Inverter Buying Guide
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Vasanth Dharmarajan
Apr 13, 2012, 4:46:07 AM4/13/12
to mech-donz-of-v...@googlegroups.com, pradeep g, Pradeep Kumar
INVETER BRANDS |
|
Unitron |
Inverter has become a necessity than a luxury with frequent power cuts. People now want to run all home appliances including air conditioners, televisions and refrigerators for their convenience.
A power inverter converts 12V DC power to standard household 230V AC power, which allows you to run AC electrical equipment in case of emergencies or simple convenience.
TYPICAL USES OF INVERTERS
Inverters normally have one or more standard outlets to power laptops, small-screen TVs, video game players or portable DVD players and other devices. A DC to AC power inverter is great for camping at parks that do not provide electricity. The toaster, blender, and boom box can all still be used.
FEATURES OF INVERTERS
Ground Fault Protection
Inverters that have built-in GFCI protection are advised for powering portable electrical devices specially if used outside the house. Ground fault protection is a feature that instantly turns off the inverter if it gets damp or wet. The inverter then resets, senses the conditions and turns itself back on if the problems have been resolved. The GFCI feature protects the user from electrical shocks and the potential risk of a fire.
Transfer Switch
Some power inverters have a built-in transfer switch so you can switch from inverter power to utility power when available. The transfer switch allows external power to be transferred to appliances automatically. Typically this feature is found on more expensive high-end inverters.
Solar Power Support
A power inverter is also an essential part of a solar power system. It converts the DC power generated by solar panels and stored in 12V batteries to 230V AC power suitable for household or industrial use. These systems can be costly, as they often involve additional electrical work and equipment to incorporate the system into a household's current electrical system.
POWER INVERTER OR GENERATOR?
HOME APPLIANCE POWER USAGE
Appliance |
Power (in Watts) |
Starting (in Watts) |
| Fan | 100 | 200 |
| Tubelight | 50 | 100 |
| TV | 120 | 240 |
| Laptop | 75 | 100 |
| Washing machine - with heater | 1200 | 2400 |
| Washing machine - without heater | 2000 | 3200 |
| Air Conditioner (1.5T) | 2200 | 4000 |
| Air Cooler | 1000 | 2000 |
| Refrigerator (150W) | 150 | 300 |
CHOOSING THE RIGHT INVERTER SIZE
Many appliances and power tools have their wattage rating indicated on the product itself. Wattage rating can also be calculated by using this formula:
Volts x Amps = Watts
To determine if several appliances can be operated at the same time, simply add up their wattage ratings to see if the total falls within the specifications of the power inverter. For example, if you have a two-outlet inverter and will be plugging in 2 devices at once, add up the total wattage of both devices, then add at least 50% more to account for peaks or spikes in the power draw. For example if your DVD player draws 100W and your laptop another 100W, a minimum 300W inverter ((100W + 100W) x 150% = 300W) is recommended.
Make sure the power of the inverter is listed as "continuous". Some inverters are listed at a certain wattage, but can only draw that wattage for a short period of time (i.e.: 5 minutes) and then will shut off, reset themselves and resume functioning. These outages can be frustrating to you and harmful to the device you are powering.
If the item is motor driven, it requires additional start-up (surge) wattage (typically 2-3 times the continuous wattage required) to start the device. For example, a saw that runs at 700W might require 1400W to start up. If your inverter only supplies 1000W, you will not be able to start it up. In this case, you would want to select an inverter rated at least 1400W surge to handle start-up needs.
TYPES OF INVERTERS
Power inverters produce one of two different types of wave output:
- Modified Sine Wave
- True Sine Wave
Modified Sine Wave Inverter
True Sine Wave Inverter
Advantages of True Sine Wave Inverter
- Output voltage wave form is pure sine wave with very low harmonic distortion and clean power like utility-supplied electricity.
- Inductive loads like microwave ovens and motors run faster, quieter and cooler.
