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The Best Inverter Generator
On The Market Today
Inverter generators are considered the best portable power sources for a reason. A generator can be a lifesaver whether you're in the middle of an emergency power outage at your house or camping and need some extra juice. What inverter generators are known for is their efficiency—the best inverter generator is able to run longer and quieter, providing a stable source of energy without sacrificing portability and ease of use. Use our inverter generator reviews to narrow down the perfect model for your needs.
Quick Navigation
- The 10 Best Inverter Generators On The Market Today
- 1. WEN 56200i
- 2. Westinghouse WGen3600DF
- 3. Champion 3400
- 4. Westinghouse iGen 2500
- 5. Yamaha ef2000isv2
- 6. Champion 3100
- 7. Briggs And Stratton P2200
- 8. Champion 3800
- 9. Generac IQ2000
- 10. Honda EU3000IS
- What Is An Inverter Generator?
- How Does An Inverter Generator Work?
- Inverter VS. Generator: What's The Difference?
- Conventional VS. Inverter: Which Is Better?
- Inverter Generator Features
- Considerations Before You Buy
- Avoid These Mistakes When Buying An Inverter
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Summing Up
The 10 Best Inverter Generators On The Market Today
When shopping for the best inverter generator, it can be hard to narrow down your options. What provides the best portability, and how much noise level are you willing to sacrifice to get it? How big is too big? What is the difference between all these features?
Deciding which inverter generator is right for you means knowing what technical limitations are most important to your lifestyle. The goal is to pick something suitable for your needs — which can mean different things for different people.
Below is the list of our top choices, each portable and efficient in their own way. Our goal is to provide you an in-depth review of each so that you can weigh the pros and cons of the best inverter generators for yourself. With these reviews, hopefully, you'll get a good sense of the features you value, and where to start on your inverter generator journey.
1. WEN 56200i
The WEN 56200i is a favorite of ours because we value the balance it strikes. You get clean power without a lot of noise. At a quarter load, the engine runs at just 51 dB, making it perfect for a discreet 2000 watt inverter generator to use in the background during various circumstances, like camping, tailgating, and hunting.
It's designed with advanced inverter circuitry, limits the harmonic distortion to less than 0.3% with no load, and only dips to 1.2% while running at full capacity. That means you can trust it to handle big loads while also protecting your sensitive electronics from harmful power surges.
The WEN 2000 Watt generator produces 2,000 surge wattage and 1,600 running wattage. This fuel efficient inverter generator as a tank size of 1 gallon which provides over 6 hours of 50% load run time.
Pros
- One of the quietest models on the market
- Clean, safe energy without fluctuations
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- CARB compliant
Cons
- Oil can be difficult to refill
Conclusion: Especially at this price point, the WEN 56200i is a fantastic purchase (as its big brother the WEN 56310i). It performs incredibly well and has plenty of useful and intuitive features that enhance user experience. At half the price of some of the comparable inverters, the WEN 56200i is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a sturdy and reliable inverter generator.
- Dimensions: 18" x 11" x 18" | Weight: 48 lbs
- Noise Level: 53 dB operation
- EPA III and CARB Compliant 79.7 cc 4-stroke OHV engine produces 2000 surge watts and 1600 rated watts
- Great for campgrounds, construction sites, tailgates and power outages
- Produces clean power to safely operate and prevent damage to sensitive electronics such as phones, tablets, televisions and computers
<Click Here For A More In-Depth WEN 56200i Review>
2. Westinghouse WGen3600DF
The second best inverter generator on our list comes with everything you need. It's rugged, so you know that it’s ready for a day out camping or powering a travel trailer when there’s no power supply available. The Westinghouse WGen3600DF is known for being lightweight and packed with plenty of advanced features that make it useful during a blackout.
Reviews do warn that it's comparatively heavier and louder than some of the other inverters listed here, but all of them cited that it provided consistent, stable power every time they needed it.
The Westinghouse model has a rated wattage of 3600 and a starting wattage of 4650.
