you. Yes, inverter generators are designed for much silent operation as compared to traditional generators. When compared to a traditional open-frame generator, you can experience around 10 dB lesser sound in an inverter variant. Yes, when you take the case of a regular generator, it can register as high as 76 decibels of noise in operation. But, an inverter generator can register around 66 decibels of sound.
So, the inverter variant is the best choice when you are staying in campgrounds. Only then you can follow the official noise restrictions and can get a good night’s sleep as well. You should look at the decibels promised by the manufacturer to make sure that you compare and choose the quietest of all the models you come across. Of course, consider the purpose for which you wish to use the generator and how much power you need. Do not forget to read the reviews to find real-user experiences concerning the noise produced by the generator. You can make an informed choice.
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Can an Inverter Generator Run a Refrigerator, Air Conditioner and Pressure Cooker?
An inverter generator is a newer kind of portable generator with an upgrade in the electronics part. It can automatically adjust the speed of its engine to the present electrical demand. This is something different from generators that run at a constant speed irrespective of the load size. There is a considerable reduction in the noise level and battery consumption as well.
As you wish to power your pressure cooker, air conditioner, and refrigerator using a portable inverter generator, you should know one thing. A standard inverter generator can only run small household appliances, outdoor equipment, and RVs. But you can increase the power output of this generator. Yes, you can operate this generator parallel to a duplicate generator. Together, they can meet your powering needs. Also, go for an inverter generator with a higher power capacity as you look to power high-end devices using it. Of course, with this generator, you can get other benefits like portability, easy maintenance, low level of noise, clean power, and fuel efficiency.
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How to Connect Inverter Generator to House?
When you wish to connect your portable inverter generator to your home, you can do it using any of the two methods available. The first method is to use an extension cord for connecting. The other method is to use transfer switches. Each of these methods carries its own pros and cons. Here are some details to help you decide:
Extension cord connection is an affordable choice. It does not need any installation from your end. This method best suits when you want to use your inverter generator for powering phones, lights, and a basic-model refrigerator. The problem with this method is that when you connect your generator using this method, you cannot run hard-wired appliances like a water heater and a furnace. This method is ideal for short-term and occasional power outages.
Connecting the portable inverter generator to your home using a transfer switch is more convenient and easier as compared to using an extension cord. It can power appliances like a water heater, well pump, and furnace. When you use this method of installation, you can manage power from varied areas of your home. But, the installation using this method can be done only by an electrician.
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Can Inverter Generator Get Wet?
No, an inverter generator cannot get wet. As a generator helps with the creation of electricity, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends one thing. The recommendation is that you should safeguard the generator from moisture if you intend to use it in wet conditions. When you do this, place the generator on a level surface. Also, position a 3/4inch piece of plywood on the ground under the generator so that it cannot get wet even when there is moisture on the surface.
You might wonder what will happen if my portable inverter generator gets wet. You are increasing the risk of getting a shock or severe electrocution when you use a wet generator before drying it out completely. Do not operate an unsecured generator in wet conditions like snow or rain or even near fountains and lakes. Even, if your palms are wet completely dry them before you get near the generator. As the sole job of a generator is to generate power and transfer it to its output ports, it is more sensitive to water as compared to other tiny engines.
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When to Use an Inverter Generator?
An inverter generator is a quiet, light device as compared to standard generators. So, you can use it when you camp. Also, it can convert DC power into AC power with high frequency. This process of conversion keeps away power fluctuations, which can happen in standard generators.
When you take the case of standard generators, they operate at a constant speed. Of course, it is dependable. But, the speeds cannot be adjusted. So, there are chances of the generator creating exhaust output, fuel consumption, and noise. When you take the case of inverter generators, they can adjust their speeds based on your power needs. So, they are not only environmentally friendly but are also fuel-efficient and ensure quiet operation.
For these reasons, you can use portable inverter generators, wherever you go. In some camping spots, there might be some noise restrictions. At these places, these generators can come in handy. -
How to Start An Inverter Generator?
In most cases, inverter generators come with a recoil start. Pull the coil to start the engine. But, thanks to some models that offer remote start and electric start options. In the remote start, you can start the generator from a particular distance using a wireless remote. In the electric start option, you will get a starting dial that is another easy option to start the generator.
Nowadays, some models come with cold start technology. The motors in generators are similar to motors in some vehicles. So, starting in cold climatic conditions using the recoil starting option can be a tough task. To make things easier for those living in cold climatic conditions, some portable inverter generators come with cold start technology. You should look for this technology particularly if you live in an area with long winters. In traditional generators with recoil start options, starting the engine of generators was not easy. But, nowadays, even in generators that use this technology, the engine starts within one or two pulls. So, you need not have to feel concerned.
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What Size Inverter Generator Do I Need?
To decide on the right size portable inverter generator to buy, you should first do a couple of tasks. The first thing you will have to do is to list the items that you want the generator to power. Also, take a note of the beginning and operating wattage of the respective items. Know the total power requirements in KW or KVA. You can know the starting and operating power of your devices from the identification plate of the owner’s manual. Most appliances provide the power requirement in terms of amperes. So, convert the same from amperes to watts so that you can know the exact requirement of the devices. You can find power calculator tools online to convert amperes into watts.
Choosing the right size generator is important, as it can bring many benefits to you. But, once you calculate the total power requirements of your devices, you should do one thing. You should choose an inverter generator of capacity higher than what you need. You can ensure that the generator need not have to run at its full capacity at all times.
Our Verdict
Portable inverter generators are not capable of powering your entire house or running powerful equipment. However, they can be the standby you’ll need during an outage. These generators can also be a significant aid during rejuvenating activities like camping (with camping solar panels). You can rely on them in the wilderness or on job sites. Whatever be the usage, they can cover for hours together based on the load.
For providing more power, we would go with the Westinghouse iGen4500 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator. But if you need an affordable model, the BLUETTI AC200P with Solar Panel Portable Inverter Generator would do the job. However, this generator can only cover small devices and appliances. Our pick for the best portable generator with solar power is the Jackery Solar Generator. The ECOFLOW DELTA 1260Wh Solar Generator is our choice for the best portable inverter generator on an overall basis.
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