- Reduces audible and electrical noise in fans, fluorescent lights, audio amplifiers, TV, Game consoles, Fax, and answering machines.
- Prevents crashes in computers, weird print out, and glitches and noise in monitors.
- Reliably powers the following devices that will normally not work with modified sine wave inverters:
- Laser printers, photocopiers, magneto-optical hard drives
- Certain laptops and computers
- Some fluorescent lights with electronic ballasts
- Power tools employing "solid state" power or variable speed control
- Some battery chargers for cordless tools
- Some new furnaces and pellet stoves with microprocessor control
- Digital clocks with radios
- Sewing machines with speed/microprocessor control
BATTERY BASICS FOR INVERTERS
SAFETY AND INSTALLATION TIPS FOR INVERTERS
Always use a power inverter that is rated high enough for the device(s) you are running and avoid adapters that would allow more outlets than the unit is designed to accommodate.
- Place the inverter on a reasonably flat surface, either horizontally or vertically.
- The inverter should not be installed in the engine compartment, due to possible water/oil/acid contamination, and excessive heat under the hood, as well as potential danger from gasoline fumes and the spark that an inverter can occasionally produce. It's best to run battery cables to a dry, cool inverter mounting location.
- Keep the inverter dry. Do not expose it to rain or moisture. DO NOT operate the inverter if you, the inverter, the device being operated, or any other surfaces that may come in contact with any power source are wet. Water and many other liquids can conduct electricity which may lead to serious injury or death.
- Avoid placing the inverter on or near heating vents, radiators or other sources of heat. Do not place the inverter in direct sunlight. Ideal air temperature is between 50° and 80° F.
- In order to properly disperse heat generated while the inverter is in operation, keep it well ventilated. While in use, maintain several inches of clearance around the top and sides of the inverter.
- Do not use the inverter near flammable materials. Do not place the inverter in areas such as battery compartments where fumes or gases may accumulate.
- Inverters work best with a battery that is in good condition and fully charged. A weak battery will be drained easily if demands are too high. This could leave you stranded so be sure to check the battery's condition before using a power inverter in a stationary vehicle.
- Make sure the inverter is properly ventilated. Even a small inverter generates heat. Check to see if there is an internal fan with any inverter over 100 Watts. Place the inverter in a well-ventilated area when in use.
- Check the owner's manual for the proper wire size for battery cables when connecting the inverter to the battery. Most manufacturers recommend 4 to 10 feet of cable length, depending on the inverter. Avoid aluminium wire because it has higher resistance to current flow than copper wire.
Also,
Quinton Hamp
Apr 22, 2012, 8:40:52 PM4/22/12
to MECH DONZ of VLBJCET(2006-2010)
I was working on my review of 300 watt solar panels
http://www.thesolarenergyfacts.net/528/300-watt-solar-panels/ and I
ran across your post. Great resource and run-down on inverters.
Thanks.
I am curious what size inverter is needed for most Indian homes? Do
you see solar power really becoming popular in India, or do you think
most people will continue to try to use power from the local grid?
Thanks in advance.
On Apr 13, 3:46 am, Vasanth Dharmarajan
<vasanthdharmarajan1...@gmail.com> wrote:
> INVETER BRANDS
> Genus <http://www.genus.in/Inverter_UPS.htm>
> Su-Kam<http://www.su-kam.com/Power-Solutions/Home-Solutions/Digital-Inverter...>
> Luminous<http://myluminous.com/inverter.asp?page=product&type=invertor&stype=i...>
> Birla Power <http://www.birlapower.com/inverter/pro_invs.html>
> Dynamic <http://dkplappliances.com/>
> Prolite <http://www.proliteindia.com/generators.html>
> Videocon<http://www.videoconworld.com/index.php?option=com_catalog&view=produc...>
> Usha <http://www.ushainternational.com/Products/3/#!/subcat43>
> Unitron
> Hykon <http://www.hykonindia.com/ofinverter_introd.html>
> APC <http://www.apcc.com/products/>
> Microtek <http://www.microtekdirect.com/>
> True Power <http://www.truepower.in/inverters.html>
> Unique Max<http://www.uniqueups.com/inverter-manufacturer-supplier-india.html>
> Nishica <http://www.nishicaindia.com/inverter-solar-c-4.html>
>
> Inverter <http://indiahometips.com/buying-inverter.html> has become a
> *Volts x Amps = Watts*
> - True Sine Wave
> Output*<http://indiahometips.com/images/inverter/modified-sine-wave-true-sine...>
> and cooler.