Running time of up to 13.5 hours on a 4 gallon fuel tank with built-in fuel gauge; up to 10.5 hours on a 20 lb. propane tank
Pros
- Consistent power
- Easy to carry
- Sturdy build
- Simple to use
Cons
- High noise levels
Conclusion: Though it's one of the more expensive and bulky inverters on this list, the Westinghouse WGen3600DF gets the job done. The sturdy construction means it's ready to power whatever you need on RV and camping trips. It's a robust 3600 watt inverter generator with a reasonable price tag.
- 3600 Rated Watts & 4650 Peak Watts (Gasoline); 3240 Rated Watts & 4650 Peak Watts (Propane); 4 Gallon Fuel Tank (with Fuel Gauge); Electric Push Button and Remote Start
- Intuitive Control Panel Features a 5-20R 120V Duplex Outlet, an RV-Ready TT-30R 30 Amp Outlet, and an L5-30R 30 Amp Outlet
- 212cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine; Long Lasting Cast Iron Engine Sleeve; Automatic Low Oil Shutdown
- Plug-and-Play! Comes With Oil, Oil Funnel, Tool Kit, and User's Manual; Minimal Assembly Required (Wheel Installation and Battery Hookup)
<Click Here For A More In-Depth Westinghouse WGen3600DF Review>
3. Champion 3400
This dual-fuel inverter generator is perfect for anyone looking for a powerful and quiet camping generator. The Champion 3400 (from Champion Power Equipment) is light enough to carry and pack away for a long weekend, but hearty enough to power even the AC in an RV.
Reviews also cite how quietly it runs as a strong selling point. Users even shared surprise that — especially without premium prices of other models like Honda — the 3400 could power everything from a camping trip to refrigerator, even on economy mode.
The amount of time you can use the 3400 will vary based on the fuel type you’re using. With gasoline, you can enjoy your Champion 3400 for 7.5 hours. On propane, that run time stretches to 14.5 hours.
Starting or surge wattage is 3400 and running wattage is 3100.
Pros
- Dual fuel
- Quiet
- Easy to move around
- Low oil shut-off
Cons
- Requires a battery if you use gasoline
Conclusion: The Champion 3400 lives up to the name and runs like a champ, offering reliable, quiet, and power without losing user-friendliness.
- Dual Fuel – Operate your 3400-watt portable generator right out of the box on either gasoline or propane, plus the unit holds 0.6-quarts of oil (recommended 10W-30) and has a low oil shut-off sensor
- Convenient Electric Start with 3-Position Ignition Switch – Battery included, plus Quick Touch Panel allows you to access all your controls in one spot.Noise Level :59 dBA at 23 feet. Frequency 60...
- Ultra-Quiet Operation – 59 dBA is perfect for RVs, tailgating, your next project or backup power for your home, featuring 3400 starting watts and 3100 running watts with up to 7.5 hours run time on...
- Clean Power for Sensitive Electronics – RV Ready with a 120V 30A RV, plus two 120V 20A household outlets with clean electricity (less than 3% THD) and 12V DC outlet with dual USB adapter
- Champion Support – Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
<Click Here For A More In-Depth Champion 3400 Review>
4. Westinghouse iGen 2500
There’s a reason Westinghouse has two inverters in our top five—they’re one of the best companies when it comes to the best portable inverter generators. The iGen 2500 is another in a long line of reliable Westinghouse inverter generators, a tool you can count on to devices power needs during an emergency outage or just for outdoor fun.
This portable generator provides dependable, clean power with minimal distortion. That makes it an ideal inverter for fueling more delicate electronic devices, like your TV or computer, no matter where you are in nature.
However, it's not the easiest to transport, since it lacks wheels like some other models on this list. But it does have a handy LED screen, which can provide easy access to everything going on with the inverter, from the voltage to the fuel amount—even the average electricity used.
Surge wattage is 2500 and running wattage 2200.
Pros
- Easy-to-use LED screen
- Safe for more delicate electronics
- Has a spark arrestor
- Good price point
Cons
- Not recommended for heavy power tools
Conclusion: The Westinghouse iGen 2500 is an outstanding choice for anyone looking for an efficient inverter generator that still puts out a lot of power. Especially for its price point, the iGen 2500 is simple to use, generates cleaner, reliable energy, and protects your electronics.
