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Inverter and Conventional Portable Generators

Published On

January 15, 2025

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Portable generators are either conventional or inverter. Conventional generators use a mechanical alternator to produce AC power while inverter generators produce DC power and convert it to AC power using digital electronics. Inverter generators are smaller and lighter but more expensive.

Conventional generators run at a constant 3600 RPMs while inverter generators can run at variable speeds depending on the electrical demand. This allows inverter generators to run at slower speeds much of the time, which saves fuel and reduces noise.

Inverter generators usually produce cleaner power with a total harmonic distortion of less than 5% while conventional are capable of greater output and extended run times.

Editorial Contributors

Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.