> - Reduces audible and electrical noise in fans, fluorescent lights,
> in monitors.
> - Reliably powers the following devices that will normally not work with
> modified sine wave inverters:
> - Laser printers, photocopiers, magneto-optical hard drives
> - Certain laptops and computers
> - Some fluorescent lights with electronic ballasts
> - Power tools employing "solid state" power or variable speed control
> - Some battery chargers for cordless tools
> - Some new furnaces and pellet stoves with microprocessor control
> - Digital clocks with radios
> - Sewing machines with speed/microprocessor control
> or vertically.
> - The inverter should not be installed in the engine compartment, due to
> Also,
>
> - Inverter Battery Buying Guide - Brands, Price, Reviews,
> Models<http://indiahometips.com/inverter-battery-buying-guide-brands-price-m...>
> - UPS Buying Guide - Brands, Price,
> Reviews<http://indiahometips.com/ups-buying-guide.html>
http://www.thesolarenergyfacts.net/528/300-watt-solar-panels/ and I
ran across your post. Great resource and run-down on inverters.
Thanks.
I am curious what size inverter is needed for most Indian homes? Do
you see solar power really becoming popular in India, or do you think
most people will continue to try to use power from the local grid?
Thanks in advance.
On Apr 13, 3:46 am, Vasanth Dharmarajan
<vasanthdharmarajan1...@gmail.com> wrote:
> INVETER BRANDS
> Genus <http://www.genus.in/Inverter_UPS.htm>
> Su-Kam<http://www.su-kam.com/Power-Solutions/Home-Solutions/Digital-Inverter...>
> Luminous<http://myluminous.com/inverter.asp?page=product&type=invertor&stype=i...>
> Birla Power <http://www.birlapower.com/inverter/pro_invs.html>
> Dynamic <http://dkplappliances.com/>
> Prolite <http://www.proliteindia.com/generators.html>
> Videocon<http://www.videoconworld.com/index.php?option=com_catalog&view=produc...>
> Usha <http://www.ushainternational.com/Products/3/#!/subcat43>
> Unitron
> Hykon <http://www.hykonindia.com/ofinverter_introd.html>
> APC <http://www.apcc.com/products/>
> Microtek <http://www.microtekdirect.com/>
> True Power <http://www.truepower.in/inverters.html>
> Unique Max<http://www.uniqueups.com/inverter-manufacturer-supplier-india.html>
> Nishica <http://www.nishicaindia.com/inverter-solar-c-4.html>
>
> Inverter <http://indiahometips.com/buying-inverter.html> has become a
>
> To determine if several appliances can be operated at the same time, simply
> add up their wattage ratings to see if the total falls within the
> specifications of the power inverter. For example, if you have a two-outlet
> inverter and will be plugging in 2 devices at once, add up the total
> wattage of both devices, then add at least 50% more to account for peaks or
> spikes in the power draw. For example if your DVD player draws 100W and
> your laptop another 100W, a minimum 300W inverter ((100W + 100W) x 150% =
> 300W) is recommended.
> Make sure the power of the inverter is listed as "continuous". Some
> inverters are listed at a certain wattage, but can only draw that wattage
> for a short period of time (i.e.: 5 minutes) and then will shut off, reset
> themselves and resume functioning. These outages can be frustrating to you
> and harmful to the device you are powering.