- 1800 Rated Watts and 2200 Peak Watts at Less Than 3% THD - Weighs Only 46 Lbs. - Gas Powered - Two 120V 20 Amp Outlets, Two USB Outlets
- Great Choice for Home Use as an Emergency Backup in a Power Outage - Strong Enough to Run All Your Home Essentials
- Extremely Quiet, Extremely Fuel Efficient: as Low as 52 dBA Noise Output and 12 Hour Run Time on a 1. 2 Gallon Gas Tank - Features "Economy Mode" for Maximum Fuel Efficiency
- Parallel Capable - Combine Your iGen2200 with the Westinghouse WH2200iXLT, iGen1200, iGen2200, and iGen2500 to Increase Available Wattage and Amperage (Requires Westinghouse Parallel Cord)
- All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA and CARB Compliant; Backed by 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and...
<Click Here For A More In-Depth Westinghouse iGen 2500 Review>
5. Yamaha ef2000isv2
Though this model has a pull start instead of an electric start button, the ef2000isv2 is about as simple as inverter generators come. It is easy to operate, uncomplicated to link up to appliances, and with a few strokes, you’re off to the races.
The Yamaha ef2000isv2 weighs in at just 44 pounds, meaning it’s convenient enough to take anywhere. It’s ideal for things like camping trips, where you need a lot of maneuverability without sacrificing support time. With a tank size of 1.1 gallons, this Yamaha generator has a run time of approximately 10.5 hours.
It’s also one of the quietest and best inverter generators on the market, running between 51.5 and 61 dB while using its Pulse Width Modulation system to stabilize the output. This machine is an ideal option for those who prize quiet with their inverter but still want consistent power.
Surge wattage is 2000 and running wattage 1600.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Smart throttle
- Impressive output (peaks at 2,000 watts)
- Long run time
Cons
- Expensive
Conclusion: This is the generator to pick if you want to ensure quality performance. Yamaha is a trusted brand for portable generators for a reason, and the ef2000isv2’s easy-to-use design and excellent inverter system make it a reliable investment with a long shelf life.
- 1600 watt rated AC output, 2000 watt maximum AC output, 13.3/16.7 amps @ 120V
- Super-quiet muffler with USFS-approved spark arrestor - 51.5 dBA at 1/4 load
- Smart Throttle varies engine speed based on load - improves fuel economy and reduces noise
- Inverter system with Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) control
- CARB Compliant
<Click Here For A More In-Depth Yamaha ef2000isv2 Review>
6. Champion 3100
Especially for a generator this size, the Champion 3100 from the Champion Power Equipment company is an excellent specimen. It's got a powerful output — with 3,100 surge wattage and 2,800 running watts — which can run large appliances within or outside the home.
Its features don’t stop there, either. A quick-touch control panel provides convenient access to controls you need during operation. You can fire the 3100 up with just a flick of the ignition switch.
While it’s overall pretty quiet as inverters go, the noise will get louder when it’s running a heavier load. With a standard level of output, however, you can trust it to be about 58 dB.
Pros
- Can support big appliances
- Easy touch panel for operation control
- Relatively quiet
- Compact design
- Remote start
Cons
- Noise level increases with heavier loads
Conclusion: The Champion 3100 is a real powerhouse. It can support larger appliances without a problem and provides easy controls without sacrificing those shiny features we all love. In our opinion, this is one of the best deals you can find for an inverter without paying a premium price.
- Quick Touch Panel – Access all your controls in one spot, plus Champion’s safe design includes a low oil shut-off sensor and holds 0.6-quarts of oil (recommended 10W-30)
- Ultra-Quiet Operation – 58 dBA is perfect for RVs, tailgating, your next project or backup power for your home, featuring 3100 starting watts and 2800 running watts with up to 8 hours run time
- Clean Power for Sensitive Electronics – RV Ready with a 120V 30A RV, plus two 120V 20A household outlets with clean electricity (less than 3% THD) and 12V DC outlet
- Smart Economy Mode – Can reduce the electrical load, providing quieter operation, extended engine life and better fuel economy
- Champion Support – Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
<Click Here For A More In-Depth Champion 3100 Review>
7. Briggs And Stratton P2200
Why give up the finer things for a night of camping? That's exactly the kind of compromise you can avoid when you have the Briggs and Stratton P2200. Whether you're in the middle of a tailgate party or a job site, you can trust the P2200 to deliver stable (and quiet) power to your devices.
