Table of Contents
Preface
In our last article HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT INVERTER we introduced how to pick the right size inverter, and I believe many of you have already mastered the way to judge the size of the inverter you need.
But recently there are still readers asking an interesting question, what is the difference between modified sine wave inverters and pure sine wave inverters, after all, in terms of price, they are vastly different. The price of a modified sine wave inverter is way cheaper than that of a pure sine wave inverter.
So today, let’s explain the difference between pure sine wave and modified sine wave and how we can choose between these two types of inverters.
What is a pure sine wave inverter
A pure sine wave inverter outputs voltage in the form of a sine wave, which is consistent with the utility sine wave output. A pure sine wave inverter produces cleaner, smoother, quieter, more reliable power that allows appliances and electronics to operate without interference. If you’re tied to the grid, you always need a pure sine wave inverter.
A pure sine wave inverter can be used for any appliance.
If you are off-grid applications and we are making a distinction with modified sine wave, it is necessary to use pure sine wave inverters for all inductive appliances. Generally speaking appliances with coils are called inductive loads. For example: hairdryers, drills, vacuums, relays, LED lights, refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, etc.
The power of these products is much higher than the rated power at the moment of startup (about 3-7 times). A pure sine wave inverter can provide support and not worry about being damaged.
For example, a refrigerator that is running with a power consumption of about 150W can start with a power of up to 1000W or more.
What is a pure sine wave inverter
In a modified sine wave inverter, the polarity suddenly switches from positive to negative. When this wave is seen, it has a stepped square pattern in which the polarity is flipped back and forth. This raging wave can negatively affect more delicate and sensitive devices. If you have medical equipment that needs to be powered, such as a CPAP machine, you will not be able to use a modified sine wave inverter. In addition, in many cases, you will hear a humming sound from the equipment connected to the modified sine wave inverter.
Modified sine wave inverters are typically used with resistive loads. Appliances that generally work through resistive-type components are called resistive loads, such as: cell phones, computers, LCD TVs, induction cookers, white woven lamps, electric fans, rice cookers, electric fans, small printers, etc. are resistive loads.
How to choose pure sine wave inverter or modified sine wave inverter
If you can accept the price of pure sine wave inverter, it is better to choose pure sine wave inverter.
If you want to save money and the inverter will only be used for small resistive loads, such as LCD TVs, computers, etc., you can choose a modified sine wave inverter. But be sure not to access inductive loads, which in some cases may cause damage to your inductive appliances.
Frequently Asked Questions about Inverters
Q: What is the reason for the inverter not working suddenly?
A: When the inverter is in use, if there is a shutdown and alarm, check the following items.
1) Whether the power of the driven appliances exceeds the rated power value of the inverter.
2) Whether the inverter is well connected to the battery and electrical appliances
3)Whether the stoppage in the process of use is a temperature alarm, when it can continue to be used after a period of discontinuance.
4)whether the voltage of the battery is too low that is, the power is not enough
Q: How to choose the power size of the inverter to use?
A: Generally speaking, under 600W, we should take a pure 1000W, and 700-1200W, we should take a full 2000W. When choosing an inverter, the peak power of the inverter must be greater than the instantaneous power of the appliance.
Q: How should I choose the right fuse for the inverter?
A: Inverter fuse is not universal, 12V inverter configuration 40A, 30A fuse, 24V inverter configuration 30A, 20A fuse, 48V/60V inverter configuration 20A, 10A fuse, 72V inverter configuration 10A.
Q: How long is the service life of the inverter?
A: Under normal use, the correction inverter can be used for 30,000 hours, and the pure inverter can be used for 100,000 hours.
Q: How to determine the input voltage of the inverter’s high or low?
A: 12V inverter: low-voltage 9V, high-voltage 16V; 24V inverter: low-voltage 20.5V, high-voltage 29.5V; 48V inverter: low-voltage 40.5V, high-voltage 55V; 60V inverter: low-voltage 52V, high-voltage 70V.
Q: How should the inverter be connected?
A: 1. The voltage of the battery must match the voltage of the inverter (e.g. 12V battery must choose 12V inverter).
2. Connect the two positive and negative interfaces of the inverter and the battery with the clip wire, the positive pole of the inverter (red) to the positive pole of the battery, and the negative pole of the inverter (black) to the negative pole of the battery.
3. Plug the electrical appliances that need to be driven to the output port of the inverter, then turn on the inverter power switch, turn on the switch of the appliances, the appliances can work normally.
Sarah O'Connell
As a research member with a background as an engineer, Sarah believes we need to know enough about products before we buy and use them, especially those that require some expertise and ability to operate. Sarah is happy to share her opinion and what she has learned with everyone. She believes that conscious consumption is everyone's responsibility and that all content should be complete.