> If the item is motor driven, it requires additional start-up (surge)
> wattage (typically 2-3 times the continuous wattage required) to start the
> device. For example, a saw that runs at 700W might require 1400W to start
> up. If your inverter only supplies 1000W, you will not be able to start it
> up. In this case, you would want to select an inverter rated at least 1400W
> surge to handle start-up needs.
>
> TYPES OF INVERTERS
> Power inverters produce one of two different types of wave output:
>
> - Modified Sine Wave
> To determine if several appliances can be operated at the same time, simply
> add up their wattage ratings to see if the total falls within the
> specifications of the power inverter. For example, if you have a two-outlet
> inverter and will be plugging in 2 devices at once, add up the total
> wattage of both devices, then add at least 50% more to account for peaks or
> spikes in the power draw. For example if your DVD player draws 100W and
> your laptop another 100W, a minimum 300W inverter ((100W + 100W) x 150% =
> 300W) is recommended.
> Make sure the power of the inverter is listed as "continuous". Some
> inverters are listed at a certain wattage, but can only draw that wattage
> for a short period of time (i.e.: 5 minutes) and then will shut off, reset
> themselves and resume functioning. These outages can be frustrating to you
> and harmful to the device you are powering.
> If the item is motor driven, it requires additional start-up (surge)
> wattage (typically 2-3 times the continuous wattage required) to start the
> device. For example, a saw that runs at 700W might require 1400W to start
> up. If your inverter only supplies 1000W, you will not be able to start it
> up. In this case, you would want to select an inverter rated at least 1400W
> surge to handle start-up needs.
>
> TYPES OF INVERTERS
> Power inverters produce one of two different types of wave output:
>
> - True Sine Wave
>
> Modified Sine Wave Inverter
> Modified sine wave inverters deliver power that is consistent and efficient
> enough to run most devices adequately. These types of inverters are the
> most popular and affordable. They are also small and highly efficient. The
> Vector power inverter line is based on modified sine wave technology.
> True Sine Wave Inverter
> True sine wave inverters are the most expensive, but they also deliver the
> most consistent, highest quality wave output. Some sensitive equipment
> requires a true sine wave, like laptop computers, tool battery chargers,
> professional audio/video equipment, certain medical devices and variable
> speed tools. If you aren't sure if the device you want to use requires a
> true sine wave or not, call the manufacturer to ask. Any AC device will run
> on a true sine wave inverter, whether it requires it or not.
>
> [image: Modified Sinewave Inverter and True Sinewave Inverter Output]
> *Modified and True Sinewave Inverter
> Modified Sine Wave Inverter
> Modified sine wave inverters deliver power that is consistent and efficient
> enough to run most devices adequately. These types of inverters are the
> most popular and affordable. They are also small and highly efficient. The
> Vector power inverter line is based on modified sine wave technology.
> True Sine Wave Inverter
> True sine wave inverters are the most expensive, but they also deliver the
> most consistent, highest quality wave output. Some sensitive equipment
> requires a true sine wave, like laptop computers, tool battery chargers,
> professional audio/video equipment, certain medical devices and variable
> speed tools. If you aren't sure if the device you want to use requires a
> true sine wave or not, call the manufacturer to ask. Any AC device will run
> on a true sine wave inverter, whether it requires it or not.
>
> [image: Modified Sinewave Inverter and True Sinewave Inverter Output]
> Output*<http://indiahometips.com/images/inverter/modified-sine-wave-true-sine...>
>
> Advantages of True Sine Wave Inverter
>
> - Output voltage wave form is pure sine wave with very low harmonic
> Advantages of True Sine Wave Inverter
>
> distortion and clean power like utility-supplied electricity.
> - Inductive loads like microwave ovens and motors run faster, quieter
> and cooler.
> - Reduces audible and electrical noise in fans, fluorescent lights,
> audio amplifiers, TV, Game consoles, Fax, and answering machines.
> - Prevents crashes in computers, weird print out, and glitches and noise
> in monitors.