However, unlike other Briggs & Stratton products, this one has a reputation for quality control issues. Some units stand the test of time, while others don’t last the summer—but Briggs and Stratton is great about honoring their warranties (24 months in this case).
Thanks to cutting edge inverter technology, the P2200 outputs a steady 1,700 watts of running power, with less total harmonic distortion (thd) than other inverters on this list. It can also adjust its power level to match its load — meaning you'll save fuel and can trust the P2200 to run longer and more efficiently.
The model produces 2200 starting wattage and has running wattage of 1700.
Pros
- Stable power
- Automatically adjusting energy speed
- Low noise level
- Long run time
Cons
- Quality control issues
Conclusion: The Briggs and Stratton P2200 is a powerful inverter you can count on for outdoor activities close to your home. When you need steady power for power tools or tailgating, the P2200 seems like a great place to start.
- Quiet and fuel efficient 111 cc OHV engine produces 2,200 starting watts and 1700 running watts
- USB port allows charging of portable electronics in order to stay connected. Muffler: Super Lo-tone. Start type: Recoil
- Parallel connector port allows connection between 2 units for more power
- 1 gallon fuel tank for Up to 8 hours of continuous operation at 25% load, USB port allows charging of portable electronics in order to stay connected
- The parallel connector port allows connection between 2 units for more power; Muffler: Super Lo Tone. Start Type: Recoil
<Click Here For A More In-Depth Briggs & Stratton P2200 Review>
8. Champion 3800
If you’re looking for an affordable and adaptable power solution, the Champion 3800 is a great choice.
It provides excellent value for its price level — it’s perhaps best to use for something that requires more power output, like a home during an outage or an RV. It’s easy to use and reliable for everything from emergency power to your home.
After choosing either gas or propane, the 3800 can easily start with the touch of a button and run a massive 3,800 running watts. All that power can last for nine hours at a 50% load—but it won’t be quiet. Expect this one to run around 68 dB on average.
The Champion engine produces a starting wattage of 4750 and 3800 running watts.
Pros
- Powerful
- Affordable
- Dual fuel
- Touch start
Cons
- A louder model
Conclusion: Champion 3800 portable inverter generators live up the name with a ferocious output of 3,800 running watts (and 4,750 starting watts). The dual-fuel function and touch start button make it a breeze to use, no matter your circumstances. That said, expect this to be a louder inverter when it’s running.
- Dual Fuel: Operate your 3800-watt portable generator right out of the box on either gasoline or propane, plus the unit holds 0.6-quarts of oil (included) and has a low oil shut-off sensor
- Electric Start: Power up the 224cc Champion engine with the handy toggle switch, battery included
- Intelligauge: Keep track of voltage, hertz and run-time hours to easily monitor power output and track maintenance intervals. Dimensions-26.3 x 24.8 x 22.9 inches
- Outlets: One 120V 30A RV outlet (TT-30R), one 120V 30A locking outlet (L5-30R) and two 120V 20A household outlets (5-20R) - trust Volt Guard built-in surge protector to prevent overloads
- Champion Support: Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
<Click Here For A More In-Depth Champion 3800 Review>
9. Generac IQ2000
The Generac IQ2000 is an all-around attractive model. It's got a sleek modern design, stable performance, and an appealing price.
It’s easy to look at the IQ2000 as a one-stop solution to backup power problems because it has it all. The IQ2000 is easy to control, and has an impressive performance life, lasting nine hours on approximately a gallon of gas.
Though the IQ2000 is easy to maintain and tune-up, this portable generator can only handle so much. Many reviews say it is best for powering smaller electronics and appliances, as it can only sustain one big device at a time.
The model produces 2000 starting wattage and has 1600 running watts.
Pros
- Easy to regulate and read operations
- Excellent engine
- Affordable
- Fuel efficient
Cons
- A bit underpowered—not good at powering more than one big device at a time
Conclusion: Overall, this inverter is easy to use, provides premium performance, has a high level of fuel efficiency, and is extremely portable. The whole thing feels very intuitive to use, with a sleek LED display helps you switch through different modes, and even hook up a parallel kit if necessary.
- AC Rated Output(Running/Starting): 1600/2000 Watts; AC Rated Voltage: 120V
- PowerDial integrates start/run/stop functions into 1 easy-to-use dial
- PowerBar monitors and displays wattage used; Electronic Fuel Gauge displays remaining fuel; Runtime Display show how much time is left before refueling
- Fuel Capacity: 1.06 Gallons; Runtime (50% - 25% Load): 5.7 - 7.7 hrs; Full Load Fuel Consumption (gallons/hour): 2.85; Displacement: 80 cc; Oil Type: SAE 10W-30
- Economy, Standard, and Turbo modes of operation saves fuel and reduces noise
<Click Here For A More In-Depth Generac IQ2000 Review>
10. Honda EU3000IS
There's a reason this is one of the most highly praised portable generators on the market. What this model lacks in portability and price it makes up for in reliability and power.
Honda’s inverter technology makes power that is much more stable and consistent. That helps protect your devices from surges that can damage their efficacy. It’s known as one of the best 3,000-watt models available, with 2,800 watts of continuous power that make it a versatile engine — you can feel comfortable running air conditioning, lights, even appliances in your home without worrying that the Honda will drop out.
The Honda EU3000IS is also extremely fuel-efficient, with 3.4 gallons to fill and potentially up to 20 hours of use.
This Honda model has a surge wattage of 3000 and running wattage of 2800.
Pros
- Powerful and reliable engine
- Highly fuel-efficient
- Long run time
- Super quiet at 58 dB
Cons
- Heavier than typical inverters
Conclusion: The Honda EU3000IS highlights why you can trust Honda engines (and the popularity of the Honda eu2200i over decades also attests to the reliability of this brand). It has superb features and the latest innovations in inverter technology to help it run cleaner and more efficiently. Although it’s heavier than you might expect, it’s easy to relax once it’s in place and trust it to do its job. It’s a long-term investment to be sure, but we believe it’s worth it.
- Popular model can operate a wide variety of appliances, including a furnace, fridge, microwave, TV, blenders, most 13,500 BTU RV AC units and much more
- Super quiet: so quiet, your neighbors will thank you; the EU3000is operates at 49 to 58 dB (A), which is less noise than a normal conversation; this makes it ideal for camping, RV power and any other...
- Fuel efficient runs up to 20 hours on 3.4 Gal. of fuel: thanks to our exclusive eco-throttle, the EU3000 is offers great fuel efficiency, it runs 7.2 to 20 hours on a single tank, depending on the...
- Advanced inverter technology - reliable power for computers and other sensitive equipment: Honda's inverter technology means stable, clean power in a smaller, lighter package; the precision of Honda's...
- Protected by oil alert: this protects the generator by shutting the engine off when low oil is detected
<Click Here For A More In-Depth Honda eu3000is Review>
What Is An Inverter Generator?
Standard portable generators and inverter generators may power the same devices, but they do not function in the same way. An inverter gets its name from the process that happens when you turn the generator on. The machine converts the voltage using a microprocessor from to DC and then “inverts” it back to AC current.
In the end, you’re still getting the same output of AC electricity that a conventional portable generator provides, but without the same surges and fluctuations that a standard generator sees. By converting the electricity back and forth, the machine ensures that the power you’re getting is “clean,” creating a perfect sine wave of energy. That lowers the risk of power surges, which protects devices and creates more stable energy.
How Does An Inverter Generator Work?
The name “inverter generator” comes from the electrical work the generator is doing when it’s running.
Inverter generators transform DC power to AC power, eliminating any fluctuations that come with it. The generator's alternator produces high voltage power that gets converted to DC, which is then shifted to AC by the inverter.