> - Reliably powers the following devices that will normally not work with
> modified sine wave inverters:
> - Laser printers, photocopiers, magneto-optical hard drives
> - Certain laptops and computers
> - Some fluorescent lights with electronic ballasts
> - Power tools employing "solid state" power or variable speed control
> - Some battery chargers for cordless tools
> - Some new furnaces and pellet stoves with microprocessor control
> - Digital clocks with radios
> - Sewing machines with speed/microprocessor control
>
> BATTERY BASICS FOR INVERTERS
> See Inverter Battery Buying Guide - Brands, Price, Reviews,
> Models<http://indiahometips.com/inverter-battery-buying-guide-brands-price-m...>
> BATTERY BASICS FOR INVERTERS
> See Inverter Battery Buying Guide - Brands, Price, Reviews,
> SAFETY AND INSTALLATION TIPS FOR INVERTERS
> Always use a power inverter that is rated high enough for the device(s) you
> are running and avoid adapters that would allow more outlets than the unit
> is designed to accommodate.
>
> - Place the inverter on a reasonably flat surface, either horizontally
> Always use a power inverter that is rated high enough for the device(s) you
> are running and avoid adapters that would allow more outlets than the unit
> is designed to accommodate.
>
> or vertically.
> - The inverter should not be installed in the engine compartment, due to
> possible water/oil/acid contamination, and excessive heat under the hood,
> as well as potential danger from gasoline fumes and the spark that an
> inverter can occasionally produce. It's best to run battery cables to a
> dry, cool inverter mounting location.
> - Keep the inverter dry. Do not expose it to rain or moisture. DO NOT
> as well as potential danger from gasoline fumes and the spark that an
> inverter can occasionally produce. It's best to run battery cables to a
> dry, cool inverter mounting location.
> operate the inverter if you, the inverter, the device being operated, or
> any other surfaces that may come in contact with any power source are wet.
> Water and many other liquids can conduct electricity which may lead to
> serious injury or death.
> - Avoid placing the inverter on or near heating vents, radiators or
> any other surfaces that may come in contact with any power source are wet.
> Water and many other liquids can conduct electricity which may lead to
> serious injury or death.
> other sources of heat. Do not place the inverter in direct sunlight. Ideal
> air temperature is between 50° and 80° F.
> - In order to properly disperse heat generated while the inverter is in
> air temperature is between 50° and 80° F.
> operation, keep it well ventilated. While in use, maintain several inches
> of clearance around the top and sides of the inverter.
> - Do not use the inverter near flammable materials. Do not place the
> of clearance around the top and sides of the inverter.
> inverter in areas such as battery compartments where fumes or gases may
> accumulate.
> - Inverters work best with a battery that is in good condition and fully
> accumulate.
> charged. A weak battery will be drained easily if demands are too high.
> This could leave you stranded so be sure to check the battery's condition
> before using a power inverter in a stationary vehicle.
> - Make sure the inverter is properly ventilated. Even a small inverter
> This could leave you stranded so be sure to check the battery's condition
> before using a power inverter in a stationary vehicle.
> generates heat. Check to see if there is an internal fan with any inverter
> over 100 Watts. Place the inverter in a well-ventilated area when in use.
> - Check the owner's manual for the proper wire size for battery cables
> over 100 Watts. Place the inverter in a well-ventilated area when in use.
> when connecting the inverter to the battery. Most manufacturers recommend 4
> to 10 feet of cable length, depending on the inverter. Avoid aluminium wire
> because it has higher resistance to current flow than copper wire.
>
> ------------------------------
> to 10 feet of cable length, depending on the inverter. Avoid aluminium wire
> because it has higher resistance to current flow than copper wire.
>
> Also,
>
> - Inverter Battery Buying Guide - Brands, Price, Reviews,
> Models<http://indiahometips.com/inverter-battery-buying-guide-brands-price-m...>
> - UPS Buying Guide - Brands, Price,
> Reviews<http://indiahometips.com/ups-buying-guide.html>
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