When it's fired up, an inverter generator throttles the engine to meet your backup power demands. That makes for a more "stable" output of power when it's running. The power that comes with an inverter generator is considered high quality but remains smooth and clean.
Inverter VS. Generator: What's The Difference?
The main difference between these two types of generators is how they run. When you run it, an inverter adjusts its power level based on the devices it's feeding. Instead of running at a constant speed, an inverter is continuously adapting its speed.
That's not the case with a conventional generator. They need a certain speed to deliver 120 volts of electricity — typically 3,000 RPM — and keep a stable current. After getting a boost from your preferred fuel (the most typically used power source), the motor works with the alternator to produce a steady output of electricity.
If your conventional generator’s engine speed changes at all, you’ll notice it. That fluctuation will result in a vacillation of the frequency of electrical output.
The other main difference would be the portability. An inverter generator is smaller, lighter, and may even have wheels, making it easier to bring on the go.
Conventional VS. Inverter: Which Is Better?
There’s been a long list of advancements generator technology lately, which may leave you wondering exactly what an inverter generator is, compared to a standard generator. There are several reasons that an inverter might have more advantages than a conventional generator.
Because the inverter generator is continually varying the amount of power it is generating, its efficiency is higher, and it is generating cleaner electricity. You probably won't need as much fuel, because you won't be burning through it as fast.
With an inverter, there's also less technical maintenance required—unlike conventional generators, they don't need any special treatment for standard upkeep. They can be more easily paired with other units for parallel capability without a new transfer switch connection.
They also generally run quieter than your standard generator options, are more lightweight and portable.
Inverter Generator Features
What are the features that make an inverter distinct compared to other types of generators on the market?
- Design And Output: Inverter generators are designed with portability in mind. In most cases, they’re manufactured to have a closed design that is more convenient to move. That limits them to a slightly lower maximum output, but they’re still plenty powerful for most jobs.
- Safe Energy For Sensitive Electronics: Our sensitive electronics are often the ones we use most. That means our inverters have to be up to the task of powering them without putting them in danger.
An inverter’s energy output doesn’t fluctuate or surge as much as other generators. Closer to a perfect sine wave, inverter generators protect your delicate electronics from power surges that can fry them over time.
- Suitable For Noise Restricted Areas: Most inverters sit between around 61 dB or slightly louder than a normal conversation. That means your inverter generator can run in more places without worry about noise restrictions.
- Better Fuel Efficiency: A gas and propane inverter generator dynamically responds to the load it’s working with, meaning it adjusts the fuel need accordingly. As a result, there’s a marked difference in how fast a traditional generator burns fuel compared to an inverter.
- Parallel Operation: Some inverter generators can connect to another inverter and double their power output using a special cable. Since inverters run smaller and quieter than other generators, that makes it easy to increase your power demands on the go.
- Portability: New inverter generators are quite light, as low as 30 pounds in some cases. Those small engines are more compact than their conventional counterparts. Given how quiet the generators run, they're easy to run and power your devices no matter where you need to go.
- When You Need A Lot Of Power: If you're hoping to power every device in your house during an emergency outage, you'll need more than the inverter can provide. Inverters are designed for powering select appliances, or on a camping trip. Inverters do, however, allow for parallel capability, allowing you to double your output.
- When Price Is Not An Issue: Though inverters have a higher price point than other generators, reviews suggest the features are worth the price—and we agree. An inverter provides many advantages to conventional generators, including that they’re more fuel-efficient and portable than other types of generators.
Considerations Before You Buy
1. Where Do You Plan To Use Your Inverter Generator?
Where you depend on using your generator can drastically alter the best inverter for you.
- Camping, RV
If you're camping or living in an RV and need to move around a lot, it might be more advantageous to find an inverter generator that is easy to maneuver. That may leave you with a smaller engine and power output.
For camping, that might be fine, since most of what you need to run (a camping stove or charging devices) 1,000 watts or less should be ideal. With an RV, you may require a little more juice for your plugin appliances, which might set you up with a mid-range inverter (with can power between 2,000 to 4,500 watts).
- Home Back Up
In the event of an emergency situation die to an outage, you’re going to need a lot of power to support the vital machines and appliances in your home. Most large inverter generators top out at 7,000 watts, which should cover the key devices until the power returns. If you hope for more than that, it might be time to look into a bigger, more conventional generator.
- Work Sites
To keep midsize power tools functional at a worksite, you're going to want an inverter with a range of 2,500 to 4,500 watts.
2. Noise Level
The closer you plan on being to your inverter while it runs, the more important it is to be prepared to prioritize volume in your selection. Keep in mind that many generators may boast a quieter speed only to be louder when dealing with a heavier load.
3. Parallel Capability
Parallel capability is simply running two generators together. Often these are the same brand and size inverter, and the effect is that you double the power.
Not all inverter generators can do this (or do it well), but if you find you an otherwise perfect model that lacks power, this might be a good technique to explore.
4. Clean Energy
The cleanliness of an inverter generator could be considered two things: Certain types of fuel (like propane) will burn cleaner, so you don't need to clean your generator as much, but it also refers to the stableness of the energy source. When inverter generators produce a cleaner sine wave (meaning a steadier source of energy) that protects your devices from surges.
If you plan on using an inverter to power delicate electronics — televisions, computers, and other things with a microprocessor that makes them sensitive to electrical quality — it's crucial to have a generator that can provide the cleanest energy possible.
Avoid These Mistakes When Buying An Inverter
- Stay focused on how the specifications of the machine can actually serve you and don’t be swayed by flowery language or overpromising on the part of the manufacturer.
- It’s probably better to buy an inverter from a well-known brand, especially if you’re new to inverters. Their customer service is more reliable.
- The best inverter for you won’t necessarily be the most expensive. Compare the price at different places and see if you can get everything you need while staying within your budget.
- If all else is equal between two inverters, let the best warranty win.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Inverter Generators Worth It?
We would say so! Although inverters come at a more premium price compared to conventional generators, they are much more adaptable. They’re quieter and more efficient — and, these days, equipped with the latest technology to keep them both those things as well as easy to use.
Unless you’re looking to power a whole lot in an emergency, inverters manage to more than get the job done. Even better, because they provide more stable, fuel-efficient power, you can likely count on making your money back in the long term.
Can An Inverter Run A Fridge?
They can, though not all of them. You'll want to look at least the midsize range (2,000 to 4,500 watts) if you’re hoping to power a fridge in an RV or a home.
Why Are Inverters So Quiet?
There are a few reasons that inverters are considered quieter than their conventional generator counterparts. Their engines are generally smaller and more responsive to the load, meaning they both produce less noise and don’t run at the same rate when they’re on. Inverter generators are also enclosed, which muffles the noise even further.
Can You Use An Inverter Indoors?
You should not use it indoors, as the exhaust from a generator can be dangerous and deadly in enclosed places. An inverter generator should always be placed outside to let the fumes properly vent.
Can You Get An Inverter Wet?
Getting an inverter wet can increase the risk to both you and your generator. If you plan on leaving it outside (and opening it to elements like rain), keep it under a tent or tarp to lower the risk of shock or damage in the device.
Summing Up
When you're buying an inverter generator, it's crucial to think about the situations you will — or may want — to use it in. Though there's plenty of inverters on the market, the one that's "best" will be so because it's the most convenient for you.
The best way to go about shopping for an inverter generator is to establish what features you want and need most. Every generator on this list can provide a good amount of stable power once you start it up, and you can trust that you’ll be able to use it for at least nine hours. But that is certainly not the only thing you need to take into serious consideration when you’re purchasing an inverter.
Figure out what size, maneuverability, noise level, and power output you need for best use. From there, scroll through our recommendations and see what kind of inverter fits your needs best.
- Dimensions: 18" x 11" x 18" | Weight: 48 lbs
- Noise Level: 53 dB operation
- EPA III and CARB Compliant 79.7 cc 4-stroke OHV engine produces 2000 surge watts and 1600 rated watts
- Great for campgrounds, construction sites, tailgates and power outages
- Produces clean power to safely operate and prevent damage to sensitive electronics such as phones, tablets, televisions and computers
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